ANOTHER LOSS

We all have losses, over time we lose family members, friends and people who have touched our lives, even briefly. When a public figure, be it a politician, an entertainer or a writer dies, it's a loss. Even though we don't know the person personally we still feel a connection with them.

I was a youngest when Franklin Delano Roosevelt died and still remember when the paperboy was on the street with an "EXTRA" edition of the newspaper with the headline - "President Roosevelt Dead." I remember too getting the word that Glenn Miller died in an airplane crash overseas.

There are all kinds of losses - The other day the newspapers came out with the news that the North Shore Music Theatre is closed for good due to insurmountainable financial problems.

Their troubles started in 2005 when a fire destroyed the interior of the theater and led to $3 million in lost ticket sales, only half of which was covered by insurance.



I became a subscriber in the early 60's when the shows were held in a tent. As I remember it, the seats were like beach chairs and if it rained it drowned out the performer. In later years they put up a building with heat, airconditioning and comfortable seats.

Not only was it a wonderful theater experience, it was a great social event. I knew that once a month I would be getting together with friends for great entertainment and dinner afterwards.


Image: Courtesy Playbill

Even before the show started we had an opportunity to visit with friends who came from near and far which added to the enjoyment of the day.

One thing the newspapers did not mentioned is the fact that the grounds of the theater were beautiful. We attended matinee performances and on a sunny day we would pack a lunch, leave early and have lunch outside, surrounded by the most beautiful plantings. Not only that, we would have another opportunity to visit with friends.

I will miss everything about the North Shore Music Theatre.