LIVE

• Lori Palminteri
• Uncategorized
• October 31, 2021

Some years ago,  I befriended someone via comedy who’s wife was a choreographer for the hit show, “Hamilton.” So, I was able to get face value tickets (around $200) for the show at a time when it was near impossible to get a ticket for less than $500.  I, however, was busy with gigs. And stand-up comedy, my own art, was the center of my universe. I offered up the tickets to my cousin and his then girlfriend (now wife). They sent me pictures from like the fifth row, center. “You fucked up,” they wrote, in half jest. I was probably staying in Clarion in Ohio doing a gig for like $300. “Comedy is heroin,” a close friend always says.

I’m a New Yorker, so I’ll see it at some point, but a couple years go by and the tickets don’t get much cheaper. Then, of course, the pandemic happens and shuts down live entertainment, Broadway as well as all my precious comedy dates.

Then, Disney+ filmed and released the play on their platform. I put it on one night and watched maybe seven minutes before turning off. It has to be see live, I thought. It’s meant to be seen live.

While I don’t begrudge people for watching the play on TV, it’s a little bit different when you live in New York and you will not only have opportunity but you love live theater. I love live performances in general. Also, I’m a live performer.

Stand-up comedy is also better live 95% of the time. I always encourage people to go to stand up shows. Even your favorite comics are best live, I promise you.

My aunt calls me earlier in the week because she has an extra ticket to see “Hamilton.” Finally! I get see the hit everyone is talking about. The show I have actively avoiding listening to the soundtrack because I am a big fan of experiencing completely new. And the show was incredible. Which you don’t need to hear from me.

I’ve been able to go to some concerts and shows here in New York (besides my own shows). And I understand not everyone loves to see plays, performances or concerts. But I can’t recommend it enough. The arts and artists have been heavily hit by the pandemic. And if you are healthy and comfortable, I strongly encourage you, no matter where you live, to go a comedy show, local play, bars that have musicians. Maybe it doesn’t move you. If not, I feel sorry for you. Because there is magic in it. And some entertainment, your television will not do it justice.