Flying Lovers of Vitebsk at Theater J

 I went in Washington DC this afternoon to usher for the play: the Flying Lovers of Vitebsk at Theater J. I didn’t know Silver Line was single -tracking today, so I was late. Anyway, I did my task and watched 60 % of the play (missing the other 40% due to dozing off from jet lag). It was still worthwhile to see the 90-minute play supported by a pair of actor-musicians playing live klezmer-infused music and a pair of actor-dancers providing striking aerial choreography.  The play tracks the painter Marc Chagall and his wife through the triumphs of his career alongside the devastating sweep of the Russian Revolution, pogroms, world wars, and the destruction of their beloved hometown of Vitebsk. BTW, I saw Halloween costumes here and there in town.

musical comedy: Once Upon Mattress

 I ushered at Center Stage in the Reston Community Center tonight for the musical comedy: Once Upon Mattress. 2.5-hr long yet very entertaining such that I stayed awake regardless my jet lag. I like the dynamic character interactions, comedic timing, and vocal performances from the leads Princess Winifred ("Fred") and Queen Aggravain. The story was about overbearing Queen Aggravain forbids anyone in the kingdom from marrying until her awkward, sheltered son, Prince Dauntless, finds a royal bride. The unconventional, swamp-swimming Princess Winnifred ("Fred") finally won the Prince's heart and passed the Queen's test.