This past year I had my first two standing ovations, and I missed them both!
I never ever in my wildest dreams ever expected one to happen and so I turn
to leave the stage and never look back! Believe me, I am now looking back! :)
The first one happened, or so I am told for a story I told in the SCA at a
feast. The feast hall was noisy with eating and talking, I took my harp and
did a great big wonderous fairy tale glissando until I had all eyes on me and
began my story. I was able to keep those eyes on me and could see that look
in their eyes that they could actually see the place that I told of. I finished
my piece and went to put my harp away, never looking back to see the people
stand as they applauded.
The second one happened at a Community Theater's "Medieval Irish Feast". I
came out to do my second set and the crowd was actually quite rowdy and I
didn't know how I would get their attention. I did my big fairy tale glissando
again and started to play and tell stories. Eventually I had people telling
the boisterious drunks to quiet down and all was quiet as I played my last
piece, "Greensleeves". I then picked up my harp and walked off again, never
looking back, because I wanted to cry. The applause was so sweet I was filled
with emotion.
Now I know that when I feel that "sweet" applause that makes me want to cry,
that that is the time to stop and look back.
I have only been playing for four years and am definately not ready for an
orchestra or anything, so, this in turn could happen to you as well, at whatever
level you are at! Just remember, never forget to look back! :)
Susan Dirks-Henry
Apple Valley, MN