Humbug: a : something designed to deceive and mislead
We are so pleased to have you joining us to learn about one of the greatest showmen to ever step foot on the earth. Barnum built an entertainment empire that lasted for over a century. One thing that is super interesting to me is the fact that this empire was built upon the art of humbug. In the opening number Barnum informs us that there is a sucker born every minute. Now you may think you wouldn’t buy all that... But when was the last time you watched The Bachelor? American Idol? There’s something about our human nature that likes being humbugged. Which raises the question, is humbug so bad after all when done in a harmless way? Is there a harmless way? Parents, have you ever humbugged your child into going to bed on time? To eat their vegetables? What about to just be kind and good throughout the year? Barnum argues in the show, “Look at that shipload of Rubens that come over on the Mayflower; They were humbugged with a dream of findin’ some kind of utopia, and it turned out pretty good. And Tom Jefferson and Ben Franklin back in ‘76 humbugged with a vision of makin’ a whole society of free and equal people and that dream of theirs was strong enough to win a war!” Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to say it’s ok to lie, but it’s certainly an interesting conversation starter to discuss at dinner tomorrow night.
Here at Liahona we put a lot of effort in producing theatre that is important and effectual. There are a hundred different lessons you can take out of this show. The one that we would like you to focus on and pay attention to is the importance of working together in a relationship and the give and take that must happen between husband and wife. Next time you insist on black and white, think about what a little color from your partner might actually do.
Thank you so much for supporting the arts in the community and here at Liahona!
Jordan Long
Director
