Magical visit to Beauty and the Beast

Thank you to all who gave suggestions of how to get a handicaped child to get to meet Anneliese van der Pol. The letters were not receiving any response, so, my friend was going to do the 'note at the stage door bit' (july 18th). But, the day before she was to go, someone suggested she simply call the box office which she did. The box office transferred her to the stage manager who was very apologetic about not seeing the letters (seems her'people' take them and she doesn't get to see many). Anyway, he said he would work on it (seems Anneliese was sick that day and he wasn't sure she'd be in)and would at minimum get a signed picture. Well, it went perfectly. Annaleise was in that evening and my friend was told to bring her daughter to the stage door afterward. There was a crush of people there, but, my friend told the guy at the stage door her name and he let them in. Her daughter (Sara) was overwhelmed and the nicest thing was Annaleise coming out and calling 'Sara' - can you imagine what a thrill that was for a child who lives in daily pain to have her name called by her 'idol' whom she had just seen live??? They took pictures and Annaleise was so sweet to Sara and chatted with her- it will be a night she will never forget.
(Just a last note - as my friend was getting Sara from her wheelchair to the car, she felt a tap on her shoulder and it was Steve Blanchard who thanked them for coming.)

Since you guys were helpful, I just wanted to let you know the outcome - Thanks!

That's awesome!! I'm glad to hear something good about Anneliese after the show.

My sister works at Walt Disney World and she often sends me stories about magical things that happen ~ and not only with make-a-wish kids. It really is special. I'm glad to know that kind of Disney Magic carries over with their Broadway shows too.

I'm glad your friend had such a great experience. :)

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Your story actually brought tears to my eyes (yes...Brody DOES have a heart!). As being the one who originally suggested the 'leave a note at the stage door', etc. scenario...I'm pleased that you didn't give up when your letters weren't responded to. The stage door personnel at ALL the Broadway houses are the most professional, organized and friendliest people you'll ever encounter. They always are eager to be helpful and routinely make 'dreams come true' for Broadway aficionados -- from all ages.

Sara's mom didn't tell her until the last minute that she was to meet Annaleise as she didn't want her to be disappointed if something happened to make it not possible. When she finally did tell her, Sara was literally jumping up and down (as best she could) in her wheelchair! yeah - I'd say she was excited!

millie: The picture is in my inbox - how would I get that linked?

Updated On: 7/30/07 at 02:57 PM