Wonderfully whimsical

Originally published on The JOLT News on August 20th, 2025

Do you remember what it felt like to watch a movie or a performance as a child?

Fantasies appear possible, and our wildest dreams are tangible. Adult responsibility and life in this tumultuous world can draw us further away from that line that sits between reality and imagination. I call that line whimsy.

Living a whimsical life might feel like a pipe dream, but with the arts it is entirely possible. I found wonderful whimsy at String and Shadow Puppet Theater’s “Night of the Grand Opera.”  

Whimsy is what makes our little home in Washington so lovely. I have one recommendation, or rather a plea, for how we can maintain Thurston County’s sense of wonder. Read all about it after my performance review.  

 Review of 'Night at the Grand Opera' 

With a variety of puppets in many shapes and sizes, one cannot help being entranced by the sheer magic the company creates.

Initially, I expected the show to be geared solely toward children, but I was delightfully surprised to discover that this show was not only entertaining for all ages, but found a way to guide adults back to their inner child. These puppeteers pull many strings during their performance, and don’t be surprised if they end up pulling your heart strings as well.  

The script was particularly clever, exploring the idea of being a fly on the wall. This topic was brilliant because it allowed the company to tap into the physical perspective and imagery of an actual fly on the wall, and at the same time dive deep into timeless metaphors.

Elements of the script were inspired by real events, both in the past and present, with a message that feels important to this particular moment in our culture. I dare not unravel the plot, you must witness it yourself.  

The style of comedy was reminiscent of a film from the Silent Film Era. The expressions, tricks and antics of the performers contained a sense of humor that will never go out of style because it feels entirely human.  

Being that this play is being shown in a park and good spots are first-come, first-served, I highly advise you to arrive early, bring chairs (not just a picnic blanket), and come with snacks and bug spray.

If nothing else, I invite you to bring an open mind and a generous wallet. Tickets to this performance are by donation, but will not turn away anyone who cannot pay. When you choose to exercise generosity, you not only bless the performers, but you make it possible for everyone, regardless of income, to enjoy art.  

Beware of the skepticism that comes from knowing too much. Do not dare try to look beyond the curtain or figure out what tricks the company has up its sleeves. There is nothing wrong with curiosity, but I have discovered that sometimes not understanding the mysteries of magic makes life wonderfully whimsical.  

 To learn more, click here.  

PS: If after the show the word “huzzah” does not begin to creep into your daily vocabulary, I will be disappointed. Seriously, just whisper it yourself right now, you will feel lighter. 

A plea for Candlelight Concerts 

Does anyone remember the Candlelight Concerts held at Hillside Farms last year? Tickets were a hot commodity, and the experience was immeasurably whimsical.

Created by the company Fever, Candlelight Concerts are something offered in a variety of venues around the world and all share one crucial commonality: an intimate atmosphere marked by the overflow of electric candles within the isles of the audience, on the walls, and especially on stage. 

I consider it a great pleasure and honor indeed to have attended Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Halloween and Christmas Candlelight Concerts. I found it to be one of the most heavenly experiences I have found here on earth, and I think regular Candlelight Concerts could greatly benefit the mental, spiritual and emotional health of this community.  

Can we do Candlelight Concerts without partnership with Fever? Maybe, if we call them something else and just note it will be candlelight. Can we still partner with Fever? That I have no knowledge of. Hillside Farms was a wonderful venue for these concerts, but I imagine that other venues in Thurston County could be just as suitable.  

If anyone has any knowledge about these circumstances, an idea of how we can bring back candlelight concerts, and or a notion of how we can make these concerts more accessible to people of all economic statuses, please email rachel@thejoltnews.com.  

https://www.thejoltnews.com/stories/intheaudience-wonderfully-whimsical,26136