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Almost, Maine...a postcard from Ventura

I wrote this blog months ago, but didn't publish it because if felt a little lacking.  Looking back on it, it's a very nice postcard from one of the most beautiful shows I've ever got to do!   


Because of my trouble blogging from my laptop in Omaha this summer, I didn't have it in me to blog during my stay in Ventura for the run of Almost, Maine, which just concluded.  And rather than bore you all now with epiphanies I had, I thought I'd send write some brief notes about this experience. (I have to say that blogging is part of my process, and not being able to do it during rehearsals and performances leaves me a little wanting).


Here's a postcard for you, my four loyal readers. So sorry it's been so long. But I've been on a journey. It began two and a half years ago, when we started rehearsing this show, only to be shut down by COVID. To finally get to do this show was nothing but a joy. And here I'm gazing into Leah's eyes, while the Northern Lights danced around us. Priceless.


I played a character named Steve, who had a very rare condition which left him unable to feel pain. I was really scared of this character and play. I didn't want to send it up as silly, or be too precious, or offend anybody who may have  this condition, but with the strength of Tara (as Marvalyn) I think we found the joy and beauty of this piece.  By the time we opened, this was my favorite scene to do. Pure heart!


Phil and Marci are having problems in their marriage. I don't think I've ever fought with anybody as well onstage as I did with Katie P. Our deep love and care for one another enabled us to throw away any sort of politeness and just have at it. It was such a treat to work with her again after a decade. 


That night when the playwright showed up and said lovely things to and about us.  John was such a delight.

I don't have a picture of my show with Joseph. I played Randy opposite of his Chad. This was a challenging scene only because we were doing the scene on alternate nights with Katie and Tara's Shelly and Dina.  But I really loved getting to know and work with Joseph!  

Steph had a lot going on in her life, and like the true artist she is, she put it all into the work, and this may be the best thing she ever directed!  

And although I didn't have any scenes with Brendan, I feel like we solidified our friendship during this production and maybe next time we can actually have a scene together.  That would be great.


Anyhoo, thems the postcards.  It's not filled with any sort of wisdom from my words, but it was incredibly special to share this with the cast and crew, and so rewarding to finally share it with the audience.

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