The Playbill

Working full-time puts a damper on my social life, so I figured what better time for a Midlife social experiment? When I get home in the evening, I barely have the desire or energy to cook and clean let alone go out. I remember those days when I would look forward to after work happy hour, or dinner and a movie on Friday nights. Now, I’m in my PJ’s by 6:30 pm and yawning by 8:30 pm. Since the weekends fly by so fast, I find myself NOT doing things because I’d rather stay home than spend half a day stuck in Southern California traffic. When did I become such a bore?

To put my money where my mouth is, I decided to stray outside my comfort zone and try something new. My dear friend, Sue had a brochure for outdoor theater productions and offered to take me out for an evening. I LOVE performing arts and I love Sue.  It was a win win situation! I was a thespian in High School and loved every minute of it. After some debating, we decided to see Sunset Boulevard at the Moonlight Theater in San Diego.   I’m self-professed Film Noir buff, and Sunset Boulevard is one of my all-time favorite movies. I keep in in my Netflix queue at all times. The story although sad, is also appealing. We all have a little Norma Desmond inside of us.

I have seen theater productions in both small and large scales venues. I have never been to an outdoor amphitheater, so I was genuinely excited for the experience. We arrived just before sunset the weather and view were fantastic! Sue and I were in awe of the regulars at the venue. There were groups in the lawn sections with coolers and mini camping tables. They enjoyed dinner and appetizers picnic style. One of the tables has flameless candles to set the ambiance. Sue and I enjoyed burgers and potato salad, and I bought a mini bottle of Lambrusco. I was in heaven!

Let the show begin!

Upon our arrival

The Regulars

As the sun went down, the play began, and it was very entertaining. The actors were spot on, and the set design was top notch! I wish I could have taken a few pictures, but photography was not permitted. Sue and I had a great evening relaxing and watching the play under the stars. I have to admit; I hadn’t felt that relaxed in a very long time.

Midlife is about taking chances, and exploration. You never know what you may be missing if you don’t try right? These are the lessons we teach our children but don’t follow ourselves. I am learning that I have to break the monotony of everyday life and enjoy myself. We are planning on seeing Mamma Mia in 2018, and I cannot wait!

Have you recently tried something new? I’d love to hear some ideas!

Until next time….