Sunday, December 9, 2012
A day of service
A couple of Sundays ago, I guess it was the 25th of November I got to go and help some of the Sandy victims clean up their houses. It was a good day. It was unbelievable to see the neighborhood. There was sand everywhere that had been washed up, like piles and piles of sand. It was like a beach in the middle of a neighborhood. We spent a few hours helping a lady clean her house and her yard. There was debris everywhere. In her bushes there was a clear line of where the water hit. There was trash and insulation stuck all through her bushes that had been washed up by the water. It was a good experience. Latter-day Saints and other volunteer groups spent literally thousands of hours serving those who were hit by the storm. It is great to see a community come together at such a time of crisis.
New Bathroom Ceiling!
Christmas is here!
As I was walking to acting class in Greenwich Village a few weeks ago I was surprised to see this man selling Christmas trees. Yep! Even in this concrete jungle vendors find a tiny street corner to sell real Christmas trees. It smelled lovely.
Then the other day I was walking some where and I look up and see this huge billboard advertising mormon.org. It was really cool. It was neat to see the billboards in such a prominent place. They are located at 7th Ave and 50th St, just north of Times Square, maybe that is still Times Square. It is a beautiful ad. I didn't get the picture on the left that said "Christmas is family" or the picture around the corner that says "Christmas is worship". Here is the one picture I did take. The ad on the left says "Christmas is..." and then is shows those three pictures.
The Nutcracker and other birthday fun!
Last Wednesday was my birthday! I had a great time eating lunch with my roommates. Brenda and I met Karen down in Tribeca, near her work. We ate at this great cafe. We also saw the fire station where they filmed the first Ghostbusters movie. It was very cool. Later that day we all met up at Lincoln Center for a little ballet magic. We saw NYC Ballet perform "The Nutcracker". It was amazing! The dancing was fabulous. I am not sure why the costume designer chose a light peach color for many of the leotards because it almost matched the skin color of many of the girls. It was very odd, not a choice I would have made but whatever. The music was beautiful. I think I enjoyed that just as much if not more than the dancing. We sat very high up on the side or ring as they call it. We could lean over and see into the orchestra pit. It was very neat!
After the ballet we came home and ate dinner. Brenda made me a yummy cake! My roommates even sang to me! It was beautiful!
I also got to talk on the phone with my parents, my sister-in-law, Emily and my sister Mari! It was great talking with them. Plus my niece and nephews called to sing my happy birthday! I missed the call but made them call again. I have a lovely message and I got a live performance. I love them both! I also received some cards and great messages on Facebook. Thanks everyone for making my birthday special!
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| Our view! |
After the ballet we came home and ate dinner. Brenda made me a yummy cake! My roommates even sang to me! It was beautiful!
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| Before baking |
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| After. Yummy! |
I also got to talk on the phone with my parents, my sister-in-law, Emily and my sister Mari! It was great talking with them. Plus my niece and nephews called to sing my happy birthday! I missed the call but made them call again. I have a lovely message and I got a live performance. I love them both! I also received some cards and great messages on Facebook. Thanks everyone for making my birthday special!
Rockettes Review!
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| Here we are waiting in line to get in. |
A friend of mine at work hooked us up with his friend at the concession stands. They gave us free popcorn, cotton candy and drinks. These cute hats we have on were attached to the cotton candy.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Messiah
A couple of Sundays ago my roommates and I went to see "The Messiah". We saw this great deal on tickets and just had to go. Of course later I learned that there are all of these free places to see it. But hey, we saw a great performance! I must say I think it is the first time I have listened to the whole thing from beginning to end. It was beautiful! I was tired. At times I felt myself being lulled to sleep by the heavenly music. But besides nodding off I couldn't help but wonder if those people in the audience were religious people. Did they know what they were singing about? Did the soloists? Did the chorus? Did they realize that Jesus is the Messiah? He is the Messiah! This is why we sing, not just because it is a great work of music but because it's true. The Messiah has come and we are saved from death and hell! Is there anything more glorious to sing about? I don't think so. I am so grateful for my testimony. It is one of, if not, my most prized possession. I know Jesus is my Savior, the Savior and Redeemer of the World and that makes me want to shout "Hallelujah"! I know He lives. I know I am a member of His Church! Is there a greater blessing? I am so grateful for this!
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| A bad picture of the chorus. The orchestra was gone because it was intermission. |
"Once" Review
I am still not caught up on all the entries I have missed these last few weeks. This morning before work I will attempt to write a couple of reviews. We have been to several shows the last few weeks. T
After three attempts or maybe it was four we finally got tickets to "Once". We sat in line for three hours, getting there at 7am or something like that, but it paid off this time because we were third in line. It was cold that morning. We both had several layers on. We brought books to read while we waited. I however could not sit still when it was so cold so I ventured to a nearby souvenir shop and cafe to get hot chocolate. Finally 10am came and we got our tickets, box seats.
The show was fabulous. It is set in an Irish pub and before the show audience members were on the set getting drinks while the cast was singing, dancing, and playing some kind of Irish music. It was really fun. Once intermission came around they did it again, turned the set into a real bar with audience members mingling about.
After three attempts or maybe it was four we finally got tickets to "Once". We sat in line for three hours, getting there at 7am or something like that, but it paid off this time because we were third in line. It was cold that morning. We both had several layers on. We brought books to read while we waited. I however could not sit still when it was so cold so I ventured to a nearby souvenir shop and cafe to get hot chocolate. Finally 10am came and we got our tickets, box seats.
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| Here is Brenda all bundled up. We sat on newspaper and used it as a blanket. It is quite warm. |
The show was fabulous. It is set in an Irish pub and before the show audience members were on the set getting drinks while the cast was singing, dancing, and playing some kind of Irish music. It was really fun. Once intermission came around they did it again, turned the set into a real bar with audience members mingling about.
There were only about ten cast members and they all played instruments. They were the orchestra too. When they weren't in the scene they were sitting on the sides of the stage playing. There were violins, a banjo, a cello, drums, guitars, and a piano. It was very cool. The music was very good, definitely one I would like to own someday.
The story follows a girl that helps a boy pursue his dream of making music. She gives him the push that he needs to take the chance and do what he loves to do. It also follows their relationship which I will not comment on as it will spoil the end for you. It was a really good show thought and I can see why it won best musical. It was definitely a new, unique musical. There were a couple of times that cast members would do some modern dancing to accompany a character's song. I really enjoyed that. It fit the character of the play. I give it two thumbs up. Go and see it. You won't regret it!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Auditions, auditions, and more auditions
It has been forever since I have posted. Sorry about that. I have been meaning to write for sometime. I have done three auditions since the last post, well the post before "Blast From the Past." I am still working at the gift shop so none of the auditions have resulted in a job but I gain experience from each one I attend.
I auditioned for this play that I knew nothing about, called "Kiki's Grandpa". As I was going to the audition I realized that the production company sounded Japanese. Sure enough when I arrived they gave me an outline of the play that was apparently translated from Japanese; I could barely tell what was going on. The director and auditors spoke some broken English. That goodness the sides were easier to understand than the play outline although they were still a bit strange. I went in and read my sides. It was an interesting audition to say the least.
The next audition was a singing one for a children's theater that was casting for their season that included "Little House on the Prairie", "Rainbow Fish" and another children's story. I went in and sang, Much More from the "Fantasticks" and they told me thank you and sent me home. It went alright I guess. I mean my nerves still get the best of me. Later that day I met with my acting coach Rance Wright. It was great! I learned so much. I only wish I would have made that appointment before the audition rather than after it! So much to learn.
This past Monday I auditioned for the touring company of West Side Story. This one was a dancing audition. I sat around for 2 1/2 hours and then when it was my group's turn they took us in the room and taught us a 8 sec. dance. Then we all did it one at a time. Then they asked to girls to stay and told the rest of us thanks for coming! I did alright. My nerves were definitely there. That was the first one I have done where we did it all by ourselves, usually they do it in small groups of four. My only consolation is that I was not the worst dancer there. I know that is awful to say but I didn't do my best either so I am just looking for a way to help me feel better, sad but true.
That is the thing with all of these auditions you sit around for 2 or 3 hours perform for 10 seconds and that's it. That is an audition. It is crazy. I am getting used to them. They are all different in their own way but the short ten seconds I have to make an impression seems like one constant no matter what kind of audition it is. And I continue to learn how to deal with my nerves which also seem to be a constant thread in this process. I am so lucky. I just have to remind myself that this takes years. This industry is anything but stable. I cannot take anything personal. Just because it is hard doesn't mean I can't do it or I'm not good at it, it just means I'm normal and need to keep working at it. And that is exactly what I will do!
I auditioned for this play that I knew nothing about, called "Kiki's Grandpa". As I was going to the audition I realized that the production company sounded Japanese. Sure enough when I arrived they gave me an outline of the play that was apparently translated from Japanese; I could barely tell what was going on. The director and auditors spoke some broken English. That goodness the sides were easier to understand than the play outline although they were still a bit strange. I went in and read my sides. It was an interesting audition to say the least.
