backstory: Amazement
Last weekend, I went by myself to see Hadestown. I was supposed to go with my family months ago, but I had a migraine, so I stayed home while they went. This was my “make-up” ticket.
I was seated orchestra left between two people, both of whom had never been to New York City before. To my left was a person, probably in their 20s, who had just flown in from New Zealand the night before. They could not have been more excited to be in NYC, knew all the words to the score, and moved between extreme joy and extreme sadness (spoiler alert: Orpheus looks back) throughout the show. “What else are you doing while you’re here?” I asked. “No idea.” “Go straight to the Village,” I said.
To my right was someone much younger, a high school sophomore. “First time in New York City?” “Yeah. I’m here with my school. We’re from Chicago, and we’re going to sing at a cathedral.” “Which cathedral? Do you know?” “John’s.” “John’s Cathedral? You mean The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine????” “Yeah, that’s the one.” “You’re going to be pretty amazed when you get in there.” “I’m already pretty amazed,” they responded.
Others’ amazement at what I might take for granted is always such a great reminder.
Tracy Fitzpatrick
Director, Neuberger Museum of Art
