Sensations in the Spotlight
I had often wondered how it would feel to be the center of that brilliant spot on the darkened stage.
Many a time, viewing it from the audience, I had speculated upon the sensations of the performer made so conspicuous by its rays.
Opportunity came. I was to sing Beloved, It Is Morn! the opening number of a gypsy encampment scene.
I heard the introductory chords and stepped forward.
The "spot" found me.
The sensation was similar to that of standing in the direct sunlight. I felt its warmth. The audience, now invisible, for me ceased to exist.
That great, brilliant eye at the far end of the theater, in whose beam I was literally bathed, became the sun of the new-born day of which I was singing. It intensified for me, the atmosphere of my song, and, contrary to my preconceived notions, increased my confidence a hundredfold.
The experience, an altogether pleasant one, was an important step in my vocal education.