The next audition was a singing one for a children's theater that was casting for their season that included "Little House on the Prairie", "Rainbow Fish" and another children's story. I went in and sang, Much More from the "Fantasticks" and they told me thank you and sent me home. It went alright I guess. I mean my nerves still get the best of me. Later that day I met with my acting coach Rance Wright. It was great! I learned so much. I only wish I would have made that appointment before the audition rather than after it! So much to learn.
This past Monday I auditioned for the touring company of West Side Story. This one was a dancing audition. I sat around for 2 1/2 hours and then when it was my group's turn they took us in the room and taught us a 8 sec. dance. Then we all did it one at a time. Then they asked to girls to stay and told the rest of us thanks for coming! I did alright. My nerves were definitely there. That was the first one I have done where we did it all by ourselves, usually they do it in small groups of four. My only consolation is that I was not the worst dancer there. I know that is awful to say but I didn't do my best either so I am just looking for a way to help me feel better, sad but true.
That is the thing with all of these auditions you sit around for 2 or 3 hours perform for 10 seconds and that's it. That is an audition. It is crazy. I am getting used to them. They are all different in their own way but the short ten seconds I have to make an impression seems like one constant no matter what kind of audition it is. And I continue to learn how to deal with my nerves which also seem to be a constant thread in this process. I am so lucky. I just have to remind myself that this takes years. This industry is anything but stable. I cannot take anything personal. Just because it is hard doesn't mean I can't do it or I'm not good at it, it just means I'm normal and need to keep working at it. And that is exactly what I will do!
A Blast From the Past!
About two and a half weeks ago I went to take a ballet class. As the class was beginning I noticed this cute little blonde girl that looked very familiar. She looked just like a girl I danced with during high school. I almost called out her name to see if she would turn to look but decided against it as class was starting. During all of barre I kept wondering, "Is that Deanna?" By the end of barre I was sure it was her. She came up and called me by name. It was Deanna! We danced in Kansas City together all through high school. It has been 15 years since I have seen her! I did see here perform in KC a couple of years ago but was unable to chat with her then. It was so good to see her and dance with her. What are the chances that we would meet up in NYC! She is also an actress here. Since that day we have gone out to dinner and spent hours talking, catching up. I am so happy to reconnect with her and have yet another friend out here in the Big Apple! I can't believe it, what a blessing. And even more amazing, she lives two blocks from me. It's a small, small world.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
"Bring It On" Review
Last night my roommates and I bought rush tickets with an obstructed view for the teen musical "Bring It On". I finished work at 7:20 and raced to the theater, scarffing down a hot dog as I quickly tried to make it to the 8pm curtain call. I found my roommates outside finishing their food. We took our "obstructed view" seats which were on the front row and waited for it to start.
I must admit I was not that anxious to see this one. I mean a musical about cheerleading? Really? I never even saw the movie and from what I understood I wasn't missing much. I was shocked when I realized how much I enjoyed the musical. I was completely swept away with the story. I was emotionally involved but why? I have thought and thought about this, here are some of my answers. Maybe it was because the main character wanted something so badly, to win the cheerleading championship. She had a dream. I have dreams, everyone does. We can all relate to that one moment that we look to, work for and dream of. The musical is set in high school of course and deals with fitting in, finding your place. I am obviously still in this phase, trying to find my place in this world, figuring out where I belong. Along with this theme comes the idea of learning who you are and having the courage to be yourself no matter what others say. I deal with these same issues every time I audition or perform. What if I mess up? What if I am myself and they don't like me? Do I really dare be myself? These issues are so scary! I guess it just goes to show that though I am not physically in high school anymore perhaps emotionally I am?!? I know, no big surprise to some of you that know me! But here's hoping that sometime soon I can emotionally graduate from that awful stage of life we call adolescence!
So if I am to be honest I must give "Bring It On" two humble thumbs up! The singing was really good. I thoroughly enjoyed the acting. And of course the tumbling was fantastic! And most of the cast was making their Broadway debut. I was really impressed. Those of you that are past high school might not enjoy it as much as I did but I would still recommend it. And the front row seats are great!
I must admit I was not that anxious to see this one. I mean a musical about cheerleading? Really? I never even saw the movie and from what I understood I wasn't missing much. I was shocked when I realized how much I enjoyed the musical. I was completely swept away with the story. I was emotionally involved but why? I have thought and thought about this, here are some of my answers. Maybe it was because the main character wanted something so badly, to win the cheerleading championship. She had a dream. I have dreams, everyone does. We can all relate to that one moment that we look to, work for and dream of. The musical is set in high school of course and deals with fitting in, finding your place. I am obviously still in this phase, trying to find my place in this world, figuring out where I belong. Along with this theme comes the idea of learning who you are and having the courage to be yourself no matter what others say. I deal with these same issues every time I audition or perform. What if I mess up? What if I am myself and they don't like me? Do I really dare be myself? These issues are so scary! I guess it just goes to show that though I am not physically in high school anymore perhaps emotionally I am?!? I know, no big surprise to some of you that know me! But here's hoping that sometime soon I can emotionally graduate from that awful stage of life we call adolescence!
So if I am to be honest I must give "Bring It On" two humble thumbs up! The singing was really good. I thoroughly enjoyed the acting. And of course the tumbling was fantastic! And most of the cast was making their Broadway debut. I was really impressed. Those of you that are past high school might not enjoy it as much as I did but I would still recommend it. And the front row seats are great!
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| Showing a little S-P-I-R-I-T outside of the Bring It On theater after the show! |
"Nice Work If You Can Get It" Review
Last Thursday night Brenda and I thought we would take advantage of the discounted Broadway tickets and go see a show. Due to Hurricane Sandy many theaters were struggling to fill seats. There were no shows on Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday nights. But by Wednesday they were back on. We found a list of shows offering special deals and decided to see "Nice Work If You Can Get It". We sat in the Mezzanine. We had pretty good seats, got an amazing deal but when you get to sit on the front row for other shows you get a little spoiled. After intermission we moved into some empty seats on the front row balcony which were only a little closer but so much better!
This Gershwin musical stars Matthew Broderick and Kelli O'Hara. It is a lovely story of a rich bachelor finding true love. It is set in the 1920's in the midst of prohibition. The script was wonderful. Matthew Broderick was hilarious. We laughed and laughed. The plot is full of mishaps, misunderstandings and mistaken identities. Of course everything gets ironed out into a lovely happily ever after at the end. This is why we love theater, is it not?
I really enjoyed the show but I must admit I was not swept away in it like I was with the others I have seen so far. Maybe it was me, maybe I wasn't in the right mood? Maybe I was analyzing too much, taking notes on what I need to do to be more like Kelli O'Hara. She is a petite blond like me. She has this amazing voice. She sang with such ease and emotion. I loved to listen to her and want to be able to sing just like her. And I was wondering if that was a real cigarette she was smoking at the beginning of the show, knowing that smoking is bad for your voice. It had to be a fake, right? Maybe I was watching the show as a student rather than just an audience member? Oh no! Is this going to happen often?
After the show, one of the older ladies in the show came out to autograph programs. She was fabulous. I am sure she is some big name in Broadway that I would know if I were more educated, alas, I am not. But then Matthew Broderick did come out! He signed my program and took a picture with me. There were only about ten of us waiting. It was late and very cold. He seemed really tired and I overheard him say that his throat hurt. He was probably feeling a bit under the weather. I could not tell on stage. He was great! Nice of him to take time to greet us despite how he felt. After that he just turned to walk home. We followed him down the street. Funny, I thought for sure he would have a car.
This Gershwin musical stars Matthew Broderick and Kelli O'Hara. It is a lovely story of a rich bachelor finding true love. It is set in the 1920's in the midst of prohibition. The script was wonderful. Matthew Broderick was hilarious. We laughed and laughed. The plot is full of mishaps, misunderstandings and mistaken identities. Of course everything gets ironed out into a lovely happily ever after at the end. This is why we love theater, is it not?
I really enjoyed the show but I must admit I was not swept away in it like I was with the others I have seen so far. Maybe it was me, maybe I wasn't in the right mood? Maybe I was analyzing too much, taking notes on what I need to do to be more like Kelli O'Hara. She is a petite blond like me. She has this amazing voice. She sang with such ease and emotion. I loved to listen to her and want to be able to sing just like her. And I was wondering if that was a real cigarette she was smoking at the beginning of the show, knowing that smoking is bad for your voice. It had to be a fake, right? Maybe I was watching the show as a student rather than just an audience member? Oh no! Is this going to happen often?
