I just returned from a weekend in Las Vegas for the Barbra Streisand concert. She is, and has been since I was a teenager, my favorite musical artist. I missed her concert once when my kids were small because I couldn’t afford the ticket price. I promised myself that if she came out on tour again, I would do whatever I could to get a ticket and attend. I was able to see her about four years ago in Las Vegas, but it was nothing compared to this weekend. This time, her voice touched my soul. I have never listened to someone and just the voice makes my eyes start leaking. Lyrics have done that to me, but not just the voice. While the ticket price was really high and I can see how it is prohibitive for some, I am so happy that I was able to attend and once again mark it off my bucket list.

Who is your “must see” artist? Have you seen them yet? While I actually believe that some artists take advantage of their popularity by ridiculous ticket prices which many people cannot afford to pay, I think it is important to support the arts–the music, the plays, the concerts. To me, it is a shame that some schools are doing away with classes in the arts such as band and chorus in favor of sports events. With grandchildren in high school sports, I realize those are important too, but I don’t believe it is MORE important than those kids who choose to play clarinet instead of playing baseball.

If you have not been to a Broadway musical in your hometown, you need to do it at least once. Watching people who are doing what they love and are passionate about in the name of entertaining me is a wonderful experience that I love. If you can’t afford the local Broadway series, attend a musical or play by another local group. If that is still pricey for you, our local high schools have plays and musicals every year or so at an unbelievably reasonable price, so perhaps schools near you do the same. Check the internet as venues and schools all have webpages that should have that information.

There are also local symphony concerts, ballets, operas, choral concerts, band and orchestra concerts, and other arts events through local organizations (like the Phoenix Symphony) or high schools. Get out there and support the arts. It is an evening spent helping others see the fruits of their passions and helping you relax by listening or watching the arts in action. That sounds like a win-win to me!