In Sonnet 116, Shakespeare explores the poignancy and beauty in the “remembrance of things past,” ending with the couplet: “ . . . [I]f the while I think on thee, dear friend / All losses are restor’d, and sorrows end.” (Listen above.)
Of course, theatrical performances have always been associated with the ephemeral — moments in time that one simply has to be there to experience. Though it is always bittersweet to see a long-awaited performance come to an end, there are still ways to “restore” that special event.
Now, the prevalence of recording technologies allows us to share those moments with the world; but for all that digital media offers us, the immediacy of live theatre — especially now — is a treasure in itself. As you look ahead to future performances, think of ways to supplement recordings with material souvenirs of the shows. How can you offer the children something tangible that can be held in the palm of their hands, and not just on the screens of their phones?
One tradition is to have the young actors sign each other’s programs; you could even take things a step further and encourage the students to start scrapbooks related to the show. Mementos from the rehearsal process and the performances themselves — photos, tickets, programs — can be documented in the pages. As well, we have always suggested that the children create their own “hero books” capturing all of the things that they are proud of and value from the experience.
Shows will come and go, but preserving those wondrous “things past” will allow these future adults to reflect on their live moments on-stage with pride and a renewed understanding of all they accomplished. — Janice Salzberg ©2021