After the show, one of the older ladies in the show came out to autograph programs. She was fabulous. I am sure she is some big name in Broadway that I would know if I were more educated, alas, I am not. But then Matthew Broderick did come out! He signed my program and took a picture with me. There were only about ten of us waiting. It was late and very cold. He seemed really tired and I overheard him say that his throat hurt. He was probably feeling a bit under the weather. I could not tell on stage. He was great! Nice of him to take time to greet us despite how he felt. After that he just turned to walk home. We followed him down the street. Funny, I thought for sure he would have a car.
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| Me and Mr. Broderick outside the stage door! |
Hurricane Sandy
Hurricane Sandy blew into NYC last week. Life is slowly getting back to normal, hopefully the subways will be fully restored this week. I am grateful to all of you for your thoughts and prayers. Many of you called to see if my cousin and I were ok. We are doing fine.
At church last Sunday they told us that schools were cancelled the next day. They urged us all to be prepared with extra food, batteries, etc. We came home from church and did our normal Sunday things, talking on the phone with family and napping. That afternoon I got a call that the gift shop would be closed on Monday. No work! I was excited! My acting class was cancelled as was my voice lesson on Tuesday. My other roommate's work was also cancelled. We live in Harlem up north kind of on a hill. It was very odd that everyone was so worried. We waited and waited for the storm to come but it never did. We got a little wind and a little rain but not much else. Growing up in Kansas I witnessed many more violent storms but we enjoyed the time off, watching TV, reading books and making cookies! It wasn't until Wed when we realized how bad the storm had hit New Jersey and other parts of NYC. We were sad to see all of the flooding and fires on the news. We were also grateful that we had not encountered any problems! We are blessed! My roommate was unable to go to work due to the lack of electricity in her building. My cousin works from home so no problem there! Ha, we finally found a disadvantage to working from home.
We did venture out to do a couple of errands on Wednesday, just the ones in walking distance. There were some buses running but no subways. Those going to work waited in line for hours for the buses which apparently couldn't make all the stops they were supposed to because they were so full of people! I am glad I didn't work on Wednesday or Thursday so I didn't have to mess with the buses. The city will survive. It will make it through. There were several clean up service projects going on yesterday. It would have been nice to have gone but I had to work. I hope and pray everyone gets electricity restore. It is getting colder and colder everyday.
At church last Sunday they told us that schools were cancelled the next day. They urged us all to be prepared with extra food, batteries, etc. We came home from church and did our normal Sunday things, talking on the phone with family and napping. That afternoon I got a call that the gift shop would be closed on Monday. No work! I was excited! My acting class was cancelled as was my voice lesson on Tuesday. My other roommate's work was also cancelled. We live in Harlem up north kind of on a hill. It was very odd that everyone was so worried. We waited and waited for the storm to come but it never did. We got a little wind and a little rain but not much else. Growing up in Kansas I witnessed many more violent storms but we enjoyed the time off, watching TV, reading books and making cookies! It wasn't until Wed when we realized how bad the storm had hit New Jersey and other parts of NYC. We were sad to see all of the flooding and fires on the news. We were also grateful that we had not encountered any problems! We are blessed! My roommate was unable to go to work due to the lack of electricity in her building. My cousin works from home so no problem there! Ha, we finally found a disadvantage to working from home.
We did venture out to do a couple of errands on Wednesday, just the ones in walking distance. There were some buses running but no subways. Those going to work waited in line for hours for the buses which apparently couldn't make all the stops they were supposed to because they were so full of people! I am glad I didn't work on Wednesday or Thursday so I didn't have to mess with the buses. The city will survive. It will make it through. There were several clean up service projects going on yesterday. It would have been nice to have gone but I had to work. I hope and pray everyone gets electricity restore. It is getting colder and colder everyday.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Play Review #1 Grace
Yesterday Brenda and I went to see the play, Grace playing at the Cort Theater. We just stumbled upon it on line. We saw that it starred Paul Rudd and Ed Asner and I thought it had to be good then. We bought "rush" tickets that morning. Rush tickets are cheaper usually because the view of the stage is partially obstructed. We sat in the front row! The stage was rather high so we had to look up but we were so close! It was amazing! We just weren't able to see from their knees down but in a straight play that is really not necessary. We could see their faces so well, the spit coming from their mouths as they said their lines, it was awesome! Ed Asner was especially good, so believable! And Michael Shannon was amazing as the angry neighbor with the smashed up face. I just want to see it again to see if it is as good the second time.
The play was amazing. It is about this religious couple who meet these two other people who don't believe in God because of the horrible things that happened to them. It was really intense. I am very willing to suspend my disbelief when it comes to theater. I really got into the play and was almost tired afterwards. It was a drama with a not so happy ending. It was about real life, real situations. I like those kind of plays and movies and would love to perform in them.
I am so impressed with writers or playwrights who create these stories and characters, that never before existed except in their imaginations. Then these lucky actors get to bring them to life for all the world to see.
Of course after the show we waited outside for the stars to come out the back door. Paul Rudd came first. He signed people's programs, including mine! and took pictures with everyone. Then he was ushered to his car by security. Next came the one female player, Kate Arrington. She was sweet and signed her name and posed for pictures also. The she left the crowd and walked down the street like everyone else. And that's the difference between a star movie star and a stage star. No one knows who you are when you just perform on stage. This is good and bad. Last came Ed Asner. He looked older and a little more tired than he did on stage so he did a limited amount of autographs and photos but he did sign mine! More than the signing it was nice to be able to tell the actors how much I enjoyed the show. Glad I got to do that. Michael Shannon did not come out but rather it seemed elected to stay at the theater and rest until the show that evening. This makes sense considering he had the most make up of anyone. I was bummed. It would've been nice to tell him how much I liked the show. I think the show goes until Jan. 6 so if you are ever in NYC I would highly recommend seeing it.
The play was amazing. It is about this religious couple who meet these two other people who don't believe in God because of the horrible things that happened to them. It was really intense. I am very willing to suspend my disbelief when it comes to theater. I really got into the play and was almost tired afterwards. It was a drama with a not so happy ending. It was about real life, real situations. I like those kind of plays and movies and would love to perform in them.
I am so impressed with writers or playwrights who create these stories and characters, that never before existed except in their imaginations. Then these lucky actors get to bring them to life for all the world to see.
Of course after the show we waited outside for the stars to come out the back door. Paul Rudd came first. He signed people's programs, including mine! and took pictures with everyone. Then he was ushered to his car by security. Next came the one female player, Kate Arrington. She was sweet and signed her name and posed for pictures also. The she left the crowd and walked down the street like everyone else. And that's the difference between a star movie star and a stage star. No one knows who you are when you just perform on stage. This is good and bad. Last came Ed Asner. He looked older and a little more tired than he did on stage so he did a limited amount of autographs and photos but he did sign mine! More than the signing it was nice to be able to tell the actors how much I enjoyed the show. Glad I got to do that. Michael Shannon did not come out but rather it seemed elected to stay at the theater and rest until the show that evening. This makes sense considering he had the most make up of anyone. I was bummed. It would've been nice to tell him how much I liked the show. I think the show goes until Jan. 6 so if you are ever in NYC I would highly recommend seeing it.
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| Me and the stars! Pretty cool! I know my hair is bad but I had just taken a ballet class that morning! |
Making Connections and Obstacles
Last Wednesday I met a guy my age that is kind of like a manager for actors. He is actually a member of my ward but doesn't come. It is so nice to have the church in common though. He does private coaching for actors and also knows A LOT of casting directors. He holds a workshop for actors where the casting directors come and work with you one on one. Anyway, he came to my house and I had a little free consultation with him. It went really well. I am so excited to meet with someone who can help, someone who knows the ins and outs of the business. He was very blunt and positive though, believing that I can achieve whatever I set out to do.
I must admit that I was impressed with how he could see exactly what is preventing me from getting anywhere in the business. I know I just started so perhaps I should say what will prevent me from making it. No, I am going to fix it so it won't prevent me from making it! Anyway, my lack of confidence is the problem. I know that in my head but somehow I have to get my heart to believe it. He said that all he sees now is fear and when I walk into an audition that is all the auditors see too. Darn it! I know that the only thing between me and amazing performers (well, besides experience of course) is confidence. I can do what they do, no problem! I just need to believe it! Needless to say I will be doing a lot of praying and soul searching regarding this topic. My new friend said he would help me fix this problem too. I am so excited! Moving in the right direction! Few feelings are better than this! I will learn how to have confidence and you will all know it when I start appearing in show after show after show! Lol!
I must admit that I was impressed with how he could see exactly what is preventing me from getting anywhere in the business. I know I just started so perhaps I should say what will prevent me from making it. No, I am going to fix it so it won't prevent me from making it! Anyway, my lack of confidence is the problem. I know that in my head but somehow I have to get my heart to believe it. He said that all he sees now is fear and when I walk into an audition that is all the auditors see too. Darn it! I know that the only thing between me and amazing performers (well, besides experience of course) is confidence. I can do what they do, no problem! I just need to believe it! Needless to say I will be doing a lot of praying and soul searching regarding this topic. My new friend said he would help me fix this problem too. I am so excited! Moving in the right direction! Few feelings are better than this! I will learn how to have confidence and you will all know it when I start appearing in show after show after show! Lol!
