I’ve always loved musical theater. From Chicago to Legally Blonde to Hamilton, there’s something magical about watching a story unfold through music, dance and live performance. But like most people, I rarely get the chance to see Broadway-caliber shows in person. Thanks to ticket prices and travel requirements, it often feels out of reach.
That’s why I was so excited to discover an incredible opportunity right here in Naperville.
In June, my family and I attended Guys and Dolls at Naperville Central High School, performed by Summer Place Theatre. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was genuinely, completely blown away. I remember waiting for the show to begin, and about five minutes before the lights dimmed, the live orchestra started tuning up–a buzzing, humming harmony of powerful instruments. From that moment, I knew I was in for something special.
We laughed at Nathan Detroit’s endless gambling schemes, rooted for Sarah Brown and Sky Masterson’s unlikely romance, and left the theater smiling after the joyful finale. It was everything I love about musical theater; you feel like you’ve connected with those characters in the most whimsical of ways.
There’s something uniquely human about live theater. It creates a shared experience that simply can’t be replicated on a screen. And when that experience is affordable and performed by passionate members of our own community, it becomes even more meaningful.
If you’ve been looking for a reason to spend an evening out this summer, I highly recommend supporting your local theater troupe. Summer Place Theatre’s next production, Rent, runs from July 17 through August 2 in Naperville. Whether you’re a lifelong theater fan or seeing your first musical, you might be surprised by just how much Broadway spirit you can find right at home.
