Teatro Copaza - THE THEATRE

The theatre – my new welcome home.  At several critical points in my life, I have turned to the theatre as a home for my imagination, my creativity, and really – my community.

In high school: the theatre gave me a place to grow, learn, and not feel so alone.  The local theatre in Tucson gave me a purpose outside of school and opportunities to develop my skills as a teacher.  In college, the theatre was literally my home – staying there at all hours of the night painting zingers, listing props in every scene for stage management, or drafting a miniature set.  I was even in charge of a floor of the fine arts dorm!  Haha. 

Now, here I am in Quepos, Costa Rica… super far away from my home and all of the people and activities I love.  Some days, this feels super depressing – like I have nothing happy to look forward to in the day...nothing that really makes me feel like ME. 

Then, there’s the theatre.  Sometimes when I think about it, I find it hard to believe that this place exists in this little town that at first glance seems the opposite of culturally rich.  But, that’s why it’s so cool.  It’s not one of many theatres, it is THE THEATRE.  And thank God we have one.  In fact, last week, there was a touring play that came from San Jose and the theatre was PACKED!!! It is a big space, too.  There were at least 15 people standing in the back squished against the wall as we pulled in as many seats as possible.  It was amazing to see what seemed like the whole town come out and pay to see theatre.  I was very impressed. 

I also, somehow, am now in the theatre group.  We are devising a play of monologues  - kind of like the Vagina Monologues.  The theme is sexual education and it is a comedy that is meant to bring awareness to the issues.   I am super proud that I am doing this and in Spanish!  Yesterday we started playing improv games to bond as a group and I felt so at home. 

Next Saturday I start my improv class for adolescents in the area.  Build it and they will come, right?  I hope that is true.  I have been holding this vision since November (with the original idea in my head since I decided to move here); I went to the theatre, told the director my idea, got his help and support, wrote a business proposal to the board (in Spanish), got help making flyers, and planned the first class.  This week, the director and I are visiting the local high schools to advertise and then I just wait, hope teenagers come, and that I can actually teach improv in Spanish. 

To be completely honest, the thought of it really scares me…. But isn’t one of the main reasons I left my home in the first place to take risks like this? I have come this far – each step of the way being another leap, some bigger than others.  What do I have to loose?  When I think about it this way there is really no pressure and I am excited to try. 

I am ready for this jump.  I have the knowledge and skills I need to do the best I can.  And that, is good enough.    

HAHAH... PROD instead of CROW