Theatre is one of my most favorite things in the world. Nothing makes me happier. Whether it is listening to Broadway music, seeing a live show, or the current coming up the opening night as I stand on stage ready to dance, nothing brings me joy like theatre does. Of course, I am a part of NHSTT, Nazareth High School Theatre Troupe. This year, we had a master class. I have attended a few of these classes before, and I had never been impressed. This one, however, blew me away.
Tony Yazbeck was our “master.” He is your classic Broadway star, extremely talented, a triple threat. He started his career young, tried out for thousands of shows until he finally got his big break. His most popular performance was the 2014 revival of On the Town, where we played the lead and was nominated for a Tony Award. He grew up in the Lehigh Valley, so we were very fortunate to have him attend our master class.
In this class, he shared so much knowledge of the stage. He worked on dance numbers with us, critiquing every move. Within minutes of his instruction, the numbers suddenly became so much cleaner. Tony also worked with our two leads on their solos, and they improved tremendously. He was so kind of full of spirit, I never wanted it to end! Even though I was not involved on stage, just watching and observing him help others was such an incredible experience for me. At the end of the night, he sat down and answered our questions. As every Broadway star does, he encouraged us to follow our dreams and not listen to anyone who said otherwise. Usually, these sentiments do not affect me, I like to look at life in a more practical way, but coming from him, I believed it.
To me, this experience was incredible and I will never forget it. To anyone else who does not share the same passions as me, it may have been boring. Even if it is not a Broadway star, is there anyone who you would like to sit in a master class with and why?
That sounds like an awesome experience! I agree that there's nothing quite like live theater; the bright lights and crystal clear notes just have a way of pulling you in. It really feels like time stops. If I could sit in on a master class with anyone, I would choose Misty Copeland. I read her book a few years ago and was so inspired by her life story. It would be so cool to meet her, but to learn ballet from her would be amazing!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a really awesome experience! I think learning from the best people would be the most beneficial, so this seems like it would be great! If I had the opportunity to sit in a master class, I would choose Allyson Felix. She is an Olympic Sprinter. She is also a mother who is still pursuing track and field professionally. I have looked up to her since I was a child.
ReplyDeleteI am sure this was such an amazing night! I am not a big fan of theater mainly because I have zero clue about it or acting in general, however I do respect the arts so I am sure it was great. Soccer is my personal passion and I would love to have a class or practice with Messi, a male professional soccer player. I have such respect for him and would kill for a chance to talk to him.
ReplyDeleteI think the person that I would love to have a master class with Neil deGrasse Tyson so that I could learn about the universe.
ReplyDelete