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Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Mom Hits Manhattan
Rehearsal was so fun again today. These women do not hold back. They make bold choices every time they open their mouths. There is not one moment where they are not completely in the moment and delivering as if it was opening night. I know I am being redundant, but I am learning so much from them as to what it means to be a professional actor. Minutes are treated with great respect; and the work is revered.
Today as I watched them work, I got thinking about casting agents. These women were sent by their agents or called on by casting agents. Each is perfectly physically, vocally and temperamentally cast. I have always prided myself on casting well, but I can't imagine casting this acurately when you only have a written resume and 10-20 minutes of reading. Amazing.
My mom got to the Women's Project about 3:45. She snagged her luggage and cab just fine; I knew she could and would. She had a cup of coffee and bagel while I finished up rehearsal at 4:30. Everyone was so nice in introducing themselves to my mom. It was like she was meeting people that all the women in my village.
We hailed a cab to go home. Quickly, we dropped off luggage and my rehearsal materials before taking the subway to Times Square to watch the lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. We ate Indian food on 47th before we thought that we would leisurely stroll over to 49th for the lighting...what were we thinking?
Along with another million people, we were not even allowed to cross 6th Avenue, let alone get into Rockefeller Center. After I struck out with three different cops to let us pass with those that had "golden tickets," (so much for my SD charm), I moved on to Plan B. We went down the subway, rode up one stop so that we could cross the street and then take the subway back as to exit on the other side. However, I came up with Plan C once we got on the street. We hailed a bike cab...I am brilliant! Gilbert from West Africa dropped us 1 block away from RC. We were able to move about another 1/2 block, but we never did get to see the actual tree. We had to watch Carrie Underwood, Josh Groban, Tony Bennett and Celine Dion on a huge big screen, but we could hear their actual voices.
We finished the day, sharing apple cider and a blanket in my livingroom watching Law and Order. With my mantel decorated for Christmas, the candles lit and my mom beside me on the couch, it is warm, comfy and homey.
Today as I watched them work, I got thinking about casting agents. These women were sent by their agents or called on by casting agents. Each is perfectly physically, vocally and temperamentally cast. I have always prided myself on casting well, but I can't imagine casting this acurately when you only have a written resume and 10-20 minutes of reading. Amazing.
My mom got to the Women's Project about 3:45. She snagged her luggage and cab just fine; I knew she could and would. She had a cup of coffee and bagel while I finished up rehearsal at 4:30. Everyone was so nice in introducing themselves to my mom. It was like she was meeting people that all the women in my village.
We hailed a cab to go home. Quickly, we dropped off luggage and my rehearsal materials before taking the subway to Times Square to watch the lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. We ate Indian food on 47th before we thought that we would leisurely stroll over to 49th for the lighting...what were we thinking?
Along with another million people, we were not even allowed to cross 6th Avenue, let alone get into Rockefeller Center. After I struck out with three different cops to let us pass with those that had "golden tickets," (so much for my SD charm), I moved on to Plan B. We went down the subway, rode up one stop so that we could cross the street and then take the subway back as to exit on the other side. However, I came up with Plan C once we got on the street. We hailed a bike cab...I am brilliant! Gilbert from West Africa dropped us 1 block away from RC. We were able to move about another 1/2 block, but we never did get to see the actual tree. We had to watch Carrie Underwood, Josh Groban, Tony Bennett and Celine Dion on a huge big screen, but we could hear their actual voices.
We finished the day, sharing apple cider and a blanket in my livingroom watching Law and Order. With my mantel decorated for Christmas, the candles lit and my mom beside me on the couch, it is warm, comfy and homey.
A Nightmare on Morton Street
So last night after I finished my bragging blog on how my boys Diego and Joe had kept the apartment clear of vermin, I got ready for bed. As I entered the bedroom and stopped to kiss Diego who had retired on the foot of my bed, my foot rested on - what I thought - was a balled up sock. As I reached down to pick it up, I froze. It was a HUGE dead mouse with the longest tail I have ever seen.
Do you know that age old question, if the tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a noise? I think the answer is no. As I am petrified of mice and rats, once I "unfroze" I ran to the livingroom, opened my mouth to scream, realized no one could help me, and nothing came out. It took me about 20 minutes to get it together and make a game plan. I decided on a broom and dustpan. It was one of my most heroic moments...and no one was there to witness it.
When I went to shower this morning, I discovered the scene of the crime. It looked like a scene from Law and Order. Blood was splattered all over. All we needed was crime tape. Thank God this happened before mom's arrival today, and thank goodness she will not be reading my blog today as she is travelling.
Do you know that age old question, if the tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a noise? I think the answer is no. As I am petrified of mice and rats, once I "unfroze" I ran to the livingroom, opened my mouth to scream, realized no one could help me, and nothing came out. It took me about 20 minutes to get it together and make a game plan. I decided on a broom and dustpan. It was one of my most heroic moments...and no one was there to witness it.
When I went to shower this morning, I discovered the scene of the crime. It looked like a scene from Law and Order. Blood was splattered all over. All we needed was crime tape. Thank God this happened before mom's arrival today, and thank goodness she will not be reading my blog today as she is travelling.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
...at least it is free unlike most services in the city.
Great. This was posted today as you come into the apartment building, just in time for my mother's arrival tomorrow. She is petrified of mice. Diego and Joe have done a gallant job so far of guarding the citadel of vermin; I hope they remain alert at the post until my departure.
Smiling All the Way Home
A breakthrough! I loved rehearsal today. It was the first day where there was an abundance of laughter. Interestingly enough, it was the most productive day that we have had. It was as if a heavy blanket was removed off the process. The blocking became more clear and the lines definitely came more easily to the actors. All four of the female actors are over 65, so memorization can be a bit of a challenge (Heck, I can barely remember my phone number).
I know I have said this before, but I am so endeared to these actors. I wish I could adequately describe the clarity of their work. They make it all look so easy. I believe that these women have known each other their entire lives. I believe their personal stories of struggle...even when they have scripts in their hands. Their playfulness has been there the entire time, but today it genuinely oozed its way into the performances.
One funny anecdote from today's rehearsal...Nancy (who is pushing 70 and really shy and sweet in real life) kept saying Kate's line. Finally Kate said, "No, please take it. In fact, take as many lines as you want. The good Lord knows I never seem use them correctly." Lucy Martin (who is the queen of one liners and the only other woman that I have ever met who says 'shit' more than I) quipped, "No, you don't you line stealing bitch...you will not steal this scene too." We roared. Today I had to write a bio for the Playbill. How humbling to write my background to place it on the same page as these amazing artists.
During our lunch break, I returned a call that I had received from Kathleen Chalfant. She is a stage goddess, so to have her voice on my phone...well, let's just say that in addition to Tom Stoppard's, this is a message I will not erase. When she answered, I said, "Hello, Ms. Chalfant, this is Kim Bartling." She said, "Oh, Kim...good, and please call me Kathy." Cool. She invited me to her home on December 4th. Unbelievable, I am going to Kathy Chalfant's house. A reminder to those students who are reading; "Kathy" originated the role of Vivian Bearing in Wit. She is one of the grand dames of the stage.
It was such a gorgeous night that I decided to walk home (70 blocks toting a laptop). I made myself a bit of dinner before heading up to 57E57 to see The Fourth Graders Present an Unnamed Love-Suicide. The best thing I can say about it is that it was only 60 minutes long. It had no idea what it was. It needed to more bold in its absurdism. Because of the waffling in style, it was just long (at a whole hour) and stupid. If it the timing was sped up and the boundaries pushed, it would be a hilarious dark comedy. Unfortunately it didn't and it wasn't.
Since I got out early, I thought about catching a film down in Union Square. I was five minutes late for the two I was interested in, so I came home to shake rugs and do dishes...did I mention my mom is coming tomorrow?
I know I have said this before, but I am so endeared to these actors. I wish I could adequately describe the clarity of their work. They make it all look so easy. I believe that these women have known each other their entire lives. I believe their personal stories of struggle...even when they have scripts in their hands. Their playfulness has been there the entire time, but today it genuinely oozed its way into the performances.
One funny anecdote from today's rehearsal...Nancy (who is pushing 70 and really shy and sweet in real life) kept saying Kate's line. Finally Kate said, "No, please take it. In fact, take as many lines as you want. The good Lord knows I never seem use them correctly." Lucy Martin (who is the queen of one liners and the only other woman that I have ever met who says 'shit' more than I) quipped, "No, you don't you line stealing bitch...you will not steal this scene too." We roared. Today I had to write a bio for the Playbill. How humbling to write my background to place it on the same page as these amazing artists.
During our lunch break, I returned a call that I had received from Kathleen Chalfant. She is a stage goddess, so to have her voice on my phone...well, let's just say that in addition to Tom Stoppard's, this is a message I will not erase. When she answered, I said, "Hello, Ms. Chalfant, this is Kim Bartling." She said, "Oh, Kim...good, and please call me Kathy." Cool. She invited me to her home on December 4th. Unbelievable, I am going to Kathy Chalfant's house. A reminder to those students who are reading; "Kathy" originated the role of Vivian Bearing in Wit. She is one of the grand dames of the stage.
