Kindergarten

Today is Cade's first day of kindergarten. Just as I did with Mallorie on her first day (10 years ago "today"), I took a few pictures for posterity. After attending open house, Cade doesn't seem as nervous. He's looking forward to seeing his teachers and playing in the classroom.

Cade and I went to school together this morning for Kindergarten Orientation. We sat together in the auditorium with all the other kindergartners and their parents. The principal and kindergarten teachers were introduced and each said a few words. Then the kids were called to line up with their teachers. They would go to their rooms and the parents were to remain in the auditorium for additional information. When Cade's teacher was called I asked him if he wanted me to walk him down. He said yes. I brought him to the line, gave him a quick kiss, and told him I was proud of him. Then off they went. I could feel the lump in my throat, but I didn't cry. I listened to the principal and then we were dismissed to the cafeteria to meet with the individual teachers. Cade has Mrs. Wuwert, who is just returning from time off with her 13-month old son. Today was the first time she's left him, so she was a bit emotional. She seems very nice and genuine. I think Cade is in wonderful hands.

After our informational session with Mrs. Wuwert, we were able to go back to the classrooms to say our goodbyes. Cade didn't see me until I tapped him on the head. He got up and gave me a big hug. The lump returned. I wrote a note letting the teachers know that I was going to pick Cade up that afternoon. I kissed Cade, told him I would pick him up after school and I said my goodbyes.

I got all the way home without crying. And actually, as of this writing, I haven't yet cried. I think it's because I'd gotten used to dropping Cade off at daycare. (And I bawled that first day!) I've got about an hour and a half before I pick up Cade. I can't wait to hear about his first day!

Update 5:03pm - I waited in line forever to pick Cade up at school. When I finally got to the sidewalk, I didn't see Cade anywhere. Mrs. Lavalle, Cade's other teacher, walked over and told me that they couldn't find Cade. (WHAT?!) She said he was in the car rider line, but then she turned around and he was gone. Before I could launch into full panic mode, she said she would go and check the office to see if he was there.

After what seems like hours, she finally came back to report that Cade was on the bus. (WHAT?!)"The correct bus?" I asked. She nodded her head and told me to go home and wait for the bus to drop him off. She reassured me that bus drivers don't let the kindergartners off unless an adult is present. Still not quite sure this was the correct thing to do, I headed home.

I pulled in the driveway, grabbed my cellphone and ran to the top of the street. It was almost 3pm (school lets out at 2:20p) and I was worried that I had already missed Cade. Mrs. Wuwert called to apologize. She explained that, since Mrs. L had my note about Cade being a car rider, she didn't realize he wasn't supposed to be on the bus. (What teachers in the same room don't talk?) She reassured me that he was placed on the correct bus. I very calmly told her I was concerned that, since I was at the school waiting to pick him up, that Cade had missed his stop. I asked her if she could check to find out what stop Trevor Downs Court was on the bus route.

It was 3:09p and after several buses (several! how many buses does Forsyth County need?!)drove past, one finally slowed down and flashed lights. The door opened and the female bus driver started talking to me. I've no idea what she said, I just wanted to see my son. Finally she shut up and Cade stepped off the bus. Grinning.

I resisted the urge to yell at him (we discussed, several times that he would be a car rider today) and the urge to hug the life out of him. "So, you rode the bus home." I very calmly said. "How was it?" He gave me his biggest face and replied, "It was totally awesome!"

Love and Support

Myla, April, Tony, Michael, Mimi, Heather and Jeff, Emily, J Dawg, Tim, Georgia, Jim, Teresa and Reid, Norman, Marge, Kevin and Miriam, Cheri and Paul, Bill and Kathy, Gregg, Patricia, Craig, Jeff, Chad, Kenny and Amanda, Mallorie, Allan, Barbara, and my Mom...

Thank you so much for bravely coming to see Bug. Your love and support are priceless!

(Special kudos to Ally, who delayed packing for a two-week trip to attend a dress rehearsal.)

Emails with Call Sign "Mickey"

Ok, it wasn't an email. It was a yahoo messenger communication. Still, I was very happy to hear from Mark. He's alive and well, and somehow surviving the intense heat of Kuwait. (Makes you feel bad when complaining of the recent high temps here, doesn't it?)

Unfortunately I didn't have long to talk to him. I was on my way out the door for call time for Bug. He promised to keep more in touch and send some pictures.

Even More Bug Reviews

A friend sent me the online link to the Winston-Salem Journal's Bug review. Apparently comments were posted from some other audience members...

Posted on 08/22 at 03:46 PM
Why did you waste our time on this show -- badly written - badly executed.
theatregoddess

Honey, I didn't hold a gun to your head and force you to purchase a ticket.

Posted on 08/21 at 08:54 AM
I agree with the write -- the show was horrible, slow, overacte by Agnes, and a total giveaway of plot and outcome by Peter. RC was okay, but too well spoken to be the bumpkin she tried to play, and the "physical violence" was laughable, especially when soo much attention was drawn to it when it was so weak. Get real!
actingman

Dude, the bruises on Kelly's arms from the "physical violence" were real. And tank yew for the compliment.

Posted on 08/20 at 03:24 PM
Unfortunately I must totall disagree with this reviewer. I was sitting only a couple of seats behind him, so I believe we saw the same show. I found the pacing horribly abismal and slow. I felt Ms. Wallace played the character much too strongly to ever have believed that she was abused, frightened, or even the slightest bit drawn into the situation. Her lack of levels and vocal expression as well as limited phsycial characterization were horrible. She never connected emotionally, and over
goodtheatre

Hmmm, "levels" and "vocal expression"? Geez, you sound like an acting teacher. You know what they say - those who can't act, teach. I'm pretty sure I didn't see you at auditions.

NDSH

I received an orange envelope in the mail today. I opened it up, and found this card inside. North Davidson Senior High School Twenty Year Reunion. I started laughing. They messed up! No way have I been out of school for 20 years. Through my laughter I started singing our graduation chant - "We are high, We are Heaven, We are class of '87".

Wait, what? 1987. And it's 2007. Well, hell. I guess I have been out of school for 20 years. Am I really that old?

And Another Bug Review

By Emily Mark

I was a little wary of seeing this show, as I'd read the script before and didn't particularly care for it and I'd seen the movie, which was awful. The five actors in this production, however, changed my feeling on the story. I enjoyed the stage play quite a bit. All of the roles were very well-played. I was most impressed by how each of the actors found the humor in each of their characters. Michael Caine says a good actor always finds the humor in his scenes, even when they're incredibly dramatic. Each of these actors found those particular moments and it made for an excellent opening night. Bravo!!

