What a night!
We didn't have much time to rest after our "dress rehearsal". The rehearsal actually went very well. I love dress rehearsal (those of you who know me from my Rippowam Drama days are probably laughing). Mostly, I love the hustle and bustle, the uneeded stressing/freaking out. Yes, I've come to love that about my own mindset. It prepares me to do battle against the nerves that come with live performing. Anyway, the dress rehearsal was pretty good, though we didn't get in a second run-through.
In between rehearsal and the concert, I was busy re-typing song lyrics which were to be projected behind the audience. We ate a quick dinner, I changed into my clothes for the concert, and we were off.
So. Many. Kids!
Sue and I tried to organize the kids into groups and classrooms to wait until it was time to go into the auditorium for the concert. This is a hard task no matter where you are in the world. Unfortunately, the children and we literally do not speak the same language, so it makes organizing even more impossible. While the kids waited, Sue passed out their scarves (more pandemonium ensued), and I kept watch for Racquel. True to form, she got to the concert at 8:00 pm. We started 40 minutes late. Anticipating this, I reminded myself to keep breathing and not to get upset when we didn't start by 7:35.
The evening was a rousing success.. The kids remembered most of their words, even without looking at the projections over the audience's head. They smiled, sang loudly, and were pretty well behaved when they weren't singing. I think the adults, though small in number this year, really enjoyed themselves. I love having friends in Brazil over the age of 16!!
Unlike 2012, we had soloists! I was very proud of the two boys who stood up and sang 'Prepare Ye' with a handful of ladies. We also had two people dance while the full choir sang 'Asa Branca', a Brazilian folk song. It was a wonderful addition to the program.
At the end of the concert, we all sang Amigas Para Sempre (friends forever) and I couldn't help but get misty-eyed. This was a short trip and I am very excited to go home on Sunday, but that doesn't eclipse how wonderful our friends in Remanso are. By coming back this year, we have solidified the bonds made two years ago. My fondness for this beautiful community grows with each visit. I remember writing two years ago they taught me how to give without reservation and they have proven themselves once more. Our visit this year was met with joy and every effort to make us feel at home. They opened their hearts and home to us and let us work with their children and friends to make beautiful music. Love it!
The evening wrapped up with a very long photo shoot and pizza with a small group of wonderful friends. I think my Portuguese is improving. I could speak a little at dinner and have people understand me! That makes me very happy.
I may write again tomorrow as we venture to Juaziero with Padre Jose. I'm hoping so, but if I fall asleep at the keyboard, you may get an update once we've already returned to the US. Thank you for keeping up with our blog. Sue, Ann, and I are grateful for your prayers and support. If you'd like to know more about the Creche Sao Jose or St. Charles Brazilian Children, please don't hesitate to ask.
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| AnaPaula and Sita dancing with the kids for Asa Branca at Dress rehearsal |
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| Show time! The youngest choir |
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| Viviana, AnaPaula, Ann, Mariza, Me, Sue, Racquel, and Dorinha Ana Racquel, Luiz Eduardo, and Luiz Paolo. Happy faces after a great evening! |
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