“It’s a very ancient saying
But a true and honest thought
That if you become a teacher
By your pupils you’ll be taught.”– The King and I by Rodgers and Hammerstein
Embracing the community is paramount to the future of professional theater. Western Plains Opera Company in Minot, North Dakota is exceptional in many ways. Not only do they produce fantastic productions, but the efforts to connect with the community of Minot make this company very special. www.wpopera.org
While rehearsing the final scene of The King and I, a young girl turned to me and asked “Are you crying?” One of the older girls then called out “It’s called acting…duh!” It’s true, I was acting, but my emotions about The King and I come from a real place. Similar to my experience playing Harold Hill in The Music Man last summer, I’m deeply moved when a story revolves around educating kids through music. It was a true pleasure to work with these fantastic performers. Thank you for an experience I’ll never forget.
Sincerely, Nate (Formally known as the King of Minot)
Archival footage provided by Wikimedia Commons
Carnival Overture by Antonín Leopold Dvořák provided by Musopen.org
