I’m in my 6th year of reviewing theatre. With 1,000 plays under my review belt, I definitely feel more confident in critiquing shows. Still, I never studied theatre. And I don’t claim to be an authority. I’m just an opinionated enthusiast.
The evolution of my legitimacy was a few years in the making. I started out paying for theatre tickets. When I realized I couldn’t support my new habit, I started asking for the complimentary press passes. Initially, theatre companies would quiz me about my credentials. I felt a little dirty. Eventually I was put on press lists and now receive more invitations than I could ever accept. Even when I see 200+ shows in a year, I’m probably only seeing half of the ones out there.
Today, I saw on my website that www.didhelikeit.com/shows/the-qualms was a major referrer of visitors. I clicked on it. I was delighted to discover it has me as their four featured reviewers. It’s the New York Times, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune and little ole me The Fourth Walsh.
I’m officially geek-ed out! Intellectually, I know it doesn’t matter. Emotionally, it matters… to me! I love validation in the form of being in a line-up with respected publications.
Thanks Jen for the screen shot.