Beauty and the Beast Auditions

We had a very large crowd last night. Between young and old, there was a grand total of 67 people. Some, of course, will not come back. For some people the amount of time it takes for a show is too much and for some one to realize and acknowledge that is very respectable. We had some good singers, actors and some surprise dancers. I'm impressed with the over 21 age group of dancers. We had some fun, learned that Chris sounds like he's cussing when speaking French and that Mrs. Berger has a secret desire to be a tea cup. We also learned that Betsey is always going to "bring up the rear" and that Sarah's will not be mentioned at all during this entire show. And yes, we had the usual "I'm not going to be here for an entire week until the show, but I still want to be in it." Yea, right! All in all, I think I have everything cast- but I will sit on it for a day or two until I get all the final conflicts- that always changes things.

I am looking forward to this show. It is going to be the greatest amount of work of any summer, but I think the most rewarding. I talked to the janitor of the fine arts building this morning and she and I are going to set up dressing rooms in the down stairs hallway. As for where to put all the people, I've decided the balcony thing isn't such a bad idea- that person must have been a genius. The little kids I think we can put on coat hangers and then slide them on a hook or rod back in the corners.

So many people to bless with my presense. Ahhhhhhhh!

It Is Time

After planning and planning since last June- finally the day has come to begin.

People ask, "Do you get nervous?" Heck, yes! And excited and sick to my stomach and dizzy and frustrated and thrilled and angry and bored and anxious and sleepless and thinking if I just throw myself down the stairs, I won't have to do this. But then I get over it.

I'm How Old?!?!

Happy Birthday, Kathi!!! We won't discuss your age because we know how sensitve females are about getting older. I will say she is much older than me... much, much older. Have a good day!

Big Number Eleven!

Happy Birthday Jake!!! Eleven years, holy cow!!!

Rent is Ten

The Broadway musical Rent turns ten years old today. A special concert performance of the original cast will be performed tonight- many of whom are in the movie version.

All Good Things...

Here I am again among those that must work. Alas, spring break is over. I am having to wipe the tears off of the keyboard in order to write this. But why should it end? My new philosophy is life should be one long spring break! But at the same time, with the ending of "official" spring break means that is time for the beginning of lots of fun and exciting stuff. I now have three weeks to get everything done for The Wiz and to get the show on its feet. Yesterday I worked on the wiz head- he looks like a cross between Hitler and a toad- yes, he still needs a little work. Tomorrow are B & B auditions. So in other words, I'll be getting The Wiz ready during the day while rehearsing B & B at night. Why do I do this I ask myself sometimes? Not sure- then I think of the joy it brings for all those people to get to see me at rehearsal each night. I guess it is the least I can do.

Beauty Marches On

I've had a good response so far to the newspaper ads about auditions. What does that actually mean? Who knows? Today has been a pretty lazy day, except for designing the whole castle again. I thought I had a good design that would be easy to create and would function in the show and in the space we have. Speaking of space, where are we going to put the actors backstage? There is so much scenery, I have no place for the actual flesh and blood- not to mention some of the characters are going to be large as a piece of scenery (a walking, talking, dancing wardrobe and tea pot). I guess we will have to build gigantic balconies above the stage. Ha! Anyway, the castle- on Easter Sunday, I was thinking about all the ideas and designs, for now is the time to finalize and begin making, and it hit me- a whole new castle design with different levels and arches and ways to light it. The original idea had such things, but not like these. I am working on a model and will post a picture when it is done. The crazy thing is, the castle is one out of eight different sets we are going to be needing and not just a chair or a table, but eight sets. Effie and Paul are going to love me for this one!

Happy Birthday to The Producers

The Producers, the musical turns five years old today. The movie version of the musical (which was originally based on a movie, which makes it a musical movie of a musical based on a movie- whew!) will be released in May. Having seen all three, (the musical, the movie musical and even the original movie) I would pick the movie musical over them all. Nathan Lane is hysterical as Max and only in the movie can you see his facial expressions- his double takes are priceless! It is one of the few movies in which I have laughed out loud from beginning to end.

Mamma-Mia to be a Movie Musical

Mamma-mia has announced a movie version to be released in late 2007. This is one of my top three favorite shows and is easily my most favorite to see. It has energy, comedy and dancing like nothing else, not to mention those fun ABBA songs. The Broadway tour will be at the Fox in July and then at the Peace Center in August. Having already seen it twice before, I plan to see it twice again at each place- yea, it's that good. A lot of people will say it lacks the depth that real theatre should. To that I say , "Oh, get a life and have some fun!"

Fall Show... Already?

It looks as if we have our fall show scheduled and ready to go. We are doing Leader of the Pack, a really fun musical based on the life of Ellie Greenwich. She is the lady that wrote a bunch of fun and well known songs such as "Going to the Chapel" and "Be My Little Baby". Since it centers around do-wop soda fountian type music, we decided to do a do-wop diner and serve hotdogs, hamburgers, fries and ice cream sundaes- sounds fun, doesn't it? Haven't even started B & B and already getting plans made for the one after it. It must be a sickness.

Auditions

Seven days till B & B auditions- very excited and anxious to begin.

Happy Easter!

Let the earth shout and the heavens rejoice that He has risen. Some may ask, "What does that have to do with play production?" In my opinion, EVERYTHING!

Ahhhhhhhh!

Finally, spring break at last. What to do now? Well, I'll tell you. B & B auditions, Wiz costumes and scenery, fabric shopping for B & B, not to mention some major cleaning out. Before I can start building things, I have to clean out a place to put them. All the while trying to see every movie possible between now and next Tuesday. I would take a shopping trip, if I hadn't quit shopping for the year 2006. So I guess I'll have to go just for the chic-fil-a. Spring, it makes my heart happy and my mind ready for fun. Bring it on!

