Home within my hometown

Met Mark Ballas, who played Frankie Valli and killed the role!

Three days ago I saw, in my opinion, one of the best shows that the Saint Louis Muny has put on...JERSEY BOYS. Staring Mark Ballas from Dancing with the Stars, Bobby Conte Thornton, and many others!

I left the theatre dancing, I woke up the next morning literally singing December, 1963, and humming the whole soundtrack. I was a different person the next day. Filled with love, music and a sense of purpose. That show was beyond good and everyone in the audience was in awe the entirety of the show.

There is something about the atmosphere that is the Muny. As you walk up to the theatre the smell the popcorn hits you, the sounds of the Muny Teens pre-show performance gets you ready for the musical, and seeing families and friends looking all dolled up with smiles on their faces, you can't help but to feel genuinely and fully happy. You're also in the middle of Forest Park!

Maybe this is just an Erin thing. But I'm telling you, every summer I look forward to the Muny (this one in particular because it's the 100th season!) because of those feelings I get going to every show. It is my home within my hometown of Saint Louis and I have been so grateful for the love of theatre it's given me and the positive messages they spread.

The infectious feelings come from more than just the stage and within the theatre. Every show different cast members take over their social media accounts and give you a more intimate, behind the scene connection to the show and the cast. You get to see the day of a Muny performer. Whether a group hits the City Museum, watches fireworks from a hotel rooftop, or a pre show routine. They also open it to Q&A's so anything you want to know, they'll answer.

I don't know exactly what pushed me to write this, but I always feel the need to share the Muny's magic with as many people as possible. With that said, if you're in STL you can still see Jersey Boys through Monday July 16. Annie is next (July 18-25), Gypsy (July 27-Aug. 2), and MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (August 4-12). Go see a show and check out the The Muny Memories exhibit at The Missouri History Museum for the next year! It takes us back through the past 100 summers in STL. "Experience the thrill of an audition, explore the often unseen backstage where the magic of The Muny is created and dive into the 100 years of ambition, excitement, triumph and community that defines The Muny’s rich history."

Hope you will "Meet me at the Muny, the Muny in Forest Park!'