Another Bug Review

By Heather Hamby Maggs

I went to go see the Theatre Alliance of Winston-Salem's production of Bug last night and I was pleasantly surprised to be absolutely entralled the entire performance. I am not someone who is usually interested in non-musicals. They just don't entertain me. However, this was one of the most well acted performances I have seen in the Triad and the realism was what shocked and astounded me. The play centers around a waitress living in a seedy Oklahoma City motel and trying to avoid her abusive ex-husband. One night her good friend, RC, shows up with a man she just met and trying to talk the waitress, Agnes, into going to a party. When Agnes refuses, the mysterious man asks if he can stay with her. He ends up staying the night at the hotel and as their relationship develops, they have sex. Later that night, the man, Peter, wakes up with a bug crawling on him and there begins a series of questions to which there are no answers and even if there were, you aren't sure you would want to know them. Peter continues to see the bugs as they infest his body and the hotel room. Other characters can't see them. At first, Agnes can't but then she can. In a dizzy spiral of what is either delusional paranoia or the unraveling of a sick government experiment, the story of Bug unfolds. I won't give away the story, but for every bit that this scenerio sounds far-fetched, the actors carry it through with 100% believablity. There is not one weak performance and there is no one person deserving of more praise than another. Kelly Wallace is a powerful lead as Agnes and Mark March more than matches her energy as Peter. Cheryl Ann Roberts and Ken Ashford have two of the more stunning scenes: one of which features a shocking death and the other a head-to head showdown between two "realities." I can not for the life of me remember the name of the actor who played Agnes's ex-husband [it was Don Gunther], but menacing doesn't even begin to describe his portrayal. I was physically and emotionally disturbed each time he was present on stage, part of that can also be contributed to Kelly Wallace's fine acting. Jamie Lawson does a bang-up job directing this difficult piece while Jeff Driver's set is a force all its own. The stage crew got to have a lot of fun with this show, I can tell!

The Bug Review!

Buckle Up: Betts' Bug sure to make audience unsettled
By Ken Keuffel
Journal Reporter

“Buckle up and brace yourself … ”

So begins the recording that callers will hear when they dial Theatre Alliance for reservations to its latest production: a play by Tracy Letts called Bug, which opened last night in Dunn Auditorium.

The advertising is true. Patrons should prepare to be unsettled at every turn, for nothing is ever quite what it seems in this tension-filled, slyly comic and occasionally gross science-fictionlike drama. One thing is certain: bugs definitely bite two characters in a seedy motel room outside Oklahoma City.

The two characters are Agnes (Kelly Wallace), a 44-year-old drug-abusing woman who is making the motel her home until her lesbian friend R.C. (Cheryl Ann Roberts) introduces her to Peter (Mark March). It doesn’t take long for Peter to move into the room and then into Agnes’ bed. When he does, the bugs appear and grow in number and ferocity, as does the flow of blood from the bites and self-inflicted surgery. The bugs might live under Peter’s skin or they might live under his tooth. Who or what is responsible? Peter or the military?

Peter might be an AWOL veteran of the Gulf War. And he might be the victim of some diabolical government experiment. He might have lost his marbles, or he might be perfectly sane.

Agnes may have “lost” her son when he was taken from her in a supermarket six years ago. And she may be hiding out from an abusive former husband, Jerry Goss (Don Gunther). And is Dr. Sweet (Ken Ashford) treating Peter for delusional paranoia or is he in cahoots with something the government would prefer you’d never know?

Strong acting, particularly by Wallace and March, contributes to a pacing that is just right in Jamie Lawson’s staging. And however improbable some of the play’s content may seem, we gain a greater appreciation of a way of living most of us haven’t seen and likely never will.

It’s difficult not to sympathize with Agnes: If you’re as lonely, desperate and scared as Agnes is, drugs and booze and maybe a man, any man, become your escape.

Ladies and Gentlemen, a comedy

While I have done several shows at the Stained Glass Playhouse, I've never seen one of their musicals. Two things brought me to see A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum: I knew most of the cast and crew, and it's one of the classic comedy musicals on my list of shows to see before I die. Their production, which closed today, was outstanding. Alvin, the cast and crew are to be commended on a wonderful show. Sylvia really outdid herself with the costumes and Brian with his set. Bravo to everyone!!

Mikey Wiseman played Pseudolus, and man, he was awesome! His voice and his energy were amazing. Kenny Mathews was hysterical as Hysterium. (I posted a picture of him as a Pepper from last year's Beauty and the Beast. You'll have to decide if he's better looking in the wedding dress!) Tyler Medinger was so very sweet as the love-struck Hero. David Webster as Senex was delightful, as was Roland Kruger as Erronius.

All the “Ladies of the Evening” were well dressed and very entertaining. I loved Allyson Edwards' Tintinabula costume (which was, I was told, purchased via Ebay!) and Pat Mathew's Viking costume was hilariously revealing.

The show was wonderfully entertaining, and enjoyed a sold-out run. I was also told that Rosemary Harris (Aunt May from the Spiderman movies) attended a performance. This kind of support is exactly what Alvin and Stained Glass needs.

This is Why I Don't Like Bridges

Ken and Mallorie both make fun of my outward nervousness any time we drive over a bridge. While I will agree that bridges are marvels of modern engineering, they are not infallible. As evident by the recent failure of this bridge over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis.

Gotta Cut Loose!

Mallorie and I worked concessions for The Little Theatre's ACT Quest high school production of Footloose. Working concessions is a very easy way to volunteer, and you get to see the show for free.

I've seen this musical before. Michael Carter and I went in support of Ken, who played Coach Dunbar in CTG's version. As far as musicals go, it's okay. Unfortunately, if you've seen the movie, you've seen the musical, and the movie is much better.

Still, these high school kids must be commended. They did a great job. The funniest part of the production was seeing all these teenagers in 1980's style clothing. Wells Albritton came out wearing a tight (and I mean painted on) pair of pinstriped jeans. I remember wearing that same style when I was in high school.

The only thing that detracted from the production was the sharing of about 5 hand-held microphones by the entire cast. (No, they weren't trying to channel Spring Awakening, they simply didn't have the budget for body mics.) During the first act, the microphones were passed from one to another, often making the actors upstage themselves. In the second act the microphone would appear from the most interesting places, like from the cushion of the sofa chair. It almost became a game for the audience to guess where the microphone would be hidden.

I would like to give a few shout-outs. Three of my students were in this production. Wells was wonderful as Willard. Laura was great in the chorus. I was most impressed with Anne, who was worried about getting the dance numbers. She shouldn't have worried. She did a great job, and I learned she has a really nice singing voice. Lianne was in The Vagina Monologues with me. She was hilarious as Rusty, Ariel's fast talking friend. Kudos to each of you!

Next up for ACT Quest, Once on This Island performed by the middle school campers.

Hairspray: The Movie!

After seeing the touring show of Hairspray last December, I've been waiting to see the movie. Today was the movie's opening day and I wanted to help out box office sales. So Mallorie, Ken and I caught the afternoon show.

I must say that while I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, I thought the stage show was much, much better. Nikki Blonsky, who plays Tracy Turnblad, was absolutely outstanding, as was John Travolta who plays Tracy's mama, Edna. (I absolute love that as an actor he isn't afraid of a little gender bending.) Zac Efron, who was Link, was such a cutie. And yes, he's got the talent to back up his looks. I was also amazed by James Marsden who played Corny Collins. I had no idea he could sing! Queen Latifah and Elijah Kelley were great as Motormouth Maybelle and Seaweed, respectively. Britney Snow (Amber Von Tussle), Michelle Pfeiffer (Velma Von Tussle), and Christopher Walken (Wilbur Turnblad) were good as well. I did not like Amanda Bynes as Penny Pingleton. I was extremely disappointed with her portrayal. I've seen her movies and her TV series, so I know she can be very funny. But she held back quite a bit. Not sure if it was the director's choice or hers, but the Penny character really suffered.

Mallorie enjoyed the show as well. There were several instances when we were both chair dancing along to the infectious music. Ken wasn't as animated, which wasn't surprising. He was probably watching the movie with a critic's eye.

As soon as we left the movie theater, I headed over to Best Buy. I bought Mallorie the movie soundtrack and I got the Original Broadway Cast CD. Our respective iPods will be playing respective versions of songs from Hairspray for quite a while.

