Songs...

Sarah's musical theater rehearsal class presented several songs written by Jason Robert Brown a contemporary composer.  Many of the songs are from his stage shows, Songs for a New World and 13.

These songs are interesting, witty, and difficult to sing.  Sarah was one of only five in this advanced class.  They all sang and acted well.  These songs seem written for Sarah's gift for dramatic interpretation.  But who am I?  Nothing more than a proud papa.

Netherfield Ball

Here is the family photo from this year's fifth annual Netherfield Ball.  Sarah did not attend this year due to work commitments.  As in past years, we all got to follow the caller for English country dances as were performed during the Regency period.  These dances play a prominent role for young men and women to meet and speak in the Jane Austen novels.  We have been a part of these events from the beginning.  Videos from past balls are here and here.  Click on the second one for a brief scene from the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.The difference this year is that we have been a part of this event since 2008.  Correct that, Bobbie has been a part of it since 2008.  The entire event will be passed off to a new committee next year.  So, we all felt a bit nostalgic this year as next year's event could be quite different.  If so, that is great.  This is a special event, but we don't want it to get stale or become irrelevant.  Now that may sound strange because this event recreates a bygone era.  But the purpose is to provide a family centered formal dress social activity.  If nobody comes to it, the social part is lost. 

Easter Photo...a few weeks late

Here is our family portrait for Easter.  Gee, everyone seems to be about at the same level including Dad.  Next time I should stand up straight!