As I’ve mentioned, oh, a lot, before, I am a theatre nerd. As such, one of my biggest regrets is not living in New York City. It seems very unfair that I am so far away from the pumping heart of musical theatre, which is my one true love.

Luckily, someone seemed to realize that Broadway shows don’t belong just in a theatre. Sure, that is where they are at their sweetest, but that doesn’t mean that a video adaptation can’t also be tasty. Which is why we have Broadway plays in video format! It really is a modern-day theatre miracle! It allows everyone to enjoy the art-form on some level, and exposes these amazing works to different audiences.

Think about it. “The hills are alive, with the sound of music…” Would most people know this immortal line, from The Sound of Music, if the film featuring the absolutely captivating Julie Andrews had never been produced?

I adore Broadway- and Off-Broadway-to-Film adaptations more than I can even express. I become excited at the thought of them. Some of my favourites include Chicago, Sweeney Todd, West Side Story, Jesus Christ Superstar, Grease, Annie, Hair … OH! I can go on for ages!

One of my ALL-TIME favourites is Rent, which will be closing June 1st after a 12 year run. I will be seeing the Canadian tour in May, although, not with any of the original cast members, such is the way of the Canuck tour! While I knew some of the songs prior to seeing the film (some songs are just so well-known among theatre communities, that they’re impossible to not encounter!), the film allowed me to really experience the play. Especially since the cast of the film, consists of the majority of the original Broadway cast! That is extremely special. And, the making of the musical has a great story.

Currently, playing on repeat for most of the day, is the song “Take Me Or Leave Me,” which is performed by Maureen and Joanne, as they have a huge falling out, during their engagement ceremony!! Something about this song just pulls me to it. It’s fun, while still being a little bit sad, and the characters are both just so strong in their own right, which makes it a pleasure to watch. But don’t take my word for it– watch it on YouTube. While Tracie Thoms is not the original Joanne, her and Idina Menzel (whom is married to Taye Diggs- one beautiful specimen of a man) have amazing chemistry!

“Take Me Or Leave Me,” is one of my favourite songs to perform. In fact, I perform it whenever I am required to do a Broadway piece, as a duet, with another female (it happens more often than you would think!).

The point of this, is that, there is no reason for you to sit there, like a culture-less bump on a log, when such rich forms of art are so readily available at your local Blockbuster! You may say that musicals “aren’t your thing,” but, realistically, there really is a musical out there for everyone!!