WANT SOMETHING, WANT SOMETHING...

As we prepare for our Opening Night of Company, I think about what a wonderful connection I feel to this show and how wonderful that this show happened to come about and at this particular stage of my life. Somethings are meant to happen I guess. A few days ago I started to think about the wonderful Pamela Myers (the original Bway Marta) who I got to work with during my first gig at an Equity house (also with the inspiring Billy Liberatore) and how kind and wonderful she was. Listening to her rendition of Another Hundred People always gives me chills.

I also thought about the incomparable Elaine Stritch (the original Bway Joanne) and how with one tiny gesture she managed to inspire me out of a self-induced life coma. I'll never forget being at the Curran Theatre in a box seat watching her perform Ladies who Lunch nor could I forget holding her hands as she greeted me backstage. This was a particular rough part of life, and Ms. Stritch reached out and told me that things would be okay. What an amazing lady.

Tonight, after our final dress rehearsal and incredibly short rehearsal time, I couldn't help but shed a few tears, just thinking how lucky I am to have been asked to come back to my alma mater with my recent degree and as a professional guest artist and to be able to perform this sophisticated, funny and inspiring work about life, love and the pursuit of happiness with these amazing individuals. Performing "Sondheim" is not easy to do and this amazing cast would make him proud.

I love my beloved cast members, but especially the beautiful and amazing Shannon Kilpatrick, who breaks my heart with her showstopping portrayal of Amy. What an amazing acting partner. Our scene, so brilliantly constructed by George Furth is just a incredible piece of theatre. This is not your ordinary university musical production. This is, as our wonderful and inspiring director Greg Fritsch would say,"...this is art."

I hope you come see us.

Cheers

Martin