Monday Night High
Last Monday it happened again. I walked home from acting class on cloud nine. And once a gain it took a few hours to go to bed! I just did a little three minute improv for the class. I was to speak to three different people on the phone, three people that brought out three different moods or sides of me. I asked my mom for a favor (which I'm always doing), spoke with my brother who was asking for money, and then spoke with a roommate that was just coming home after being away for the weekend. It went alright. I mean I loved it! At the beginning, my teacher asked me to restart because he couldn't hear me. He pointed out that I wasn't making a movie (not yet!) but was on stage and needed to speak up. Just a little exercise but so fun. I need more stage time. It was good to watch everyone else do their improvs too but I'm just a little stage hog and want to be up there all the time! Tomorrow we are supposed to do an exercise where we are searching for something, a lost key or credit card perhaps. But class might be cancelled do to the storm. I hope not! My work has already been cancelled, which means I get to sleep in. Yay!
Friday, October 19, 2012
Be personal???
This blog has helped me realize how hard it is to write how I really feel. I mean I have a journal that I write in often but no one reads that, thank goodness! But to write my innermost thoughts where someone else can read them? Now that is scary! First of all, punctuation matters! I mean I have to write clearly and coherently? Not sure I'm capable of that but you understand most of it, right? The second way in which it is scary is that it's permanent! My thoughts are there, in black and white, there where you can reference them. They can never be forgotten.
I am the type that will tell you anything! I will tell you more than you wanted to know. If you were here in person I would talk and talk but writing it down? That is much more difficult. I don't really like the idea of putting my most personal thoughts out there for anyone to read (good thing there are only about five people that read this). Just something interesting that I've learned about myself. Realizing this has led me to admire my sister even more than I already do. Throughout her daughter's cancer treatment she and her husband have kept a blog, updating friends and family on her various treatments. The entries were always so personal. I was surprised because my sister will not tell just anyone about her feelings. She is a very private person. Yet she easily shared shared her thoughts, feelings, faith and worries about the situation. This really impressed me and now that I'm writing this blog I am struggling to be that honest. Should I really write about my feelings, fears and doubts? I guess. That's what makes it real, right? I am not so sure I am that brave. I'll have to think about it.
I am the type that will tell you anything! I will tell you more than you wanted to know. If you were here in person I would talk and talk but writing it down? That is much more difficult. I don't really like the idea of putting my most personal thoughts out there for anyone to read (good thing there are only about five people that read this). Just something interesting that I've learned about myself. Realizing this has led me to admire my sister even more than I already do. Throughout her daughter's cancer treatment she and her husband have kept a blog, updating friends and family on her various treatments. The entries were always so personal. I was surprised because my sister will not tell just anyone about her feelings. She is a very private person. Yet she easily shared shared her thoughts, feelings, faith and worries about the situation. This really impressed me and now that I'm writing this blog I am struggling to be that honest. Should I really write about my feelings, fears and doubts? I guess. That's what makes it real, right? I am not so sure I am that brave. I'll have to think about it.
Update on the Dream
Sorry, it has been a long time since I've written. Life has been pretty normal, not much has happened. Last week or maybe it was the week before I went to an audition for "The Little Princess". They were a ton of girls their as usual. I waited my two and a half hours and then took 30 seconds to sing my song. It went alright, I mean I didn't get the part but I did it. Someone told me that for every 100 auditions you do you might get four callbacks, so about 95 more to go. See things are looking up!
I have had two acting classes since my last entry. Not much happened in them, the first one I just watched others perform. The second one I did my little two minute exercise where I was on the phone in some conflicted conversation. I had to stare out into the audience but to make myself more comfortable I had to create the fourth wall of my bedroom. It was short and I think I rushed it but it went well I guess because the teacher said I could go on to the next exercise. I just wish I could do more acting in the class, maybe if there weren't so many students... I hope to take two classes next semester.
I am still taking my tap class on Tues. nights. I was happy to find out that I could make it on time even when I worked until 6pm. I have also taken some ballet classes. It has helped me get back in the swing of things, dancing wise that is. Even if I am not totally in shape yet at least I am moving in the right direction.
I'm always on the lookout for people who know the acting business and can help me out with any suggestions or advice. There is a friend at work who has done some work on some soap operas. She has been very helpful. I hope to talk with her again soon! There is also a guy in my ward that helps actors get started in the business. I meet with him next week. So grateful to the people and all of their help as I struggle move forward in my acting career.
I have had two acting classes since my last entry. Not much happened in them, the first one I just watched others perform. The second one I did my little two minute exercise where I was on the phone in some conflicted conversation. I had to stare out into the audience but to make myself more comfortable I had to create the fourth wall of my bedroom. It was short and I think I rushed it but it went well I guess because the teacher said I could go on to the next exercise. I just wish I could do more acting in the class, maybe if there weren't so many students... I hope to take two classes next semester.
I am still taking my tap class on Tues. nights. I was happy to find out that I could make it on time even when I worked until 6pm. I have also taken some ballet classes. It has helped me get back in the swing of things, dancing wise that is. Even if I am not totally in shape yet at least I am moving in the right direction.
I'm always on the lookout for people who know the acting business and can help me out with any suggestions or advice. There is a friend at work who has done some work on some soap operas. She has been very helpful. I hope to talk with her again soon! There is also a guy in my ward that helps actors get started in the business. I meet with him next week. So grateful to the people and all of their help as I struggle move forward in my acting career.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Acting Class #4
Last Monday during acting class I got to be in another students skit. The teacher called me up and told me I was going to do my specialty of persuading my friend to go on a double date. This made me laugh. I guess he liked the last time I played that role. This time I was to go to my friend's apartment and convince her to come to a Tea Party rally where there will be all kinds of guys we can meet. Easy, I thought. Boy was I wrong! The other girl in the class, who was playing my friend is from China I think. She speaks very little English and doesn't really know what the Tea Party is. So I went in and invited her to come with me instead of going out with her friends. I tried to explain that there would be all kinds of men there dressed in nice suits. We could just mingle and chat with the ones we wanted to. She then said we could just go to a bar and meet some guys. A bar?!? No way, I said, you never know what you are going to get there. These guys at the rally are intelligent, they have ambition and passion! Afterwards it occurred to me that I probably just insulted every person in the class. I am thinking they have all been to a bar to meet people and I did just imply that people who go to bars are not smart and ambitious. Oops. I was definitely being myself, saying stupid things and insulting people when I didn't mean to. Anyway no one in the class said anything. One girl commented afterwards that she loved my character. Little does she know that is who I am and what I am like! Glad she thought it was funny and that I was being a 'character'.
Anyway, I tried and tried to convince my friend to come. But she refused. When I told her I didn't want to go by myself she was quick to point out that it is easier for guys to approach a girl that is alone than one that is with friends. Well, I couldn't argue with that one. I tried all of my manipulative techniques, even ending with guilt telling her that I was going to come home with all of these phone numbers and she would be missing out, but to no avail!
Anyway, I tried and tried to convince my friend to come. But she refused. When I told her I didn't want to go by myself she was quick to point out that it is easier for guys to approach a girl that is alone than one that is with friends. Well, I couldn't argue with that one. I tried all of my manipulative techniques, even ending with guilt telling her that I was going to come home with all of these phone numbers and she would be missing out, but to no avail!
Explanations
October 5th and I am still here! I just wanted to point that out to all of the naysayers, aka my brothers! But I won't brag too much because it has only been a month and who knows what will happen. I may still need to call you for money. :) But I am excited to have made it this long and am grateful for my job and all those who have helped.
The other night Brenda and I went to see a screening of Princess Bride that was part of the NY Film Festival. The cast of the movie was there watching with us and afterwards they did a little Q&A. It was amazing! I couldn't believe I was there listening to Billy Crystal and Rob Reiner. I turned to Brenda and said, "Are we really here? Do we live here? We are not even on vacation!" Needless to say I am enjoying the perks that come along with the city.
I must explain the title of my blog "Livin' the Dream, MY Dream." After I wrote it I realized that it comes across as kind of arrogant and selfish. But I think once you understand where I am coming from you will see that it's really not that at all. My whole life I have done what is safe, what others expect me to do, what I think I SHOULD do, not really what I WANT to do. This is partly because I didn't really know what I wanted but sometimes even when I did. So I just got tired of doing what I was supposed to do and decided to take the plunge and do what I wanted to do not what others thought I should do. Hence the title, Livin' the Dream, MY Dream. I finally have courage to do what I want. I know it has taken a while but better late than never, right? What other perk is there to being single if not to pursue the things you love? This of course makes me nervous and is a little scary but I am so happy I'm doing it! I was impressed with Michael Cabrera and how he could have sat out the latest game and guaranteed his spot as a Triple Crown winner but instead he chose to play and risk losing it. That is so cool. I want to take more risks and be less safe. Like someone said, you have to be willing to go out on a limb, that's where the fruit is!
