I Wish I Had It Like That

Director Rick occasionally brings in his son Joe. Joe's about 5, and he's fascinated by and already well-versed in the world of theatre. I have these moments of jealousy when Rick gets out Joe's pillows and sleeping bags, and sets him down for the night...generally when our evenings begin to move into later hours. It's an adventure. He makes a little nest for Joe (Winnie the Pooh sleeping bag and all!) up in the house. Joe is told to go to sleep and of course you can see him peeking every now and then at the action happening on the stage. Rick will then have to say to him, "Your eyes aren't closed." Joe will then quickly tuck himself away; not the slightest idea that we all know he's not really trying to fall asleep. I wish I had it like that when I was a kid. To be exposed to theatre so regularly as a little mind would have been an awesome dream. I did my share of theatre growing up, but to have a parent so deeply involved and always taking me along; would have been heaven. It just seems so exciting to see the whole process through Joe's eyes. It's a weird thing to see from the outside anyway; I'm sure, and I'm certain most kids Joe's age have no idea what work and wackiness goes into a show. I'm jealous for that reason. It's really pretty cool when you stop, take a step back and observe. Cool and very strange. From a 5 year old's vantage point, equally magical and special. And, so I'm jealous!