Dear Home,

Never did I ever think that you'd become the place where I would meet the people who would become my nonbiological family. As a freshman standing on the stage, I never believed the magic that would carry me throughout my four years. As I anxiously began my first note and stared into the blinding lights on my first audition, I could have never imagined that in a few quick years I'd be looking into those same lights feeling completely different emotions. Who I am today is from all the moments I've shared in your presence.

I miss the endless hugs that I would receive before I would even step into your doors. There was nothing like seeing the smiling faces of people who would reach out for a warm embrace, even after a long day. Sometimes I still hear the sound of the piano being warmed up with songs from a previous musical. It didn't matter if you knew the words or not, when you were around that piano, you felt like you were apart of something bigger than yourself.

There was nothing like the silent giggles and sighs as I sat in the choir room for hours and hours. Those seemed like the longest days, but I'd give even a second to relive those moments of the panic when the musical director was scared that our harmonies weren't going to be practically perfect! After the music was learned, it was on to dancing and scene formation. I miss the beat up mirrors where a few of us would pretend to be the next broadway showstoppers before it was time to get down to business. “No marking, do it as if it was opening night!" Kicks were always high, smiles were always bright and every move was taken seriously, and repeated until we'd be exhausted. Who could forget running lines with your director, where creative juices were always flowing. There was never a limit to the number of times we could make it better, especially after doing a serious scene with your best friend and you could never keep a straight face.

And then suddenly it was time to put on the show after weeks of late-night rehearsing and eating from the vending machines or the deli down the street. In the insanity of wigs, makeup, and random costumes everywhere, there was a sense of calmness. As we held hands, in our pre-show ritual, while everybody's eyes were closed, mine were open and filled with tears. My sweet theatre, oh how I truly miss the endless gifts you've given me, especially after the many times I have taken you for granted. Nobody, not even another performer from another theatre, will understand all the memories that live as ghosts within your walls. When the final bow came and the curtains came to a close, I knew that I will forever carry around your magic. Thank you for giving me the best years of my life and reminding me that no matter how bad things get “the show will always go on!"

Love,

Your ensemble member, supporting character, star of the show and crew member.