The Broadway Show That Took Over My Life

It all started with a simple invitation. Last March, a new Broadway musical called "Operation Mincemeat" opened, and I went to a press preview. Two weeks later, a friend from Los Angeles visited and asked for recommendations. I suggested the show and decided to join her. Then things got a bit out of hand. A week after that, my son was feeling down. I surprised him by taking him to see the same show during the day. My family found it odd, especially since I'm usually busy and always talking about not having enough time or money. But then I realized my other son felt left out. So, I took him too.Soon, it became a habit. Sometimes planned, sometimes spontaneous. There were times I ended up at the theater without even remembering deciding to go. I even took a friend's 8-year-old child, B, who had also seen the show multiple times. It wasn't just me; it was becoming a thing. On Father's Day, I made sure to include my husband so he wouldn't feel left out. I started hiding my theater trips from my family, not lying exactly, but not being completely honest either. It was like having a secret. Even when offered a chance to see a different show, I chose "Operation Mincemeat" again—my ninth time. A colleague noticed and commented, "You're a fan. This is what it is to be a fan. " He said it kindly, like a doctor comforting a patient. And maybe he was right. Maybe this is what fandom looks like.