Explaining to my children that we were going to see a play in the park instead of playing in the park was a bit like the old Abbott and Costello “Who’s on first?” routine.  After I repeated myself several times and they asked the same questions several times, they finally seemed to understand that we were going to an outdoor theatre to see a live version of Aladdin, one of Leah’s favorite Disney movies.  New Experience #29 was sure to be a hit.

We met some of our friends at the Open Air Theatre in Washington Crossing State Park and quickly found seats.  It was not very crowded, which was a shame because the play was adorable and admission only cost $5 per person.  The only reason I can imagine for the play’s low attendance is the heat.  It was a hot, humid day- typical for New Jersey in summer- and there was no shade to be found in the theatre.  We tried to look on the bright side, but that bright side was actually too bright.  The sun was in our eyes for much of the play.  By the middle of the play, I could feel beads of sweat dripping down my back.  I simply ignored it and tried to focus on the play itself.

I was truly impressed by the performance.  Most of the actors were children, and my own kids enjoyed watching other children perform.  Luke wanted to know how he could be a part of a play one day.  I told him he would have to practice a lot.  The play was so well done that it was obvious this troupe had spent many hours rehearsing.  The actors were quite talented, and I was impressed with their beautiful singing voices.

Luke and Leah have seen a couple of live performances in their lives, but we have never been to an outdoor show.  I really try to instill a love of the arts in my children.  While a play based on a Disney movie is not as cultured as I might like, the children certainly enjoyed it.  My kids and their friends paid close attention the entire time.  On the way out, they were all looking at the performance calendar to see if we can come to another play this summer.

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