Monday, June 02, 2008

closing the latest show

written on my laptop on a train back to NYC

I think that the hours after a show closes are pretty indicative of the experience. You find out a lot about the true relationship between cast members. Sometimes you do a show with a bunch of people that you like, but after the final curtain you all shake hands and go your separate ways.

Last night was not one of those nights.

Someone in the Fox City community really liked the show and offered up their bar, so after the show most of us trooped over there, and we put on a display of exuberance rarely seen at this level of theater. We were doing shots, hugging, making noise, yelling, stumbling, making out in bathrooms, talking about water sports – it was amazing. The party went back to our “corporate apartment”, where the party lasted until the wee hours. I went to bed a little after five – only because I had to get up at nine to do laundry and pack in time for my noon train (which ended up leaving at 12:30).

What was so great was that there was a real sense of appreciation for everyone involved with the process, from the director down to the smallest ensemble member. I know that people throw phrases like this around, but this was truly the most talented cast I’ve ever been a part of. If we could have had more rehearsal time and a longer run… I’m grateful for all of the people I’ve met, and I’m looking forward to staying in touch with them in the coming months, as well as adding to my stable of Facebook friends.

Two things I’m taking away from the Fox City experience:

1. I had my best show last night. Despite having people in the audience for three consecutive shows, and having a day filled with sightseeing, I managed to save the best for last. It’s always nice to end up top.

2. I feel like this show has put me on another level. I managed to hold my own with some fantastic – and semi-famous – actors, who believe in me and my work. As a result, I have some real momentum going into this summer, when I am going to try and do several things to improve my marketability and make new contacts. I’m excited to hit the ground running.

Hopefully I’ll be back in Fox City soon to do something else. I didn’t get to explore the city nearly as much as I’d like.

2 comments:

crankymommy said...

way to go, dude. I am really sorry I missed it.

when I worked at that theatre, it was the same thing... we were all madly in love with each other, which doesn't always happen on a show... that's what I miss the most about working in theatre, but it doesn't always work out that way, you know?

Melissa said...

I loved you all... and I only saw one show! I'm so glad to hear that you had such a great experience there. That's something to treasure.