It was such a gorgeous night that I decided to walk home (70 blocks toting a laptop). I made myself a bit of dinner before heading up to 57E57 to see The Fourth Graders Present an Unnamed Love-Suicide. The best thing I can say about it is that it was only 60 minutes long. It had no idea what it was. It needed to more bold in its absurdism. Because of the waffling in style, it was just long (at a whole hour) and stupid. If it the timing was sped up and the boundaries pushed, it would be a hilarious dark comedy. Unfortunately it didn't and it wasn't.
Since I got out early, I thought about catching a film down in Union Square. I was five minutes late for the two I was interested in, so I came home to shake rugs and do dishes...did I mention my mom is coming tomorrow?
Monday, November 26, 2007
Thanksgiving Leftovers
Dick and Teake left this morning at 6 am. It was so good to have them here; it was truly a special Thanksgiving.
I worked at the Women's Project today running lines with cast members. Afterwards, I met up with Jarrod Emick and his girlfriend Lauren Thomas. He had just come from an audition for South Pacific at Lincoln Center and felt very good about it. It was really fun to catch up.
Tonight I attended Oh, The Humanity and Other Exclamations (5 short plays) by Will Eno featuring Brian Hutchison and Mariso Tomei. Who knew? Tomei was quite talented. In her very first scene, she found a raw truthfulness that brought tears to her eyes and ours. Then, she handled comic timing with subtle ease. Hutchison was brilliant, but Marisa held her own...I was impressed. For those students who are reading this, this piece is full of monologue and scene worked opportunities. Some of my favorite lines were:
They were talking about turning one's head to look..."History is the moments of when we did and did not turn."
"War is not hell. It is not organized enough to be."
"We should work at learned to look at each other harder."
"What are you in the middle of?"
"There is a point in life when you look into the mirror and realize that you are not just having a bad day, but that really do just look like this now."
"Try to be more mortal."
Afterwards I talked to Will Eno the playwright. I gave him my info and hopefully he will call. Speaking of calling, Kathleen Chalfant called me today. Actually, she called herself Kathy and was so sweet. I am eager to meet with her.
I worked at the Women's Project today running lines with cast members. Afterwards, I met up with Jarrod Emick and his girlfriend Lauren Thomas. He had just come from an audition for South Pacific at Lincoln Center and felt very good about it. It was really fun to catch up.
Tonight I attended Oh, The Humanity and Other Exclamations (5 short plays) by Will Eno featuring Brian Hutchison and Mariso Tomei. Who knew? Tomei was quite talented. In her very first scene, she found a raw truthfulness that brought tears to her eyes and ours. Then, she handled comic timing with subtle ease. Hutchison was brilliant, but Marisa held her own...I was impressed. For those students who are reading this, this piece is full of monologue and scene worked opportunities. Some of my favorite lines were:
They were talking about turning one's head to look..."History is the moments of when we did and did not turn."
"War is not hell. It is not organized enough to be."
"We should work at learned to look at each other harder."
"What are you in the middle of?"
"There is a point in life when you look into the mirror and realize that you are not just having a bad day, but that really do just look like this now."
"Try to be more mortal."
Afterwards I talked to Will Eno the playwright. I gave him my info and hopefully he will call. Speaking of calling, Kathleen Chalfant called me today. Actually, she called herself Kathy and was so sweet. I am eager to meet with her.
And the band played on...
Broadway is in week three of the stagehand strike.
The biggest issue is the established number of individuals that is required for each show. The producers want to cut the current requirement in half....1o stagehands. Can you imagine loading in Wicked with 10 people? There are other issues too. Over 20 shows are dark; seven shows employ a different union, so they are still up.
I have had many people ask me how this is affecting my sabbatical...it hasn't. This is New York City! There are numerous Off Broadway venues, so I have been to a show almost every day. I have seen numerous excellent productions since the Great White Way went grey on November 10.
The pictures above were taken on Sunday at the Shubert Theatre that normally houses Chicago. Since the majority of the performers and musicians are supporting the unions and many times they walk the line with the stagehands. Also, they provide entertainment for everyone. Here the band is playing on the sidewalk as the picket line marches.
So, far the strike has cost the city about 36 million dollars. It was reported today that restaurants in the theatre district have lost approximately 90 percent of their business. I hope they resolve it soon, but it doesn't sound hopeful anytime soon.
The biggest issue is the established number of individuals that is required for each show. The producers want to cut the current requirement in half....1o stagehands. Can you imagine loading in Wicked with 10 people? There are other issues too. Over 20 shows are dark; seven shows employ a different union, so they are still up.
I have had many people ask me how this is affecting my sabbatical...it hasn't. This is New York City! There are numerous Off Broadway venues, so I have been to a show almost every day. I have seen numerous excellent productions since the Great White Way went grey on November 10.
The pictures above were taken on Sunday at the Shubert Theatre that normally houses Chicago. Since the majority of the performers and musicians are supporting the unions and many times they walk the line with the stagehands. Also, they provide entertainment for everyone. Here the band is playing on the sidewalk as the picket line marches.
So, far the strike has cost the city about 36 million dollars. It was reported today that restaurants in the theatre district have lost approximately 90 percent of their business. I hope they resolve it soon, but it doesn't sound hopeful anytime soon.
It is not a labor to be Hercules' friend
Here is Teake and our friend Hercules. Hercules owns the mini-mart on the end of the street that specializes is international beers (he is originally from Greece). When Teake and I first came to nyc, we stopped in there to buy soda and snacks. He and Teake hit it off immediately. Teake stopped in every day that trip (and this trip too) to say "good morning" and "good night." When he's not here, Hercules asks me every day about Teake when I walk by. "That is a good boy," is his usual clincher line. I agree.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Hitting Golf Balls and Hitting It Off.
Jennie and I got up earlier than the guys, so that we could go for a walk together around the village. I really do love my alone time with Jen. We get so many world issues solved. On the way back to the apartment, we stopped at the Housing Works, and she did major damage in their shoe stock.
Before Jen headed back to Baltimore, we had brunch at the Hudson Diner. I will see her for the next couple of weekends as she will return to see mom next weekend and then come up with friends the weekend after.
Dick, Teake and I walked down the Hudson River path to Chelsae Piers on this beautiful Sunday in November. We explored all CP had to offer (ice rink, driving range, numerous gyms, and BlueStreak Athletic Republic (the new name for Frappier Acceleration). The guys decided to stay and check out the driving range as I headed back to prepare for my 1st "Essay" conversation.
My meeting with Stafford Arima was perfect. As the director of such shows as Ragtime and Alter Boyz, he had an extensive spectrum of vision. It was the perfect way to begin my writing collective. His view of the theatre arena was refreshing and enlightening. I can't wait to transcribe the entire interview. I hope that this is just the beginning of fresh conversations on theatre.
Tonight Dick, Teake and I grabbed a slice and packed. I am sending home 2 suitcases full of books, clothes and gifts. Soon, I will be packing it all up to go home...time moves so quickly.
Before Jen headed back to Baltimore, we had brunch at the Hudson Diner. I will see her for the next couple of weekends as she will return to see mom next weekend and then come up with friends the weekend after.
Dick, Teake and I walked down the Hudson River path to Chelsae Piers on this beautiful Sunday in November. We explored all CP had to offer (ice rink, driving range, numerous gyms, and BlueStreak Athletic Republic (the new name for Frappier Acceleration). The guys decided to stay and check out the driving range as I headed back to prepare for my 1st "Essay" conversation.
My meeting with Stafford Arima was perfect. As the director of such shows as Ragtime and Alter Boyz, he had an extensive spectrum of vision. It was the perfect way to begin my writing collective. His view of the theatre arena was refreshing and enlightening. I can't wait to transcribe the entire interview. I hope that this is just the beginning of fresh conversations on theatre.
Tonight Dick, Teake and I grabbed a slice and packed. I am sending home 2 suitcases full of books, clothes and gifts. Soon, I will be packing it all up to go home...time moves so quickly.
Jarrod, Jennie, Jump and Jazz
I actually went to work on Saturday as my family slept in. I was pretty proud that I was actually going to be 15 minutes early. As I got out of the cab outside of the Women's Project on 62nd and West End Avenue at 11:45 am, there was only one person on the sidewalk...it was Jarrod Emick.
Jarrod is from Hot Springs, SD. He was at SDSU when I did some dramaturg work for them in the early 1990's. He went on to star in Broadway shows such as Les Miserable, Miss Saigon, Damn Yankees (Tony Award), Rocky Horror Picture Show and Ring of Fire. Jarrod and I have been friends for almost two decades. He just got back into the city after working in Washington State and has been crashing on friends' couch above the WP. I had left him a couple messages telling him I was in town. This is just so unbelievable...first Theresa Flannery in the subway and now Jarrod Emmick on the street. The Theory of Dakotativity involves a strong centrifugal force.
After rehearsal, I hurried down to Union Square to pick up tickets to Jump. My sister, Jennie, came up from Baltimore to surprise Teake. My boys and she adore 0ne another - it was fun to have her here. While I was at rehearsal, Jen and the guys went to Battery Park.
Jump...Teake described it as an Asian Royal Tennebaums. I thought it was more like Bruce Lee meets the Olympics meets MXX. It was really funny and impressively athletic. It was decribed on Playbill.com as:
Jarrod is from Hot Springs, SD. He was at SDSU when I did some dramaturg work for them in the early 1990's. He went on to star in Broadway shows such as Les Miserable, Miss Saigon, Damn Yankees (Tony Award), Rocky Horror Picture Show and Ring of Fire. Jarrod and I have been friends for almost two decades. He just got back into the city after working in Washington State and has been crashing on friends' couch above the WP. I had left him a couple messages telling him I was in town. This is just so unbelievable...first Theresa Flannery in the subway and now Jarrod Emmick on the street. The Theory of Dakotativity involves a strong centrifugal force.
