Try Opera
Did you know that Beverly Sills died? Who's that, you say?
I said the same thing 35 years ago since opera was just about the farthest thing from my mind. That was prior to someone giving me free tickets to attend one of her performances in Columbus, Ohio.
I remember thinking at the time that the evening was probably going to be pretty boring, but hey, what the heck, it's a free night out so my three friends and I decided it might be a hoot to go and it did give us an occasion to dress up in something other than our business suits. What girl doesn't like that?
I could not have been more wrong. I have never heard before or since a voice more beautiful. In fact, if you closed your eyes, you'd think such perfection came from a finally tuned instrument rather than from a human being.
While Ms. Sills did perform opera that made the hair on my arms stand up, she delightfully interspersed her arias with some classical and pop songs. I understood why her nickname was bubbles as she excuded such joy and cheer that the meanest of ogres could not have resisted. She just simply made you smile and be happy just from listening to her. I remember laughing along with the crowd at some of her cutesy songs and having one of the best times of my life.
I woke up the next morning still smiling. So, if you've never even thought about attending an opera, my suggestion is that you give it a try. You, too, might be very pleasantly surprised and have the time of your life.
So, thanks Bubbles for bringing joy to many millions. The choir of angels no doubt sounds even better this morning and the belly laughs must be resounding on high. RIP and thanks for the great memories and for sharing your amazing talent with the world and bringing joy to this kid from the wrong side of the tracks even if it was for just one night.
