Reinventing Joy

I found my Sound with Shakespeare. I didn't think it was possible in such short notice to do it but I mastered the chunk of monologue that I shared with my fellow characters for three days straight without calling for my lines. Some reviews- "You have a great command of the verse."-My Director, "You really have a natural talent for the language." -audience member. Last night was my best performance.  And I was really happy that my friends were witness to it that night. I came in with a "Walking on Sunshine" attitude and got the cast to celebrate our hard work with singing songs and celebrating the end of a really brief run. It picked up that looming mood that we all try to avoid - Performance Detox.  This particular production was a true feat in perseverance, acceptance and expectations that pushed all of us beyond what we ever were expected to do for previous plays. It was an experience I will never forget. When we got our final notes before we of...

So...I started the New Year and have continued to be sick. Not take to the bed sick but a wretched cough and cold like symptoms. I have managed one huge accomplishment and goal in finding my sound - I passed the PHR exam!!!!! This is a huge accomplishment and I have sadly not had a sufficient time to celebrate it. Amidst being coughy and tired, I have been in rehearsals for Much Ado. I am aptly singing Shakespeare rather than speaking it. Last Saturday evening during our marathon rehearsals, I was cast as Pastor Francis. There is a monologue that rivals any monolouge I have ever said anywhere. And I have less than a week to learn these lines and be on for opening night! Finding my sound using Shakespeare's words is going to be the challenge of a lifetime. Its a great opportunity to show my stuff, venture into The Bard's work, "audition" for the other actors who are directors in the play. But I am stunned into silence and low self esteem. My dear friend has suggested ...