Middle-Aged Ambassadors

Our experience last night started with the words to Alex "culture is wasted on the youth" when he was sitting in his seat and looking extremely bored at the DeJong concert hall as we attended Young Ambassadors' 40th anniversary concert "The New Music Makers". I think he was relating last Friday's experience at The Living Legends as the most boring thing in the world. Surprisingly for Rod it wasn't the most boring thing in the world but according to him, it was on the list. Alright. Sorry guys for expanding your horizons in the world of culture and refinement! Back to last night...Last time I saw YAs was in the early 80s in the Finlandia-talo in Helsinki. They were still as good last night as 30 years ago. WHAT!!! 30 YEARS AGO. Oh boy.

Last night they had the alumni return and perform with the current cast. It was fun to see a couple of pregnant or extremely pregnant women sing and dance on the stage mingled with occasional heavy set men. What great memories all of those performers must have had.

Over the years, there have been many performers who have gone to Broadway or other performing groups all over the country. A few were able to join the group last night and performed to the audience's delight. One particular moment in time was when Dallyn Bayles sang "Bring Him Home" from Les Miserables. I don't think there was one dry eye in the audience (well maybe Alex). While I was drying my own eyes, I heard sniffling right next to me (yes, Rod) and all around me. I could have listened to him for hours. Such a powerful performance. Another one was by James Conlee who sang The Prayer (made famous by Andrea Bocelli). So beautiful.

It was a great night and I could hear Rod still singing those songs from last night as he prepared to go to work this morning.

Next up: Alex Boye on February 20th.

For Alex this was another 3-hour "out-of class hours" booking for his art class. Although he said he enjoyed the performance. Liar, liar, pants on fire!