thatnerddave:

“The Super Live” nourished my Inner Child

My connection to Sailor Moon began, like so many in my age bracket, in the 1990s with the original anime. I’ve spent a lot of time over the years trying to analyze why the show resonated so strongly with me as a child. My guess is that there is no simple answer.

What I do know is that the anime began an enduring relationship with this set of characters. I watched the anime. Eventually, I read the manga, later watched the remake, then found my way to the live-action show. At long last, I’ve finally begun exploring the musicals.

I went through phases of intense interest in Sailor Moon and her Guardians, but even in those quiet times in between, they were always with me. Usagi’s refusal to give up, Ami’s studiousness, Rei’s passion, Makoto’s strength and ability to subvert expectations, Minako’s spirit; they had profound meaning to me.

The notion that I could watch them on stage, meet actors embodying those characters in person…I never even dared consider the possibility. It never even crossed my mind.

Which made actually watching Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live an incredibly moving experience. I won’t attempt to review the show or critique performances; I simply can’t.

What I can say is this: sitting there in that theater, once again watching a retelling of the Dark Kingdom arc, my inner child felt nourished. I was reminded, in pure and distilled form, that Sailor Moon is about one thing above all else: love, in all of its forms, will ultimately overcome all obstacles.

I like to think I know this on an intellectual level. Through the heartfelt portrayals of the cast and the sumptuous music, however, I was reminded why Sailor Moon always made me believe it in my heart, as well.

Does that sound sappy? Absolutely.

I’m okay with being a little sappy sometimes.

Finally, to the gentleman sitting next to me at the show: I apologize for startling you with my incredibly unhinged, loud howl during La Soldier.

I regret nothing.