KLT Volunteer Picnic

Today was the second annual KLT Volunteer Picnic, held at Harmon Park. Last year our picnic was rained out and had to be moved to Casa de Cissna's. Today the weather was absolutely beautiful, albeit a tad hot.

Lots of KLTers showed up for the picnic. As many years as I've been with KLT, there were still folks I had not met. We feasted on hotdogs and wonderful salads, pastas, and other picnic fare prepared by some of the KLT ladies. There were tons of desserts too.

Mallorie, who has been a KLT volunteer (off and on) since she was 4, chatted up one person then another. She is so at home with theatre people. Cade and I headed to the swing set and we swung for a bit, until I got dizzy. Then he headed to the slide and played with another little girl. He and I eventually headed to shade where we played our own version of Bocce.

All in all it was a very lovely day. It's nice to gather together, to hang out and have fun, without worrying about putting up a show. No lights, cues, or lines. Just good times and good fellowship.

A Night At The Theatre

I attended last night's performance of The Full Monty with my mom and 4 of her friends. Mom and I are both hoarse today.

I was familiar with the show, having seen the movie and the Broadway show when it toured through Greensboro. I wasn't as hoarse after seeing the touring show though. It's because I saw it with Ken. I didn't want to embarrass him by yelling. Last night, Mom and I were two of many women who were laughing, hollering, yelling, and wolf whistling. There were 6 good reasons why the women in the audience were lively: Jerry, Dave, Malcolm, Harold, Noah, and Ethan.

If you don't know anything about the show, you can catch it tonight and tomorrow in Winston-Salem. Then the show will be moving (same cast, same set) to Greensboro for a two weekend run at the Carolina Theatre. Really, I'm telling you, don't miss it!

Casting Results, Bug

Agnes: Kelly Wallace
Peter: Mark March
RC: Cheryl Ann Roberts
Jerry Goss: Don Gunther
Dr. Sweet: Ken Ashford



Yes, you are reading correctly. I didn't get Agnes. And it's okay, really. I mean, I am a little disappointed, but I trust Jamie and his vision. And I love Kelly. I've said before that she's an amazing actress and I'm honored, once again, to share the stage with her.

And I'm looking forward to working with Mark, Don and Ken again. All of us were in Sordid Lives. We have an amazing director, amazing cast and a very talented set designed. The show is going to be thrilling, and I'm very excited to be part of it.

Auditions, Bug

Well, tonight is the night I've been waiting on for several months. At 7p I will be at SECCA auditioning for the role of Agnes in Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance's upcoming production of Bug. If you've seen the recent movie, Ashely Judd plays the role I am after.

I read the play back in February. The script calls for some nudity (in the movie Ashley was naked in the final scene), drug use and a downward spiral into psychological paranoia. I knew Agnes was one of those roles that would really challenge me as an actress.

I intentionally stayed up late last night, so I'd have circles under my eyes today. I'm not wearing much makeup, I let my hair air dry so it looks unkempt, and I'm wearing oversized jeans with a Wild Child t-shirt. I'm hoping I look a bit "worn".

Update 1:42p - Jere Dailey (who played Maurice in LTWS' Beauty and the Beast) stopped by my office a bit ago. We chatted about his new book. As we were talking, he kept staring at me. He then told me he thought I was beautiful. I started laughing as I thanked him for the comment. I told him about the audition and that I was actually going for the worn look. Jere then asked me how old I was. I told him and he was really shocked. He didn't think I was even 30!

Update 7:35p - I arrived at SECCA at two mintues after 7 and anticipated several folks already there filling out audition cards. I walked in with Don Gunther (who was GW in Sordid Lives). We were the only ones there to audition. Jamie gave us scripts and as Don and I looked over the lines, Kelly Wallace came in.

I knew Kelly was going to audition and I knew she would be my competition. Jamie read both of us, as Agnes, with Don and then had Kelly and I read the Agnes/RC scene. (RC is Agnes' lesbian best friend.) As Kelly and I walked to the stage, she whispered to me that she doesn't want Agnes because of the nudity. Cool with me. I started out reading Agnes to Kelly's RC and then Jamie had us switch the roles. I'll be damned if I didn't give a better reading as RC! I mean I actually felt like RC as I was reading.

Don, Kelly and I were done reading by 7:15p. We hung out in the parking lot chatting for a bit. Another woman, Laurel, pulled in to audition. I believe that she's younger than me, so, I'm not as worried about her for Agnes. And if Kelly really wants RC....And if no one else shows up......

Emails with Call Sign "Mickey"

To: Mark (call sign Mickey)
From: Cheryl Ann
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

Where were you from February to April? Were you in the States getting training? What is your job? Tell me everything so I can understand!

What are the chances of you coming home before Christmas?

From: Mark
To: Cheryl Ann
Sent: Sun, 8 Jul 2007 4:22pm
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

let's see.......I was given my marching orders in 11/2006, saying that I was heading to Kuwait. I left NC in February to spend a little time in Norfolk, after Norfolk, I went to Williamsburg for desert training. We left Williamsburg for here on April 1. I know... I know... i was hoping for an April Fool's joke too! But I guess the joke was on me!

I was the LPO of the Washrack (LPO=lead Petty officer). Washrack is like a carwash for tanks and things. We are responsible for insuring military vehicles returning to the states are clear of ammo, human remains, but primarily dirt. There are organisms in the dirt here that could be harmful to the US ecosystem.

It looks like I should be home for Christmas, at least I hope so.

Emails with Call Sign "Mickey"

To: Mark (call sign Mickey)
From: Cheryl Ann
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

How on earth do you stand 129 degree weather? I can't even imagine.....I start to gripe when the temps hit 85!

How long have you been in Kuwait? How long will you have to stay?

From: Mark
To: Cheryl Ann
Sent: Sat, 7 Jul 2007 4:13 pm
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

Well.... at 129, you just sweat. Not much more you can do about it. 117 is the norm, and it is HOT. The pool, however, is a cool 90 and is REALLY refreshing.

I was deployed in February and we landed here April 1. I hope I get back before Christmas.

Dusty's European Tour - Greetings from London

From: David "Dusty" Roberts
Sent: Thu, 5 Jul 2007 1:23 pm
Subject: Greetings from London!

We made it to London and things are going well. It is certainly very cold and rainy here! I would say that it is about mid 60's. brrr. thank goodness I have a rain jacket. We have been ultra busy since we got here- touring London and riding the underground (tube - Mind the Gap!). Tomorrow we are going to take off to Salisbury to see Stonehenge and stay the night or two. That should be pretty cool!

Other than that, Montreal was ok to experience for our layover. LOL. We left the airport and went down to the 'old district' near the port and walked around. They had a Jazz festival going on which was cool to experience. The locals say that Montreal has lots of festivals during the summer- we were lucky to experience one. Most of what I saw in Montreal was a bit grungy. I can't say that I'll be back- or at least to that area. haha.

So many things going on in London this weekend that we'll miss. The Tour de France kicks off tomorrow (we did see them setting up for it at Trafalgar Square), Wimbeldon and the Live Earth Concert which boasts a lot of performers in a 25 hour period. Too crazy! No wonder there are no rooms here. haha.

I hope that you all had a great 4th of July. I'll write more later - I just wanted to send a quick note to let everyone know that we are doing well.

Miss you!!
Dusty

Anna Mae Hiller

I was reading the paper yesterday and noticed this picture in the obituary section. I knew I had seen that exact photo before. It only took me a few more seconds to realize who she was.

