How My Daughter Changed My View on Musicals

Cats traumatized me. Not the adorable pets you have at home, but that infamous musical featuring humans in cat costumes belting out nonsensical songs. It was the only theater performance I ever walked out of during intermission, and my family eagerly followed suit.

I've enjoyed shows like "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" with Matthew Broderick and John Lithgow. And yes, "The Lion King" was indeed impressive. Yet, like many, I found the concept of actors bursting into song a bit… unrealistic.

Sure, I can suspend disbelief enough to accept Superman reversing time, but Gene Kelly singing in the rain? That was a stretch.

My perspective began to shift with the release of "Frozen." I initially resisted watching it, despite my martial arts students raving about it. Eventually, I introduced it to my daughter, and she was captivated.

However, it was "Moana" that truly turned my feelings around. The music was infectious, and Dwayne Johnson's performance was absolutely stellar. I couldn’t help but join in the singing.

Now, my daughter is nine and fully immersed in the world of performance. She plays the piano, takes clown classes, and primarily focuses on dance.

Her next showcase will feature songs from "The Greatest Showman," the film starring the multi-talented Hugh Jackman.

Before watching the movie, I witnessed her dance to the soundtrack. The vibrant energy she infused into her performance brought the music to life in a way I hadn’t expected. I found myself driving alone, singing along to the soundtrack. I even caught myself belting out tunes in the shower.

Suddenly, I was looking forward to the film, and it exceeded all my expectations. Just like that, I found myself enjoying musicals—especially those featuring superheroes.

Why YOU Hate Musicals | Why People Think Musicals are Bad This video explores common misconceptions about musicals and why many people dismiss them. It delves into the cultural and emotional contexts that shape our perceptions.

My Dancer Allergy

In my younger years, I had an aversion to professional dancers. While waiting for auditions, I would see dancers who couldn't stop moving, as if they were living in a constant state of musical. It used to annoy me to no end.

Over time, I realized that it was their freedom I envied. The ability to let one's spirit guide their body is incredibly liberating. I resented not allowing myself that same freedom.

Now, when I watch my daughter dance, I feel compassion for those dancers I once found irritating. I understand their need for expression and the liberation they experience.

Imagine dancing freely in a crowded space where no one else is moving. That kind of self-acceptance is powerful. Why should anyone be judged for simply wanting to dance?

A Dancer's Heart

However, my own ego often holds me back from dancing in public spaces like Times Square. I wish I had the confidence that dancers possess. Yes, they face their own challenges—injuries and the brevity of their careers—but embodying a dancer's spirit is something I admire.

Life itself is a dance. Everything—from ocean waves to a judo match—has its rhythm. If you have a dancer's heart, you’re already in sync with the melody of life.

I aspire to improvise and adapt to life's changing rhythms, to find new ways to express myself daily. Living life as if it were a musical would be an adventure.

While "Cats" may have left a bad taste in many mouths, I’ve given other musicals a chance. Shows like "The Book of Mormon" helped restore my faith in theater. Although I wasn’t drawn to "Phantom" or "Beauty and the Beast," I can appreciate their grandeur.

I found "In the Heights" by Lin-Manuel Miranda too inauthentic for my taste, especially considering the cultural representation. The thought of "Hamilton" irritates me for similar reasons.

I Hate Musicals || Mayim Bialik In this candid video, Mayim Bialik shares her thoughts on musicals, addressing the reasons behind her dislike and exploring the cultural significance of musical theater.