Looking back at our childhood, all of us can remember a time when we were picked on, teased, or just made to feel inadequate. Most of our experiences probably occurred in school behind the teacher’s back. Maybe it was a shove in the schoolyard, a taunt hurled across the lunchroom, or another student spreading rumors. Children and teens can be ruthless and petty. However, they can also be sensitive, especially to harsh words from their peers or so-called friends.
In order to overcome bullying, children and teens need support, especially from those they trust the most: their parents. A new family musical at the Actor’s Temple Theater in Manhattan captures just how meaningful parental support and encouragement can be to a child facing bullying at school.
“The Love Note Musical” is a high-energy journey that follows Jessie, a warm-hearted fourth grader, as she navigates the social hierarchy of both friends and foes at her new school. Along the way, she encounters a group of mean girls who are determined to make her first few days in town a living hell. Even as Jessie copes with loneliness, broken promises, and lack of self-esteem, her day is instantly brightened by the kind words in a little pink note that her mother packs in her lunch.
The musical is the brainchild of Gail Phaneuf, a Boston-based playwright, director, and strong advocate against bullying.
“I believe that bullying is prevalent in our society at every age, social status, job, school, and even within families themselves,” says Phaneuf. “We have basically created a society that is ruled by fear and that is the main objective for the bully.”
The inspiration for this musical came after Phaneuf heard heartwarming childhood anecdotes from friends about having received “love notes” from their parents in their lunches.
The impact of these small acts of kindness and support truly moved Phaneuf.
“Many people that I have spoken to about this say that they treasured the notes that were put in their lunches by their mothers,” says Phaneuf. “They were also a little embarrassed by them at the same time, but they loved being loved.”
Watching this show brought back memories of my own experiences being bullied in school. Like Jessie, I have a mother who used to leave me Post-it notes in my book bag reminding me to have confidence in myself and have a great day at school. My mother also left me corny jokes and puzzles, too.
As a theatrical experience, “The Love Note” is definitely a nod to other successful family musicals such as Disney’s “High School Musical” or Jason Robert Brown’s “13.” The show features a well-balanced score of lyrical ballads and powerhouse show-stoppers that reflect different aspects of school life.
While each musical number does not necessarily move the plot ahead, they do provide immense entertainment value for impatient young ones who might be in the audience. The set is colorful and versatile, reflecting a child’s innocent imagination. Best of all, the young cast does a tremendous job developing their characters and emulating restless 10 year olds. They manage to convey even minute nuances characteristic of young children (that is, sitting cross-legged or fidgeting).
Phaneuf creates a world that resonates with audience members from across the age spectrum. In this fictional school, the quirky nerds appeal to a younger elementary school crowd, while the snobbish mean girls are more representative of high school cliques. The protagonist, Jessie, sits somewhere in between and is relatable to all. As a sophomore in college, I see reflections of myself in Jessie such as her shy, sweet demeanor and her wild imagination. Even parents will find a connection with the lunch lady who witnesses the bullying and is reminded of her own experience being picked on.
However, the most commendable aspect of “The Love Note” is the strong and relatable message that emerges as the show progresses. There is an emphasis on a parent’s role in mediating conflicts and helping their children overcome bullying. At the same time, “The Love Note” reminds parents that their children need to be the ones to stand up to the bullies.
“ ‘The Love Note’ is different in that it allows the kids to work the problems out for themselves,” Phaneuf explains.
Although Jessie’s mother never makes an onstage appearance, her presence is clearly felt throughout the show. Parents can play an integral part in strengthening their children’s confidence.
According to Phaneuf, “The small gesture of putting a love note in a child’s lunch is a huge way of reminding that child, during their hectic time at school, that they are loved and safe.”
“The Love Note” convinces us to think more critically regarding our efforts to eradicate bullying. It is clear that dealing with this issue is a collective effort that involves the actions of the victims, the perpetrators, and the bystanders.
“My dream for this project is to help spread the word,” Phaneuf shares. “Once this show spreads, it will allow for the conversation about bullying to be discussed in these different forums.”
“The Love Note” is a great experience for families and schools. The portrayal of the issue strikes a chord in a wide audience and promotes important discussion on how we can best deal with bullying in our community.
“The Love Note – A Musical” at Actor’s Temple Theater (339 W. 47th St. between Eighth and Ninth avenues in Hell’s Kitchen, www.thelovenote.com),$39.50.
Aglaia Ho is a sophomore at Williams College and a native New Yorker. She also writes for her own blog at www.aglaiaho.weebly.com.
