Last weekend Rob and I performed a night time show for incoming freshmen at Austin College in Sherman, Tx. We haven’t performed a live show since March! Times have been really wild but it felt so good to be on stage again.
The students seemed to enjoy the evening. We did a few contemporary covers, some originals, made some jokes, and had a ball. There was one moment where we did “Apologize” and everyone put their phone lights on and waved them in the air while singing along. It was a magical experience.
The lawn was markedly emptier than usual, probably due to low enrollment or virtual learning. Being in the physical brings about a whole new set of worries and anxieties. So many of us are moving through life virtually that a physical event now seems a little bit awkward. I think that’s what was going on at this show. But we didn’t let that stop us from having a good time. One of my songs, “I’m Still Here,” is an upbeat and fun song that has a dance built right into it. I call out moves and people end up dancing with us most of the time. This time was no different. The students were really getting into it. The weather was nice. It looked like they had snacks and food, and it was a nice way to start the school year in spite of the challenges.
The COVID has really changed our normal way of life on so many levels. Everyone had their masks on. And the organizers of the event repeatedly reminded the students to keep their masks on at all times. We performed this show to a big open field and the students brought blankets, chairs, and stood around making sure to keep a distance from one another. The energy is completely different with the idea of being careful and keeping a safe distance, which is totally understandable, of course. Comparing the feeling of energy I would normally get to what it’s like now while on stage - it’s like day and night.
Rob and I are taking extra precautions as well. I have my own vocal mic that I make sure to bring and use every time I have to perform during these COVID times, which aren’t many. I can’t really sing with a mask on, so I’m usually the only one without one on. We bring sanitizer with us and we’re washing our hands more often. We don’t shake hands or hug anyone. We’ve cut down on traveling tremendously.
The one nagging question I think we’re all asking is “Will this ever end?” I don’t think the COVID will ever completely disappear from our consciousness. I think a lot of the precautions and new normals that we’re adopting will stay with us for a very long time. As for the disease itself…call me an optimist, but I do believe that this too shall pass.