Casting

B & B auditions are fast approaching: one week and five days to be exact. Will anyone show up? That's the question of the day. And of those that do show up, how many will actually follow through with the show after seeing the rehearsal schedule? Who knows? As always, it is up in the air and I get nervous and anxious and I questionable if anyone will come see it and if so will they like it. But one thing I don't do is doubt. I don't doubt that I will push myself to a frenzy making sure it will be as good a show as possible and I don't doubt the people seasoned people involved will do anything less than perfect. People often ask, "How do you cast a show? Everyone seems to fit their part perfectly." The honest truth: gut. Casting is all in the gut. When I say gut, that means a combination of things. I never become rash and take my first impression, but rather is that first impression still there a few hours later and even more important the next day. Once a show begins at auditions, I am consumed and obsessed (uh-oh there's that word) until I have sent out a cast list. Once that is done, I know that is how it will be, no second guesses. A couple of times I had to completely go on gut instinct, because I had no other choice and both of those times, everything worked out perfectly. Once I didn't and it didn't go well at all. I had to ask a person to leave the cast (a main player), not just because he wasn't good, but it just wasn't working. He wasn't hitting his marks, the cast was frustrated and the theatre managemnet was worried. (Don't be trying to figure out who, it wasn't in Franklin.) That time I knew the guy was not right for the part and everything about him said "no." Don't ask me what I was thinking other than, I knew what I was doing- who care about what the gut is saying. I knew, but I cast him anyway and had to fix more than do it right from the beginning. I figured it out and have lived by my gut since then. I don't know why I do this play thing, ultimately in the beginning, peoples feelings will be hurt and egos gotten bigger- not because they are cast as a certain character, but rather because they are NOT cast as a certain character. It's like those people on American Idol that Simon says can't sing. It is the "he just don't know talent when he sees it syndrome" and they are out to prove, by defense that they could do a certain part- but the question is, would the audience pay to see them????? Some parts lend themselves to people- the sign of a good actor is know which part they CAN'T play. There are some roles that I would relish and delight in, however, I am the wrong body type, voice or even (I'm getting all method on you know) don't have the correct emotional baggage. Sometimes the only way to play a part is to have the history of something similar in your life, because that emotion can't be faked after a certain point. Boy, if I'm the Beast, I'm prepared there. Also when I say "gut" I mean all the preperation that goes into a show and not the writing of checks or buying of fabric or preparing music. What I do, as in everything I do, is very faith driven. Long before the first script is handed out, I pray constantly for guidance. When I do, the people show up, the show goes and the gut feels it. The gut is a wonderful thing when you start to really listen to it. When you do, it is amazing what can be revealed and the fears it can settle, not to mention the tingles of excitement that wil go from your stomach and down your backbone. A lot of times you have to work hard to really understand what it is saying, but ultimately if you are faithful, you can't make the wrong decision, but rather delight in the ones that were provided for you... even when buying gifts. Ha! Hmmm, I think my gut could actually be called by another name...

Bye-Bye Bucky

After weeks of waiting, Bucky is finally going home. The craziest thing about it all is I thought he finally put on a good show. He was beginning to grow on me, except when he talks it sound like his jaws are packed with biscuits. Kellie on the other hand, goodness gracious, send her back to the play in the cow patties. Any of them I can "put up" with but Paris- she needs to be gone now! Annoying little brat! Taylor is fast becoming my favorite. Chris puts on a good show, but he is limited to one thing. Listen to me would you, like I know what I am talking about?

"Yo" to Taylor!

Everybody wanted to say "hey" Taylor- we hope you see this and you and your family are doing well!


Today is Robert's birthday. Kelly brought cupcakes for everyone (what's that about-hmmmm?) with plastic rings on them. You can see Jarrod is wearing a Spider Man and a Ninja Turtle as he gives Robert a big birthday hug. Robert thinks he is one of those models that has to give a gaze rather than a smile. I also think he is pouting out his bottom lip.

Help!

Spring break, where are you?

Prayers for Taylor

We are all thinking about your mom, your family and know that God will take care of her.

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. Psalms 91:15

Piazza to be Broadcast Live

The Lincoln Center's production of the musical The Light in the Piazza will be broadcast live on PBS on Thursday, June 15. Beautiful music, and emotional story and still staring Victoria Clark who won a Tony award for best actress in musical in 2005. The show won several other Tony awards including best score, costume and set design as well as lighting design and orchestrations. KG saw it in New York last summer and said it was wonderful- I see a group viewing in order. Here is the article.

"So You've Come to Stare at the Beast?"

Here is a really rough sketch of the Beast costume for act one. He starts out pretty unkept and then as he falls for Belle, he becomes more civilized and put together in his actions as well as his clothing. You can see how the jacket we were working on earlier fits into the costume.

Paid in Full

I sent the last royalty check today for B & B, which brings the total spent just in roylaties and script rental to: bada bada bada bada bada bada bada- ching! (my feeble atempt at a written drum roll) over $5000.00. Are we crazy? No. I knew from the start, we are going to have to shell out the money for this show. I honesty believe you get what you pay for in tennis shoes and shows.

Big Number 18

Happy Birthday Sammy! Just think, now you are old enough to vote, die for your country, be sent to jail as an adult and open the car door for your girlfriend- what a man- oh wait, never mind. Anyway, "Happy, Happy Birthday, we're so glad you came. Happy, Happy Birthday from the Shoney's gang!"

Just a note for anyone looking forthe perfect gift: Samuel's new favorite movie is From Justin to Kelly (you know, the one staring the American Idol kids on spring break). He would love a copy of that so he can shake his bootey anytime and all the time!

