Dancing for Strangers, by Greg Bouljon, 2003

As I bend my middle-aged body
in ways that do not seem natural
or comfortable,

the sounds of conversations begin to fill the theatre.

The audience has entered the house
and I am suddenly nervous

Why?

Stages are not new to me.
Dance and performance are demanding and sought pleasures.

But I am at least twice the age of the other dancers
who glide and lift and pointe with strength and grace.

I am an actor,
a singer,
a tap dancer,
and feeling out of my element

As the company and studio dancers begin to fill the wings,

I hear a young audience member squeal
"Thank you, Mommy, for bringing me,"

and I relax
for I remember why I am here.  

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