Let me start by saying I’m not a real fan of musical theater. Now, all you musical theater fans, don’t get in an uproar – it’s not that I don’t appreciate the talent that goes into such shows. It’s just not my “thang.”

So, guess where my wife dragged me recently? Actually, I should say, she strongly suggested I attend this particular show with her, and being the outstanding husband I strive to be, I attended. (After all, you know what they say about Mama not being happy.)

Making our way to a rather large metropolitan area an hour-and-a-half away from the farm to this mammoth theater venue was just half the pleasure of the whole event. By the way, I was missing a NASCAR race – so, not being in the greatest of spirits when I finally reached my seat, I told my wife upfront that I would try to stay awake.

I have in the past attended a few of these musical events, and survived. But this show had all the potential to be something I wouldn’t even remotely enjoy. I will not mention the name of this particular play – it doesn’t matter for my purposes here – but it is, I’m told, one of the most popular musical theater events ever, having been presented all over the world for a number of years. And I must say, it was a packed house.

Thank goodness these things are divided into acts, and I was ready to get out of there at halftime. But I settled for a bathroom break and a soda pop. Back to my seat for the second act, I leaned in to ask my wife if there were only two acts. She found no humor in my question.

I knew I could get through this, so I sat back to enjoy my cold soda – when something strange happened. I found myself suddenly paying attention and listening to the music, and watching these actors sing and dance all over this huge stage.

I even recognized a couple of the songs. What seemed so hard to understand in the beginning, the storyline was now beginning to make sense. What seemed like a complete waste of a good day suddenly became a good time, right there in that musical theater palace.

And here’s the kicker: By the time this thing ended, I was on my feet, clapping my hands and humming along to this music that was anything but my beloved country genre.

I had time to think about this musical awakening I experienced during the ride home, and came to a conclusion. If we open our minds, our hearts, and our ears to something new or different, we may find a whole world of enjoyment waiting for us out there.

By the way, don’t tell my wife how much I enjoyed this thing. As much as I liked it, I don’t relish missing too many NASCAR races.

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of music. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.