What a Day!

This is a beautiful day! I love spring, I love that Easter is next week and I love that I get to drink Dr. Pepper again next week. This time next Sunday, you will probably hear the burp heard 'round the world. I am going to have Dr. Pepper at the sunrise service breakfast, I'm going to have Dr. Pepper before the usual Sunday morning service, I'm going to have Dr. Pepper after the service and before lunch and then I am going to have a very big Dr. Pepper before, during and after dinner. Then for an evening snack I'm going to have- you guessed it- DR. PEPPER!!!!! Which is right before I have a Dr. Pepper to get me to sleep that night. Boy, I got a little side tracked. Today I sat out on the deck in the sun and did some sketches of the B & B costumes. Great day- only one thing could make it better- "Smack! I receive it". Well two, if I had a Dr. Pepper with that.

New Brain

For all of you that were so worried (ha!), my brain is much better today. All I needed was a night of rest and relaxation... and pizza. I think the biggest thing this time of year is the fact we have been going and going like crazy at school. Spring break, are you almost here?!?! Those creative rutts happen every so often, just as long as that don't last for a good while.

With all this talk of the new Elton John musical Lestat opening at the end of this month, I decided to watch Interview with a Vampire last night. Believe it or not, I had never seen it. It was weird but at the same time I can see how that story could be musicalized. I could only rent it in VHS- funny how we get spoiled by something as simple as the great picture and sound a DVD has to offer.

Today

This is how I feel today- like my brain is the size of a pea.

Spelling Bee on Tour

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will begin its national tour at The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta August 23 through September 17, 2006. Having won two Tony Awards in 2005, the show is not so much a hit for its music, but rather the funny and clever book. Revolving around a group of kids (played by adults) who are participating in a spelling bee, the Broadway show has been a surprise and runaway crowd pleaser. I haven't seen but a few parts of this show, but what I am familiar with is hilarious! I think I may have to check it out. For more information go to the official Broadway site or the Alliance Theatre site.

American Idol... Again

Mandesa was robbed more than Lisa last week! Enought said! Does Bucky have a secret control over all the phone lines in the world?

Worker Bees

Here are some of the kids working on the Beast fur. As you can see it is going to take a lot of time and a lot more patience. Samuel and Taylor worked on it this morning while they were not on stage for Wiz rehearsals. All in all, there is about six hours of work in that little bit- just as in life, when it comes to a costume, it's all in the detail. I especially like the purples and greens and reds that are woven into the yarn- it'll make a good texture under the light.

Preachy, Preachy & More

Yesterday I was very preachy- must have been a full moon.

American Idol still disapoints. Kellie was good, but what did you expect. I think Chris has won me back, he sounded pretty good. I still say Paris and Bucky have to go.

We have been working away with Wiz costumes. This is going to be a fun show visually. We also started making some things for B & B- mainly the Beast's fury upper body. It is hard to explain and I've probably made it really harder than most people would, but I've gotten this fabric with lots of little holes in it that we made a jacket form from. In each of those little holes (probably around 5000) we are knoting a twelve inch strand of crimped yak yarn. As it is used in rehearsals, the yak yarn will frey and create a plush and fuzzy beast. It sound like a lot, but wow, when it is done it will be great. I'll try to get some pictures posted on the progress and a rough sketch so everyone can see what the finished goal is. Four people worked for two hours today and only got about a four inch square done. It is one of those strangely relaxing tasks.

One of My Favorite Tests

For those of you that might have missed it the first time, here is my all time favorite quiz. Check to see which muppet you are. I was Kermit. Hi-ho!

A Concern

Today in The Franklin Press in the "Rants and Raves" section at the bottom of the front page, there is a rant that reads: "It's a shame that some local churches have to rely on show business to get new members. Leave the show biz to Hollywood and let's get back to God." Well, I was quiet taken aback by that because I really didn't know what it was refering to. I didn't even know it was there until some one pointed it out to me and made reference to the dinner show we just finished at Holly Springs. Then it absolutely broke my heart. Here these people were nice enough to allow us to use their building and then, if it actually does reference us, it gets thrown back in their faces. The whole problem with the "rants and raves" is first of all, there is no name attached (if you are going to stand for something, stand for it and be brave enough to attach your name, otherwise- don't bother) and the other thing is something written so vague you wonder if you are the one having the finger pointed at. Later a friend said that another church was doing a musical through their church as opposed to the community group only using the building as we did and perhaps it was in reference to that. If that be the case, then I wish they had specified because everyone knows we did the dinner show just a few weeks ago and no one really knows about the other show, so it puts us in a bad place. If it is ment for us, that person did not see our show or else they would know that the Pastor welcomed everyone to the building and invited them to return if they were interested in finding out about the church and even went into detail on the purposes of the church. He specifically said this is not a church function, but a function by the people of the community and they are only providing the space. I never want to offend anyone because our goal is to provide quality FAMILY entertainment (it says so on the web site) for the community to enjoy. I was and am very proud of that show and what it meant to many people. My other rant would be do they (the caller) not see what a wonderful opportunity that was to get people into a church, many that would never darken the door. Even though they may have left with nothing obvious, maybe, just maybe a tiny little seed was planted. We spend too much time barking- where is the compassion people?!?! No, church is no place for showing out, but it is a place for worship and at times bringing people together to enjoy one another's company in a wholesome and safe environment.

