We woke up to a rainy Sunday morning in New York. Fortunately we packed an old pair of running shoes, an umbrella and jackets. We could have used our ponchos! We rested in our hotel room after breakfast still feeling all the feels from our Saturday Hamilton Experience. We knew that Chicago would provide a wonderful contrast to the intense emotional experience that is Hamilton. We had a relaxing lunch at the Yard House in Times Square enjoying people and billboard watching. It was a great stop over before heading to the Ambassador Theater.
My Instagram feed had been filled with the excitement of the Broadway Debut of Reece Weaver as the latest Roxie Hart, America's Sweetheart. You would have thought she'd been a Broadway star for years. Grammy winner and Tony nominee NaTasha Yvette Williams returned to the role of Matron "Mama" Morton, and Red Concepción returned to the roles of Amos Hart. Lissa deGuzzman played the perfect Velma Kelly to Reese's Roxie and Max von Essen perfectly portrayed Billy Flynn. Jayke Workman razzle dazzled the audience as Mary Sunshine! From the first downbeat of the baton, John Bell as Music Director captured my heart. His joy and passion were infectious from the podium. He infused that joy and passion into all of the musicians. For two and a half hours, Tom and I were swept away to the world of Chicago in the 1930's thoroughly entertained by the phenomenal cast, delighted by the music and stunning choreography executed by an incredible cast and ensemble.
Despite the rain, the audience was crowded around the stage door. Tom and I headed back to our hotel. We were still feeling the joy and delight from the show as we had an almost mile walk back to our hotel in the rain. We peeled off our jackets, shoes and socks and meditated before heading out for one last dinner in NYC.
The West Bank Cafe was closed for a private event on Sunday evening. We had reservations at Mama Mia, a restaurant I've been wanting to try for years. The rain stopped and we dined by an open window. We were treated to impeccable service as though we were in a private dining room in a home. The Chicken Marsala and Chicken Milanese were exquisite and beyond compare to any of our Boston North End restaurants. It was the perfect way to spend our last night in New York.
It was a beautiful evening to take a leisurely stroll back to our hotel. As we were unwinding before bed, I was scrolling through Instagram. There were gridlock alerts for Sunday in NYC popping up in my feed. The UN Global Summit was happening with leaders from all over the world. Tom and I quickly realized that we would need to walk to Penn Station. Fortunately our luggage has wheels and it was a little under a mile from our hotel. BUT that meant we could not go to West Bank Cafe for lunch and get a meal to take on the train since we would be traveling over dinner. I sent a FB message to Tom to let him know and to say thank you for an amazing dining experience on Saturday night at WBC.
I woke up early on Monday morning feeling the pre-travel jitters; especially when it comes to watching the gap! After packing, I settled into listening to my guided meditations. I realized that there has to be a way to get wheelchairs onto the train. Sure enough, I googled it and there is a bridge plank that is used to bridge the gap. AI went on to let me know that we should get to the station early and ask the Red Cap to help us. We were planning to get to the station early and use the Red Cap as we had during our last NYC adventure. We found a wonderful cafe a very short walk from the hotel where we had breakfast and got extra provisions for fueling before our early afternoon walk to Penn Station. It was a glorious weather day. I explained to Darryl, the Red Cap, that while there may not be an outward signs of physical challenges (except for tremors), I need assistance with navigating the gap. He was so kind and said that no explanations were necessary. "We will get you safely on the train."
True to his word, as the train pulled into the station, he stopped to get the bridge plank. He told me to let the conductor know that I would need one when we got to Back Bay. I expressed my heartfelt gratitude with words and a generous tip. What a difference having that little bit of extra help made in getting on the train. Darryl secured our luggage at the luggage rack in the front of the train. No heavy lifting for Tom as he had done on the train to New York. When the conductor came through to scan our tickets, I told him I needed a bridge plank when we got to Back Bay. "No problem. Just remind me when we get closer to Boston." We did not see any conductor for the rest of the trip! After arriving at the stop before Back Bay, Tom went to the cafe car and found the conductor. He was a bit grumpy but reassured Tom that he called ahead and someone would bring the bridge plank once we pulled into the station. He was true to his word. Tom and I easily exited the train with luggage in tow feeling incredibly grateful and satisfied for phenomenal adventures in NYC.
After seeing "Hamilton" for the 2nd time at the Rodgers, and receiving so much love and support for accommodations to make life easier and more comfortable for me, I realize how important it is for me to come home; to accept the challenges I still experience as one who endured polio and trauma while celebrating all I have overcome. I saw a wonderful meme the other day. "Get our of your comfort zone. Get out of MY comfort zone." Challenging oneself is vital but it's also vital to know when it's okay to not struggle and ask for help. My NYC adventures were filled with joy and experiences beyond my wildest imaginings. I opened myself up to experience the kindness of strangers and allow the experience of "Hamilton" to touch my heart and soul more deeply than before, awakening a part of me to realize, "the fact that I'm alive is a miracle."
In health and wellness,
Mary
Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.
Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others
Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.
Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.
Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.
Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. "Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.
Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.
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