We can’t wait for live entertainment to return!

We can’t help but ponder about what we’ve missed most when it comes to live performances and entertainment in 2020. As we head into 2021, we asked our patrons, volunteers and staff what they’ve missed and what they’re looking forward to in the new year. Here’s what they had to say.

“Being so near such incredible talent and the goosebumps on the arms, tears in the eyes and laughs. Oh yes, and our GORGEOUS Orpheum Theatre. Can’t recreate that at home.”-Melissa Bath Sherlock, Patron

“What I’m most looking forward to is finding out who is coming! The 2020-21 Season (announced last March) was spectacular and I’m certain that when the stage lights come back on, there will be great shows to see again. I look forward with rapt anticipation to a season reveal that I’ll actually get to go see! Old – New – Revival – I’m IN! I’m looking forward to getting to do all the stuff I miss now.” –Kate Gabrill, O-pa Presenter

“The thing I miss the most about live theater is the before and the after. The hanging out in the wings, minutes before curtain, the murmur of the crowd buzzing through the air. You don’t know what’s going to occur ahead of you, but you’re excited just to get the chance to do it all over again. And then afterward, after you’ve told your story and shared your message, you just relish in the energy of the crowd, of the cast and crew- it’s electric. I miss that rush.” -Wayne Hudson, Nebraska High School Theater Academy Student

“I look forward to the return of traveling Broadway shows. I miss the likes of old favorites like Lion King and Wicked as well as shows making their first visit to Omaha.” Robert Ortmann, O-pa Ambassador

“I am hoping that someday soon we will be able to be together again for the enjoyment of music & live entertainment. I appreciate all that has been done to ensure safety for those who attend the performance. I really enjoy being entertained whether with music or live theater. – Nancy Johnson, O-pa Ambassador

“I miss seeing actors and singers rehearsing in the studio at the Holland and on stage at the Orpheum and getting those behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on the road.” – Aletha Kuhn, O-pa HR

“I miss the feeling of excitement as the show is about to start. It’s such a magical thing to see theater & entertainment live and share that experience with others. I really love musicals so I can’t wait for Broadway tours to return to Omaha!” – Cindy Vanek, O-pa Office Coordinator

Like you all we are truly looking forward to when live performances fully return to Omaha Performing Arts. Beyond in-person experiences we’ve provided online programming for your enjoyment, but we know it’s not the same. Studies show that during live performances the heartbeats of audience members sync up. How awesome will it be once we can gather again for our hearts to beat as one? Until then, we are grateful for all the beautiful memories created and shared through the arts!

Are you missing live performances at Omaha Performing Arts? What are you looking forward to the most once live performances return? What’s your favorite memory at the Orpheum Theater or Holland Center? Email us your responses at info@o-pa.org.