2ND WEEKEND OF THE SECRET GARDEN

The second weekend of shows went very nicely (except Saturday night which featured a new piano player in the orchestra who seemed to be playing a completely different show but alas we persevered.) even though some of us were feeling a bit under the weather. Audiences have been so wonderful to us - I really didn't expect the show to be so well received. I have done my share of community theatre but there's something about the heart of this production that really touches people. I know I have to fight (and ultimately give in) to tears at the end of the piece.

I had car trouble this weekend and my saviours were my dear friends Kris & Laurie - who are amazing in the show. Laurie spends most of her time backstage in the men's dressing room next to me and we are having such a blast.

There are some incredible people in this show and I can honestly say that I get along with all of them (not always the case with every show) but I do have to mention my beloved Patti Appel - I especially felt that during Sunday's show there was a sort of spark in the atmosphere. She makes playing Archie so worthwhile because she breaks my heart as Lily (just as she did in Cabaret a few years ago - twice!!) We share a wonderful passion for performing and I love playing opposite her.

There are two actors playing Colin (my son in the show) and two actresses playing Mary - and even though they are all wonderful in their own way - my favorite is little Conner Pope - who is 11 years old and just too darn cute for words. He is such a great kid and he makes us all laugh backstage. I have had my share of theatre experiences with kids - and trust me most aren't memorable but this kid is aces and it is a pleasure to work with him. Here's a pic of Conner & Patti (my son & wife =+)

The next couple of weeks are going to be tough because of all the school assignments I have due before school is out - this happens every year - teachers are so fucking evil. They wait until the end of the semester to have the most difficult assignments due. It is countdown until December 16th as then school will be over for the semester and the show will have ended its run leaving me 4 weeks of doing absolutely nothing!

Okay - that's all from me - have a great week y'all!

Hope to see you at the show.

=+)

Martin