I was an early on fan of the Lubbock Moonlight Musicals and went to their very first production of Oklahoma. For the next several years, I rarely missed a production, even if it was a play I did not care about. I was appalled at the lack of support and attendance from the public of Lubbock, although many businesses and foundations supported and continue to support the effort.
The early productions were plagued by poor staging, poor sound equipment, poor musical support and poor attendance. The sound equipment was stolen one year.
As the years progressed, the productions have improved, the stage, the lights, the sound system, the talent, and in general everything has improved. Several years ago, for several years in a row, I went to all three summer productions, and they were all sell outs.
Additionally, Moonlight Musicals has expanded to doing some productions in the fall, and spring, and even some dinner theaters, especially over the holiday season. They also host or support outside productions. They also host children's productions separate from the adult theater productions at Moonlight Musicals Amphitheater.
This year, there were three summer productions at the amphitheater: The Music Man; How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; and Singin' in the Rain.. I had wanted to see all three, but did not. I was heartened when it was announced that an additional date was added for The Music Man. I understood that How to Succeed was well received. But I did not hear much about Singin' in the Rain. I had a flex ticket for the latter, and went last night. I was appalled. The play was not that well done, and one of the "stars" who played Don Lockwood (the movie star) was outshone by his "buddy" Cosmo. But what was really appalling was that there were probably only about 50 people in the audience.
I realize that part of that was because it was a Thursday night. But come on Lubbock, we can do better than that. We can support the performing arts, no matter what night of the week they occur!
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