After rehearsal, I hurried down to Union Square to pick up tickets to Jump. My sister, Jennie, came up from Baltimore to surprise Teake. My boys and she adore 0ne another - it was fun to have her here. While I was at rehearsal, Jen and the guys went to Battery Park.
Jump...Teake described it as an Asian Royal Tennebaums. I thought it was more like Bruce Lee meets the Olympics meets MXX. It was really funny and impressively athletic. It was decribed on Playbill.com as:
After achieving worldwide success, Korean phenomenon Jump has landed at Union Square — and it's easy to see what makes its appeal so universal. Almost wordless, the show is a high-energy mashup of martial-arts spectacle and vaudevillian slapstick comedy. One routine starring a sake-loving uncle makes the best case for alcoholic acrobatic hilarity since Jackie Chan's Legend of Drunken Master. Occasionally breaking from its impeccable choreography, the cast brings audience members on stage for improv; the ensuing laughs are big and simple, appealing to the circus fan in all of us.
For the evening, Teake and Jennie decided to find a showing of Beowulf (they watched it at a 3D theatre). I surprised Dick by taking him to the Jazz Gallery to enjoy an evening with Jeff "Tain" Watts, a famous jazz drummer. I have to admit that a lot of it was so chaotic, that I got lost in the notes; however, I know enough to recognize that he hit his hardware so many times that something amazing must be happening. Dick seemed to love it, and that was my goal. Tain was gracious enough to take a pic or two afterwards. It was another quintessential nyc eve. We stopped by the Barrow Inn and had a glass of wine with Natalie before turning in for the night.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Teake Takes the Town
Teake practicing for his senior picture pose, contemplating life and celebrating free postcards!
Sleep - Eat - Walk - Repeat
The boys and I slept in late. I won't say how late, but my mom would say, "The day is half over!" We had lunch at the diner around the corner and then did some thrift store shopping at the Housing Works before walking around Central Park. The colors are gorgeous. Today was the first day that the weather felt like winter; however, the trees still look like fall...how about that global warming?
We wanted to check out FAO Schwartz, but there was a line to get in. We forgot that it was Black Friday. We moved on. Teake and I thought Dick should see the architecture of Grand Central Station...it is one of our favorite buildings in nyc. The lighting is so beautiful - so serene.
Next we landed in Union Square. We browsed around at a holiday fair before grabbing a few items at Filene's Basement (Teake actually bought a Bon Jovi Slippery When Wet 1986-87 concert t-shirt). This kid has major taste issues.
Dinner was Mexican and dessert "heaven on a plate" at Angus McIndoe. Right now we are all beached out on the futon watching some of the worst cable access television I have ever seen...it is so bad that it is good. It is about a futuristic feminist world. The writing and acting is only surpassed by the costumes and space colony special effects. This is hilarious! Where are the Mystery Science 3000 guys when you need them?
We wanted to check out FAO Schwartz, but there was a line to get in. We forgot that it was Black Friday. We moved on. Teake and I thought Dick should see the architecture of Grand Central Station...it is one of our favorite buildings in nyc. The lighting is so beautiful - so serene.
Next we landed in Union Square. We browsed around at a holiday fair before grabbing a few items at Filene's Basement (Teake actually bought a Bon Jovi Slippery When Wet 1986-87 concert t-shirt). This kid has major taste issues.
Dinner was Mexican and dessert "heaven on a plate" at Angus McIndoe. Right now we are all beached out on the futon watching some of the worst cable access television I have ever seen...it is so bad that it is good. It is about a futuristic feminist world. The writing and acting is only surpassed by the costumes and space colony special effects. This is hilarious! Where are the Mystery Science 3000 guys when you need them?
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Miracle on 34th Street
If I had planned for a year, I could not have designed a better day. We arrived at 34th and 7th (escorted through parade barrier after barrier...cool) about 10:30. Theresa is the manager of a photography studio that does all the layout shoots for names such as Lord and Taylor, Macy's and New York Magazine. Her brother Mike works there too.
The parade is concludes at Heralds Square in front of Macy's on 34th Street. From there the parade is dissembled...bands go west, floats and balloons go north, directly past the studio. We could have watched it from the second story; however, because it was 66 degrees outside, we stood outside and oowed and awed as the parade unfolded in front of us. We had the entire block to ourselves.
We took pictures, pictures and more pictures. I knew my nieces love Dora so I made sure I posed with her. I have only included a handful on the blog. If anyone wants to see more...just let me know! The mothership picture happened when I was sent of a flour search (the gravy depended on it). As I was trekking back, I stopped to take a photo that included a Hello Kitty lawn chair and discarded booze bottles. After I took it, this guys says to me, "You want me to take a picture so that you can be in it?" As I turned around to say "No, thank you," I saw the highlight of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade before me....Santa's Sleigh. I said, "I want to take my picture on that!" He said, "Okay, get up there, but promise me you will not fall." The posted picture says it all. I gave the guy a big hug, and then beamed all the way back to the studio.
The meal was a cornucopia - turkey, stuffing, potatoes, green bean casserole, corn, sweet potatoes, and a dessert galore. Theresa managed to make one long table for all 23 of us. Before eating we held hands, prayed and went around the room so each of us could give thanks specifically. It was beautiful. The conversations were rich with nostalgia, future plans and loads of laughter.
Hours later, after we ate, napped, talked and cleaned, professional pictures were taken of all. I so wish Tyler had been here. Actually, I wish my entire had been here; it was a day that made my stomach full and my heart huge. However, something always feels a bit empty when my mom and dad are not involved. I miss them and Thad, Kim, Sydni, and Jadyn too. We will see my sister tomorrow, so that will complete the holiday.
Happy Thanksgiving to all. Despite all the hardships at the Schetnan's this year, I am still reminded as to how lucky we are that we live and love so close and so hard. We are truly blessed.
The parade is concludes at Heralds Square in front of Macy's on 34th Street. From there the parade is dissembled...bands go west, floats and balloons go north, directly past the studio. We could have watched it from the second story; however, because it was 66 degrees outside, we stood outside and oowed and awed as the parade unfolded in front of us. We had the entire block to ourselves.
We took pictures, pictures and more pictures. I knew my nieces love Dora so I made sure I posed with her. I have only included a handful on the blog. If anyone wants to see more...just let me know! The mothership picture happened when I was sent of a flour search (the gravy depended on it). As I was trekking back, I stopped to take a photo that included a Hello Kitty lawn chair and discarded booze bottles. After I took it, this guys says to me, "You want me to take a picture so that you can be in it?" As I turned around to say "No, thank you," I saw the highlight of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade before me....Santa's Sleigh. I said, "I want to take my picture on that!" He said, "Okay, get up there, but promise me you will not fall." The posted picture says it all. I gave the guy a big hug, and then beamed all the way back to the studio.
The meal was a cornucopia - turkey, stuffing, potatoes, green bean casserole, corn, sweet potatoes, and a dessert galore. Theresa managed to make one long table for all 23 of us. Before eating we held hands, prayed and went around the room so each of us could give thanks specifically. It was beautiful. The conversations were rich with nostalgia, future plans and loads of laughter.
Hours later, after we ate, napped, talked and cleaned, professional pictures were taken of all. I so wish Tyler had been here. Actually, I wish my entire had been here; it was a day that made my stomach full and my heart huge. However, something always feels a bit empty when my mom and dad are not involved. I miss them and Thad, Kim, Sydni, and Jadyn too. We will see my sister tomorrow, so that will complete the holiday.
Happy Thanksgiving to all. Despite all the hardships at the Schetnan's this year, I am still reminded as to how lucky we are that we live and love so close and so hard. We are truly blessed.
Giving Thanks in 2007
Teake and Marlene taking a break from watching the parade.
A NYC Thanksgiving table of 23 from NJ and SD.
Strolling Home
After our wonderful day with the Flannery's, we decided to check out the Macy Christmas windows and watch the skater as Bryant Park and Rockerfeller Center. It was still so beautiful out; it was refreshing to walk around the city and burn off those Thanksgiving calories.
South Dakotans in the Subway
Wednesday's rehearsal involved good news and bad news. The bad news was that I was still put in the corner and spoke to as if I had never seen a theatrical performance in my life by the director. The good new was we were released early so I could come home write and deliver notes to some individuals that I am interested in interviewing. As I was leaving Laura Pels Theater (I left a note for Sam Robarts), the actor Mark Blum was walking out. I introduced myself , we had a lovely talk, I gave him an outline about my work, and he said he would contact me...once again, we will see.
Okay, here is where things the Theory or all Theories related to Dakotativity occurred. I was suppose to be in Washington Heights about 2 hours earlier. I hurried down into the subway just to have the A train door close right in front of me. As I was letting out a "Sugar!," I hear, "Mrs. Bartling?"
