On a chilly Saturday morning in January, patrons entering the doors of Lebanon Opera House were greeted by a flood of colors — fuchsia, lavender, teal, and chartreuse. The lobby was filled with young children, many clad in Colombian-inspired folkloric dress, who hummed with delight waiting for the start of a free screening of Encanto.
But before the film began, there was an equally colorful display awaiting guests in the lobby: stacks of vibrant paper hearts. Children, parents, caregivers, friends, neighbors, and strangers alike were invited to write words of gratitude and good intentions on the paper hearts. This sprightly Saturday activity launched LOH’s “Show Your Love” campaign, a project aimed at fighting the winter blues, isolation, and worry with thankfulness and gratitude.
The former Surgeon General of the United States, Vivek Murthy, said, “We all need to know that we matter and that we are loved.” His sentiment was the blueprint for LOH’s “Show Your Love.”
Using the pre-show time at seven events, patrons paused to reflect on the people, places, and things that matter to them. As a result, LOH collected nearly 200 messages of gratitude which now adorn the columns in the lobby.
One child drew a small picture of their house on a paper heart. Many people listed the names of family members and friends who they treasured. Some shared gratitude for better health, pets, food, and nature. Gratefulness for LOH and the arts were mentioned as well.
Like the festive display of colorful costumes and zeal during our showing of Encanto, LOH’s “Show Your Love” campaign is helping to bring joy to our community. LOH’s lobby columns will remain decorated through March 20. Be sure to check out this inspiring public art project. You might be surprised what it does for your soul on a chilly winter day!