One of My Pet Peevs

I read an article by a theatre critic where he was talking about various high school drama departments that would ask him to come see productions they were doing. One such school he attened was a high school doing a production of Aspects of Love. First of all, a high school doing that show? What are they thinking? Second of all, there is material in that show that is inappropriate for that age of performance. I mean really, as if there isn't enough smutt on the stage, do you have to go and expect a public high school to be a place for it too? Anyway, he talks about the show and so on, but the main idea of the article that struck me was the drama teacher when asked why did he choose that show, he responded by saying there are adult issues in that musical, but they are relevant to what is happening in society today, so the kids should be exposed to it and be able to react to it. WHAT?!?!?!? No! No! No! Theatre in school is all about working as a group to create a unified product; about exploring your creative side and having some fun- not tackling so called "issues". My biggest complaint about drama teachers is they always think they need to push the envelope- by the way, I'm sick of that saying- "so and so did a production or a movie or a tv show that really pushed the envelope"- translation: they tried to get on some kind of soap box and announce the immoral beliefs they live by while calling it art! High school and community theatre is about creative entertainment, NOT about leading young people or the society around you out of their innocence. Here is the article if you want to read it. There is other stuff in the writing, but that was the part that really got me steamed.

Happy 43rd Birthday!

Happy birthday to you!
You are old it's true!
It's good to see at your age you're still prancing!
Just please, don't start line dancing!

We are all very impressed by how preserved you are. Maybe it is all the kick boxing, maybe it is all that "joint juice" (yeah right) you drink, or maybe it has to do with your husband being a mortician. Either way, Happy Birthday!

The Results Explained

I got complaints because I didn't explain my results. The otter is above, quiet true- especially the last line. Ha!

My color was sunshine yellow:
Your dominant hues are red and green, so you're definately not afraid to get in and stir things up. You have no time for most people's concerns, you'd rather analyze with your head than be held back by some random "gut feeling". Your saturation level is very high- you are all about getting things done. The world may think you work too hard, but you have a lot to show for it and it keeps you going. You shouldn't be afraid to lead people, because if you are doing it, it will be done right. Your outlook is very bright. You are sunny and optimistic about life and others find it very encouraging, but remember to tone it down if you sense irritation.

My intellegence was musical:
Every part of your life has a beat and you're often tapping your fingers or toes. You enjoy sounds of all types, but you also find some can distract you at the wrong time. You are probably a gifted musician of some sort- even if you haven't realized it. Also a music lover, you tend to appreciate artists of all kinds. You would make a great musician, disc jockey, singer or composer.

That's the way that goes!

The Quiz Show... Again

Remember last fall when we all started passing around all those internet quiz sites. I found some more fun ones- they tell me a lot about ya'll and how to cast the next show- ha!

What color are you? I was bright sun-shiny yellow!

What type of animal are you? I was an Otter?

What kind of intelligence do you have? I was a music lover.

I've found quite a few fun ones and will pass them along.

Beauty and the Beast Fun Facts

In my research for B & B, I came across these fun facts based on the Broadway production. Check 'em out!

Late Morning

We didn't get much done for The Wiz this morning because many of the kids were not there. A rainy Monday morning after a time change- go figure. Speaking of time change, I hate it. Leave it at this time forever! I love having day light at 7:30pm now, but that loss of an hour of sleep kills me. How precious we realize that hour is until it is gone.

Summer Movies

Ah, the things I love best in life: warm weather, walks at dusk with an ice cream cone in hand, wearing flip flops everywhere (except to church on Sunday) and SUMMER MOVIES!!! I can't wait! There are so many this year that I have been waiting to see, especially X-Men 3 and Superman Returns. Not to mention Pirates of the Caribbean 2 which I am also anticipating. The bad part about Pirates is that it opens July 7, right in the middle of crunch time for B & B. So guys, I guess we know what our movie after the cast party will be this year? The new Pixar/Disney movie Cars looks like fun, but it doesn't appeal to me as much as some of the others have based on the previews. I love the movies, but expecially in the summer- bring on the blockbusting spectaculars. Here is a top ten list of must see movies and the estimated box office take, acording to MSN.

This weekend felt a lot like summer. I went to Atlanta Saturday looking for a new costume shop I had found on the internet and discovered a really cool place for supplies. The weather was perfect there, some might even say hot, but I loved it. Twenty-three days till B & B auditions!

Gorgeous!!!

This weather is wonderful! I love this time of year! It gives me such amazing energy- I want to go everywhere and do everything and at the same time I am completely content to do nothing but sit and daydream in the sunshine. It is also that time of year when the summer show gets into full swing. It is time to start advertising auditions and filtering questions like, "I'm going to be gone the entire month of June, but I'd really like to do the show." Yea, that is a real one. I want to start B & B now, I am so gung-ho! Gorgeous days with gorgeous people doing gorgeous things. Life is pleasant. Lesson of the day- hills can be a dangerous thing.

Ice Age 2, here we come. Have mercy.

Phantom in Las Vegas

The newest wave in theatrical production is taking a 2 1/2 hour Broadway show and condensing it into a 90 minute (non-intermission) production in Las Vegas. Chicago, Haispray, Momma-Mia and several others have done it with great success and now it is The Phantom of the Opera's turn. For those of you that have seen Phantom, you know how spectacular that production is, but imagine this show re-conceived with the similar effects but with the technology of today, bigger and more elaborate sets in a new $40 million state of the art theatre specifically built to house this particular production at the Venetian Hotel. And if that isn't enough, I've heard the chandelier falling is unbelievable- it actually falls frighteningly fast and crashes! I've got to go see it, even though I've already seen the original five times. Last time, I said that was enough, but I think I could sit through one more.

American Idol (The Day After)

So, good-bye to sweet little Lisa. SHE WAS ROBBED! What is up with this show this year?!?! Bucky wasn't even in the bottom three?!?! How does that happen?!?! Maybe they want to not waste their investment in his new teeth. Have you noticed that? They fixed his teeth. That makes me think about how teeth affect a person's looks. On all those make over shows, when they fix their teeth, they don't have that much more to do. It is amazing how good teeth can make you so much more attractive. Boy, I got side tracked. Anyway- Bucky (no explination needed), Ace (it's not that he can't sing, it's just he has no stage presence and his hands shake because he gets so nervous- that makes me laugh) and Paris (just because she is so annoying and egotistical) need to go next.