I turn around to see Theresa Flannery (O'Gorman HS class of 1994). Unbelievable. Also, there is her brother Michael (O'Gorman HS class of 2000). We did the what? who? where? They both live in New Jersey and work in the city. She then said, our whole family is here for Thanksgiving - "my mom and dad are here!" A little background...Marlene Flannery (their mother) raised Teake Bartling. She was his babysitter from the time he was 1 until he went to kindergarten. This is an amazing and dear woman, as is her husband Jim. The next thing you know, we have made plans to combine the Bartlings and the Flannery's for Thanksgiving. Love it.
They went their way (they were on their way to Central Park to watch the parade balloon inflation), and I went mine.
What a beautiful view of the Hudson and George Washington bridge from her neighborhood (West 181st Street). I want to return to walk the Cloisters and see the west view in the daytime. After we got groceries, we had dinner and made a strudle, that she is taking to the Hamptons for Thanksgiving.
I went back down to midtown, bought flowers and dropped them off a theatre where my friend Ben works (he is one of the few stagehands who is working). Ben is one of Mitch Maguire's best friends and lives in the same complex as Mitch and Marcie. Since the Maguires invited me to share Thanksgiving, I wanted to send a small gift.
Dick and Teake got to the apartment about 10:30. It was such a beautiful evening, so we walked around my neighborhood, grabbed a couple of slices of pizza, and perched on my fire escape for the evening. It was perfect evening...until Tyler Bartling called at 4:30 wondering how to turn the water off in our house. He got up to tighten his shower knob as it was dripping,. Unfortunately, the knob fell off and water was pouring everywhere...chaos. I just kept sleeping as Tyler and Dick talked it through.
Okay, here is where things the Theory or all Theories related to Dakotativity occurred. I was suppose to be in Washington Heights about 2 hours earlier. I hurried down into the subway just to have the A train door close right in front of me. As I was letting out a "Sugar!," I hear, "Mrs. Bartling?"
I turn around to see Theresa Flannery (O'Gorman HS class of 1994). Unbelievable. Also, there is her brother Michael (O'Gorman HS class of 2000). We did the what? who? where? They both live in New Jersey and work in the city. She then said, our whole family is here for Thanksgiving - "my mom and dad are here!" A little background...Marlene Flannery (their mother) raised Teake Bartling. She was his babysitter from the time he was 1 until he went to kindergarten. This is an amazing and dear woman, as is her husband Jim. The next thing you know, we have made plans to combine the Bartlings and the Flannery's for Thanksgiving. Love it.
They went their way (they were on their way to Central Park to watch the parade balloon inflation), and I went mine.
What a beautiful view of the Hudson and George Washington bridge from her neighborhood (West 181st Street). I want to return to walk the Cloisters and see the west view in the daytime. After we got groceries, we had dinner and made a strudle, that she is taking to the Hamptons for Thanksgiving.
I went back down to midtown, bought flowers and dropped them off a theatre where my friend Ben works (he is one of the few stagehands who is working). Ben is one of Mitch Maguire's best friends and lives in the same complex as Mitch and Marcie. Since the Maguires invited me to share Thanksgiving, I wanted to send a small gift.
Dick and Teake got to the apartment about 10:30. It was such a beautiful evening, so we walked around my neighborhood, grabbed a couple of slices of pizza, and perched on my fire escape for the evening. It was perfect evening...until Tyler Bartling called at 4:30 wondering how to turn the water off in our house. He got up to tighten his shower knob as it was dripping,. Unfortunately, the knob fell off and water was pouring everywhere...chaos. I just kept sleeping as Tyler and Dick talked it through.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
The Art of Audience
Today's rehearsal was a bit better. I really respect and like the cast. They are a joy to be around. Also, Megan Carter the assistant artist director and dramaturg at the Women's Project is warm and welcoming. I am learning a lot about table work. As a director, I get actors up on their feet and on the boards immediately. I prefer to chew on the words and character development as we work through the movement. Table work for the first five days is a lot, but I definitely see the benefits. If anyone is interested in hitting the Women's Project website the address is www.womensproject.org
One other lesson that I was reminded of today is the importance of making a space welcoming. When growing up, my parents taught my siblings and I to address everyone in a room upon entering and say goodbye when you leave. I think I have done a pretty good job of passing this gracious gesture on to my children.
In the rehearsal space, this is a necessity. If there is someone in the space who has not been acknowledged, introduced or welcomed, there remains a restraint or mystery in the room that could serve as a barrier to the work. Everyone listening, watching and working needs to be an engaged member to the process so to avoid restraint, fear and agenda. My presence in the room is not adding any energy, which is such a loss for everyone. This is a good reminder for me...my rehearsals will always be open. Those in the room will always feel as if they have a voice; it is always incredibly exciting when some Intro student asks a question that leads the rehearsal to another level. A closed rehearsal closes possibilities.
I went to The Brothers Size at the Public tonight. It melded poetical realism, African myth, and colloquial language. The supporting percussion and gorgeous voices found in the musical interludes and sound effects elevated the music of the written word. I love being able to sit in an audience where it is as racially mixed as it was tonight. Cultures response so differently - laughs come at different places, there is more audible response, the audience just seems more connected. It was a replenishing way to spend the evening.
One other lesson that I was reminded of today is the importance of making a space welcoming. When growing up, my parents taught my siblings and I to address everyone in a room upon entering and say goodbye when you leave. I think I have done a pretty good job of passing this gracious gesture on to my children.
In the rehearsal space, this is a necessity. If there is someone in the space who has not been acknowledged, introduced or welcomed, there remains a restraint or mystery in the room that could serve as a barrier to the work. Everyone listening, watching and working needs to be an engaged member to the process so to avoid restraint, fear and agenda. My presence in the room is not adding any energy, which is such a loss for everyone. This is a good reminder for me...my rehearsals will always be open. Those in the room will always feel as if they have a voice; it is always incredibly exciting when some Intro student asks a question that leads the rehearsal to another level. A closed rehearsal closes possibilities.
I went to The Brothers Size at the Public tonight. It melded poetical realism, African myth, and colloquial language. The supporting percussion and gorgeous voices found in the musical interludes and sound effects elevated the music of the written word. I love being able to sit in an audience where it is as racially mixed as it was tonight. Cultures response so differently - laughs come at different places, there is more audible response, the audience just seems more connected. It was a replenishing way to spend the evening.
Miss You
I want to give a little shout out to all of you that have taken the time to respond to my blog entries. Karen, Nick, Jen, Marie, Greg, Haley, Kimmy, and Steve...thank you for your thoughts. I appreciate them so much, and it is lovely to know that you are following my journey through the city. If others want to comment, but don't know how, please go to the older posts (11/07 Blogging 101) for guidelines as to how to make your presence known on my blog.
In the meantime...I am want everyone who is reading to know how much I miss and love you all. I miss feeling like I am offering anything up productive (I may even miss the exuberance of deadlines and pressured products) I miss being hugged and kissed by my students, family and friends. I miss SD prices. I miss not bumping into things in my bathroom when I get ready in the morning. I miss meeting my friends randomly for coffee. I miss chapel. I miss Kaladi's cereal bars. I discover things that I miss every day.
Next, I may try to post what I do not miss...the phone ringing 24/7 will be at the top of the list.
In the meantime...I am want everyone who is reading to know how much I miss and love you all. I miss feeling like I am offering anything up productive (I may even miss the exuberance of deadlines and pressured products) I miss being hugged and kissed by my students, family and friends. I miss SD prices. I miss not bumping into things in my bathroom when I get ready in the morning. I miss meeting my friends randomly for coffee. I miss chapel. I miss Kaladi's cereal bars. I discover things that I miss every day.
Next, I may try to post what I do not miss...the phone ringing 24/7 will be at the top of the list.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Kimmy in a Corner
Padma Lakshimi and I at the Strand Bookstore in Union SquareI started rehearsal on Wapato today at the Women's Project. When I woke up, I threw up. I did not sleep well and had only got about 4 hours of winks. I really did not want to miss rehearsal, so I got it together and hailed a cab for 62nd Street.
I tried to act like I was fine, but my stomach finally got the best of me, and I had to remove myself from the table. I did not want to miss the first read and table work, so I sucked it up and sat in the corner.
First there was an equity meeting and we waited for an hour outside. I asked what they do in there and was told that they sacrificed small animals and practiced their secret handshake.
Next, we did the first reading. These actors are amazing; the women are all over 60 and the native man is around 30. They are true professionals. The characters and play unfolded before us in that first reading. The play is touching, sad, humorous and thought provolking.
I really enjoyed watching Peggy Stafford, the playwright, watch and listen. She fell in love with them and was transported by their reading. Her facials were lovely as she reacted to her words coming out of their mouths.
I started to feel better in the afternoon but still stayed away from the table. During table work, I offered 2 items of thought. Both times, I was facially and subtly verbally reprimanded for contributing by Rebecca, the director. I thought it was odd as I only offered about 4 sentences total. Also, since I had told her that I would do some digging around my SD sources about Crazy Horse, I thought that it would be appropriate to offer some of my finding when the Rebecca and the male actor discussed their ideas for research. I received the same coolness. After rehearsal, Rebecca knelt down next to me and explained that nothing was to be brought to the table unless it was playable on the stage. She did not want the actors' choices muddied with material that could not propel the action. I thought my points did offer items to chew on. Furthermore, I was reminded that my job as the assistant director was to be the voyeur for the first couple of weeks.
I have to admit, I left feeling a bit confused and a lot embarrassed - the later is not something that I typically allow to happen. I don't take myself too seriously, but I do take what I do seriously. I was thrown for a loop. Rebecca and I really clicked at our first meeting, but I felt totally out of place today.
