“If you’re currently smiling through a show with someone who votes against your humanity, know this: you’re not alone. So many of us have stood in that same stage left wing, silently wondering how someone can sing “Seasons of Love” with you and still cheer for politicians who want to cut those seasons short.”

“The reality is, most theaters today are doing everything they can to keep you informed. Trigger warnings, content advisories, age suggestions — it’s all there. And still, people ignore it. They buy tickets and then they act personally betrayed when the show isn’t what they expected.”

“I’ve been in theaters my whole life, and lately, I’ve found myself watching audience behavior with more horror than the actual villains on stage. So, here are some of the most bizarre things I’ve seen happen in a theater—from the audience side”

“When you react like that, the conversation stops being about the unfair criticism and becomes entirely about your overreaction.”

“This weird, wonderful thing we do—telling stories in real time with lights, sounds, sets, and soul—it’s a gift. And opening night is the ribbon on top.”

“It’s okay to share excitement. Theatre is meant to be felt in the moment, and I’ll always cheer for joyful, immediate reactions. But maybe we can hold off on the official reviews until opening night.”

“Tonight, we held each beat a little longer. We let the silence swell. We danced a little harder, sang a little louder. We savored every second, knowing it would never come again quite like this.”

“Why am I starting a discussion about Hedwig and the Angry Inch with an academic look into the nature of trans-misogyny? Because I believe this text is one that discusses the trans feminine experience, and that the character of Hedwig should be portrayed by a transgender woman.”

“Theatre is wild and weird, and everyone's path looks different. Comparison is a trap that steals your energy and creativity. Reconnect with what you love about performing, directing, designing—whatever your thing is. Your journey might be messier or slower, but it’s yours, and it matters.”

“Musical theatre has always been about progress. It’s about seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. It’s about imagining something better. That’s why the idea of a “non-woke” musical is absurd. It doesn’t exist. It never has.”

“When initiatives are designed to uplift historically marginalized voices, it’s not about taking something away from white men—it’s about bringing more voices to the table.”

“As theatre organizers and professionals, we need to do regular checks. Are you constantly hiring the same talent? Do your newcomers feel welcome? Are new artists applying to your show? These are simple ways to do checks and balances.”