Anna Mae Hiller was Dee Richardson's mother. Dee and I were best of friends in the early 90's. We were involved in several theatre productions. We were pregnant at the same time and shared a baby shower. Mallorie was born first, on what was originally Ryan's due date. Ryan came 3 days later on what was originally my due date. And she sang in my wedding. While we tried maintaining a monthly Girls Night Out, for various reasons, Dee and I grew apart.

Still, as soon as I saw the obituary, I never questioned that I would go to the memorial service. Once a girlfriend, always a girlfriend.

Mallorie and I went to the memorial service today. Dee was glad to see us and was amazed at how much Mallorie had grown. I was equally amazed at her "children". Jay (Dee's oldest son) and his wife, Amanda, were there with their 3 kids. Ben (Dee's middle son) was there looking very dapper. Ryan and Mallorie spent some time talking. They haven't seen each other since elementary school. Dee's oldest stepdaughter, Chris, was also there.

It was nice to see Dee, though I regret the circumstance. I am glad that I got the opportunity to be there for her, and to pay respects to Anna Mae, who was an absolutely beautiful person. I am hoping that once Dee feels up to it, that we can go out to lunch or dinner. Once a girlfriend, always a girlfriend.

Dusty's European Tour

For those of you who don't know, this is my little brother, Dusty. Actually, his real name is David. Apparently my dad always wanted to name his son Dusty. My mother, being the proper northener she was, explained that Dusty was a nickname and not a proper name for a person. So they compromised. My brother's legal name is David Michael Roberts. The family calls him Dusty. Though much, much taller than me, my little brother is 22 months younger.

Dusty lives in Silver Springs, Maryland, in a quaint house, drives a really cool SUV, and is the Director of IT with Advamed. His best friend, Alan, shares the house with him. Dusty has lots of friends whom he goes out with frequently. His closet is a combination of work and club clothes. (He is a very trendy dresser!)

He is giving it all up - the house, the job, the clothes, the friends, the American life - to tour through Europe for a year.

Being the big sister, of course I am worried about his decision. What if something should happen to him? What is he going to do for work when he gets back to the States? Where is he going to live? Dusty's decision to sightsee throughout Europe was not an impetuous one. He and Alan have been talking about going for over a year. Each has done extensive research.

Being the big sister, of course I am (a bit!) jealous of his decision. Growing up in Arcadia (a Davidson County township close to Clemmons) I had always thought that I would be the one who would leave the area, travel to exotic locales, and live in some glorious city. The furthest I've lived is Kernersville!

Being the big sister, of course I am very proud of his decision. Very few people actually put plans in motion to make their dreams a reality. I'm proud of my brother for being one of the few.

Being the big sister, of course I love my brother very much. I will be posting his update emails, mainly for my own historical benefit, but also in the event you want to keep up with his journey. Dusty will be blogging about his travels, as well, to his own site. The link is on the right sidebar under the Very Cool People Links header.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

On this day a year ago, I was such a rotten daughter. I didn't even call my mother to wish her a happy birthday. This year I strive to be a much better daughter.

While I have not actually spoken to her yet today, the kids and I (well, Mallorie and I, Cade was stubborn) sung "Happy Birthday" to her answering machine. I've also saved a half and half cookie, brought all the way home from Boston, for her.

Update 7:30p: I've called her 3 times, sung happy birthday each time, and still have not heard back from her. Oh, well. I hope Bill is treating her to a fabulous birthday dinner.

Update 10:00p: I tried one last time and still couldn't reach her. I just hope she had a very nice day celebrating her birthday. I'm sure she's very tired and just turned in early...

Blue Man Group

Kris was able to score free tickets, so he and I went to the Charles Playhouse last night to see Blue Man Group. I’d seen the computer commercials so I knew the “group” consisted of 3 men and the “blue” was the color of their heads/faces. My brother saw them in DC, and from what he described – banging on drums and pipes – sounded like a take on Stomp. Still, I was excited about seeing the (free!) show.

Our seats were in the balcony, on the far left side. As we made our way to our seats, the staff was handing out bits of crepe paper. We were instructed to “wear” the ribbon. Most were making a headband out of the crepe paper. I placed my ribbon under my hair and tied a bow at the top of my head. Kris decided not to conform.

As we waited for the start of the show, words started appearing on a huge LCD panel over the stage. Using audience member names, we thanked those who won the Pulitzer Prize or completed the Human Genome Project. We were directed to speak out for another audience member who was not particularly remarkable. The LCD panel also informed us of particular guests experiencing a headache or a birthday.

The stage went dark and the Blue Man Group began playing the drums. This picture doesn’t do the experience justice. It was an outstandingly visually brilliant number. I was awed. The next skit was a one upmanship game of paint spitting. (Yes, spitting.) This morphed into a gross skit of throwing gumballs or marshmallows across the stage for one Blue Man to catch in his mouth. Just when you thought his mouth couldn’t hold another marshmallow, one more was thrown at him. He leaned over a board and “upchucked” the unchewed but dissolved marshmallows. He was very proud of the high white tower of “art”. They then brought out a piece of PVC pipe and began to play with the different sounds. The skit ended with a full stage orchestra of neon colored pipes in all shapes and sizes.

The Blue Man Group then came off the stage and climbed over the audience (yes, climbed) in search of two volunteers. I was very glad to be seated in the balcony. A girl (not the one in the picture) joined them in a Twinkie-eating skit full of gags involving a fire extinguisher, a jig saw, and a shop vacuum. This skit also featured the ingestion of a cheese-in-a-spraycan like substance shooting from the chest of one of the other Blue Men. This skit was also gross, but quite an interesting experiment in social behaviour. I was fascinated. The male volunteer was taken offstage to be hung by his feet, smeared with blue paint, and flung against a large canvas.

In another skit, we learned that rock is now all about Choreographed Dance Moves. We had to stand and do pelvic swivels, hand pumping, etc. Kris again decided against participating. I warned him and we were both terrified when one of the Blue Men came up to the balcony. I held my breath as he looked right at me. Thankfully he wasn’t looking for another volunteer.

My absolute favorite part of the show was the finale. Omigod! I won’t spoil it for you, but it involves strobe lights, dangling and twisting colored pipes, very loud techno music, and lots and lots (and lots) of toilet paper. Kris did participate in the finale.

The Blue Man Group was absolutely amazing. Their deadpan expressions were hysterical and their childlike wonder was refreshing. Their energy was palpable and infectious. I can’t remember a time when I’ve had that much fun. You have got to see this show. You will not be disappointed, even if you have to pay for tickets!

Emails with Call Sign "Mickey"

To: Mark (call sign Mickey)
From: Cheryl Ann
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

Wow! I had wondered if you'd been deployed. I guess you have.

How are you dealing with Kuwait? You're smiling in the picture.....
How are the girls <Mark has two beautiful daughters> taking it?

From: Mark
To: Cheryl Ann
Sent: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 3:01 am
Subject: Re: Just a quick pic of me in Kuwait

Kuwait really stinks..... literally & figuratively. It smells like a port-o-jon in the hot summer daily. Speaking of hot, we had a high of 129 degrees last week. And, when it sandstorms, it looks orange outside.

The girls are teens, so I am currently relatively unimportant in their lives right now. But they do miss me, in a manner only expressed by teens.

Happy Birthday, Mallorie!

I Know Someone in Kuwait

The guy on the right is Mark S. Mark and I were both supervisors in The Office of Consumer Affairs at
US Airways. I was surprised to learn that Mark was also in the Reserves. I remember we were worried that he'd be pulled into active duty in the months following September 11. (Being down a supervisor in the complaint department of a major airline after 9/11 would have been unbearable. Without Mark it would have been unimaginable.) Thankfully he was not called to duty. He left US Airways in 2002, becoming an analyst for American Express. We reconnected last year after I was severed from US Airways. He even came to see me in Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical and Grace and Glorie. I remained busy with a new job and a role in On Golden Pond and I lost touch with him. I didn't even see him online. It was like he dropped off the earth.

