Oldest Trock Fan
by Judy on 2/20/22American Theatre - HamptonRating: 5 out of 5I became a "Trock" fan after seeing them on tv back home in Chicago in the 1970s. I was determined to see them in person at the first opportunity! That time came...during a frigid Chicago winter (wind chill that night was -10°F), when they performed at Niles West High School. Several skeptical couples joined my husband and me, and were laughing so hard that they were literally sliding off their seats onto the floor. I wrote a "fan letter" to a name/address listed on the program, and was thrilled to receive a great folder (still on my bookshelf) with photos and copy of newspaper reviews from around the country! I framed the photos and hung them in a prominent place in my office (Office of the President, Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals) in the John Hancock Bldg., where they wre seen by countless visitors from across the country attending Board of Commissioners' meetings.
Forward about a decade. Husband passed away. Remarried, moved to Virginia Beach. During a conversation with other moms at my kids' school, where "favorite ballets" was the topic of conversation, I remained quiet until one mom asked my opinion. "I don't have a favorite ballet, but do have a favorite ballet company, and explained." Little did I know, Annie Laurie Sandler and husband, were patrons of the arts. I loaned her my folder, and incredibly, the Trocks performed at the Virginia Beach Convention Center the following year! Then at the American Theatre in Hampton! Then at the brand new Sandler Center in Virginia Beach! And this past Tuesday, back at the American Theatre! My 13-year old grandson is thrilled to give up his video games and accompanies me to their performances! They're talented, beautiful, and have given those of us who had no prior knowledge of the incredible perseverance and perfectionism that goes into ballet, a whole new appreciation for it. The staff and volunteers at both the American Theatre and the Sandler Center enhance this experience! Thank you to all who made this possible!