The other night, J and I had a fairly long debate on what standard/type of cultural performance calls for a "standing ovation." The whole conversation began when I complained about the obligatory standing ovation which occurs at every BYU performance in the HFAC. If every performance gets a standing ovation, then what value and significance is imbued in the idea of standing up while clapping? I suppose in attempts to be "Christian" and "charitable," Mormon audiences always given standing ovations - even at sub-standard performances. I think that this not only desecrates the significance of a standing ovation, but it also is downright silly.
J thinks that standing ovations should not only occur at phenomenal performances, but they are also expected for historical performances by famous performers (e.g. the performer will never again perform a certain monologue, concerto, etc.). I asked him if he would give Led Zeppelin a standing ovation at their upcoming reunion-concert this December, and he said that 1) he'd already be standing for a rock concert (good point!), and 2) yes, he would give a standing ovation - not so much to the performance (we all know that Page and Plant aren't living their glory days anymore), but to the shadows of the great band that once existed. I guess I would agree with him.
However, I also think that standing ovations include something more than just showing respect and honor to a great performer. When I have been truly, deeply moved by a performance, I have physically been moved to stand up. It almost is as if my body is so exhilarated and moved that I have to stand up and clap as hard as I can, as if it is the only way to truly express how I feel. I think that the last time I felt the sensation of being lifted to my feet was when I heard the Queen of the Night aria in London, in the spring of 2003.
Has anyone else ever felt that way as well during a performance? I wonder if there are other motivations for standing ovations, besides my emotional motivation and J's historical motivation. Does a standing ovation mean something else to you?
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3 comments:
Jon said...
M, I am totally with you. I think the same thing at every HFAC performance and am often embarrassed both as an audience member and as a performer when a standing ovation is given for not-particularly-excellent performance.
What do standing ovations mean when everyone gets one? What recourse is left to us when we are particularly moved as an audience? The experience seems cheapened.
As long as you don't hyperextend the metaphor, it's almost like performer's NCMO. ;)
I agree with you, friend. But can I just say that it sucks to be the only one NOT standing (especially at a BYU performance) because you think the performance was not worthy of a standing ovation but everyone else around you stands anyway?! It's so awkward. Not that it stops me from remaining in my seat...
Mansticle, it has to be really good to get a standing ovation from me. Most BYU performances I have seen are terrible. It is weird to be the only one not standing, but I am not willing to stand for mediocrity.
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