American Idol Update

What is up with this season of American Idol? Everyone keeps talking that this is such a strong group of singers, but it is not true- they stink! Not only do they stink, but they stink really bad. Yea, Kellie is funny, but you start to wonder if she realizes she is funny now and it is all becoming an act. Chris has been entertaining, but last night he was just scary. And then there is that Taylor guy who I actually like to hear sing as long as you don't have to watch him. He stayed croutched behind that microphone last night like he had to go to the bathroom really bad. Maybe I'm wrong or maybe I just thought that last year was so good. Everyone last year could sing like crazy (except for that Scott guy, he was just in the right place at the wrong time- you would think he would have done better with a name like that- ha!) and they were entertaining. Stage presence is the most important aspect of performing. I know people who can barely get out a decent note, but they command the stage and the audience can't keep from watching them. Goodness, I can't think of any of them that hope will win. I guess it is kinda like the attitude, let them win who is the least bad.

Finally

After months, I tell you months, of having to sit through the preview for the new Ice Age 2 movie, it finally comes to theatres this week. Yes, the first few times it was funny, clever and entertaining- but for every five movies I saw, that preview was at the beginning of at least three! I enjoy a good scrat joke like anyone, but enough already. May scrat run free!!!

Still Working

It is around 6:30pm and I am still working at school... and still have a bit more to do before I leave. Why do I do this? Am I crazy or just so darn (ok, I'm going to use this word at the risk of having some one say "told you so"- you know who you are) obsessed with making sure everything can be as close to perfect as possible? When I get on a creative role, I get on it. All of these ideas pour out quicker than I can make them happen and so I spend hours drawing pictures or adding the tiniest detail, that probably no one will even notice- but I know it is there and it makes me able to sleep a little better at night knowing I didn't cut a corner. Yes, you have those people that work in the same profession (I use that word liberally) that say, "Three-thirty is quitin' time. You won't see me giving any extra time to the system." They are the same people that quarrel they get no respect. Go figure! It's the little red hen syndrome- every body wants the bread, but nobody is willing to bake it. Why do I spend all this time on the details? Why not? It makes me respect myself and my work and it makes me HAPPY... and maybe I am a wee, only a wee, bit obessesive. But notice, it usually works in those people's favor who accuse me of such. Hee- hee.

Disney' Tarzan on Broadway

Disney's new musical version of Tarzan began previews on March 24. I can't wait to see how this is going to be accomplished. The music is partially taken from the animated film version from a few years ago and Phil Collins (who wrote that music) has written a few more songs to add to the stage version. The show is designed and directed (another control freak, I guess) by Bob Crowley, the guy who designed the amazing sets and costumes for Aida. I've got to see this one!

Elton John's Lestat began previews on March 25. That one looks to be quiet impressive too. From what I have heard of the score, the music sounds pretty lush and very different from his other shows. I've got to see them all and then try to figure out how we can do the same effects with only cardboard, elmers glue and fishing line!

Oh, Well

Nothing of real importance to write about today. We are still working on The Wiz. Today we tried to clean up the music a little bit more. Tomorrow we begin blocking and choreography. One funny thing is people have been asking me about this show and they constantly refer to it as The Whizz. They must be mistaking it for Urinetown. Too funny!

Lesson of the day- approach orange sweaters with caution. I now know why that color of traffic cones serves as a warning. Ha!

Creativity Flowin'

Today has been a very pleasant day. I slept late (which I desperately needed), I ate golden grahams for breakfast (which I love) and then I got the sudden urge to work on costumes. I went to the drama room at school and started working up a storm. I got some things done, had some time to myself and sung along with the Mamma-Mia soundtrack (which always makes me happy). Good day- creative day- ideas are flowing. McHottie- that cracks me up!

Lord of the Rings... The Musical?

The new Lord of the Rings musical premiered this week in Canada before heading over to London in spring of 2007. It claims to be a cross between cirque de sole and Shakespeare, but at three hours and forty-five minutes long I would say it more an advertisement for a good bit of seat padding. Read the reviews and see what the critics think.

Wicked Bats a Thousand

Wicked played its 1000th performance on Wednesday, March 23. That's a lot of green paint! Official Wicked web site.

Withdrawal

withdrawal:

(a): the act of taking back or away something that has been granted or possessed (b): a retreat or retirement into a more secluded or less exposed place or position (c): social or emotional detachment (d): the act of drawing someone or something back from or out of a place or position.

I have show withdrawal today like I have never had in my life. Why? No clue. Maybe it is because I don' t really have a set agenda in front of me foe this weekend. It is not like I am working on two shows right now at school! But that is different. Beauty and the Beast where are you?!?!?!?!?!?!? I think a spontaneous event will be in my life for this weekend. But by planning a spontaneous event does that not counter act the whole idea of being spontaneous?

Ease On Down the Road

Ok, so it didn't take me long to get really busy again. We started working music for The Wiz on Monday and I was and am astonished at how fast these self proclaimed "non-musical" kids are getting it. Not only are they getting it, but they are putting a lot of fun stuff into it. I am excited to be working on this show. It is a good choice with the "characters" that already exhist in the class. I hope I just have the time and energy the sets and costumes will need. We are doing a 1970's meets Willy Wonka style. Should be fun to see. Today we tested some lighting effects and were having a crazy time when a new student walked in. I hope we didn't frighten him, more so than usual. The logo I finally put together is on the left- I think it works- goes with the whole "dream" idea.

Moving On

The set is torn down the props are put away and the cast party mess is cleaned up. Today I have a heavy heart knowing I don't get to hang out with those fun kids for a while. Time to move on to the next project so as to avoid complete and total depression.

Uh-Oh! Caught!

We all have dreams. We now know what the chamber staff does when we are not around. The glamorous life of a performer is longed for by many, but achieved by few. Isn't line dancing for older women?

Back Stage

Yes, this is why we keep them BACKSTAGE!!!!!!!

Love Is In the Air

Love Makes the World Go 'Round! It has been said by a well written composer "No thing could be more true." Smart man.

Do They Ever Listen?

Nikki, if I've told you once, I've told you a million times- don't hang your head out the car window!!!

Here We Go Again

Well, after three days of no performances, I am ready to go again. It is about time. I could get used to living a show life: get up at 11:00am, go out to lunch, set up, perform, go out and play then finally go to bed at 2:00am. It's greatfun!

I think this weekend will be much better than last- everything was great last weekend, but I think we can do even better... and will. The crowds are going to be bigger too. Saturday is going to be packed out!

American Idol

American Idol was terrible last night. So not entertaining!

Revived, Revamped and Ready to Go

I had a nice night last night of nothing. I watched tv for a while and then got the sudden burst of energy my body is used to about 7:30pm everynight. So, I got off my duff and cleaned like a mad man- every article of clothing I own (and most of you know, that's quite a bit) is now in its proper place. Be it in the closet, laundry room or dresser, every shirt, sock, belt, everything is put away. Do you know how seldom that happens? Especially during a show? And we are still in the middle of a show! I also paid all my bills and took care of going through a month's worth of mail. I wanted to be sure I had everything free, clear and done for a fun and relaxing night tonight (do you ever just crave certain foods? I am going through that right now.)- it is the two hour, first time ever of the final twelve in concert on American Idol. Should be good- could be better, but I'll still enjoy the show. All of this and I still get to do another show this weekend. I'm excited, we are going to have good crowds and I know they will be full of energy.

Slowing Down (For a Few Days)

We had a great show Saturday night with a good crowd. This coming weekend looks to be a lot bigger and hopefully will be as vocal as the first night. After the show, we decided to have a putt putt tournament- that got put on hold because we were all starving and thus walked up and down the GA road looking for anyplace that would serve us food- alas, you can only guess where we ended up. I think the players keep Shoney's open during the run of a show. Next week, putt putt- we have a plan now. Everyone else is going down with team MD at the top! (Those of you that were fortunate enough to be backstage knows what MD stands for- I'm not going to explain it. It kinda goes along with mainting your yard.)

As for me, the Sunday was wonderful. I didn't really do much, but I couldn't just sit and relax either. I've found that I have to be in crashed mode in order to veg out. I haven't gotten there yet. I have a nice time at church Sunday morning and a fun lunch with my family and then a wodnerful church dinner and service Sunday night followed by a stary walk. I love it that the weather is warming up so I can have my Sunday evening walks- that's where I get a lot of my inspiration.

I did work on stuff for The Wiz and got some ideas together about Beauty and the Beast. We officailly started The Wiz at high school today by doing final auditions and casting. I think we are goingto have a fun and interesting show.

Why can I not relax and just sit? How boring would that be!

There's No Business Like It

Where have I been? Doing a show, for goodness sake! We started Thursday with a great crowd. Such a fun night. Last night the crowd was a little... how shall I say it... held back. It is amazing the energy you getfrom an audience and when it is a little on the low side how it makes you react. It has turned out to be a very nice show. I really wasn't sure what to expect, seeing this is our first review with very little plot happening. But the audience seems to enjoy it, and not just the ones that are our relatives. What relatives? I'm speaking for everyone else, none of mine are seeing it! I am having fun watching from the wings. I love to see how people "tick" on stage. How they create or the lack there of... oops, was that out loud. Any way, good show and good fun- one more tonight then three days off, then another weekend of performing. This is the life. We've even had some one fly in from California for the show... it was just to see me, of course. Ha!

Whew

WHEW!!! That's all I have to say about that.

By the way, yeah Reece!

Uh-Oh

From the look on Nikki's face, she got the book with the naughty words.

Rehearsal 3/1/06

What was up with me last night? I was so wired that I almost exploded! I was eating cake (no soda) at 11:30 pm last night before I went to bed. I'm afraid I already feel that coming on for tonight. Hold on, gang! We seem to get so much done and done well when I'm in that type of mood. In the picture above, Avery says, "Yeah! I am so blessed to learn from such a master!" Sweet kid, I've always liked her.

Love Is In the Air

Here is the first publicity photo for the dinner show, Love Make the World Go 'Round. I don't know if Dr. B is scared or excited?

Kathi, Nikki, Dr. B and I sang at Rotary lunch today. It is always good practice to see how a crowd will react. Besides a jumble of mixed words on the trio song, everything was great. Dr. B stole the show with his rendition of Mr. Cellophane.

Rehearsal 2/28/06

Last night we began really cleaning up the numbers. There is a lot of this show left up to the performer. Some people like that, others freak out. I love being given the freedom to create my own piece. In a normal musical, that is less likely to happen. When you have one story you are working with, it is important to have a unified vision that will produce a "whole" event. When it comes to a review, especially one such as this where an actual "story" doesn't exist, but rather a series of single events, a more individual perspective can be used. We are coming along. I think people will enjoy a nice evening of good music and performance. Tickets started slow, but I was told this morning that things picked up yesterday afternoon and this morning. Cross your fingers!