I still had a upset stomach when I got home, so I had some warm tea and went for a walk around the neighborhood. I hesitate in posting this "poor me" entry, but all opportunites have to start somewhere...this one can only get better. I plan on rereading the embarrassment chapter in the Bogart's book before I go to bed.
I sought out "good things" to help me end my day. I strolled over to Strand and Padma Lakshimi from Top Chef was talking about her new cookbook. I have never seen a more beautiful woman in real life. To say she is stunning is not enough. Padma was quite approachable and signed, signed and signed books.
Next, I stopped in and browsed around in an upscale funky thrift store. Everyone in there was so nice to me. The first salesperson commented on my earrings and coat and told me that I really had a great style, the next asked me where I was from because I just gave off a good energy. Believe it or not, they weren't trying to sell me anything (in fact, they were working of specific projects). I left and walked around for about 5 minutes before returning to the store. I poked my head in and said, "I just wanted you both to know that I had a pretty sad day, but you two managed to make me smile by just being kind. Thank you for that." "Anytime Sweetheart," was their response.
It's Official the Holiday Season Has Begun
The Christmas decoration were put up throughout the week.
I really do live in a little village caught in the big city.
Theory of Dakotativity in Hell's Kitchen
This is yet another head shaking, unbelievable South Dakota in the City moment. After I purchased my ticket for The Rise of Dorothy Hale on 46th Street (Hell's Kitchen area) I had an hour to burn before showtime. I found a lovely little cafe on 10th Avenue that specializes in biscotti. I bought a sampling platter and a pot of coffee to enjoy while I read the NY Times.
As I walking back to the theatre, I happened glance across the street and saw my dear friend Eric Johnson from Rapid City putting his suitcase into the back of an airport van. I yelled, "Oh my gosh...can you believe it?" Eric was as shocked as I. We exchanged kisses and hugs and off he went.
I had randomly called Eric last Saturday when I met Jenny Fellner because he was one of the people that we knew in common. I assumed he was in Rapid. However, he told me that he had just left nyc as he was directing a show in Cincinnati; however, it would be back in Wednesday ,and we would try to connect. They planned meeting didn't happen, but a random act of Dakotivity did. The next time we will see each other will be on a SD State One Act Festival panel in February.
After The Screwtape Letters, I heard a young man ask his father, "Why is this are called Hell's Kitchen." I wondered the same thing. According to Wikipedia:
Several different explanations exist for the original name of the the area between 34th Street and 57th Street, from 8th Avenue to the Hudson River. An early use of the phrase appears in a comment Davy Crockett made about another notorious Irish slum in Manhattan. According to the Irish Cultural Society of the Garden City Area:
When, in 1835, Davy Crockett said, "In my part of the country, when you meet an Irishman, you find a first-rate gentleman; but these are worse than savages; they are too mean to swab hell's kitchen," he was referring to the Five Points.
According to an article by Kirkley Greenwell, published online by the Hell's Kitchen Neighborhood Association:
No one can pin down the exact origin of the label, but some refer to a tenement on 54th as the first "Hell's Kitchen." Another explanation points to an infamous building at 39th as the true original. A gang and a local dive took the name as well.... a similar slum also existed in London and was known as Hell's Kitchen. Whatever the origin of the name, it fit.
As I walking back to the theatre, I happened glance across the street and saw my dear friend Eric Johnson from Rapid City putting his suitcase into the back of an airport van. I yelled, "Oh my gosh...can you believe it?" Eric was as shocked as I. We exchanged kisses and hugs and off he went.
I had randomly called Eric last Saturday when I met Jenny Fellner because he was one of the people that we knew in common. I assumed he was in Rapid. However, he told me that he had just left nyc as he was directing a show in Cincinnati; however, it would be back in Wednesday ,and we would try to connect. They planned meeting didn't happen, but a random act of Dakotivity did. The next time we will see each other will be on a SD State One Act Festival panel in February.
After The Screwtape Letters, I heard a young man ask his father, "Why is this are called Hell's Kitchen." I wondered the same thing. According to Wikipedia:
Several different explanations exist for the original name of the the area between 34th Street and 57th Street, from 8th Avenue to the Hudson River. An early use of the phrase appears in a comment Davy Crockett made about another notorious Irish slum in Manhattan. According to the Irish Cultural Society of the Garden City Area:
When, in 1835, Davy Crockett said, "In my part of the country, when you meet an Irishman, you find a first-rate gentleman; but these are worse than savages; they are too mean to swab hell's kitchen," he was referring to the Five Points.
According to an article by Kirkley Greenwell, published online by the Hell's Kitchen Neighborhood Association:
No one can pin down the exact origin of the label, but some refer to a tenement on 54th as the first "Hell's Kitchen." Another explanation points to an infamous building at 39th as the true original. A gang and a local dive took the name as well.... a similar slum also existed in London and was known as Hell's Kitchen. Whatever the origin of the name, it fit.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Today's Lesson According to Arazie, Bairstow, and Lewis.
I am a bit frustrated in that I wrote this entry once tonight, but it was swallowed by the blog gods...I hope Screwtape did not have anything to do with it...
A met Ilana Arazie for brunch at Caravan of Dreams in the East Village. I subletted from Ilana last year, and we have kept in touch. I have never eaten at a vegan restaurant, but my spinach ravioli was wonderful. Ilana works for the Associated Press during the day, but she is a video blogger on the side. Her site http://ilanadonna.com/ is a fresh approach to being single in the city. It admirably picks up where Carrie Bradshaw left off.
Last year, she and I had an interesting conversation about Sex in the City. She accknowledged that the hit HBO series served as an anthem to those over 35. It encouraged women to own their sexuality and find a language for a their wants and needs. Ilana claims that the residue that it left for those who were still looking for their first real meaningful relationship was, in fact, a warning....do not settle, because the next best thing may be around the corner. She argues that giving women a language of sexual dues compromised others' hope of "the one" romanticism. I believe she has a point; I am glad I am married and over 35.
Whew. On to the theatre where I can escape (PLEASE hear the sarcasm here), I attended the matinee of The Rise of Dorothy Hale. When I can learn about something historical and be impressed by theatrical conventions, it is a good day. This play exposed questions about the power of politics, the delicacy of language, the potential of art and the complexity of women. I loved it! Also, whenever a play contains the character of Frida Kahlo, it is guaranteed success.
Some favorite thoughts and moments:
"The work of art survive long after the battle is over."
The intermission was abrupt. This serves as a reminder that each act should end as if the play was over.
The woman playing Clara Booth Luce (Dina Ann Comolli) was too big for the space. She delivered most of her lines FF, and her wig made her look like a comic book character among the realistic tapestry of the others. I think the director should have pulled the Marilyn Monroe metaphor/angle back; it was unneeded and distracting.
Frida's fingernails were well manicured, an unlikely portrayal of a hungry artist.
The costuming was delicious.
"Truth is the daughter of time."
Shaw quote about the color of hope...look it up Kim
After the show, I spoke to Purva Bedi who played Frida Kahlo. She hesitantly agreed with the preceding thoughts and defended the director by saying that many of the actors came to the project much later than expected. I gave her one of my "sabbatical conversation letters." She seemed interested and said that she would call.
Next, I attended The Screwtape Letters at St. Clements. The architecture of the church certainly added to the foreboding atmosphere of the play. The stone gothic arches offered a perfect setting for the buying and selling of souls.
The bigger than life character of Screwtape as the teacher of tempters was paralleled by the animalistic and flexible Toadpipe. Even the space's temperature got colder as they employed every tactic of the Devil to capture the soul. For me, the most frightening message was that it is not the "big ticket items" that guarantee one eternal damnation...it is all the little things along the way.
Leave it to C. S. Lewis to turn a day or rest into a day of wresting.
A met Ilana Arazie for brunch at Caravan of Dreams in the East Village. I subletted from Ilana last year, and we have kept in touch. I have never eaten at a vegan restaurant, but my spinach ravioli was wonderful. Ilana works for the Associated Press during the day, but she is a video blogger on the side. Her site http://ilanadonna.com/ is a fresh approach to being single in the city. It admirably picks up where Carrie Bradshaw left off.
Last year, she and I had an interesting conversation about Sex in the City. She accknowledged that the hit HBO series served as an anthem to those over 35. It encouraged women to own their sexuality and find a language for a their wants and needs. Ilana claims that the residue that it left for those who were still looking for their first real meaningful relationship was, in fact, a warning....do not settle, because the next best thing may be around the corner. She argues that giving women a language of sexual dues compromised others' hope of "the one" romanticism. I believe she has a point; I am glad I am married and over 35.
Whew. On to the theatre where I can escape (PLEASE hear the sarcasm here), I attended the matinee of The Rise of Dorothy Hale. When I can learn about something historical and be impressed by theatrical conventions, it is a good day. This play exposed questions about the power of politics, the delicacy of language, the potential of art and the complexity of women. I loved it! Also, whenever a play contains the character of Frida Kahlo, it is guaranteed success.
Some favorite thoughts and moments:
"The work of art survive long after the battle is over."
The intermission was abrupt. This serves as a reminder that each act should end as if the play was over.
