Damn Fever Monologue

The summer before eighth grade, the music studio and I got intimate for the first time. I was 12 years old and I got my first solo piece. The moment my hands touched the brand new music sheet and speech, my chest lifted up as my teeth grew in sight with pride. I was going to perform “Heart” from the Broadway musical, Damn Yankees. The level of excitement brewing within me exploded as my anticipation excelled for the upcoming performance.

I thought I would immediately rush the stage and began belting out the tunes of the song, amazing the audience with my brilliant monologue. Reality quickly set in. It seems I was rather naïve to think this way because before I could do perform, there was much work to be done. For starters, I had to rehearse and practice my lines over and over until I memorized them. This was not easy since I had to absorb the essence of the message behind every line of my monologue. “Was I expressing the correct emotions? Was I angry or was I expressing a joyous emotion?” There were doubts that crossed my mind. Before I could sing “Heart,” I had to participate in vocal warm-ups making sure to carry out every note clearly, making sure to carefully
However, the performer is responsible for bringing that to life. The performer is receptive of artistic and expressive interpretations. A simple tap move with a four bar count can motivate others to create a dozen different expressive variations. When I finally performed on stage, I outpoured my excitement and uneasiness on that stage. I cherished every minute of it. I imagined objects, feelings, and people in my mind as I performed for Rosie’s Theatre Kids. I was no longer rehearsing for a singular performance. I realized I was rehearsing for life. The lessons learned on this journey helped mature and facilitate my transition into a confident young