Not-so-horrible success

I’ve always equated success with happiness. Going into the field of journalism, I received a lot of negativity regarding my potential future income.

Therefore, I need to be optimistic about my future. If I’m doing what I love in 10 years, regardless of my financial situation, I’ll consider myself successful.

According to my definition of success, Director Joss Whedon did just that with “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-along Blog.”

When the writers’ strike of 2008 occurred and the entertainment industry was suffering greatly, he and his brothers combined their creative genius to write this online musical-turned-Internet phenomenon.

Without Hollywood’s approval or money, Whedon financed his own project and obtained a cast and crew committed to the show for free – all because they were so passionate about the work. The love and dedication they showed to the art of entertainment was ground-breaking as well as inspiring to several individuals.

Senior Josh Cohen became a fan of Whedon’s work and began to write his own stage adaptation of “Dr. Horrible” this past spring. After acquiring licensing from Whedon, Cohen set to work, making his script come alive on stage with a cast and crew as dedicated and passionate as he was. His adaptation premiered this weekend at the John Waldron Arts Center.

Before each show, Cohen stepped out on stage to deliver a zealous speech about the hard work and the dedication that was put into his version of “Dr. Horrible.” He wanted to commend each person involved for making his dream become a reality and convey to the audience the passion put into the show.

Both the original and IU versions of “Dr. Horrible” were successful. Although each show received monetary benefits, the creators set out on their endeavors unconcerned about money.

“Dr. Horrible” began as a vision to show the Hollywood community that entertainment can survive without television. Whedon set out to do what he loved, and in doing so inspired the entertainment industry.

This is what all performances need – dedication and passion. Regardless of how much money a production will make, the people involved need to care about and love their work. Only then can a performance be truly
successful.