His short "I had a second, so I thought I would share" email contained this picture. Mark is in Kuwait.

Since I've not known anyone that was over in Iraq, I really haven't been paying much attention to the war. Now that Mark is over there....well, I hope to learn more about our efforts and his participation in the overall plan.

I'll keep you posted.

Acting for Film - Small Change

I just received an email from AJ alerting me to minor changes to this Saturday's shoot. I will not be wearing the Revolutionary War costume. Instead, I need to wear something "middle-class suburban housewifeish". Why do Bree and Gabrielle from Desperate Housewives pop into my head? And if that's what AJ is also envisioning, I've got a problem. I don't have anything that would make me look like Bree or Gabrielle in my wardrobe. I'll have to talk to our LTWS costume ladies for some ideas.

Also, since I'm no longer going to look like Betsy Ross, they've tweaked the script. Now I'm a bit nervous about Saturday. I'm not sure I'll have the "middle-class suburban housewife" look and I'm worried about having to memorize a tweaked script with less than 24 hours before the shoot.

Ah, the life of a film actress indeed......

Acting for Film

About a week ago I got an email from Stephen Hyers containing an emailed forwarded from a UNCG someone looking for actors to help with summer film projects. Since I've never done any film work I forwarded my headshot and resume.

I just got a call from AJ Lee. (He's the "someone" from UNCG.) He's in a bit of a bind and was hoping I could help. He asked if, by any chance, I was available this Saturday from 12:30p until 2p, and would I be willing to play the part of Kathy Maitland in an antiques roadshow segment. Of course I can rearrange my schedule to help him out. That's the kind of person I am! (Okay, in truth I didn't have anything planned on Saturday and I was hoping I'd be called for the film projects. But AJ didn't need to know that!)

So, I'll be emailed a script momentarily. Apparently I'll be dressed in a Revolutionary War period costume. And I'll be paid for my time. $25.00. Which should cover gas to Greensboro.

Ah, the life of a film actress.....

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

Another Graduate

I can't believe that my nephew graduated from high school this morning. Is this a family conspiracy?

Congratulations, Brett. I wish you all the best at High Point University.

Pre-School Graduation

This evening we attended Cade's Pre-School Graduation held in the auditorium of Southwest Elementary School. (The same place where Mallorie had her dance recitals.) Kit Brown, Avery's mother, had put together a slide show of numerous pictures of the kids. It was a huge success as many parents and grandparents ooohed and aaahed as their child's picture displayed.

The graduating class sang a song as the opening number. Well, some sang and others watched their neighbors and a few kids waved to family. It was precious. After Karen and the teachers thanked the parents for entrusting Chesterbrook Academy/Childcare Network with our children, the kids prepared for the walk, complete with cap and gown, across the stage to receive their diploma.

I did get a bit teary-eyed watching Cade cross the stage. I was so worried that he would lose his graduation hat that I couldn't fully concentrate on the moment. As he returned to his seat, he looked so handsome and so proud of himself. I hope he never loses that confidence.

After the ceremony we took some pictures with the Graduate and then headed to Marble Slab Creamery for a graduation celebration!

Curves of Lewisville

If you remember, last July I went on the Atkins diet to lose some weight for Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical. I dieted for no other reason that my wanting to look decent in my cheerleader's costume. I don't mind the no-carb diet for short periods of time. I just can't make it my lifestyle. I mean, one can only consume eggs and cheese for so long.

I also stopped smoking a couple months ago. As a result, I've gained a couple of pounds. Instead of going outside for a late night smoke, I'd sit on the couch with a caloric feast. The scale and my mirror yelled at me to take immediate corrective action.

So, I volunteered to participate in a 21-day fitness study for Curves. It's pretty simple, I go and work out 30 minutes, 3 days a week. To keep me motivated my mom is also participating in the study.

Today was our first day and I'm really excited! Curves seems like a workout program that I can maintain. Their fitness concept combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity. Various machines provide safe and effective hydraulic resistance. And the kicker? You stay at each station for less than a minute! Just when your upper thighs are starting to really burn from the squat machine, it's time to move to the next station. The perpetual music keeps an energized beat and an audio lady tells you when to move. I love it!

Mom and I left today pretty pumped. We can't wait to go back on Thursday.

Graduate

My niece graduated from high school this morning. I've known her since she was 9 years old! It was hard enough to accept she was a senior. Now she's a graduate!

Congratulations, Justine. I wish you all the best!

Bug

This movie opens tomorrow, and I am dying to see it. I love Ashley Judd and Harry Connick, Jr. But there's another reason why I want to see this movie.

Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance will be producing the play, which is what the movie is based on. I read the script late last year and the role of Agnes (Ashley Judd) is my new dream role. As soon as I read the play I knew the part would be a challenge for me as an actress. Auditions are in July and the show goes up in August, so I've some time to really work on my audition.

Give me a call if you'd like to go with me to the movie!

Opening Night, The Angels of Lemnos

Last night was opening night. There were about 75 chairs set up, but only about 25 folks came to see us. (Thank you Norman, Karen, Dillon and Yvonne for attending!)Mark Pirolo came to support NCSA and The Little Theatre.

We did pretty well considering it was the first time we actually ran the entire show. Matt forgot we had changed some of the movement, which made the stand I was supposed to move to overcrowded. Instead I went to the stage left stand, but dropped a couple of lines as I was searching for the correct page. Also, because we didn't really know what else to do with them, props were left on the floor and got kicked around. Still, both Adam and Norman were proud of our performance. One show down, one to go.

After Lemnos I headed over to Big Shotz Tavern for a God's Favorite cast party. I usually feel uncomfortable attending cast parties when I'm not even part of the cast, but Norm made me feel welcome. Michael Carter was there and it was nice catching up with him.

This afternoon Ken and I are headed to Greensboro for Heather and Jeff's wedding. I'm hopping we will have time to attend the reception before we have to depart for our seperate shows.

Peace Now, Freedom Now

This is the last weekend to see Theatre Alliance's production of Hair.

I saw the show last Saturday. I don't know what them hippies was smoking, but I can tell you it wasn't mary jane! Mary jane tends to mellow you out (not that I'm speaking from experience) and them hippies had a collective energy. This was made evident in their group songs and dances.

Emily Mark is, quite simply, an amazing actress. Having just finished bringing Belle to life in a recent production of Beauty and the Beast, she does a complete 180 as the strung-out Sheila. I've always been impressed with her vocal ability. She does not disappoint here.

Neil Sheppard is another standout actor. He's well endowed. Exceptional vocal talent and spot-on comedic timing make him delightful to watch. (Now, come on, what did you think I meant?)

I was pleasantly reminded of Ally McCauley's vocal power. I last saw her sing in a production of Sweet Charity. She has a wonderful solo here. And she makes a very beautiful pregnant woman.

Craig Dixon (pictured above) made me smile with his Sonny Bono good looks. While I didn't actually see it, this is the second time he's appeared nude in a Theatre Alliance show. I give him lots of props for having that kind of courage. And speaking of nudity, yes some of the cast get naked. The lights are low and it happens pretty quickly. Still, I happened to catch quite the glimpse of Jaye Pierce. My immediate thought: Damn! She just had a baby not long ago!

If you go to see Hair, and you definitly should, make sure to visit the restrooms before seating. There is no intermission.

First Rehearsal, The Angels of Lemnos

My goodness. I am the only non-School of the Arts person involved with this staged reading! Chance is 4th year, Ryan is 1st year, Amanda is 2nd year, Adam is 4th year and Matt is one of the drama teachers. And that's exactly how they introduced themselves. What was I supposed to say? "Hi, I'm Cheryl Ann. I'm 38th year." Needless to say I was a bit intimated.

The rehearsal time was well spent as we read through the script. Except for Chance, we all play multiple parts. Adam stopped us after each new character was introduced and we talked about characterization. Since this is a staged reading, character differences must be made vocally and physically instead of with costumes. I have two speaking roles. My main role is Ellen, Nathan's mother. I love this character; the love she has for her son is very evident. We are combining the doctor and nurse roles so I'll be playing a nurse. There is also a very poignant scene that I'll be doing with Chance.

I actually read the script yesterday and I absolutely love it. It's a very well written play. I really would like to see a full scale production. As we were reading through today, Adam pointed out so much hidden meaning. I am very impressed with this 4th year director.

Despite being the only one not wanting to "act" for my regular paycheck, I am looking forward to working with the NCSA group. There is no way that I will walk away without having learned something.

My Adirondack Chair

I got the call yesterday, informing me that I had won the adirondack chair and footstool. (Unfortunately I didn't win any of the pottery I bid on. Guess I'll have to take a trip to Seagrove soon!)

Mom and I went to pick it up today. The volunteers at Second Harvest were digging my new chair. They all wished that they had bid on it. Cade helped me clean the chair, then we sat in it and I read him one of our favorite books. This will become my new coffee sipping, newspaper reading spot.

Sometimes the simplest things give me the most pleasure.

Art for Lunch and the 30 Second Audition

Ken and I had lunch today at the fire station on Marshall Street. Second Harvest Food Bank hosted a fundraising event called "Empty Bowls". For a $25.00 donation, you received soup, salad, dessert, a choice of refreshing beverage and a beautiful piece of pottery. I didn't really care much about the lunch - I was there for the pottery. (Though I did have a wonderful tomato bisque.)

With 6 tables full of various shades, shapes and sizes of "bowls", making a single pottery choice was overwhelming. Some of the pottery was donated by artists from Seagrove and by local "artists" from Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools and the Sawtooth Center. Luckily I had an idea of what I wanted; a small soup bowl with a handle, kinda like an oversized coffee cup. After checking and re-checking each table I finally settled on a tan bowl with a blue and green glaze on the inside. I can't read the artist's signature on the bottom, but I know it came from Seagrove.

After eating we took some time to look at all the items that were up for bid. I bid on two pieces of pottery and a beautiful, handcrafted adirondack chair and footstool. There was only about 5 minutes left until the bids closed so I'm bound to win one of them.

When I got back to the office, Norman asked me if I wanted to be in a play. I said sure, then asked if I had to audition. He handed me a script and told me the director would be there in less than 10 minutes. A young man entered my office and we chatted briefly while Norman finished a phone call. Then the young man and Norman returned to my desk. I read 5 lines and the young man stopped me and said, "That was wonderful. You are beautiful. You're perfect. Will you do it?" Well, with that kind of flattery, how could I say no?

I'll be working with the young man, Adam Woolley, and 4 other castmates for the New Horizons Staged Reading of The Angels of Lemnos. I wish every audition were that easy!

RiverRun: Midnight Shorts

On the way home from Charlotte, I asked Ken if he was up for seeing a midnight showing of several short films at The Garage. He used to go to a lot of the film festivals in New York, so I thought he might like to participate in the RiverRun Film Festival. He was game.

We got to The Garage with plenty of time before the movies. We selected seats in the second row and then we (ok, I) ate popcorn, drank beer and chatted until it was time for the movies.

The first short, Tony vs. Paul, about two guys fighting in stop-motion animation was pretty funny. Ken had seen it before on YouTube. Songbird was ridiculous and gross. One D was about a man and a woman, who live in a one dimensional world, go out to the movies and get attacked by aliens. It was hilarious.

Jane Lloyd was about a woman who grows up and seeks fame and fortune in Hollywood. I thought it was interesting, especially since there was no dialogue. Home Delivery was another animated short. Pregnant lady, zombies. Need I say more? DVD was a Spanish language film. Unfortunately I couldn't read the subtitles. The man sitting in front of me was leaning his arm around his girlfriend.

Dr. Undead's Fright Fest was next, and I was pleasantly surprised that one of my favorite actors, David Joy, was in the film. He played a killer milkman who gets his just desserts. Not only is David nice on the eyes, he's also a very talented actor.

Carlitopolis was just wrong. A funny experiment gone violently bad. Poor little cute furry mouse. The last film, The Caress of the Creature lasted 10 minutes longer than it should have been.

I did have a nice time, and enjoyed most of the shorts. I just wish I had seen them earlier in the day.

Christmas Eve

Do you remember how you felt as a kid, full of useless energy and agonizing anticipation on Christmas Eve? I hope you can remember because that feeling best describes my current mood.

I wish 6 o'clock would hurry up and get here. Ken is picking me up at that time and we are headed to Charlotte.

I wish 8 o'clock would hurry up and get here. Ken and I will be sitting in the audience to watch Tony Award Winner Cherry Jones as Sister Aloysius in Doubt, a parable.

I finished reading the script on Monday. Normally I don't (or rather can't) read the shows before I see them. But, since I've heard so many good things about the show, I wanted to read the book so I could sit back and enjoy the performances. And I must say, the book is absolutely wonderfully written.

Stan Bernstein saw the show in Charlotte on Tuesday. He was in my office waiting for his production team to gather. He looked at me and said he just had to talk to somebody about what he had seen the night before. He was in awe over the production. He told me a bit about the set and lighting and talked about how good an actress Cherry Jones is.

I can't wait to see the show. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow. Less than 4 hours til curtain!

Go, Go, Go Joseph!

Ken and I attended last night's performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Greensboro Coliseum. While I had never seen the show before, I quickly realized I was familiar with some of the music. (Courtesy of several Andrew Lloyd Webber compilation CDs.)

The big musical numbers were wonderful with their crashes of drums and flashes of light. The cast was full of cowboy and cheerleading energy. The show closed with the Joseph Megamix, a rock/disco medley of most of the major numbers. (I believe this number inspired Jamie to dance-up his curtain calls.) I was highly impressed with the music and choreography. The actual story....well, not so much.

I'm no Bible scholar, so on the way home Ken and I discussed what I thought were flaws in the story:

1.) Preferential treatment by Jacob - I mean, who among us can really blame the brothers for their jealousy? It's easy to understand how sibling rivalry could get out of hand, especially since Joseph was the only one to get the "coat of many colors". Jacob could just as easily made 12 coats, each in a different color. (By the way, the word "technicolor" is never uttered in the show.)
2.) Joseph mouths off - Dreams about "my star being bigger than yours" and "you will bow before me". Hello? The brothers roughing Joseph up and throwing him into the pit, totally understandable. (Selling Joseph into slavery, not so much. Claiming Joseph is dead and celebrating, ok, a little extreme.)
3.) The Golden Cup - When Joseph jumps off the throne and secretly places his golden cup in Benjamin's sack, I thought Joseph was making sure his brothers are well taken care of; after the food runs out they could sell the golden cup for more food. Imagine my surprise when Joseph jumps off the throne a second time to accuse someone of stealing his cup! He searches each bag, knowing full well where he placed the cup. Was this really a test for the brothers to display their unselfishness and penitence? Or was it revenge?

We enjoyed the energetic performance and Ken and I had a fun time discussing the show's ambiguous message. And I'm not embarrassed to admit to dancing around my kitchen this morning pretending my (pink) robe was a (techicolor) dreamcoat.

Ever Wish You Were an Ice Cube?

ACT Classes

I will be teaching an ACT class for the advanced high school students! I am sooooo excited!

Don't Miss This!

I've told you once and I'm telling you again. Do not miss The Little Theatre's production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. There are still tickets available for the remaining weekend. Call to make your reservations or purchase your tickets online. However you do it, just make sure you do it, and do it now!

Ken, Mallorie and I watched the show tonight. Despite Ken's pre-show discussion of how, in his humble opinion, Disney is ruining Broadway, I was giddy with anticipation. I was not let down.

First things first. The set was beautifully designed by Gio, the Technical Director for LTWS. I remember when he presented a model of the set during a staff meeting. I was very impressed with his small scale model. I can't even begin to tell you how impressive the real set is. (Maybe it would help if you knew that a theatre in Albemarle traveled up specifically to see our set? They are renting it for their production in June.) My favorite set piece is Maurice's crazy invention. It actually chops wood!

If you know Emily Mark and if you've been reading her blog, you know what she's been through, both physically and mentally, in bringing Belle to life. She never needed to worry. She was absolutely outstanding. I know that I've gushed about Emily before, but really, it's hard not to. Her song, "A Change in Me" brought tears to my eyes. Those tears resurfaced when Belle was admitting her love during the Beast's death scene. I can assure you that I wasn't the only one searching for Kleenex during those moments. It takes an extremely talented actor to affect an audience that way.

Gray and I have, in a sense, grown up together. I saw many of his productions with LTWS in the late 80's and early 90's. I've seen several of the shows he's done with Theatre Alliance in the last 3 years. I've counted myself very honored to have even shared the stage with him. While I've known Gray was an extremely talented actor, nothing prepared me for his Beast. He was, in a word, awesome.

I was also impressed with Miriam Davie (Babette), Craig Faircloth (Gaston) and Wells Albritton (LeFou). The Barnhardt sisters truly were Silly Girls.

Please, don't miss this show. If you are a parent of small ones, bring them! If you are a parent of grown ones, bring them! Even if you aren't a parent, come anyway. It's a wonderful story, outstanding set and exceptional cast.

Mission Accomplished....Sorta

My audition on Monday night went very well. Stan watched as my partner and I read the scene. Before I even got out the door, Stan invited me to callbacks. (Mission accomplished!)

Kelly Wallace and Gesh Metz were at callbacks as well. There were a couple of other ladies there too, but I felt that Kelly and Gesh were my only competition. And I was correct. Kelly was cast.

I'm not upset or sad that I didn't get the role. I've said before that Kelly is a talented actress. Her daughter, Meghan, was also cast and will be playing mother-daughter in the show. I'm very excited for both of them.

Auditions

Tonight I'm planning on auditioning for The Little Theatre's production of Over the Tavern.

The show is being directed by Stan Bernstein. Now, I've auditioned for Stan before. During auditions for Arsenic and Old Lace he didn't even pay attention or look up at me. Since then I have met him and spoken to him on a few occasions. Still, my goal for tonight is to make sure he pays attention to me.

One Talented Toddler

Hope this makes you smile as much as I did!

Simply Irresistible

Flipping through channels tonight I came across one of my all-time favorite movies, Simply Irresistible. One of my favorite quotes comes from this movie -

I just love dessert. It's the whole point of the meal.

The movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar and Sean Patrick Flannery. Patricia Clarkson, Dylan Baker, Betty Buckley and Amanda Peet costar. The music is absolutely wonderful.

Sweet and magical, this movie never fails to make me smile.

Sunday, Take Two

I was supposed to go to see Mamma Mia! in Charlotte today. Since I never heard whether I was supposed to meet or whether I was to be picked up, I missed the matinee.

Instead, Jake came up from UNC-C and Don, Gina and Shelby came over. We hadn't seen Jake since Christmas, so it was nice being with him. We caught each other up on the latest news (Barbara, Rose, new office move, The Vagina Monologues, etc.) and started "Game Night" with a crokinole tournament. I decided not to participate. Flicking round wooden chips across a "table" that resembles a dart board is not my thing. (I flick too hard.) I cheered Cade who scored some big points for a 4-year old.

We broke for come homemade chili and beer. Some of us went downstairs to check out Guitar Hero, the hot new PS2 game. Mallorie, who originally scoffed at the game, is quite the rocker. Don recovered very well after getting booed by the "audience". Shelby also did well. Allan was kicked off the "stage".

Next up was poker. Now, I've no idea on how to really play poker. I understand the basic concept, but I have to be told when to put in money and how much (little and big blinds). But I love to play especially when it's not real money involved. Just before we broke for dessert, I was winning.

After everyone left, I went back downstairs to watch Mallorie rock out. She let me have a turn, and while I wasn't booed off the stage, it was slow going. Mallorie changed the game to a practice session and after getting the hang of that I moved on to the easy mode. I can't remember the song, but I did fairly well hitting and maintaing the notes. I was even relaxed enough to tap my foot to the musical beat. Mallorie kept asking for a turn and I kept telling her to wait. The game certainly is addictive.

We are all planning on getting together on Saturday. More crokinole, poker and my new favorite, Guitar Hero. Rock on!

Judging Books by the Cover

Okay, I'll admit it. I do judge books based on the attractiveness of their covers. This doesn't make me a bad person, does it? I mean, I recognize that I could be missing some really good books simply due to a lack of pretty packaging. So, when I was at The Strand in New York, after perusing 3 of the 18 miles they claim to have in books, I decided to buy a plain book. Since the book was only $1.00, I knew I'd potentially gain much more than I would loose. The book I selected is a hardback book, blue with green binding. The title, come together, was small; the lettering in plain gold.

I just finished the book, and I must say, it was pretty good.

Jack and Amy are two twentysomething singles living in London. Jack is an artist working part-time in a gallery and prowls the bars by night looking to score. Amy is a temp with dreams of becoming a fashion designer. When the two meet at a party, they spend the whole night talking. Jack starts out trying to seduce Amy into a casual fling, he ends up falling for her hard.

The book alternates he said-she said chapters. Although it's pretty predictable, there are some laugh out loud moments. Apparently the authors, Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees became a couple while writing the book.

V-Day. Until the Violence Stops

Well, I am done "Reclaiming Cunt". At least for another year. The 2007 production of The Vagina Monologues was earlier tonight.

Peg, Annemarie, Andrea and I were a bit nervous about our "Wear/Say" montage. All of us were dropping lines during a quick run-thru earlier today. We ran it about 10 times before the show started and, I'm happy to report, we performed perfectly.

My first monologue was "The Crooked Braid" which I had never seen performed. In the monologue, an American-Indian woman recounts a tale of abuse from her husband and finally decides to cut off his braid, his mark of pride, while he slept. It's a very difficult piece, inspired by the women of Pine Ridge Reservation. It's a beautifully written, haunting monologue and I especially wanted to honor the voices of these women. Finding the rhythm of the piece was challenging. During our final dress rehearsal I made several of the women cry. That was my goal for tonight.

The stage was dark except for the spotlight on me as I sat in a rocking chair. I looked out at the audience and saw their outline. As I delivered the monologue, I could sense that I was connecting with each person in the audience. As I delivered the last lines of the piece and as the spotlight went out, I could tell the audience was speechless. There was no applause, none was needed. As I started to exit I could hear the sniffles. And I saw the tears in the eyes of a few of my castmates who were waiting backstage. I achieved my goal.

"Reclaiming Cunt" was my last monologue, and the same one I did last year. I originally planned on a costume that was similar to the one I wore last year. (This was last year's costume.) Instead I decided to reclaim cunt in an elegant manner. I wore a burgundy gown with black opera gloves. Everyone loved the visual. I mean, there I was, in formal dress, expressing how much I like the word cunt.

I nailed this piece as well. My only gripe is that I got cut off. After getting the audience to yell "Cunt!" along with me, I usually end by "singing" the c-word in a very loud voice, complete with outstretched arms. Unfortunately they called the lights after the audience shouted the c-word for the second time. Oh, well. There's always next year.

We won't have attendance or money statistics for several weeks, but I believe the fundraiser was a success. I felt it was a success, for me personally, as well as for all the women (and a few men) involved with the production. As Eve says, "Pussies Unite!"

Ah Yes, I Remember It Well

I flew home from LaGuardia last night. I didn't have a problem using the kiosk to check in. However, there was one flight that had been cancelled and two others were delayed. There was one passenger who was irate and quite a few more who were grumbling to the ticket counter agents. What these passengers should have been doing was counting themselves very lucky that it wasn't Christmas and it didn't snow.

I worked for The Office of Consumer Affairs at US Airways during the Sabre computer cutover in December 1997. At that time US Airways employees were in the midst of a computer system learning curve, further impacted by increased holiday travel and a huge snowstorm in the North.

US Airways Sees More Check-In Problems
Charlotte, Philadelphia, Boston, Las Vegas Expect Delays
AP
PHOENIX (March 5) - US Airways passengers were encouraged to check-in using the company's Web site while the airline continued to work Monday to repair malfunctioning check-in kiosks that created long lines and delayed travelers in some cities over the weekend.
The Tempe-based airline hoped to have the kiosks repaired by the end of the day, said US Airways spokesman Morgan Durrant. "We're hoping," he said. "There probably won't be one silver bullet that we can find to fix everything."

Problems with kiosks in Charlotte, Philadelphia, Boston and Las Vegas began Sunday after the airline put a computerized reservation system in place, delaying some passengers for at least an hour and a half in Las Vegas and Charlotte, the airline's largest hub.

The system is a consolidation of the reservation systems of US Airways Group Inc. and America West Airlines, which combined in 2005.

Elise Eberwein, an airline spokeswoman, said passengers should check in for their flights online so they can avoid possible lines. The online check-in option was shut down for part of the weekend because of the system consolidation.

"One of the problems contributing to the problems yesterday was the Web check-in was unavailable," added Durrant. "Folks who are accustomed to doing that can do that again."

Durrant said there were flight delays Sunday but that US Airways flights were "running fairly on time" Monday. There were no cancellations, he said.

At Boston's Logan International Airport, lines were unusually long at US Airways' check-in counter on Sunday, but no flights departing Logan were canceled because of the malfunction, airport spokesman Phil Orlandella said.

Lines were somewhat shorter Monday as all US Airways passengers checked in with staff at the counter, rather than using the kiosks, Orlandella said.

"There have been no major problems - it's just an inconvenience," he said.

Michelle Mohr, another US Airways spokeswoman, said the airline's Pittsburgh kiosks have not been working since Sunday morning, but that additional local staff had been assigned to help passengers and disruptions were minimal.

"We're putting some fixes into place," she said. "We're working night and day and have a team dedicated to bringing those kiosks back online."

US Airways is advising travelers to arrive at the airport two hours early for domestic flights, Mohr said.

Even though many passengers were affected by this past weekend's Sabre to Shares cutover, it was nothing compared to 1997.

NYC, Friday Afternoon

Well of course I didn't get much sleep. I was too keyed up to stay asleep. I think I saw some part of every hour.

Neither one of us had any problems checking in and we both breezed through TSA security. Our flight was delayed in departing, but I didn't mind. I just sat back, grabbed the US Airways In-Flight magazine and enjoyed the ride.

Ken had arranged a limo to take us from LaGuardia into the city. I felt a bit like a celebrity! It took a good 45 minutes so I was able to close my eyes for a bit. We arrived at the hotel and dropped off our luggage since our rooms weren't ready.

The weather was cold and a bit drizzly. We hung around in the MoMA (that's the Museum of Modern Art for you non-New Yorkers) gift shop and stopped at one of the millions of Starbuck's. We walked down Broadway to locate some of the theatres and then we walked to 5th Avenue. (I bought some mascara in Saks.)

We headed back to the hotel around 2p and were able to check-in. Each of us took quick naps and after freshening up we headed out for dinner. We ate at this really neat Italian restaurant. (I can't remember the name of the restaurant...it was something Italian.) The food was wonderful and the service excellent.

It was a bit more windy as we walked to the theatre. I didn't mind. I was too excited about seeing my very first Broadway show.

Dreams Really Do Come True

Can you believe that I have never seen a Broadway show? Wait, let me clarify that. I mean, I have seen several touring productions of Broadway shows. Cats, Rent (3 times), and The Producers are among those I've seen in Greensboro and Charlotte. Mallorie, a mere 14 year old, has seen two(!) Broadway shows. And while I've been to New York several times, mostly for shopping, I have never attended a Broadway show.

That will change tomorrow.

Ken and I are flying to NYC and, over the course of the weekend, we will see 4(!) shows. I am incredibly excited.

There's no better person than Ken to make my dream a reality. He lived in New York for 10 years, so he knows his way around the city. He's also very up on the latest Broadway news. Ken and I go to all the local theatre shows together, and since he's my best friend, I simply can't imagine a trip like this without him!

Alright, it's getting late. I really need to head to bed as we have to get up at o'dark thirty to drive to Greensboro for our flight. I hope I can sleep....I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve!

Oh, Eve....

Play's Controversial Title Leads To Complaints, Change

POSTED: 11:08 pm EST February 6, 2007
ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. -- A modified marquee in Atlantic Beach has been drawing some attention. "Hoohaa" replaced a word in the title of a play after a driver complained about finding the previous wording offensive.

The marquis for Atlantic Theaters advertises a number of plays including, the Masquerade Ball, Band Jam, and now The Hoohaa Monologues.

Some said hoohaa is a strange word and that its definition depends on its context, while others said it sounds like a country band. However, it's not a band at all. In fact, most people know hoohaa by a different name -- vagina.

"We got a complaint about this play The Vagina Monologues," said Bryce Pfanenstiel, of the Atlantic Theater.

The Hoohaa Monologues is a replacement title for The Vagina Monologues -- a well-known play about that part of the female body.

"We decided we would just use child slang for it. That's how we decided on Hoohaa Monologues," Pfanenstiel said.

They did this after a driver who saw it complained to the theater, saying she was upset that her niece saw it.

"I'm on the phone and asked 'What did you tell her?' She's like, 'I'm offended I had to answer the question,'" Pfanenstiel said.

Some parents said they applaud the title change.

The theater said they're trying not to offend anyone, but the publicity doesn't hurt.

"We hope people understand we're trying to do the right thing. But as far as doing it for attention, we're a comedy club, we do all kinds of shenanigans," Pfanenstiel said.

The play is being brought to the theater by a group of law school students and all of the proceeds are going to various charity organizations. The director of the play said she was going ask the theater and comedy club to return the title back to its original name.