The woman playing Clara Booth Luce (Dina Ann Comolli) was too big for the space. She delivered most of her lines FF, and her wig made her look like a comic book character among the realistic tapestry of the others. I think the director should have pulled the Marilyn Monroe metaphor/angle back; it was unneeded and distracting.
Frida's fingernails were well manicured, an unlikely portrayal of a hungry artist.
The costuming was delicious.
"Truth is the daughter of time."
Shaw quote about the color of hope...look it up Kim
After the show, I spoke to Purva Bedi who played Frida Kahlo. She hesitantly agreed with the preceding thoughts and defended the director by saying that many of the actors came to the project much later than expected. I gave her one of my "sabbatical conversation letters." She seemed interested and said that she would call.
Next, I attended The Screwtape Letters at St. Clements. The architecture of the church certainly added to the foreboding atmosphere of the play. The stone gothic arches offered a perfect setting for the buying and selling of souls.
The bigger than life character of Screwtape as the teacher of tempters was paralleled by the animalistic and flexible Toadpipe. Even the space's temperature got colder as they employed every tactic of the Devil to capture the soul. For me, the most frightening message was that it is not the "big ticket items" that guarantee one eternal damnation...it is all the little things along the way.
Leave it to C. S. Lewis to turn a day or rest into a day of wresting.
"...and I took the road less traveled by. And that has made all the difference.”
Rebecca Patterson, the director of Wapato, the show that I am assistant directing, suggested I see 1001 by Page 73 Productions. The description of this play by Playbill Magazine reads "This updated retelling of One Thousand and One Arabian Nights marries global conflict to modern-day relationships (with dashes of Edward Said, Monty Python, and Jorge Luis Borges mixed in) to explore the Israel-Palestine conflict." Wow. This is the genre that I am eager to learn more about. It combines traditional storytelling, mythos, fantasy, and pop culture multimedia. The weaving of Scheherazade, 9/11 and world religions was as entertaining as it was enlightening. I wandered off the pure contemporary realism trail and loved it! The production values were gorgeous and the performances complex; yet, the weaving of numerous characters (by only 6 actors) and stories was clear. There is a moment where the sea is created with a simple blue fabric that was breathtaking - we used to do this same exercise in Brandon Elementary with parachute cloth. Who knew it could be to beautiful on stage? I hope this will be the beginning to new worlds and travels on my theatrical journey of varying genres.
TGIF doesn't translate in nyc
\
Sarah Jessica Parker (silver hat and fur) across the street shooting Carrie Bradshaw's last column. Julie King and I at the movie shoot.
Showing Minnesota English and Speech Teacher the final watering hole of Dylan Thomas
Sarah Jessica Parker (silver hat and fur) across the street shooting Carrie Bradshaw's last column. Julie King and I at the movie shoot.Showing Minnesota English and Speech Teacher the final watering hole of Dylan Thomas
Friday, I spent the morning sending my newly constructed sabbatical letter off to friends and VIP contacts. Then, I strapped on my tennis shoes and ran to Central Park. There I met Thane and Karen who were just leaving. As Brenda was at the Teachers of English conference, they were exploring the city together. Next, they off to TKTS. I invited them back down to the village, which they did. As my mother's daughter and one of solid German heritage, I felt satisfied that they revisited my apartment which was now shiny and clean.
I took them to the White Horse Tavern (the place of Dylan Thomas' demise) where we feasted on tuna melt, burger and onion rings. It is so much fun to have them in the city.
They no sooner left, than I had more company...from Mankato, Mn. Julie King was a student teacher who taught with me at O'Gorman. However, she was the mom of the talented and brilliant Harmony King first. Harmony represented O'G as a highly successful interper and actor...it is no surprise that Julie was her mother. I cannot believe that we had to come all the way to nyc to catch up. She and her friends/colleagues were also in town for the English Convention. They came down to the W Village to visit and eat Cuban food at Little Havana on Cornelius Street. I did not expect anything other than smart, interesting and fun friends from Julie King....they did not disappoint. I enjoyed their company immensely. How can you go wrong with English and Speech teachers who have traveled the world, experienced the highs and lows of parenthood and are still out there learing and taking risks every day. Our youth are in great hands.
After they gracious treated me to dinner, we walked around the Village. They were filming the Sex and the City movie on Perry, so we watched for awhile...no action. The Minnesota gang needed to get to a comedy show, so after lots of hugs, they grabbed a cab and headed uptown.
I went home for a while (@ 5 blocks away)to warm up and then went back to watch the filming on Perry. I did get a glimpse of Sarah Jessica Parker in her silver sequined cap and fur coat. She waved and spoke to the crowd as it gathered. Interestingly, the scene must take place on New Year's Eve as the extra pedestrians were carrying party hats and goblets, so they brought in snow machines. The scene was shot with snow, but the trees in nyc have not all turned yet. Global warming may have to be a subplot to the movie...snow and green leaves...I smell a Al Gore cameo.
The SD clan was having late desserts and appetizers at Angus, so I grabbed a train and met them. Of course, they had charmed the staff again. I suggested we grab a cab and check out the speakeasy that I discovered around the corner from my apartment. I am so glad that we did. It was cummulation to the Dakotans' visit. Little Branch was fun, unique and mysterious....just like us!!
I took them to the White Horse Tavern (the place of Dylan Thomas' demise) where we feasted on tuna melt, burger and onion rings. It is so much fun to have them in the city.
They no sooner left, than I had more company...from Mankato, Mn. Julie King was a student teacher who taught with me at O'Gorman. However, she was the mom of the talented and brilliant Harmony King first. Harmony represented O'G as a highly successful interper and actor...it is no surprise that Julie was her mother. I cannot believe that we had to come all the way to nyc to catch up. She and her friends/colleagues were also in town for the English Convention. They came down to the W Village to visit and eat Cuban food at Little Havana on Cornelius Street. I did not expect anything other than smart, interesting and fun friends from Julie King....they did not disappoint. I enjoyed their company immensely. How can you go wrong with English and Speech teachers who have traveled the world, experienced the highs and lows of parenthood and are still out there learing and taking risks every day. Our youth are in great hands.
After they gracious treated me to dinner, we walked around the Village. They were filming the Sex and the City movie on Perry, so we watched for awhile...no action. The Minnesota gang needed to get to a comedy show, so after lots of hugs, they grabbed a cab and headed uptown.
I went home for a while (@ 5 blocks away)to warm up and then went back to watch the filming on Perry. I did get a glimpse of Sarah Jessica Parker in her silver sequined cap and fur coat. She waved and spoke to the crowd as it gathered. Interestingly, the scene must take place on New Year's Eve as the extra pedestrians were carrying party hats and goblets, so they brought in snow machines. The scene was shot with snow, but the trees in nyc have not all turned yet. Global warming may have to be a subplot to the movie...snow and green leaves...I smell a Al Gore cameo.
The SD clan was having late desserts and appetizers at Angus, so I grabbed a train and met them. Of course, they had charmed the staff again. I suggested we grab a cab and check out the speakeasy that I discovered around the corner from my apartment. I am so glad that we did. It was cummulation to the Dakotans' visit. Little Branch was fun, unique and mysterious....just like us!!
A sprinkle of Dakota spice in on a Times Square signature picture
Do we look serious about the news?
As I sat in the actual No Spin Zone, do you think my blueness rubbed off of Bill?
Here is Karen interviewing Brenda while I do all the real work as the director!Theory of Dakotability Strikes Twice
Thursday evening, I finally got into Things We Want at Theatre Row. The cast was young, refreshing and solid...Josh Hamilton, Paul Dano, Peter Dinklage and Zoey Kazan. Johnathon Mark Sherman wrote it and Ethan Hawk directed. I really like it. Sometimes I think that my theatre palate limits and/or defines me like another's food palate. That is, when people come to ncy and eat in McDonalds-TGIF-Hard Rock-etc I am disappointed by their lack of adventure and their obvious disregard for opportunity. However, am I any better when I continuously prefer modern realism (many times with a linear plotline)? I do not know if I should own this or be embarrassed by the ease of plot of which I am drawn. I think that I will chose to make no apologies but strive to "broaden my horizons" by seeking more plays that will not include trite phrases such as "broaden my horizons."
NY Time's Ben Brantly said in his review, "In plot and sensibility, Things We Want is a high-testosterone equivalent of Crimes of the Heart.” Perfect. In fact, I agree with most of Brantly's review http://theater2.nytimes.com/2007/11/08/theater/reviews/08thin.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss especially his comments on Zoe Kazan who I first say in last season's The Prime of Miss Jean Brody with Cynthia Nixon. This young actor is the real deal.
The Pinocchio metaphor of trying to become a real functioning male was interesting. The line from the fairytale "To become a real boy you must prove yourself brave, truthful and unselfish." was used a bit as a club throughout the script. However, a a woman who treads water daily in a sea of testosterone it ripped the bandaid off a lot male wounds....to use a metaphor of my own.
Also, the self-help guru's numeral methodology was - in fact - worthy of thought.
It goes: If the 7 chakras are aligned, the 5 Senses realizes, 3 Goals are clear...1 true self will be realized. Okay, so my bff Julia Pachoud Bennett would totally dig it.
A post-note to the performance, I sat 4th row center right next to Rachel Weiss and her husband who cuddled throughout the entire show. Ms Weiss is best known for her roles in The Mummy and The Constant Gardner. However, I know her best for her film and stage role of Evelyn in LaBute's The Shape of Things. I did not address her until we were all exiting. I told her how much I enjoyed her work and choices and that I had just directed S of Ts. I asked her when we could expect to see her on stage again as, in my opinion, that is where she really shows what she is made of... She said that she agreed and hoped that it would be soon.
