O Brave New World

First impressions can be profound. On Tuesday, May 27, I made what could be considered a bold (or even foolish) move. I packed up my SUV and drove to tiny Spring Green, Wisconsin-a town which I hadn't set foot in before deciding to spend my summer there as the Marketing and Special Events Assistant for American Players Theatre. Somewhere between Waunakee and Mazomanie, I thought to myself, 'Oh, Katie. What did you get yourself into?' Suffice it to say, I'm glad I finished the drive. A few minutes away from my destination, I discovered what many have discovered before me: the scenery is gorgeous. There was definitely a point at which I let out an audible 'wow' as I swooped over a hill with towering trees on one side and a sparkling lake on the other. It's impossible not to get lost in the beauty of nature in this slice of the world. Even the APT buildings seemed to me to stem right out of the ground and blend in with the flora and fauna. In short, I'm glad my phone can take good pictures. Within my first few timid steps into the Bravo Center, I'm greeted by a smile and a 'good morning' from someone I've never met. I quickly learned that this is par for the course in Spring Green, and at APT in particular. Everyone is friendly, and it's contagious. I'm no stranger to Midwestern hospitality, but this took it to a whole new level. Jim DeVita says hi and asks me how I'm doing every single time I run into him, without fail. He really is that nice of a guy, and he's by no means the only one. Day one was spent orienting myself with the 2014 season by sitting in on the forthcoming Talkbacks to Go. Patrons this summer are in for a treat. After hearing about each production in depth from directors and actors, I was asked which I found the most intriguing. My '#1' choice soon turned into a list. APT is really running the gamut this year in the plays that they will bring to life. It really is hard to pick just one. (But if I had to pick, it would be The Doctor's Dilemma and Much Ado About Nothing and Alcestis and-) Later on, I finally climbed Up the Hill. Everyone seems to have their own story about their first time Up the Hill. Mine is as of yet incomplete. I made the climb midday, when there were no rehearsals or performances scheduled. The theatre was empty, but I could dimly picture the figures that will soon be gracing the stage. That space has an energy all of its own. I can't wait to see it filled with people to complete the magic. Spring Green and American Players Theatre have captivated me within a few short days. One thing I know for certain: it's going to be a summer to remember. What's your first memory of APT?