If you're not very familiar with it, I suggest you run - not walk - to find a quality live production of MAN OF LA MANCHA. Maybe the one here that opens May 8.

See, I wasn't all that familiar with the show before rehearsals began. I knew what everyone knows, of course - "Impossible Dream" and "Dulcinea," and "I, Don Quixote."

I now understand how this piece can evoke the passion it does from those who've seen it, performed it, or been otherwise touched by it. It's a perfect piece of theatre, tight and layered. Among the best musicals for people who are jaded against musicals.

It's touching and empowering and a joy to be part of. This production in particular is going to be pretty damned good.

...and we don't even open for more than ten days.