The other night Brenda and I went to see a screening of Princess Bride that was part of the NY Film Festival. The cast of the movie was there watching with us and afterwards they did a little Q&A. It was amazing! I couldn't believe I was there listening to Billy Crystal and Rob Reiner. I turned to Brenda and said, "Are we really here? Do we live here? We are not even on vacation!" Needless to say I am enjoying the perks that come along with the city.
I must explain the title of my blog "Livin' the Dream, MY Dream." After I wrote it I realized that it comes across as kind of arrogant and selfish. But I think once you understand where I am coming from you will see that it's really not that at all. My whole life I have done what is safe, what others expect me to do, what I think I SHOULD do, not really what I WANT to do. This is partly because I didn't really know what I wanted but sometimes even when I did. So I just got tired of doing what I was supposed to do and decided to take the plunge and do what I wanted to do not what others thought I should do. Hence the title, Livin' the Dream, MY Dream. I finally have courage to do what I want. I know it has taken a while but better late than never, right? What other perk is there to being single if not to pursue the things you love? This of course makes me nervous and is a little scary but I am so happy I'm doing it! I was impressed with Michael Cabrera and how he could have sat out the latest game and guaranteed his spot as a Triple Crown winner but instead he chose to play and risk losing it. That is so cool. I want to take more risks and be less safe. Like someone said, you have to be willing to go out on a limb, that's where the fruit is!
Friday, September 28, 2012
Workin' Girl
Work is going well. I am tired. It has been over two years since I have gone to "work" two days in a row! I can't believe people do this everyday! It's crazy! Definitely not a fan but I am grateful for the work so I will stop complaining.
I did find out that one of the cute old ladies that I work with is the aunt of a famous movie star. This is kind of cool. Then I found out that my roommate did the genealogy for this same movie star. Small world. Naturally, I asked the aunt if she had any advice for me. She said that this niece doesn't let the rejection bother her, she just figures, "they weren't looking for me" and keeps on going. The aunt said her nephew has also pursued acting but he doesn't take the rejection so well and hasn't been as successful. So I need thick skin and confidence. Good advice. I'll work on that. I bet I will have lots of opportunities to develop attributes! Looking forward to it.
I did find out that one of the cute old ladies that I work with is the aunt of a famous movie star. This is kind of cool. Then I found out that my roommate did the genealogy for this same movie star. Small world. Naturally, I asked the aunt if she had any advice for me. She said that this niece doesn't let the rejection bother her, she just figures, "they weren't looking for me" and keeps on going. The aunt said her nephew has also pursued acting but he doesn't take the rejection so well and hasn't been as successful. So I need thick skin and confidence. Good advice. I'll work on that. I bet I will have lots of opportunities to develop attributes! Looking forward to it.
Acting Class: Full Frontal Nudity, yes or no???
Acting class last night was amazing! I had such a good time. I actually got to be on stage rather than just watching. I loved it. The first little skit I did was an improv with another student. I was to come in and try to convince her to go on this double date with me even though her previous blind dates weren't very successful. Be selfish and manipulative in order to get what I want? Done. I am really good at that! It went well.
Next it was my turn to recreate three minutes of my life. I chose to wash the dishes and then make a grocery list to take to the store. It went alright. I was nervous, wondering if I was boring the audience but we aren't supposed to worry about entertaining others so I tried to go about my business. It is actually not that easy when there are 30 people watching you!
Then it was my turn to improv. My teacher set up this scenario, he had a guy pretend to be a producer for a play that I auditioned for and he loved me! The director and author loved me too! He was coming over to offer me the job, which is great because I am the starving actress who hasn't had any work in the last three years. There is only one hitch, the part requires me to do a scene in full frontal nudity! Meanwhile during the skit I am supposed to continue on with my tasks of washing dishes and making a grocery list. The improv went well. The producer came in and we sat at the table and talked about the job. I completely gave up doing my "tasks" as I would in real life if a producer came over to give me a job! Then he broke it to me, the requirement of full frontal nudity. What?!? I tried to understand why and what I was going to do. When I needed time to think I returned to my task of washing dishes. I just didn't know what to say, should I do it? I really needed the money. What would my parents think? All of this was running through my head. I just stood there in silence for a moment. My acting teacher loved that, explaining that silence can be powerful and is often not used in improv. A big shout out to my acting coach in Vegas, Rhonda Carlson who taught me the value of using silence in monologues and singing. Also I just didn't know what to say! I was speechless. The wheels in my head were turning as I considered whether or not to take the part. So I did what I would do in life, put off the decision! I asked the producer how long I could take to decide. He asked me to call him by the end of the day. I told him I'd call him by midnight. That's the end of the day, right? As I showed the producer out of my pretend house, the acting teacher yelled, "take the job!" That was the end of my skit. Everyone laughed. It was rather funny. They liked my honest performance. I guess that is the advantage to playing yourself, you know how to act. Now the trick is to make every character just as "real." I must find myself in each character to make every role I play just as believable. Oh and I need to get a role. Minor things really.
I do love the acting class! It is so fun, such a high! I went to bed last Monday night at 1:30am just because it takes me so long to come down from the high. The moral is: don't take acting class until 10pm! And how can there only be a one a week! I can't get enough!
Next it was my turn to recreate three minutes of my life. I chose to wash the dishes and then make a grocery list to take to the store. It went alright. I was nervous, wondering if I was boring the audience but we aren't supposed to worry about entertaining others so I tried to go about my business. It is actually not that easy when there are 30 people watching you!
Then it was my turn to improv. My teacher set up this scenario, he had a guy pretend to be a producer for a play that I auditioned for and he loved me! The director and author loved me too! He was coming over to offer me the job, which is great because I am the starving actress who hasn't had any work in the last three years. There is only one hitch, the part requires me to do a scene in full frontal nudity! Meanwhile during the skit I am supposed to continue on with my tasks of washing dishes and making a grocery list. The improv went well. The producer came in and we sat at the table and talked about the job. I completely gave up doing my "tasks" as I would in real life if a producer came over to give me a job! Then he broke it to me, the requirement of full frontal nudity. What?!? I tried to understand why and what I was going to do. When I needed time to think I returned to my task of washing dishes. I just didn't know what to say, should I do it? I really needed the money. What would my parents think? All of this was running through my head. I just stood there in silence for a moment. My acting teacher loved that, explaining that silence can be powerful and is often not used in improv. A big shout out to my acting coach in Vegas, Rhonda Carlson who taught me the value of using silence in monologues and singing. Also I just didn't know what to say! I was speechless. The wheels in my head were turning as I considered whether or not to take the part. So I did what I would do in life, put off the decision! I asked the producer how long I could take to decide. He asked me to call him by the end of the day. I told him I'd call him by midnight. That's the end of the day, right? As I showed the producer out of my pretend house, the acting teacher yelled, "take the job!" That was the end of my skit. Everyone laughed. It was rather funny. They liked my honest performance. I guess that is the advantage to playing yourself, you know how to act. Now the trick is to make every character just as "real." I must find myself in each character to make every role I play just as believable. Oh and I need to get a role. Minor things really.
I do love the acting class! It is so fun, such a high! I went to bed last Monday night at 1:30am just because it takes me so long to come down from the high. The moral is: don't take acting class until 10pm! And how can there only be a one a week! I can't get enough!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Cattle Call!
Last Tuesday I went to the auditions for the national tour of Addams Family. They said they needed tango and flamenco dancers so I thought I might venture. Online it said it was a singing audition so I got all dressed up nice to sing. When I got there I found out we were dancing first! Usually that is done at callbacks. I had 25 min. to go home and change. I knew I wouldn't make it but I figured they would start late because there were hundreds of girls there, a true "cattle call". I arrived at 1:30 and added my name to the long list and waited for my turn. They were taking 30 girls at a time, then 45, and then because they were running out of time they took the last 70 all together. They taught us 12 counts of dancing, let us dance it three at a time and then the choreographer said "you and you stay and you thank you for coming." It was crazy! I was told thanks for coming. And the competition begins! So all that work for ten seconds of audition time! Ah, I love this profession! That is ok though there are tons of more auditions to come and I will be ready with music AND dancing shoes!
Sights, Sounds and Smells of NYC
I have seen some weird things since I have been in NYC. I thought it would be fun to keep a running list. So here are the ones I remember so far....
1. Rats chasing each other on the train tracks. Ah, how sweet!
2. The rumble of an oncoming train. If it's above my head it sounds like a NASA rocket about to lift off. I like to count backwards and imagine I'm on it about to shoot into space! If the noise is coming from a train I'm about to board I plug my ears because it is so loud!
3. Something I like to call subway or train turbulence. At times the ride is very smooth and other times, most other times I wonder if we are on a track at all or just richocheting from side to side as we speed through the tunnel. I love the subway. I feel like I am riding inside a huge earthworm as it plows through the dirt.
