Imagination fires creativity. Dreams change as we learn about reality, but that doesn’t mean they are less vivid. The ability to imagine things that are beyond a present reality brings vigor and vitality to life.

29 years ago, I was in a musical theater production of Man of La Mancha. I wanted to play the role of Don Quixote, but I was too boyish looking to pull it off. Instead of living my dream, I was asked to play the Barber. I loved it, but I knew I was destined to play Quixote. My dream of accomplishing this never ceased.

In August of 2022, I began working with the talented Ben Henderson. Ben is an amazing actor and graciously agreed to be my acting coach. I am learning so many things from our time together.

One day, he mentioned a group of friends who produce shows for an audience of 15. At the same time, he showed me a clip that detailed Mark Rylance’s experience of seeing Miles Davis live. Mark said that Miles played the whole concert with his back to the audience. At first, he thought it was odd, and imagined that Miles must be shy, but then he realized that he wasn’t at a concert; he was at a rehearsal and what he was witnessing was magical. Miles and his friends were creating music right before his eyes.

Driving home, my mind exploded with possibility. Could I produce an intimate musical theater experience?

As the dream expanded, I knew that the perfect dinner theater already existed in my own backyard. My mind immediately saw the basement of our barn as a dungeon. We could comfortably invite 30 people to see each performance and share a remarkable evening with some of our closest friends. Before I arrived home, I initiated the process of obtaining the rights to Man of La Mancha.

Acting = Being. It is that simple. The best actors are present in the moment of multiple thoughts and circumstances. They never lose sight of the role they are playing. They never forget who they are. They act on the impressions and intentions they receive. Even when such action might interfere with reality.

We are all busy with pressing responsibilities. Too often we forget Rule #6 and see ourselves more seriously than is necessary.

Health and vitality come when we divert our attention from the dreary details of life and embrace our imagination and creativity. When we act on our dreams, we don’t put the rest of life on hold. Instead, we play multiple roles. This creates the light and energy we need to live with purpose and passion.

Wanna see a show?

Questions to Ponder:

What is your dream?

What stage is waiting for you?

What is the smallest action you can take to make it happen?

Remember to be playful today and explore possibility. You will be healthy and happier.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew