An Evening at the Theatre

Courtesy of our new mountain FRENDS (yes, it's misspelled intentionally), Ken and I saw Ashe County Little Theatre's production of The Last Meeting of the Knights of the White Magnolias last night. It was an interesting show, to say the least.

The show follows a fraternity of "good ole boys," which meets in a local hotel. The Knights of the White Magnolia, a sheetless KKK group, has long since lost sight of concerns with patriotism and racial purity, and has become an excuse for these "good ole boys" to share a game of dominoes and liquor refreshments. Having dwindled in membership, the lodge has found a new recruit from a neighboring town, and his appearance allows a resurrection of their ancient "mystic" initiation rite, an event which, for all its intentional seriousness, becomes one of the funniest scenes.

The set was wonderful and the actors appeared to be very talented - except for one thing. I couldn't understand a word they spoke! This had nothing to do with mountain/country accents or being inaudible. Enunciation was the culprit. There seemed to be a poignant ending - unfortunately I missed the entire dialogue!I am surprised that Ashe County Little Theatre produced this piece. I am not personally offended by cursing or using the Lord's name in vain, unless it's gratuitous. And I did feel as though some of the language was written for shock value only. Others also had some concerns with the language. Two letters were written to the editor of the Jefferson Post.

Still, I do have to hand it to Ashe County for finding the 9 men required for the show. KLT has trouble getting 4 men to show up for auditions!

Ohmigod MTV, WTF?!

I posted a couple of weeks ago about MTV taping Legally Blonde: The Musical. According to news reports, MTV was supposed to broadcast the show, in it's entirety yesterday at 1p. Since I was going to be in West Jefferson for the weekend, and not near a TV, I set up my DVR. The cable guide did indicate there would be an MTV Special beginning at 1p, but regular programing started up at 2pm. Still, I set my DVR from 1p - 4p figuring the guide was incorrect.

I just got home and I'm slightly ticked. No Legally Blonde. I got 3 hours of True Life episodes instead. I know taping happened because Heather and Jeff Maggs were lucky enough to get the free tickets. The MTV website simply tells me to "check my local listings". WTF? There's nothing about Legally Blonde: The Musical on my local listing. So that means either a) MTV or MTI reneged on the deal or b) it's not going to be broadcast in the South. Dammit!

I lifted the below pictures from the MTV website. While it's not the actual production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, I'm hoping it will tide me over until I can figure out if/when MTV will air it.

Update, Oct 1 - After Googling, I've finally found out that MTV has indeed rescheduled the airing of Legally Blonde: The Musical. The new date is Saturday, October 13 at 1p.

Tricked...For the Better

Ken came over last night to babysit a sleeping Cade while I trekked to K'Vegas to pick-up Mallorie. I asked him to come over early, and he brought a stack of movies. Among them was Life Is Beautiful.

I had never seen the movie and vaguely remember hearing people talk about it. I understood that those that had seen the movie really loved it; the majority counting it among their top favorite movies of all time. Ken nodded and told me that I would like it as well. "It's a chick flick," he reassured.

Well, I'm not sure what Ken's definition of chick flick is, but mine is "romantic comedy". Yes, the first half of the movie was, in essence, a chick flick. The last half of the movie was not. I sat paralyzed, with dread eating away at my stomach. By the end of the movie I was openly weeping. No other movie has made me cry to that extent.

After using several Kleenex, I chided Ken for not better preparing me. Still, I admit he made the right choice in not telling me more about the movie. If I had known half the movie was akin to Schindler's List I wouldn't have wanted to watch. I'm glad I did. And I, too, will count Life Is Beautiful among my most favorite movies of all times.

Rock The Block

This downtown Winston-Salem (nighttime) party started 5 years ago. Since I'd never been, I decided that I should support this downtown revitalization spotlight event. I went last night, and to be honest, I was disappointed.

You see, I grew up going to Winston-Salem's annual Street Scene, which was an all day downtown party. There were several musical mainstages, all varities of food vendors, tons of folks selling all sorts of stuff, and thousands of people. (If you've been to Greensboro's Fun Fourth then you've an idea of what Street Scene was like.)

Rock The Block had some musical mainstages, and I certainly can't fault the event promoters if I didn't like the bands/DJs that were performing. Although I was starving, I did not want to purchase my dinner from any of the food vendors. Seven bucks for a small plate of fries? Come on. (I did have dinner at Foothills Brewery. While service was a bit slow - didn't they consider the increase in traffic due to Rock The Block? - the food was delicious.) There were hardly any "stuff" vendors. So few were there that it would have been best to place them all in one area, instead of sporatically down 4th Street. (I was pleasantly surprised about a "booth" for Pure Romance and I spent 30 minutes chatting it up with the party consultants.)

I'm going to show my age here, but the thing that disappointed me the most was the lack of age ranges of the attendees. The majority were teenagers and early 20 somethings dressed for hooking up. While I wasn't the oldest person there, at times I certainly felt like it.

I did run into some folks that I hadn't seen in while - Ashley and I worked together at US Airways, and I hadn't seen her since our office closed. She's now married and 4 months pregnant! Cade's favorite daycare teacher, Ms. Charity, stopped and chatted about Cade's adjustment to kindergarten and staff changes at the daycare. ANd Zack, soon to be seen in Little Shop of Horrors was enjoying a night off from rehearsal.

All in all, I am glad that I attended, though I hardly "rocked the block". I think next year I'll sit this one out.

A Book Report

While at the Bookmarks Festival a few weeks ago, I browsed a tent full of used books. Paperback books were 2/$1.00 and hardcover books were $1.00. (That's better pricing than Edward McKays!) I purchased Les Miserables for Mallorie, as well as the Les Mis cliff notes. (She'll be reading the Victor Hugo novel in English this year.) I also bought her an English/French pocket dictionary, since she's taking French. I still needed to get one more paperback book...

I saw Steve Martin's Shopgirl and, never having read anything by Steve Martin, I decided to get it. I finished it Tuesday, and I must say it was well worth the 50 cents I technically paid for it. Any more than that and I would have been disappointed.

The book itself is nice. The cover is the same as the above picture. The front and back have flaps which give it a dust jacket feel. And the pages have a nice texture. Unfortunately, the story doesn't fit the "elegantness" of the package.

I was impressed by the first chapter. His choice of words to create very interesting and visual sentences was unique. However, the more I read, the more I had to re-read these sentences to fully understand his point. There was also almost no dialogue, which made for an incredibly wordy book. I was glad it was only 130 pages long.

And the story itself was not very rewarding. From the inside flap:

Mirabelle is the "shopgirl" of the title, a young woman, beautiful in a wallflowerish kind of way, who works behind the glove counter at Neiman Marcus "selling things that nobody buys anymore..."

Mirabelle capture the attention of Ray Porter, a wealthy businessman almost twice her age. As they tentatively embark on a relationship, they struggle to decipher the language of love-with consequences that are both comic and heartbreaking.

For me, there was nothing redeemable about Ray Porter's character or his interest in Mirabelle. At 50 years old, Ray should well know better. I kept fighting the desire to reach inside the book to slap Mirabelle upside the head and shout, "Wake up, Sister!"

If you want to read it, I'll be trading it in at Edward McKays. Be forewarned, it'll probably cost you more than the half dollar it cost me.

I've been hired by Paragon Advertising to do a radio spot. That's all I knew as I drove over to the recording studio, which is in Gene Johnson's house. When I arrived Gene was chatting with Jim McKeny, who was also doing the radio spot. Bob Morphis from Paragon arrived last.

I was given a quick tour of the studio and then Jim stepped into the recording booth, which was a small bedroom closet. Jim recorded a short voiceover for Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital, and then I was asked to step inside the booth.

I was told that I was "playing" a woman who had just learned she was pregnant. My part of the commercial was asking the Doctor questions about the safety of flying while pregnant. Since I had a script to read from I thought it'd be a piece of cake.

I first had to deal with headphones that were huge and blocked out all sound, except that of my own voice. And since I don't particularly like the sound of my own voice it took some getting use to. Next, each of my 5 lines had a very specific time limit. You'd think saying "I'm pregnant" in less than 3 seconds would be easy, but don't forget you have to count the breath that's taken right before uttering the words. You can't deliver too fast either. Once I got the speed down I then had to "act". Bob kept telling me to sound like I was happy about being pregnant. With Jim's dirty little jokes between takes, it wasn't hard to put that smile in my voice.

All in all it took less than half hour from the time I arrived until I left, and for the 60-second radio commercial spot I earned $110.00!

A Shoe Entrapment Epidemic!

I don't wear these things, nor does anyone in my family. Wait. I take that back. I think my mother has some yellow knock-off Wal-Mart brand clogs. Okay, so I don't wear them and neither do the kids. Apparently it's a good thing we don't own a pair. Or maybe it's just that we know how to properly "ride" an escalator...

Actually, a friend of mine, who works at a hospital, metioned that these cushy clogs have been banned at work. Seems the shoes gripped too much during quick patient transports resulting in knee injuries to the nurses wearing them.

Got Foamy Clog-Like Holey Shoes? Be Careful on the Escalator
(The article is mostly by SARAH KARUSH,AP. I edited it bit, removing references to the brand name of these popular rubber clogs.)

At rail stations and shopping malls around the world, reports are popping up of people, particularly young children, getting their toes caught in escalators. The one common theme seems to be those clunky soft-soled clogs.

One of the nation's largest subway systems, the Washington Metro, has even posted ads warning riders about wearing such shoes on its moving stairways. The ads feature a photo of a crocodile, though they don't mention the popular shoes by brand name.

Four-year-old Rory McDermott got a foamy clog-clad foot caught in an escalator last month at a mall in northern Virginia. His mother managed to yank him free, but the nail on his big toe was almost completely ripped off, causing heavy bleeding.

At first, Rory's mother had no idea what caused the boy's foot to get caught. It was only later, when someone at the hospital remarked on Rory's shoes, that she began an Internet search.

"...And all these stories came up," said Jodi McDermott, of Vienna, Va. "If I had known, those clogs would never have been worn."

According to reports appearing across the United States and as far away as Singapore and Japan, entrapments occur because of two of the biggest selling points of the clog like shoes: their flexibility and grip. Some report the shoes get caught in the "teeth" at the bottom or top of the escalator, or in the crack between the steps and the side of the escalator. The reports of serious injuries have all involved young children.

One company said it does not keep records of the reasons for customer-service calls. But the company said it is aware of "very few" problems relating to accidents involving the shoes, which are made of a soft, synthetic resin.

"Thankfully, escalator accidents like the one in Virginia are rare," the company said in a statement.

In Japan, the government warned consumers last week that it has received 39 reports of sandals or similar products getting stuck in escalators from late August through early September. Most of the reports appear to have involved small children, some as young as two years old.

Kazuo Motoya of Japan's National Institute of Technology and Evaluation said children may have more escalator accidents in part because they "bounce around when they stand on escalators, instead of watching where they place their feet."

In Singapore, a 2-year-old girl wearing rubber clogs had her big toe completely ripped off in an escalator accident last year, according to local media reports.

And at the Atlanta airport, a 3-year-old boy wearing the cushy clogs suffered a deep gash across the top of his toes in June. That was one of seven shoe entrapments at the airport since May 1, and all but two of them involved the clogs, said Roy Springer, operations manager for the company that runs the airport terminal.

One U.S. retailer that caters to children, Mattel subsidiary American Girl, has posted signs in three locations directing customers wearing rubber clogs or flip-flop sandals to use elevators instead of escalators.

During the past two years, so-called "shoe entrapments" in the Washington subway have gone from being relatively rare to happening four or five times a week in the summer, though none has caused serious injuries, said Dave Lacosse, who oversees the subway's 588 escalators, the most of any U.S. transit system.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said escalator accidents caused more than 10,000 injuries last year, but the agency has few records of specific shoe problems. Only two shoe entrapments have been reported by consumers since the beginning of 2006. One reported in May involved "rubber footwear."

Agency spokesman Ed Kang urged people who have had problems to report them on the commission's Web site.

Washington Metro's Lacosse and other escalator experts say the best way to prevent shoe entrapments is to face the direction the stairs are moving, keep feet away from the sides and step over the teeth at the end.

A Little Boy and His Bus, The Final Chapter

Or at least what I hope will be the final chapter.

My faith in the school bus system has been restored. All week Cade was picked up and dropped off right on time. I didn't have to chase or flag down the bus. There were no helpless moments.

There were also no substitute bus drivers or substitute buses. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that by the next time Cade's bus driver needs to be out, the infamous sheet will have been updated.

Notification, Steel Magnolias

I am finally going to get the opportunity to prove my worth as a Southern actress. Norm called me this morning and I did get cast.

I'm going to play M'Lynn! I'm including a picture of the actresses from the movie because few people remember the character names. My mom was like, "Now which one was she in the movie?" She was Sally Fields. M'Lynn is Shelby's mother. M'Lynn is a fabulous role. She's got a very nice emotional range and I am absolutely honored that Norm selected me to give life to this great character. I am really looking forward to this role.

At this point I don't have a full cast list, so I can't tell you who else was cast. As soon as I know the others, I'll let you know.

Auditions, Steel Magnolias

Any Southern actress worth her salt has performed in a production of Steel Magnolias. I've auditioned for the show 3 times within the last few years, and as of yet, I've not been successful in getting cast. Five years ago I was young enough to read for Annelle (Daryl Hannah played the role in the movie) and Shelby (Julia Roberts). Two years ago a director added Truvy (Dolly Parton) to my readings. Now, at 38 chronological years of age, I'm in middle hell. This is where I'm too old to play the young roles, but too young to play the older roles! Still, Clemmons Community Theatre is producing the show, which is practically in my back yard. Norm Birdsall is directing and I've worked with him before. So I headed over to auditions earlier tonight.

Mimi, who was in Daddy's Dying with me, was there, as well as Leeann, who was in God's Favorite with Ken. Ally came and we chatted about the Nuts fiasco. Carole showed up and we chatted for a bit. Four other ladies showed up; I didn't know them.

Norm asked Mimi and I to read first. We read a M'Lynn/Shelby scene, and then Norm had us switch parts and reread the scene. Mimi read M'Lynn well and I was very comfortable reading Shelby. When we switched parts both Mimi and I fumbled over lines. I redeemed myself when Norm asked me to do another scene as Shelby. Overall I thought I did okay. Based on the women who were at auditions tonight, I've actually got a good shot at Shelby, but, as it was the second night of auditions, I've no idea who might have shown up yesterday.

After auditions, Ally, Mimi and I headed to Applebee's for some chick chat. It was so nice just hanging out with them. They are both very funny storytellers and I was in stitches all night.

I just got home a bit ago and thought I would check my email to see if, by chance, Norm sent an email. No such luck. Guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow. Hopefully he will let us know, either way, and soon.

A Young and Pink Audience

I received this email last night:

Dear Friend of MTI:

Are you a fan of the hit Broadway Show "Legally Blonde - The Musical"?

omigod! yes!!

Do you love MTV?

love? like maybe...

Here is your chance to mix BOTH of your favorite things when MTV and "Legally Blonde - The Musical" team up to bring this hit musical to MTV viewers worldwide!

omigod, you guys! i'm beyond excited.

That's Right! MTV is taking over a Broadway Show for ONE night and ONE night ONLY! This is an MTV first - and we want YOU to be a part of it!

me? really? omigod!

Be a part of the very VIP audience on Tuesday, September 18, 2007 when MTV films "Legally Blonde" (for broadcast later in the month of September)! This is an awesome opportunity to see one of Broadway's most exciting musicals - FREE!

free? that does say free? omigod...

Requirements
1. You must appear to be between the ages of 15-25. This is an MTV event for broadcast - so the age range will be strictly enforced.

key word here is appear. i could probably pass for 27, 28 but 25 is probably pushing it. i'll just make sure to stay out of sight of the cameramen.

2. You must be able to pick up your complimentary tickets in a midtown Manhattan, NY location on Sunday, September 16 or Monday, September 17.

looking up flights on usairways.com as we speak...

3. You must wear a PINK SHIRT ... can be a tshirt, sweater, sweatshirt etc... just make sure it is some shade of pink...Yes - guys this means you too! This is a big part of the taping - so please be sure to help us out with this!

yes! i have a pink shirt!! and just to be on the safe side, i'm heading out to buy a pink bra and matching panties...

The Cast, Little Shop of Horrors

Please join me in congratulating the very talented cast of Little Shop of Horrors.

Gray Smith is love-struck Seymour and Cheri Van Loon is his love interest, Audrey. Ken Ashford is the shopkeeper, Mr. Mushnik. Zack Brown (damn, hippie!) is the crazy dentist, Orin. Winston Sims will be bringing Audrey II to life, and Dennis Raley will give voice to the plant.

Due to the outstanding talent by the women who auditioned, Jamie added a 4th girl. Vanessa Martinez is Crystal, Cary Newberry is Ronnette, Nichelle Wright is Shirelle and (the wonderful) Emily Snow is Chiffon.

Congrats everyone! I can't wait to see the show!

BOOKMARKS Book Festival - Amy Sedaris

Are you lacking direction on how to whip up a swanky soiree for lumberjacks? A dinner party for white-collar workers? Don’t despair. Take a cue from entertaining expert Amy Sedaris and host an unforgettable fete that will have your guests raving. No matter the style or size of the gathering – from the straightforward to the bizarre – I LIKE YOU: Hospitality Under the Influence — provides recipes and solid advice laced with Amy’s blisteringly funny take on entertaining. An entertaining book on entertaining from America’s most delightfully unconventional hostess.

One of my main reasons for attending this year's Bookmarks Festival was to catch Amy Sedaris. I'd read a review of her latest book, and, after listening to her on NPR, I really wanted to hear her speak.

Unfortunately I didn't get to hear her presentation. Cade and I sat just outside, because the tent where she was presenting was overflowing with people. The speakers had mics so I was hoping that we would at least hear her. We couldn't so Cade and I gave up and went over to judge a Porshe contest. Tony met us over at the cars and when I found out Amy was finished, I quickly got in line to have her sign my book. (Unfortunately there were still 5 million people ahead of us.)

A Festival volunteer went down the line explaining that we needed to write, neatly, what we wanted Amy to write in our books on a post-it note. "Like, to my bestest friend in the whole wide world?" I asked the volunteer as she handed my the post-it note. She replied with an affirmative nod of her head and moved down the line (to the 5 people standing behind us). Tony made a suggestion that initially made me wrinkle my nose and reply "Ewwww." But after tossing around other ideas, I settled on his original one (with a bit of tweaking from Mike Burke). Here's Amy writing on the blue ghosty page, "To Cheryl Ann - So sorry I puked on your tablecloth." Amy added "Good Times!"

Amy also graciously agreed to let Ken take a photo of the two of us. Here we are, both a hot sweaty mess, at the end of a very long and hot day.

BOOKMARKS Book Festival - Mary Jane Clark

Booklist has praised New York Times bestselling author Mary Jane Clark for having “…perfected the suspense novel.” As a longtime writer and producer for CBS News headquarters in New York City, she possesses an intimate knowledge of the world about which she writes.

Another reason why I wanted to go Bookmarks was Mary Jane Clark. Ok, let me confess something first. I thought Mary Jane Clark was Mary Higgins Clark's daughter. (I think I even mentioned this to Ken.) I loved Mary Higgins Clark and read quite a few of her books, all in succession. I knew Mary Higgins Clark had a daughter that was also a suspense writer. Imagine my surprise when Mary Jane Clark began her presentation by talking a bit about her parents. What? She doesn't mention her famous mother? Wait? Did she say her mother worked for the FBI as a secretary? Am I confused?

Yes, I was confused. Carol Higgins Clark is Mary Higgins Clark's daughter. Still, it's nice to know that I'm not alone in my confusion. As it turns out, several Mary Higgins Clark fans stumbled upon Mary Jane Clark when they misread the author's name on the book cover.

Mary Jane gave a good presentation. It's always interesting to learn how an author comes up with ideas for new books. And while I was listening to her, I decided that I would buy one of her books and give her a try. (I've sworn off Mary Higgins Clark after that drivel of a book called "Daddy's Little Girl".) Cade and I went to the Barnes & Nobles tent to see what MJC books were available. There were several paperback books and her latest hardback edition.

Now, here's my dilemma. I knew that Mary Jane was available to sign books. Do I purchase her latest book, at full hardcover price, and have her sign that, or should I be more practical and get one of her earlier, less expensive paperbacks? Am I showing her any less appreciation by handing her a paperback to autograph? Am I going to embarrass myself by handing her a paperback to sign?

In the end I decided to be economical and I purchased Lights Out Tonight at a paperback price of $7.99 (in lieu of the $24.99 for her latest book). There was another lady in front of me at the autograph table and I breathed a huge sigh of relief when she presented Mary Jane Clark with two paperback books for signing.

A Little Boy and His Bus, Part 3

I have had it!! Is it just me? Are other parents having as many problems with their kids' buses? Do I need to go down to the central office and key in Cade's afternoon bus so he will appear on the fricking sheet?

I was out running errands this afternoon and returned to the bus stop at approximately 2:25p, which is when the school dismisses classes. Cade's bus drops him home at 2:33p. (Well, the few times he's been correctly dropped off it's been 2:33p.) Although it was hot I was in a good mood. As soon as Cade was to get off the bus, we were headed to Wal-Mart to get him a new lunchbox.

I watched as Bus 1234 turned right onto the street up from mine. It was a very old looking bus, and I remember wondering if it was a substitute bus. (For some reason I always equate 4-digit bus numbers as being the sub buses.) I watched Bus 5678 hang a right out of the neighboring development, headed toward downtown. I watched Bus 10 as it buzzed by me. My hair actually trailed after it. Bus 10 is the newest of the new buses. Nice bright yellow paint and aerodynamically designed. I remember thinking it was a very nice looking bus. I watched more buses pass by. I checked my cell phone - 2:37p. In the real world 4 minutes wouldn't mean anything. In the absolute hell of school bus transportation, 4 minutes means something is wrong, very wrong.

I started pacing, trying to keep myself calm. I went back to bus watching. Now I can't even remember the bus numbers. All I remember is that none of the buses that passed were Cade's bus. Cell phone - 2:40p.

I am on the verge of a full mental explosion, when I happen to notice a bus, coming in the opposite direction, is slowing down and has the flashing lights on. It's Bus 10. Why is this pretty new bus stopping? The pneumatic doors open, and out pops Cade, grinning from ear to proverbial ear. For the second time this week, my mouth falls open and I am dumbstruck. Regaining voice, I look at the bus driver and say, "Bet he wasn't on the sheet". (Cue insane laughter.)

Update - I still have no idea why Cade was on Bus 10. All I can get out of him was that the new bus was awesome.

A Little Boy and His Bus, Part 2

Let's take a moment to recap:

On the first day of school Cade was placed on the bus. I was waiting at the school to pick him up.

On the second day of school the bus arrived at the stop 15 minutes earlier than what the bus schedule said. The driver let Cade off the bus by himself. (And this after the previous day's assurances that drivers don't let kindergartners off without an adult present.)

On the fourth day of school Cade's afternoon bus was changed.

Yesterday the bus driver missed Cade's afternoon stop. This because Cade "wasn't on the sheet."

This morning, I had to flag Cade's bus down! Upon realizing that the bus wasn't slowing down or putting on the flashing lights, I started flapping my arms like a crazed bird. As Cade boarded the bus, the substitute driver (I think this makes the 3rd sub) shook his roster and apologized by saying "he wasn't on the sheet". I was about to call the driver a big fat liar (Cade's morning bus never changed. Of course he's on the sheet.) when the driver closed the doors and took off. (Well, as much as a school bus can take off.) The driver must have seen the murderous look in my eye...

A Little Boy and His Bus

I didn't tell you, but last Thursday Cade's bus home was changed. He was originally scheduled on Bus 258. Now he rides Bus 369 home in the afternoon. This is a change for the better since Bus 369 is also the bus he rides in the morning.

Friday's bus transportation went smooth as ice. Yesterday's bus transportation went well. Even when Cade's bus driver told me that he was going to be off the rest of the week and that he'd have a substitute driver, I still wasn't worried. Bus 369 in the morning and in the afternoon. Easy street.

This morning I said hello to the substitute driver and watched as Cade settled in the front seat. His little face appeared at the window and I suppressed the sudden urge to cry as I waved goodbye. It's the second week of school for goodness sake. Why get all emotional now?

That feeling this morning was foreshadow. I stood at the bus stop this afternoon, gazing up the street, waiting for Cade to come home. I saw Bus 369 round the slight curve and my mouth fell open as I watched Bus 369 fly right by me. I was dumbstruck. Do I try to run after the bus? Do I go back to the house to get the car? If I leave this post, will I miss Cade? Is he even on the bus? It was all I could do to keep my knees from buckling; I was at an utter loss of what to do. I can't remember a time when I've felt more helpless.

Since I carry my cell phone with me, I started dialing Allan at work. Then I hung up. What can he do? He's just going to get upset and I've got to maintain some semblance of calm or I was going to collapse right in the middle of the road. I didn't know the school's number, so I start dialing my mom. Voicemail. Now I'm on the verge of tears (I want my son!), so I hang up and dial Allan again. They have to page him.

As I'm waiting for Allan to answer the page, I see a bus coming toward me with flashing lights, and I can just make out 369. The bus driver, a different substitute than this morning, holds up a roster and apologizes by saying, "He's not on the sheet." I was afraid to open my mouth. Tears were about to brim over as Cade jumps off the bus.

Update - The reason why Cade wasn't on "the sheet" is because Cade's new bus number hasn't been updated in the central computer system. Cade told me that some of the older kids told the substitute that he had missed Cade's stop. The driver turned around in a church parking lot and went back to drop Cade off. To those older kids who spoke up - you have my humble gratitude.

Auditions, Little Shop of Horrors

No, no, no. I'm not auditioning for Little Shop of Horrors. How many times have I told you that I don't do musicals? Yeah, yeah, I know Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical was technically a musical. Debbie (Heather) and Lisa (Emily) were the only two cheerleaders who had to sing. Tammy (me) only needed to cheer.

For those of you who love performing in musicals, this show is absolutely for you!

WINSTON-SALEM THEATRE ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS!

7pm tonight at SECCA, 750 Marguerite Drive, Winston-Salem
Come prepared to sing and dance! (Bring your own sheet music and dress for movement.)

Director and Choreographer - Jamie Lawson
Music Director - Travis Horton

Roles are available for approximately 4 men (including the voice of Audrey II) and for approximately 6 women. We also need an Audrey II puppet operator, that can be male or female.

Rehearsals will begin Thursday, September 6. Performances run October 19-28.

Peanut Gallery

Yes, I'm talking to you! So, whaddya think about my new page layout?

Dusty's European Tour

I sent Dusty an email with a picture of Cade on his first day of kindergarten. Here's his reply email.

From: David "Dusty" Roberts
Sent: Wed, 29 Aug 2007 4:42 am
Subject: RE: Cade

My first reaction was... "School already?!". I have been so out of touch with traveling and the crowds still over here in Europe. I couldn't imagine it already time for school.

Hope all is well with everyone back in the US of A. Headed to Amsterdam today for 3 days and then on to Denmark, Norway and Sweden, before heading back south to the Eastern side of Europe. Hopefully now it will be easier to book hostels and hopefully they'll start to become cheaper now that it is September. We shall see.

Love yuns,
Dusty

A Book Report

One good thing about not getting cast in Nuts is that now I can actually curl up with a good book (so cliched, I know, but soooo true!) instead of reading or memorizing a script. I've a huge stack of chick lit books in my living room and I was excited to dive in.

I read Jane Green's Swapping Lives in June. She writes chick lit. Now, chick lit is relatively new for me, and I'm finding that I adore this genre! Fluff, fluff and more fluff; it's pure entertainment. I discovered two of her earlier books on the shelf at Edward McKays. I bought both and started reading Bookends Thursday night. I just finished it and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Friends meet at a London university: Simon (the chirpy gay character), Portia (the glamour girl), Josh (the adorable, unpretentious catch), and Cath (the overweight, insecure narrator). Portia betrays their friendship, but the other three remain close friends into their 30s. Now successful Londoners, each faces a personal crisis: Cath leaves a secure job to start a bookstore; Simon looks for love and Josh's marriage goes through some pains. And then Portia, as intimidating and elegant as ever, wanders back into their lives--with surprising results.

The Cast of Nuts

I absolutely hate when theatres don't bother to call those that weren't cast. After waiting for two and a half days (although I gave up hope yesterday afternoon), the cast list was finally posted, late this afternoon.

Officer Harry Haggerty - Don Scarborough
Aaron Levinsky - Anthony Liguori
Franklin Macmillan - Lee Huggins
The Recorder - Ellen Day
Rose Kirk - Mary Ann Luedtke
Arthur Kirk - John Collier
Dr. Herbert Rosenthal - David Polinsky
Judge Murdoch - Bill
Claudia Faith Draper - Shelley Segal

Big congratulations to Tony Liguori, Lee Huggins, and John Collier. Tony will be fabulous (as always). I've worked with both Lee and John and they are both good actors.

I can't wait to see the show!

Auditions, Nuts

One night after Over the Tavern, I was telling Tony Ligouri (who played Chet) how jealous I was that Kelly (who played his wife Ellen) got to work with him. Three years ago, I'd seen a tape of his performance of Joe in a Stained Glass Playhouse production of God's Favorite. I was so impressed with his performance. He's a great actor and he's on my list of actors/actresses I would like to work with. He suggested I audition for Nutssince that was next on his list. I kept checking CTG's website for audition dates and found out that Donna Bradby would be directing. I'd worked with Donna before (The Vagina Monologues) so I was excited to audition for her again.

I got a tad bit lost going to auditions. I somehow had it in my head that I was going to the Carolina Theatre instead of the Cultural Center. By the time I arrived, there were a bunch of people waiting. (As it turned out, auditions for Jewish Broadway were also being held just down the hallway.) Allyson McCauley (who was in Sordid Lives and Daddy's Dying) was there as well. We filled out our paperwork and walked into the rehearsal room.

Donna introduced herself and said a few words. Jay, the stage manager for The Full Monty, is stage managing Nuts. Sides were handed out and finally, at around 8pm, auditions started.

I was called to go first for one of Claudia's monologues. I was the only one that read the entire monologue. I don't usually like going first but I ended up setting the stage for the other "Claudias". (i.e. I didn't wear my flip flop when I was reading. They have no traction on the rehearsal floor. During the next round of readings, several of the other girls went up barefooted!) I listened to the others and thought I did well comparatively. Then we did some scenes. The scenes were short and were more for the two lawyer roles. The girls were given a second Claudia monologue. Ally was first and she did a really good job. I was very impressed with her choices. A couple of others read and then I punched it up a notch.

I felt really good about my audition. What it will boil down to is who Donna will cast as Arthur, Claudia's father. If she casts older, I've got a shot at Claudia. Still, if I don't get cast, I won't be terribly upset, except for not being able to work with Tony. I figure there's a better role on the horizon.

Kindergarten, Day Two

After yesterday's tense moments, I suggested to Allan that we should just have Cade ride the bus to and from school. I told Allan that we needed to establish a bus routine with Cade and that, maybe later, he could occasionally pick Cade up from school. Thankfully Allan agreed.

So this morning, at some ungodly hour, Cade and I waited at the bus stop. I sat on the ground and he sat in my lap. We watched as cars and trucks drove past and we'd discuss the color and the make of the car. I'd ask him where he thought the people were going so early in the morning. We had a very nice conversation. The bus came and he got on and sat in the front seat. I waved to him as the bus drove off and felt the lump in my throat.

I was piddling around the house when I remembered that Mallorie had an ortho appointment and needed to be picked up from high school at 3pm. Cade's bus schedule said he would be arriving home between 2:45p and 3:10p. It was already 2:30p so I decided to wait at the bus stop in the car. Once Cade got off the bus, we could immediately head over to get Mallorie.

As I was backing out of the driveway, who should I see running down our cul-de-sac? Yep, it was Cade. So much for yesterday's assurances that bus drivers don't let kindergartners off without an adult present.

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!