4. The loud noise of the subway down below my apartment window that I didn't think would bother me because I am a heavy sleeper but does keep me awake at times.
5. The man I passed in the park as I was jogging. He was casually smoking weed as he walked through the park.
6. The endless smell of cigarettes. I am not in Kansas anymore.
7. I am amazed at how high the smell of cigarettes can climb. We opened our window the other night to enjoy the clean, crisp fall air and sure enough got some second hand smoke along with it. Yum! Then the other night it was a little different smelling...
8. Brenda, my cousin, saw a woman vomit in the train tracks. Sorry I missed that one.
9. Then there was a man peeing in the streets as he was walking. I guess he didn't think anyone would notice because it was raining? Brenda and I braved the rain to get some Chinese food. On our way back we noticed this guy walking in front of us, with a little more rain on one side of him than the other. I don't know how else to say it. All of the sudden he zipped up his pants and it stopped. Nice to know this is not just water we are sloshing through in our sandals. We just both looked at each other and said, "really? Did he just do that?" I am not sure if this is a Harlem thing or a NYC thing but it's pretty gross. I have heard the homeless do this but this guy didn't look homeless but who am I to judge? There are sides near the greenery at the base of the trees that say "Curb your animals" that means don't let them pee here, right? I am pretty sure it's not the animals we need to worry about!
10. I have also noticed that men do not casually glance at women as they walk by but stare at them. They do the full head turn, follow the woman for several seconds as she passes them. I know I am not in Utah anymore or Kansas for that matter but come on. You can't make it anymore obvious than they do! It's a little creepy. Once again, is this a Harlem thing or a NYC thing, I am not sure.
11. Watched a man try to squeeze into a subway car that was already full of people. The door started to close but he was determined. A man outside helped by pushing him in as the door was closing. Sure enough, he was able to fit. It reminded me of how you try and stuff your suitcase while packing, zipping it up and poking the clothes in with your hand so you can finishing zipping it. It was very funny, made me laugh!
12. This happened in Hoboken, NJ but close enough. As we were walking through the park we saw some parents help their son pee in a plastic bag which ok is weird but not unheard of but imagine our surprise as watched the parents turn him around and hold me so he could poop in the bag! What! I am sorry I know I'm not a parent but that is a little weird. It gave us all a good laugh!
13. The other night we were walking home from a church activity and a trash bag started to move. Something was inside! Probably a rat. It was very creepy.
14. Saw a man playing the violin in the subway a week or so ago. The classical music was beautiful. He was being accompanied by a recording. It was so fun to watch the people around him. Their bodies were facing him, they formed a circle around him. The mood was peaceful and calm. People were quiet, listening. It was quite a contrast to the loud inappropriate rap music that some sing and dance to in the subway. People ignore them, wish they weren't there. The feeling is anything but peaceful. Music is so powerful! It can definitely draw us closer to our Heavenly Father, even in a subway station!
15. Discovered a new use for my umbrella (that you must carry with you at all times in NYC). I can stick it in the closing door of the subway instead of an arm or leg. This way the door reopens and I can safely enter. Often times I've wanted to stick a limb in so I can get on the train but I am kind of hesitant. What if the door doesn't open and the train starts to move? I don't want to risk a limb, I kind of like the ones I've got, but an umbrella? That can always be replaced!
1. Rats chasing each other on the train tracks. Ah, how sweet!
2. The rumble of an oncoming train. If it's above my head it sounds like a NASA rocket about to lift off. I like to count backwards and imagine I'm on it about to shoot into space! If the noise is coming from a train I'm about to board I plug my ears because it is so loud!
3. Something I like to call subway or train turbulence. At times the ride is very smooth and other times, most other times I wonder if we are on a track at all or just richocheting from side to side as we speed through the tunnel. I love the subway. I feel like I am riding inside a huge earthworm as it plows through the dirt.
4. The loud noise of the subway down below my apartment window that I didn't think would bother me because I am a heavy sleeper but does keep me awake at times.
5. The man I passed in the park as I was jogging. He was casually smoking weed as he walked through the park.
6. The endless smell of cigarettes. I am not in Kansas anymore.
7. I am amazed at how high the smell of cigarettes can climb. We opened our window the other night to enjoy the clean, crisp fall air and sure enough got some second hand smoke along with it. Yum! Then the other night it was a little different smelling...
8. Brenda, my cousin, saw a woman vomit in the train tracks. Sorry I missed that one.
9. Then there was a man peeing in the streets as he was walking. I guess he didn't think anyone would notice because it was raining? Brenda and I braved the rain to get some Chinese food. On our way back we noticed this guy walking in front of us, with a little more rain on one side of him than the other. I don't know how else to say it. All of the sudden he zipped up his pants and it stopped. Nice to know this is not just water we are sloshing through in our sandals. We just both looked at each other and said, "really? Did he just do that?" I am not sure if this is a Harlem thing or a NYC thing but it's pretty gross. I have heard the homeless do this but this guy didn't look homeless but who am I to judge? There are sides near the greenery at the base of the trees that say "Curb your animals" that means don't let them pee here, right? I am pretty sure it's not the animals we need to worry about!
10. I have also noticed that men do not casually glance at women as they walk by but stare at them. They do the full head turn, follow the woman for several seconds as she passes them. I know I am not in Utah anymore or Kansas for that matter but come on. You can't make it anymore obvious than they do! It's a little creepy. Once again, is this a Harlem thing or a NYC thing, I am not sure.
11. Watched a man try to squeeze into a subway car that was already full of people. The door started to close but he was determined. A man outside helped by pushing him in as the door was closing. Sure enough, he was able to fit. It reminded me of how you try and stuff your suitcase while packing, zipping it up and poking the clothes in with your hand so you can finishing zipping it. It was very funny, made me laugh!
12. This happened in Hoboken, NJ but close enough. As we were walking through the park we saw some parents help their son pee in a plastic bag which ok is weird but not unheard of but imagine our surprise as watched the parents turn him around and hold me so he could poop in the bag! What! I am sorry I know I'm not a parent but that is a little weird. It gave us all a good laugh!
13. The other night we were walking home from a church activity and a trash bag started to move. Something was inside! Probably a rat. It was very creepy.
14. Saw a man playing the violin in the subway a week or so ago. The classical music was beautiful. He was being accompanied by a recording. It was so fun to watch the people around him. Their bodies were facing him, they formed a circle around him. The mood was peaceful and calm. People were quiet, listening. It was quite a contrast to the loud inappropriate rap music that some sing and dance to in the subway. People ignore them, wish they weren't there. The feeling is anything but peaceful. Music is so powerful! It can definitely draw us closer to our Heavenly Father, even in a subway station!
15. Discovered a new use for my umbrella (that you must carry with you at all times in NYC). I can stick it in the closing door of the subway instead of an arm or leg. This way the door reopens and I can safely enter. Often times I've wanted to stick a limb in so I can get on the train but I am kind of hesitant. What if the door doesn't open and the train starts to move? I don't want to risk a limb, I kind of like the ones I've got, but an umbrella? That can always be replaced!
Acting class #2
Acting class last Monday was alright. There were so many people there and still several who were auditing. I don't like big classes. I wonder if it will be like that all semester, people coming in and out. We all had to come prepared to do this one exercise, our homework but of course because there were so many people we only got through maybe seven people. This is going to be a long semester. Hopefully, I will be able to do my exercise this Monday. It was good I got to see others perform theirs so I can make necessary corrections before doing mine. I have completely changed mine. We have to recreate three minutes of our life on stage. We can do the dishes or clean or eat, just be ourselves on stage. Well make an entrance and an exit with the activity. Then the second time he will throw in an obstacle, another person that needs to talk to us but we must continue to try and complete out task. Improvisation makes me nervous. Give me some lines! They are a great security blanket. Hopefully, it goes well this Monday.
Why does everything have to be once a week? Tap class, acting class. It's not enough! A week is too long to wait for the next class. Maybe I should just do it, go to acting school, then I could do it everyday! And could progress that much faster.
Why does everything have to be once a week? Tap class, acting class. It's not enough! A week is too long to wait for the next class. Maybe I should just do it, go to acting school, then I could do it everyday! And could progress that much faster.
Tap Classes
I have always wanted to learn how to tap dance. Unfortunately, that was one type of dance I never took as a kid. Big mistake, especially if you want to do musical theater! At the time I didn't know that's what I wanted. Needless to say I am playing catch up now. Monday morning I took a Basic Tap class at the Broadway Dance Center. Basic is supposed to be even slower than beginners so I thought I would be ok. Nope! Wow, it was hard and humiliating! I have never felt so uncoordinated in my whole life! I know I looked retarded too! I muddled through. The teacher was nice but wow, I don't think that was a basic class. I think I need the class with the six year olds in it. I tried to have fun and not get discouraged. I wanted to take a ballet class afterwards just to boost my ego back up.