By the way, I always wear pants at rehearsal. But here's an idea- if I didn't during the show, then we would already be sold out! Tons of screaming fans! If don't take time to go shopping for my show pants, that could possibly happen.

EEEEEKKKKKK!!!!!!!

Four-headed curtain monster!!!!!

Trapped!

Ever wonder what an ice cube sees? That is, an ice cube floating in the drink of Jarrod.

Beyond the Red Curtain

People often ask, "What do the actors look like before they change into their costumes and make-up?" I snapped a quick picture backstage the other night so everyone could see the answer to that question.

A Sad Day in Mayberry

Barney Fife (aka Don Knotts) died Friday. The streets of Mayberry are a bit darker.

Lestat on Broadway

Elton John has a new musical coming to Broadway this Spring. It is Lestat, yes the one that Anne Rice writes about in her vampire chronicles. I've been following the process for several months by web sites and articles and so on since it was first announced and into the try outs in San Fransisco. To my excitement broadway.com has a video diary which will carry the show from now until it opens on May. There are interviews with the stars, the director, the creative team and procucers. Go to the Lestat Video Diary, check it out and keep up with what is going on. Very interesting stuff.

If you go to the official Lestat Musical web site you can hear some of the demos of the songs. It sounds pretty good. After Aida, any musical written by Elton John I will happily listen to. He also has a musical version of Billy Elliot which is playing now in London and will come to Broadway in 2007. The music in that is very strong and emotional, but full of profanity.

Bye Bye Bat Boy

Bat Boy is done. The shows were great, the audiences were great, the actors were great. Everything you hope for. Pictures to come. Now I can't wait to start The Wiz on Monday!

Bat Boy Lives!

We had our first performance of Bat Boy this morning and it went very well. The audience was great, they "ohhed" and "ahhed" in the right places. The actors gave a wonderful performance and are excited to do it again. No matter how tired I get and how frustrated I feel, when you see the excitement the kids have when they have gotten through a show, it is all worth it. Yea, I know, that sounds cheesy.

Sick

Lots of sick people right now- no rehearsal tonight. We shall take the rest of the week to rest and get well, then come Monday, we dive head first until show time. That is the most tired I will ever be during the run of a show, but it is also the most exciting. I especially love it when we have no time to eat and must go after rehearsal- nothing like good bonding. We need to warn the waitress at Shoney's my calves are on their way!

Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!

Two days till Bat Boy and things are looking good. As of this past Saturday, I had no costumes, no set, no props. As of this morning, I lack only a few things that can be taken care of in only about an hour (we hope). We are cranking these shows out like a well oiled machine, thanks to all the little elves that come out at night while everyone else is asleep.

Night rehearsals are coming along. When Bat Boy is finished on Thursday, I am going to take a break for the weekend and then dive head first to the dinner show on Monday. This show has great potential to be very good and lots of fun, we just have to get everything on its feet, cleaned up and fill it with energy. Yea, that's all. The group is finally going to understand how all these pieces fit together. I know they think I'm crazy, but it will work.

Happy Days

A new musical version of the TV comedy Happy Days is being produced in Los Angeles by the show's creator, Garry Marshall. Playing Fonzie in the stage version, which began performances on February 15 at the Falcon Theatre, is former New Kids on the Block vocalist Joey McIntyre. Broadway veteran Ernie Sabella (and voice of Pumba in the Lion King movie) is playing Arnold.

Shakespeare is turning over in his grave.

A Beautiful Day

Friday was a day, but a beautiful day.

Les Mis Returns to Broadway!

One of my top three favorite musicals is returning to Broadway this fall (only for a limited run)! This is the first show I ever saw in its original theatre. How exciting is that! Read the article on broadway.com.

We're Not Gonna Pay RENT

Saw Rent last night for the third time. It was a very strong show. It is one of those shows you can see many times because the actors playing the characters all create such a different experience. There was a woman there really happy to be seeing that show. She "whhoooppped" everytime someone did something she liked... like walk out on stage. The girl play Joanne and the guy playing Collins had voices that would blow the roof off of the building. Fun time, good show.

The New Fad at Middle School

There is a new Disney Chanel movie that almost every kid in the middle school (at least those that will admit it) has been getting into. It is called High School Musical and is about the drama and dramatics involved in auditoning for the big musical at school and the question of will it make me uncool to all the cool kids. There is one girl named Sharpay (I guess that is how you spell it) who is a major control freak... I don't know anyone else like that? She and her brother (who is the best chracter in the movie who wears a bunch of funky hats) dominate the drama department and tries to destroy anyone who gets in their way of the leading roles. For the most part, it is a cheesy as cheesy gets, but at the same time it is too much fun. The songs aren't that great, but they get stuck in your head. Especially the "Getcha' Head in the Game" song. The choreography is great and the kids in the movie can really dance. The drama teacher refers to the show as the "musi-cale" (rhyming with gal). That gets a little annoying. Check it out and have some innocent fun. Look at the official High School Musical website to find a show time.

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Ah me! For aught that ever I could read, that could ever hear by tale or history, the course of true love never did run smooth...
A Midsummer Night's Dream ACT I, SCENE I

Just a Bitty Bite

Jarrod, ever the dedicated performer, ready to give his energy, blood and sweat... ok, mostly sweat, will go through anything to be onstage... even Taylor's feeding time. Bat Boy in only nine days! Will we be ready? Will we be costumed? Will Taylor eat the entire cast? More to come!

You Can't Stop the Beat!

Last night was a good rehearsal night. We danced a lot, we laughed a lot and everybody had some much needed fun. Everybody also got to show out a little bit... but what is Kathi trying to show us?!?!?

My Favorite

"And some have compassion, making a difference." Jude 1:22
Thanks, my quiet friend. Heaven smiles on you and your family today.

