Hands on a Hardbody is an unexpected and heartwarming tale of what the American Dream means to citizens at Floyd King’s Nissan Dealership in Longview, Texas. The thing that struck me the most was the cast’s ability to keep the musical exciting and interesting all while keeping their hands on a Nissan truck. Prior to attending the performance, I was not convinced that the story would have enough content to be interesting; what’s entertaining about ten people holding their hand on a truck in the hopes to win it? This comedy infused with dramatic moments’ name alone does not give this musical enough credit for the testament to human perseverance in a time of hardship and the disastrous effects of a failing economy in a small town. Hands on a Hardbody is an important …show more content…
I am not necessarily a religious person, but this song allowed me to connect with Norma on a spiritual level due to her beautiful vocals. I felt her hardship and desperation in trying to win this truck for herself and family. This was my favorite moment because the actress who played Norma had an enormous range and allowed the audience to connect with her on a personal level. This production brought to life the cultural context of the time by focusing on the lengths people will go to change their life for the better in times of economic struggle. It also personified what the American Dream means to those in a small town. In addition to this, the musical also reminded me my little hometown. At our local Taco Casa, every Thursday, the entire town would come out in the hopes to win a four-wheeler in a raffle. The event only lasted for a few hours, but it allowed for all the town to come together for a common goal and share life experiences. It reaffirmed that small town living is a culture within itself and that it is important to get to know your neighbor, whether they be a house or an arm’s length