But I thought I would just try a different studio so Tuesday night I went to the Alvin Ailey Extension and took another basic tap class. This one was much slower. The teacher was amazing! I understood everything she taught, doesn't mean I could do it but I could try! I actually did alright. It was also a lot more fun. I think I have found my class! We did this whole long routine that I could get about 75% of, not bad for the second class. At the end of the class we did these walks across the room. For some reason they were so hard! The teacher kind of looked at me in shock, unable to believe that I couldn't do them. It was awful but very funny at the same time. I felt like talking to my feet saying, "I'm telling you what to do! Why can't you do it???" It was embarrassing. But I think I will leave right after work and do my best to make it there next Tues. I can't wait to take the class again. I will learn to tap!
But I thought I would just try a different studio so Tuesday night I went to the Alvin Ailey Extension and took another basic tap class. This one was much slower. The teacher was amazing! I understood everything she taught, doesn't mean I could do it but I could try! I actually did alright. It was also a lot more fun. I think I have found my class! We did this whole long routine that I could get about 75% of, not bad for the second class. At the end of the class we did these walks across the room. For some reason they were so hard! The teacher kind of looked at me in shock, unable to believe that I couldn't do them. It was awful but very funny at the same time. I felt like talking to my feet saying, "I'm telling you what to do! Why can't you do it???" It was embarrassing. But I think I will leave right after work and do my best to make it there next Tues. I can't wait to take the class again. I will learn to tap!
Work has begun!
Last Wednesday I had my training for work at the Met Museum. It went well. I was the only student in the training class, which I love! I am kind of an attention hog so anytime I get private lessons I am happy. The cash register seemed pretty easy now I just have to remember it all.
Thursday I went to work. All of my co-workers were really nice and helpful, explaining everything I needed to know about the shop. It wasn't too busy which is good but also boring. We have to stand all day. I think I will like it better during the holidays when it is busier, then time will speed by and my feet won't hurt! I worked yesterday too. This time I got to work until closing. I had to close out the register and count my money. Thank goodness I didn't come out owing anything!
The customers are lovely. They have been really kind and patient as I explain it's only my first or second day. I do love the little old ladies that come in and want to buy jewelry or stationary. They are on occasion the business men who come in to pick out a piece of jewelry for their wives. Yesterday a couple was in and the wife said she liked a bracelet. As she was walking around the store he quickly bought it while she wasn't looking. So sweet!
So it's been going well so far, one week down many more to go. I am also grateful to have today off! Time to relax and catch up on things!
Thursday I went to work. All of my co-workers were really nice and helpful, explaining everything I needed to know about the shop. It wasn't too busy which is good but also boring. We have to stand all day. I think I will like it better during the holidays when it is busier, then time will speed by and my feet won't hurt! I worked yesterday too. This time I got to work until closing. I had to close out the register and count my money. Thank goodness I didn't come out owing anything!
The customers are lovely. They have been really kind and patient as I explain it's only my first or second day. I do love the little old ladies that come in and want to buy jewelry or stationary. They are on occasion the business men who come in to pick out a piece of jewelry for their wives. Yesterday a couple was in and the wife said she liked a bracelet. As she was walking around the store he quickly bought it while she wasn't looking. So sweet!
So it's been going well so far, one week down many more to go. I am also grateful to have today off! Time to relax and catch up on things!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Newsies Review
Saturday afternoon we had tickets to see Newsies! After eating in Chinatown/Little Italy we headed up to Broadway. We had great tickets for the matinee. Brenda had seen it already but wanted to see it again(always a good sign). Mari and I grew up watching the movie and singing along with all of the songs. We were so so excited to see the new show!
It was an amazing show. The dancing was fabulous! Like Mari said, "There is something about watching guys sing and dance that is so cool. I have goosebumps." I couldn't agree more. The set was amazing. It changed in so many ways. Sets always impress me. It's crazy how someone can do so much with such a small space, and it changes so smoothly! Some people are so creative! It makes me really jealous actually. And they projected the newspaper articles on the set. It was so cool! I struggled to keep back the tears through out the first act for fear of looking like a freak! But I was so happy I couldn't help it. It was magical. I was transported to a different place, a different time. I think that is one reason I want to perform, I want to take people for a ride, take them somewhere. Help them experience something. I do love drama too. It doesn't always have to be a happy place but it does have to have a happy ending. That is one of the advantages of theater you get all of these different emotions but they are always resolved in two hours, "and they lived happily ever after." If only life could be like that. Sigh.
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| Extra, extra read all about it! |
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| Mari and I waiting for the doors to open! |
After the show we hung out by the back stage door where all of the actors come out. Although we didn't have them sign our programs it was fun to see them up close! I even got my picture taken with the lead who is quite handsome. I tried to upload the little video of me meeting "Jack Kelly" but it wouldn't work. I will have to put a still picture up later!
What a great weekend!
Last Friday my sister Marianne came for the weekend! We had such a good time. I am so glad she made the effort to come, especially because she is eight months pregnant! Right when she got here we took a train to Hoboken, NJ where we visited the famous Carlo's Bakery. We couldn't wait to see if it tastes as good as it looks. Of course we had to buy a little bit of this and a little bit of that. We bought cupcakes, cannoli, cream puffs, and many other pastries. We promptly took them to a park and tasted them all!
Saturday morning we visited the 9/ll Memorial. It was amazing to think that where those two large pools are there were two skyscrapers! The Memorial was very neat. The architect said he wanted to create a massive void, a large empty feeling symbolic of the void left in the lives of those who lost loved ones that day. He was successful.
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| Mari and I at the bakery! |
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| They were yummy but we did feel a little sick after so many sweets! |
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| One of the massive pools. Names of the victims are along all four sides of both pools. |
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| Brenda and Mari at the memorial with one of the new World Trade Center buildings in the background. |
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| The "Survivor Tree", it was the only thing left standing after the attacks. Very symbolic... |
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Unemployed no more!
Yay! I got a job! I am so excited. I will be working at a gift shop at Rockefeller Center. I start training next week. They will be flexible with my schedule so I can still do some auditions. And I will still be able to take on some private art students (which I am still looking for). I am so grateful! Feeling much better about life now.
Monday, September 10, 2012
The First of Many Auditions
Last Saturday I went to my first New York auditions. I was so nervous, wondering how it would compare with what I'd experienced in Utah. Would there be tons of people there? I think because I was auditioning for nonunion plays with no pay there were not many people there.
The first audition was for a dramatic play. I did one of my monologues. First time I have done a monologue audition. It went well, I think. Then they had me improvise an angry battered wife talking to her husband. That didn't go quite so well but it was a good experience.
The second audition was for a new musical so they were looking for people to do the workshop & present it to the investors. I think that is what they do. The posted audition notice didn't say anything about singing only reading sides. I thought that was strange for a musical so I came prepared to sing anyway. Glad I did because they wanted everyone to sing. I waited around for almost three hours before it was turn. Finally I went in and sang, "Fine, Fine Line" from Avenue Q. It was not so good. My nerves got the better of me. I am just not sure I was ever with the piano. I know he is supposed to follow me but I'm sure the poor guy was doing his best. It's kind of hard when the singer doesn't keep a steady beat! But the producers and directors were all really nice. I think there were some real big wigs in there, the writer of the show, the directors & producers of previous well known shows. Kind of cool I got to sing for them. They even let me read some sides for them after I sang. Funny, I wasn't nervous about this at all. It was actually fun! They said I did a good job too! Maybe they were just being nice but I thought it was sincere so I'll just believe them. That's it. I am an actress. Having said that, I do LOVE to sing. How can I do both, I mean sing without getting nervous? Anyway, it was tons of fun! I am so glad I did it.
My cousin came with me to both auditions. She helped me find the places, waited around with me and gave me pep talks. So nice! I like to call her my agent. She suggested that she audition right before me and then I would sound even better. I just laughed, what a thoughtful idea!
We celebrated my success by going out to eat of course! We had dinner at a restaurant that was on the third floor. We sat by the window and had a great view. My cousin even treated me to dinner. I am so blessed to have such a friend!
The first audition was for a dramatic play. I did one of my monologues. First time I have done a monologue audition. It went well, I think. Then they had me improvise an angry battered wife talking to her husband. That didn't go quite so well but it was a good experience.
The second audition was for a new musical so they were looking for people to do the workshop & present it to the investors. I think that is what they do. The posted audition notice didn't say anything about singing only reading sides. I thought that was strange for a musical so I came prepared to sing anyway. Glad I did because they wanted everyone to sing. I waited around for almost three hours before it was turn. Finally I went in and sang, "Fine, Fine Line" from Avenue Q. It was not so good. My nerves got the better of me. I am just not sure I was ever with the piano. I know he is supposed to follow me but I'm sure the poor guy was doing his best. It's kind of hard when the singer doesn't keep a steady beat! But the producers and directors were all really nice. I think there were some real big wigs in there, the writer of the show, the directors & producers of previous well known shows. Kind of cool I got to sing for them. They even let me read some sides for them after I sang. Funny, I wasn't nervous about this at all. It was actually fun! They said I did a good job too! Maybe they were just being nice but I thought it was sincere so I'll just believe them. That's it. I am an actress. Having said that, I do LOVE to sing. How can I do both, I mean sing without getting nervous? Anyway, it was tons of fun! I am so glad I did it.
