Welcome to "Salute to the Stage: A Digital Library"
This digital library contains memorabilia--program books and musical CDs--from stage productions enjoyed by me, library creator and administrator Julie Rio. I saw my first theatrical performance in January 2001, and I was immediately hooked. It was The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe, a one-woman show starring Lily Tomlin. In the show, Ms. Tomlin takes on the persona of several well-known characters, including Trudy the bag lady. Throughout the show, Trudy provides poignant commentary that explains to the alien invaders in her mind what they are observing here on Earth. Lily Tomlin's performance was brilliant. She transitioned easily and flawlessly between characters, never missing a beat or a line.
However, at one point, someone who was laughing in the front row of the theatre distracted Ms. Tomlin and she started laughing too. She tried to continue with her lines and tried to stay in character, but eventually she excused herself from the stage. She came back on stage to explain that this was not part of the show, and then proceeded to take a deep breath and deliver her next line in character. What showmanship!
I, myself, do not sing, dance, or act. But I can appreciate the talent of those entertainers who perform in the live theatre
singing, dancing, and acting every day--sometimes in two shows a day. To me, it is awe-inspiring.
That's why I love the theatre.
This digital library was created for educational purposes only in fulfillment of a requirement for Southern Connecticut State University's ILS 655, Digital Libraries, Dr. Yan Liu, professor. Copyright 2010, Julie T. Rio.
