Something almost magical happens when we are in a performance: Life gets examined under a microscope, we pick apart moments, laugh, cry, and experience situations that we would normally never put ourselves in. The actors come and share themselves and their stories with us. But what happens to the audience?
The audiences we had on the T.T.C. were very interesting to watch as we performed. Some would give their focus, some would look away. Some would get angry, or move away (to which we always responded by moving away as well- we were not there to cause hostility or anger, and dealt with each situation appropriately), others would applaud, cheer, or smile at us- but the most interesting part of it all, was that patrons would turn to each other- total strangers- and start talking about what they just saw.
The T.T.C.. An area where you usually avoid eye-contact, keep your head down, pretend that you are in a little box to stay away from any means of human contact. And people are talking to each other out of the blue? No freakin’ way.
If there was anything that I had learned from this experience, it was that people are more willing to accept a performance than a direct address. But I digress…
A community was created in seconds. Everyone had been witness to a shocking, out-of-the-blue event. And it was positive. How often do surprise events happen in this world with a positive result? With total strangers, for that matter? That is a big deal to me.
I’d like to believe that to some extent, everyone wants to be involved in a community. Everyone wants to feel a part of something. And we did that for people on the subway. Now I’d like to bring that feeling to hospitals and senior residences. In places that can sometimes isolate, it’s very necessary.
So, if you are looking for a reason to vote today, do it because for a short time, you will be helping us to create a community. By doing so, you will be a part of one too. Cheesy, but true.
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