After the show, I met Thane, Brenda, Sarah and Karen at Angus McIndoe for a Dessert Feast! We ordered one of everything and the waitress in kicked in one more for good measure. I called it the Moveable Feast (you are welcome Mr. Hemmingway).
At some point the fact that we were from the Midwest came up. The waitress said she was too...Apple Valley. I said, "Do you know Joe Wycoff and Pam Cady?" Considering she said "Cady" along with me...it was obvious that she did. These two names are two of the most significant names in the National Forensic League. They are two of the most successful oral interp, extemp and debate coaches in the US; they also just happened to be married to one another. Alexis - the waitress - and her boyfriend also a waiter at Angus were both on the Apple Valley Forensic team. In fact, we were all in St. Louis in 1998 together for nationals...Theory of Dakotability.
The night nor was the Theory connections over. Sarah Vanderwoude took us to work with her. Okay, for those of you that know me, it is safe to assume that Fox News is the last place one could find me on a Thursday night...or Fri, Sat, Sun... However, I will forever be two things 1)open-minded 2)a sister to my conservative, right-wing Republican brother. I entered the foreign camp with trepidation and curiosity. I admit it, I sat on the studio couches, posed for pics in the newsroom and - dare I say it - enjoyed the entire tour. As Sarah was introducing us to other graveshift writers, she mentioned that one had attended the University of Nebraska. I mentioned that my son 's girlfriend went to UNL and was an accomplished soccer player for them. Sarah asked me who it was as she played soccer all the way through high school in SF. Oh course...she not only knew Katie, she knew Tyler and his entire posse. Theory of Dakotativity twice in one night.
By the way, please don't tell my brother I was at Fox. He will get his hopes up, and it is just too close to the holidays to set him up for disappointment in any hope of my political metamorphosis.
NY Time's Ben Brantly said in his review, "In plot and sensibility, Things We Want is a high-testosterone equivalent of Crimes of the Heart.” Perfect. In fact, I agree with most of Brantly's review http://theater2.nytimes.com/2007/11/08/theater/reviews/08thin.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss especially his comments on Zoe Kazan who I first say in last season's The Prime of Miss Jean Brody with Cynthia Nixon. This young actor is the real deal.
The Pinocchio metaphor of trying to become a real functioning male was interesting. The line from the fairytale "To become a real boy you must prove yourself brave, truthful and unselfish." was used a bit as a club throughout the script. However, a a woman who treads water daily in a sea of testosterone it ripped the bandaid off a lot male wounds....to use a metaphor of my own.
Also, the self-help guru's numeral methodology was - in fact - worthy of thought.
It goes: If the 7 chakras are aligned, the 5 Senses realizes, 3 Goals are clear...1 true self will be realized. Okay, so my bff Julia Pachoud Bennett would totally dig it.
A post-note to the performance, I sat 4th row center right next to Rachel Weiss and her husband who cuddled throughout the entire show. Ms Weiss is best known for her roles in The Mummy and The Constant Gardner. However, I know her best for her film and stage role of Evelyn in LaBute's The Shape of Things. I did not address her until we were all exiting. I told her how much I enjoyed her work and choices and that I had just directed S of Ts. I asked her when we could expect to see her on stage again as, in my opinion, that is where she really shows what she is made of... She said that she agreed and hoped that it would be soon.
After the show, I met Thane, Brenda, Sarah and Karen at Angus McIndoe for a Dessert Feast! We ordered one of everything and the waitress in kicked in one more for good measure. I called it the Moveable Feast (you are welcome Mr. Hemmingway).
At some point the fact that we were from the Midwest came up. The waitress said she was too...Apple Valley. I said, "Do you know Joe Wycoff and Pam Cady?" Considering she said "Cady" along with me...it was obvious that she did. These two names are two of the most significant names in the National Forensic League. They are two of the most successful oral interp, extemp and debate coaches in the US; they also just happened to be married to one another. Alexis - the waitress - and her boyfriend also a waiter at Angus were both on the Apple Valley Forensic team. In fact, we were all in St. Louis in 1998 together for nationals...Theory of Dakotability.
The night nor was the Theory connections over. Sarah Vanderwoude took us to work with her. Okay, for those of you that know me, it is safe to assume that Fox News is the last place one could find me on a Thursday night...or Fri, Sat, Sun... However, I will forever be two things 1)open-minded 2)a sister to my conservative, right-wing Republican brother. I entered the foreign camp with trepidation and curiosity. I admit it, I sat on the studio couches, posed for pics in the newsroom and - dare I say it - enjoyed the entire tour. As Sarah was introducing us to other graveshift writers, she mentioned that one had attended the University of Nebraska. I mentioned that my son 's girlfriend went to UNL and was an accomplished soccer player for them. Sarah asked me who it was as she played soccer all the way through high school in SF. Oh course...she not only knew Katie, she knew Tyler and his entire posse. Theory of Dakotativity twice in one night.
By the way, please don't tell my brother I was at Fox. He will get his hopes up, and it is just too close to the holidays to set him up for disappointment in any hope of my political metamorphosis.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
An Overwhelming Day
It was a lovely day in New York. The weather was gorgeous. I would have liked to have gotten a run in at Central Park, but I had some sabbatical duties that needed attention. I drafted a letter to give to artists that outlines the focus of my study. With the wonderful editing assistance of Dr. Greg Dyer, I think that this letter will really help clarify what it is I am requesting as I approach future directors, actors, playwrights etc.
Michele Pawk called and invited meto see the matinee of The Overwhelming. Perfect. I saw it in previews, have since read the script, and attended the talk-balk with Rogers (playwright) and Robert (lead). I was excited about the opportunity to see it again.
What a difference a month can make. This play is set in 1994 just as the massacre in Rwanda was escalating towards it pinnacle of horror. I was-appropriately-moved by it. It is rich with soundbites about one's duty to change the world, such as:
Jack: Look, Mandela, Jefferson: Their impact can't be denied. But glorifying a handful of great individuals releases us from responsibility...you, me. We're the ones who have to be willing to stand up and make a difference. This is how history moves us forward. One pebble redirects the river!
Buisson: But what if the river becomes an ocean?
Linda: Then you get more pebbles.
The climax of the play was chilling for me this time because it moved from me experiencing it only aesthetically, to really hearing the warning for all nations at the end. Mizinga, a leader of the Rwanda bloody rebel forces, says to the American family as they are cradling one another in a corner (an obvious piece of directorial metaphor):
Mizinga: This will mean nothing to you soon. All of us, we will mean nothing. This is so unimportant to you. You will go home and forget. How fortunate you are.
As he delivered the lines, he slowly turned to leave letting his eye contact break the 4th wall and fall on the audience. Powerful.
Sam Robarts was much stronger in the piece as he has settled into the role. However, Linda Powell who plays his wife was not on the same level. I may have some trouble with Roger's development of this female academic, so it may not have been entirely her problem that there was weakness. Also, I never realized that there was a casting problem with her too. Because of all the reference to her being an African American, this character need to be darker. In order for her personal complexity in the script to work, she needed to be able to be mistaken for a local. Frankly, without being told throughout the script, the audience would never have known her ethnicity. Those playing the government officials from American, Germany, France and Rwanda delivered powerful performances.
After the show, Michele and I went backstage. What a treat to be able to tell actors how much their work moved us.
After the matinee, I went to meet my South Dakota friends who had arrived. I actually ran into Thane and Brenda Paulson and Karen Sumner on 8th Avenue on my way to meet them at the restaurant. As they had just eaten and I hadn't, I suggest Angus McIndoe so we could do some "star gazing." We were not disappointed.
As we were being seated, I said to them, "I was sitting there (pointing) and Mel Brooks was sitting at this table when I met him last week." The waiter said, "Mr. Brooks is in the back." I grabbed a business card and went to the back. In the far back corned sat Kerri Butler at an obvious business meeting and around the corner was Mr. Brooks....I love this restaurant.
Here is the dialogue:
K: Hello. Please know I am not stalking you. I just heard you were here and want to say,"hi."
M: Kim Bartling!
K: Mr. Brooks, I brought my big purse today, and I have a proper card for you.
M: Please meet my son Nicholas. She is a teacher.from South Dakota.
(pleasantries all around)
K: Would mind doing me a favor before you leave?
M: Absolutely, I would love to stop by your table.
K: (laughing becuase I didn't even have to ask) That was be so nice of you. Friends from SD are here, and they would be honored to meet you.
(he gets up kisses my cheek...turns to his son)
M: I would do anything for this woman. I love her.
So, I go back to my table, share in great conversation with Thane, Brenda and Karen (and much on some calamari). Sure enough, Mel Brooks works his way through the room, and believe me, he works a room. Because so many people in the business of theatre hang out there, he knows everyone and talks graciously to each and everyone of them.
He comes to our table and meets my friends. How fun! I told him that Karen was a minister so he told the man behind us (who evidently wrote the screenplay of Blazing Saddles - Thane spoke with him) to watch himself because he sitting by a minister. Then, he kissed Karen on the head. He took photos with us...if fact, he directed the shoot. His son took the photo (it is on Brenda's camera so I will have to post this later).