Old School

I went to The Tempest Friday night in Hoey Auditorium at WCU. I got very nostalgic because that is the very stage I have stepped on many, many times. I know it sounds crazy, but at 7:25 I start to get that nervous twinge of excitement in my stomach while sitting in the audience there. It's like I am being called to places too. When I think back at the laughs I have had in that building, I smile... big. It was an ok show. The costumes were wonderful and amazing. The sound was crazy. It just wasn't good. Not so much the speaking roles (my favorite was a pirate that came on in the last five minutes), but the back ground music and recorded voices were muffled and unclear. It wasn't good to listen to. Even if the show wasn't the greatest, the night as a whole was very fun and sweetly pleasant. And I got hot tea! Perfect.

Snow!

I'm not really a fan of snow. I used to be, but it now seems to slow me down. I wouldn't mind if July weather stuck around all year. When doing shows, you get on a specific time line and snow seems to throw that time line out of whack. I have a high school show one week from Thursday. We have the entire thing blocked, but we need to do major clean-up. We had a delay last week and a missed day. The way the weather is looking we may have another delay or no school at all tomorrow. An hour in a half may seem like a small amount of time, but whn it comes to getting a show up, an hour and a half is amazingly precious! We now have less than a month before the dinner theatre. I know each of them are seasoned enough to carry their solos, but we still need to stage them and finish up some major choreography. All in all, the snow just makes me get nervous.

With Love

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Justin. We all love you.

Uptown Girls

Last night was an all female night for choreography. Things are going pretty well. I think we are going to give the audience a very fun time. See them "gettin' down with their bad selves!" ONE MONTH TILL OPENING NIGHT!!!!

Confessions of a Rehearsal Junkie

I am a rehearsal junkie. I love everything about it. I like creating, laughing with the people there, having the perfect idea hit you in that very instance that would have never happend if you had not been in that particular moment. I even like it when we have a very unproductive night. Yea, I've found my passion.

Music Running Through My Head

"I got the sun in the morning and the moon at night..." That song is stuck in my head. Hmmm, must be a sign.

Gotta Dance!

I found out this morning that there will be an adult tap dance course offered in the evenings. I think I'm gonna do it... for cardiovascular benefits. Do you remember that episode of the Cosby Show where he and a little elderly man had a tap off? At the end of each of their turns the other would yell, "Challenge!" I just want to be able to do that.

It Is Time

I am ready to get the dinner show on its way. I have the inspiration, the drive and that thrill in the pit of my stomach. I remember why I do this.

May He RIP

It is a sad day on 1313 Mockingbird Lane. Grandpa Munster has died. After years of failing health, Al Lewis (aka Grandpa) passed away this past Friday night.

Hello, Wake up World!

Do you ever really stop to think how unbelievably fragile life is? Of course we all say, "yea, sure, ok" and maybe we really do, but only for a few minutes. By the time dinner is served we've forgotten all about it and move on. We all seem to be going and going and going all the time. Where the heck are we going? For the past couple of weeks, a few things have really made me stop and go, "whoa, buddy slow down." Sickness as well as joyful things. Thursday, I realized how fast life was going just by a simple everyday occurance- but it really shook me. Travel the world- great! Make lots of money- great! Honesty, humility, compassion and love in a heart created by God- that's where a true treasure comes from and how a true life is lived.

Mark Your Calendars!

It's officially official! Liscense is secured and royalties are paid for the biggest summer musical we have ever done. Now the nerves kick in and the realization of everything that is going to have to take place in the next few months- excitement abounds!

Survivor 12

Tonight another saga begins. I'd do good on that show if it wasn't for the no food, no showers, no tooth brushes, no trust and having to sleep on the ground. If they ever do Survivor: Holiday Inn- I'm set! Survivor 12 web site

Tired...

I'm very tired today. I think rehearsing two shows during the day and one at night while doing pre-production "stuff" for Beauty and the Beast has gotten me. Yes, there are moments of questioning where you think, "why?" But then I read an article this morning that gives me a boost. This past year has been a struggle keeping everything juggled and in order and my sanity intact. Emotions are a tricky thing. But I think I'm getting my second wind. I have so many blessings and opportunities. I saw another woman this morning who said she couldn't wait for the next show. I am excited about the journey this year is going to bring. I love what I do, that is something most people can't say- it's a priority to me, but I'm at a place where I'm not obsesive- I'm determined to do my best, but not obsessed. I've realized there is a difference. I feel like God has given me abilities and put me in a place where I can express those gifts to make people happy and enjoy life, if only it is an escape for a couple of hours. I want to make Him proud, my family proud, myself proud (but not in an egotistical kind of way) and the people I'm working with proud. My ambition in life is not huge amounts of money or fame, but to be one of the people who made a difference in the world. My hope is to leave the world a little better having been there.

Why do we do what we do?

I just read an article that asks, "How do you know when you've found something you are passionate about?" If you answer "yes" to most of these questions, you're probably on the verge to finding it.

• Do you lose track of time doing this activity?
• Do you get excited just thinking about it?
• Do you feel energized by it?
• Do you dream about it?
• Do you lose self consciousness doing it?
• Do you perform beyond your usual abilities when engaged in it?
• Has your enthusiasm remained high over a period of time?
• Do you seek out people who share this interest?

Hmmm, sound familiar show people? But I guess these attributes could also describe a drug dealer.

Sammy Boy

I love it when old students and fellow actors drop by. Samuel did this afternoon and I showed him this picture from a few years ago. Now I'm using it for evil purposes. (Insert sadistic laugh here!)

Am I Crazy?!?!

We began a show at the high school this morning which will be performed three weeks from tomorrow- a week and a half before the dinner theatre. Am I crazy? Don't answer that, I already know...