My cousin came with me to both auditions. She helped me find the places, waited around with me and gave me pep talks. So nice! I like to call her my agent. She suggested that she audition right before me and then I would sound even better. I just laughed, what a thoughtful idea!
We celebrated my success by going out to eat of course! We had dinner at a restaurant that was on the third floor. We sat by the window and had a great view. My cousin even treated me to dinner. I am so blessed to have such a friend!
Acting Class #1
Yes, it's 12:35am and I 'm wide awake. Had my first acting class tonight, the first of 15 this semester. It was so fun! We didn't do much but talk, kind of like the orientation class. But I just know I'm going to love it! I am so bummed it's only once a week. How can I wait that long for the next class. We do have homework. We are studying from Uta Hagen's book, "A Challenge for the Actor". There were about 30 people in the class, all different ages and all different backgrounds. I was surprised that everyone had their own reasons for taking the class, not everyone there was an aspiring actor. It is a beginning though.
And I have a job interview tomorrow. Hopefully, it goes well and I will have money coming in, that would be a big relief! Then I can sign up for more acting classes.
And I have a job interview tomorrow. Hopefully, it goes well and I will have money coming in, that would be a big relief! Then I can sign up for more acting classes.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Thoughts on NYC so far
It is great to be here. The first few days were hard. I must admit I was overwhelmed thinking about how much I was going to have to learn before feeling completely comfortable here. At times I pondered how nice it would be just to be able to get in my car and go for a drive. But this is my life now. I do not have a car and don't want to drive through town. I did drive into town and to return the rental car. Wow, was that fun! My creative driving definitely came in handy. Who knew you could cross those double yellow lines into on coming traffic and stop in the middle of an intersection?!? And everyone double parks here. It was crazy but I was glad to do it. Check that off of my bucket list!
I'm getting the hang of the subway system with help from my cousin and the hand dandy maps that she has. We get to where we need to be and even on time sometimes! I am also learning to cross the street whenever I want. Who needs that little walking man anyway?
Our apt is good. It is on the fourth floor and it was quite a trick getting it all up here. I am so grateful our building has an elevator! Roommates are good. It's nice sharing a room with my cousin even if I do sleep on a blow up mattress. My comforter and pillow finally arrived the other day. Thanks Mom and Dad! Now I can sleep and keep warm. Those sweatshirts I was using as blankets just weren't doing it for me. I would get up and turn the AC off for a while and then turn it back on when I got to hot. Not sure my cousin appreciated that as she was comfortable in her sleeping bag on the bed. We are looking for bunk beds, hopefully we'll get some soon...
Been to church twice now. We love our ward. Quite a change from my ward in Utah. It is a good change for me, definitely something I need. There are quite a few people there in the entertainment industry. This is great news! Connections! Also went to the Manhattan Temple last Friday. That was really neat. So amazing that it is right in the middle of the city. You would never know it from the inside.
Gone jogging in Central Park twice, hoping to go tomorrow. That park is amazingly huge! I am glad I found my way out. Every time I go I discover a new area. Spent Labor Day riding bikes on Governor's Island. That was beautiful! Also went on a tour of Castle Williams, a fort built in 1811. Very cool.
It cost about $7.50 to do my laundry last week. That was a little disappointing but I'll get used to it and having to lug it three blocks to the laundromat. Now I know why some people smell they are just trying to save money and I can't blame them! And food, well, that's another story. My cousin and I have enjoyed trying all of the little places to eat. Not sure it's so good on the wallet though. I guess I will find that out at the end of the month when I add up all of my expenses! No we did grocery shop yesterday. We didn't even have to use our extra big bags we brought but could just use the regular plastic bags as we carried them the three blocks to our apt.
Needless to say, I am happy and have learned to embrace city life. No regrets here! Sorry about my poor grammar and constant switching of tenses. What can I say? It's a talent I have!
I'm getting the hang of the subway system with help from my cousin and the hand dandy maps that she has. We get to where we need to be and even on time sometimes! I am also learning to cross the street whenever I want. Who needs that little walking man anyway?
Our apt is good. It is on the fourth floor and it was quite a trick getting it all up here. I am so grateful our building has an elevator! Roommates are good. It's nice sharing a room with my cousin even if I do sleep on a blow up mattress. My comforter and pillow finally arrived the other day. Thanks Mom and Dad! Now I can sleep and keep warm. Those sweatshirts I was using as blankets just weren't doing it for me. I would get up and turn the AC off for a while and then turn it back on when I got to hot. Not sure my cousin appreciated that as she was comfortable in her sleeping bag on the bed. We are looking for bunk beds, hopefully we'll get some soon...
Been to church twice now. We love our ward. Quite a change from my ward in Utah. It is a good change for me, definitely something I need. There are quite a few people there in the entertainment industry. This is great news! Connections! Also went to the Manhattan Temple last Friday. That was really neat. So amazing that it is right in the middle of the city. You would never know it from the inside.
Gone jogging in Central Park twice, hoping to go tomorrow. That park is amazingly huge! I am glad I found my way out. Every time I go I discover a new area. Spent Labor Day riding bikes on Governor's Island. That was beautiful! Also went on a tour of Castle Williams, a fort built in 1811. Very cool.
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| Still feeling like a tourist! |
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| Yum, cheesecake! |
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| Enjoying Cheesecake at Grand Central Station. |
Needless to say, I am happy and have learned to embrace city life. No regrets here! Sorry about my poor grammar and constant switching of tenses. What can I say? It's a talent I have!
Job hunting
So I have been here for eleven days and have had a couple of job leads, I guess you could call them that. First of all I am not even sure what I want to do. I want to be an actress but I am not crazy enough to realize that I don't need a side job. Spent some time on craig's list looking at nanny jobs but I don't think that's for me. I need a job that will allow me to pursue my dream of being an actress. There is the usual waitress job which I hear a lot of budding actors do but that's really not my thing. Of course if I am still jobless in a few weeks I might change my mind. Applied for a sales job at a gift shop, that would be a fun job. I wonder how flexible they would be... The dream job would be to teach private art lessons. I think that is where I could earn the most AND be able to make my own schedule! So I will make flyers and put them up in the city. Hopefully, that works. So if you know of anyone in NYC that wants art lessons feel free to give them my info.
I made it!
I giggled as I walked down 8th Ave last night in the rain. Do I really live here? I can't believe it. I did it! I moved to NYC. Part of me has always wanted to live here but never really thought I could or would do it. But I'm here. The question remains, how long will I last? For all of my family members making bets I intend to stay indefinitely. I have faith things will work out, with a little help from family and friends of course!
I moved here to pursue acting, another pipe dream but that too will no doubt will become a reality just like moving to NYC. For all of you that are thinking I'm crazy, you are right! Michael Shurtleff, the famous casting director agrees with you. He said it himself in his book, Audition.
To go into acting is like asking for admission to an insane asylum. Anyone may apply, but only the certifiably insane are admitted. ...it's clear, right off the bat that from any rational point of view, to become an actor is an act of insanity. Why would one go into a profession in which it is night onto impossible to earn a living?
I've always thought it's better to give up sanity. Settle down and admit you're crazy or you wouldn't want to act. When you find out what acting is like and what the odds are, and you still persist, the proof of your own insanity is inescapable. Accept it. Most actors make themselves unhappy by searching for sanity, by insisting on their normalcy; it's a grave mistake. The life of an actor is a bit easier to take if you admit you're bonkers.
I love these passages and feel they are true for me.
I moved here to pursue acting, another pipe dream but that too will no doubt will become a reality just like moving to NYC. For all of you that are thinking I'm crazy, you are right! Michael Shurtleff, the famous casting director agrees with you. He said it himself in his book, Audition.
To go into acting is like asking for admission to an insane asylum. Anyone may apply, but only the certifiably insane are admitted. ...it's clear, right off the bat that from any rational point of view, to become an actor is an act of insanity. Why would one go into a profession in which it is night onto impossible to earn a living?
I've always thought it's better to give up sanity. Settle down and admit you're crazy or you wouldn't want to act. When you find out what acting is like and what the odds are, and you still persist, the proof of your own insanity is inescapable. Accept it. Most actors make themselves unhappy by searching for sanity, by insisting on their normalcy; it's a grave mistake. The life of an actor is a bit easier to take if you admit you're bonkers.
I love these passages and feel they are true for me.
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| Leaving Kansas! |
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| We're here! |
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| Crossing George Washington Bridge! |
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| Here we are inside the car as we are crossing the bridge into NYC! (Note all of stuff in the back!) |
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