When he went to leave, I gave him one of my newly constructed letters and said, don't forget to call me. He claimed he didn't know anything, but he just wanted to hug and kiss me. I said, he could certainly do that too.
From Angus we headed to Barnes and Noble in Union Square. Tom Brokaw was doing a reading. We were told when we arrived that he had pre-signed the books and would not be taken questions....darn. I bought a book anyway.
What a presence this man is. When he opens his mouth that voice is captivating. He walked us through the "gist" of his new book Boom! which is about the plight of a lowly Zip feed building in South Dakota that refused to give into "the man" of contemporary architecture....just kidding.
It is about the significant influence of the 1960's.
He did end up taking questions. I posed the following:
K: I am a professor on sabbatical in the city studying the Theory of Dakotivity. My best friend Beth Minor O'Toole claims 'all roads lead to Yankton.' Would you like to comment on this?
(He smirked a bit)
TB: She is referring to the town I grew up in.
K: There are a few of us from Sioux Falls in the audience.
TB: Sioux Falls. That's the big city.
He never did answer the question. Instead he spun it back to the book....that's why he makes the big bucks. After the questions, he was swept out a side door and gone. Who knew that meeting a SD native son would be harder than Mel Brooks?
To watch the video of the Brokaw event and my debut on Barnes and Noble media broadcast go to http://media.barnesandnoble.com/index.jsp?fr_chl=dffcb6f80ab19f65d2e40ae1fb7a9dc449458c38. The entire broadcast is @ 50 minutes. I ask my question at about the 36th minute.
Afterwards, we met Sarah Vanderwoude another native Sodak and dear friend on the Paulson's. Sarah works for FOX news from 12:30 am until 10 am. So, she is meeting us before going to work. We walked from Union Square, through Washington Square Park and over to my apartment in "Pleasantville." After the 2.2 minute tour of my tiny apartment we enjoyed the weather out on my fire escape. Brenda made the observation that the entire building reminded her of Breakfast at Tiffany's. It's true. From the hallway to the fire escape, I am walking in Audry Hepburn's shoes....just call me Holly Golightly.
We ended out evening together having a wonderful Italian meal on W. 56th street. This is such indulgence for me. If it isn't a bagel, a slice of pizza or cheese and crackers, I probably can't afford it. We feasted on prosciutto wrapped mozzarella, crustini, crab-encrusted salmon, and homemade fettucini. The conversation was a delicious as the meal. These are dear people.
We walked back down to Times Square and said our "goodnights." I continued on and walked all the way home. When do you get temps and nights like this in November?
On a personal note, for anyone that reads this. Please pray for my dad. As most of you know, we have been fighting colon cancer since May. For the last month his heart has not handled the new doses of chemo. He is back in the heart hospital, and we are waiting for a new approach to deal with the cancer. Please include him, my mom and the rest of the family as we continue to search for answers.
Michele Pawk called and invited meto see the matinee of The Overwhelming. Perfect. I saw it in previews, have since read the script, and attended the talk-balk with Rogers (playwright) and Robert (lead). I was excited about the opportunity to see it again.
What a difference a month can make. This play is set in 1994 just as the massacre in Rwanda was escalating towards it pinnacle of horror. I was-appropriately-moved by it. It is rich with soundbites about one's duty to change the world, such as:
Jack: Look, Mandela, Jefferson: Their impact can't be denied. But glorifying a handful of great individuals releases us from responsibility...you, me. We're the ones who have to be willing to stand up and make a difference. This is how history moves us forward. One pebble redirects the river!
Buisson: But what if the river becomes an ocean?
Linda: Then you get more pebbles.
The climax of the play was chilling for me this time because it moved from me experiencing it only aesthetically, to really hearing the warning for all nations at the end. Mizinga, a leader of the Rwanda bloody rebel forces, says to the American family as they are cradling one another in a corner (an obvious piece of directorial metaphor):
Mizinga: This will mean nothing to you soon. All of us, we will mean nothing. This is so unimportant to you. You will go home and forget. How fortunate you are.
As he delivered the lines, he slowly turned to leave letting his eye contact break the 4th wall and fall on the audience. Powerful.
Sam Robarts was much stronger in the piece as he has settled into the role. However, Linda Powell who plays his wife was not on the same level. I may have some trouble with Roger's development of this female academic, so it may not have been entirely her problem that there was weakness. Also, I never realized that there was a casting problem with her too. Because of all the reference to her being an African American, this character need to be darker. In order for her personal complexity in the script to work, she needed to be able to be mistaken for a local. Frankly, without being told throughout the script, the audience would never have known her ethnicity. Those playing the government officials from American, Germany, France and Rwanda delivered powerful performances.
After the show, Michele and I went backstage. What a treat to be able to tell actors how much their work moved us.
After the matinee, I went to meet my South Dakota friends who had arrived. I actually ran into Thane and Brenda Paulson and Karen Sumner on 8th Avenue on my way to meet them at the restaurant. As they had just eaten and I hadn't, I suggest Angus McIndoe so we could do some "star gazing." We were not disappointed.
As we were being seated, I said to them, "I was sitting there (pointing) and Mel Brooks was sitting at this table when I met him last week." The waiter said, "Mr. Brooks is in the back." I grabbed a business card and went to the back. In the far back corned sat Kerri Butler at an obvious business meeting and around the corner was Mr. Brooks....I love this restaurant.
Here is the dialogue:
K: Hello. Please know I am not stalking you. I just heard you were here and want to say,"hi."
M: Kim Bartling!
K: Mr. Brooks, I brought my big purse today, and I have a proper card for you.
M: Please meet my son Nicholas. She is a teacher.from South Dakota.
(pleasantries all around)
K: Would mind doing me a favor before you leave?
M: Absolutely, I would love to stop by your table.
K: (laughing becuase I didn't even have to ask) That was be so nice of you. Friends from SD are here, and they would be honored to meet you.
(he gets up kisses my cheek...turns to his son)
M: I would do anything for this woman. I love her.
So, I go back to my table, share in great conversation with Thane, Brenda and Karen (and much on some calamari). Sure enough, Mel Brooks works his way through the room, and believe me, he works a room. Because so many people in the business of theatre hang out there, he knows everyone and talks graciously to each and everyone of them.
He comes to our table and meets my friends. How fun! I told him that Karen was a minister so he told the man behind us (who evidently wrote the screenplay of Blazing Saddles - Thane spoke with him) to watch himself because he sitting by a minister. Then, he kissed Karen on the head. He took photos with us...if fact, he directed the shoot. His son took the photo (it is on Brenda's camera so I will have to post this later).
When he went to leave, I gave him one of my newly constructed letters and said, don't forget to call me. He claimed he didn't know anything, but he just wanted to hug and kiss me. I said, he could certainly do that too.
From Angus we headed to Barnes and Noble in Union Square. Tom Brokaw was doing a reading. We were told when we arrived that he had pre-signed the books and would not be taken questions....darn. I bought a book anyway.
What a presence this man is. When he opens his mouth that voice is captivating. He walked us through the "gist" of his new book Boom! which is about the plight of a lowly Zip feed building in South Dakota that refused to give into "the man" of contemporary architecture....just kidding.
It is about the significant influence of the 1960's.
He did end up taking questions. I posed the following:
K: I am a professor on sabbatical in the city studying the Theory of Dakotivity. My best friend Beth Minor O'Toole claims 'all roads lead to Yankton.' Would you like to comment on this?
(He smirked a bit)
TB: She is referring to the town I grew up in.
K: There are a few of us from Sioux Falls in the audience.
TB: Sioux Falls. That's the big city.
He never did answer the question. Instead he spun it back to the book....that's why he makes the big bucks. After the questions, he was swept out a side door and gone. Who knew that meeting a SD native son would be harder than Mel Brooks?
To watch the video of the Brokaw event and my debut on Barnes and Noble media broadcast go to http://media.barnesandnoble.com/index.jsp?fr_chl=dffcb6f80ab19f65d2e40ae1fb7a9dc449458c38. The entire broadcast is @ 50 minutes. I ask my question at about the 36th minute.
Afterwards, we met Sarah Vanderwoude another native Sodak and dear friend on the Paulson's. Sarah works for FOX news from 12:30 am until 10 am. So, she is meeting us before going to work. We walked from Union Square, through Washington Square Park and over to my apartment in "Pleasantville." After the 2.2 minute tour of my tiny apartment we enjoyed the weather out on my fire escape. Brenda made the observation that the entire building reminded her of Breakfast at Tiffany's. It's true. From the hallway to the fire escape, I am walking in Audry Hepburn's shoes....just call me Holly Golightly.
We ended out evening together having a wonderful Italian meal on W. 56th street. This is such indulgence for me. If it isn't a bagel, a slice of pizza or cheese and crackers, I probably can't afford it. We feasted on prosciutto wrapped mozzarella, crustini, crab-encrusted salmon, and homemade fettucini. The conversation was a delicious as the meal. These are dear people.
We walked back down to Times Square and said our "goodnights." I continued on and walked all the way home. When do you get temps and nights like this in November?
On a personal note, for anyone that reads this. Please pray for my dad. As most of you know, we have been fighting colon cancer since May. For the last month his heart has not handled the new doses of chemo. He is back in the heart hospital, and we are waiting for a new approach to deal with the cancer. Please include him, my mom and the rest of the family as we continue to search for answers.
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