AN EMOTIONAL WEEK

This week has been full of highs and lows for me. Last weekend I went to hear my friends Diahanna & Tom try out some of their new songs for their friends. They are a talented duo and I really enjoyed listening to their music. I had a wonderful time and have even learned a new term from Tom: "pussy rock."

On Monday I learned that I would be taking part of the Silicon Valley Symphony's production of The Most Happy Fella. I owe so much to my brilliant friend Billy Liberatore who sent me the audition info and gave me a challenging and terrific role. I have wanted to be in a past production of theirs and wires got crossed and it didn't happen so I was just thrilled that I will be a part of this show with an amazing cast that includes Phantom of the Opera star Lisa Vroman. I will write more about Lisa at another time. I have been a fan of hers since I was a teenager - what an inspiration and I can't describe how cool it is to be sharing the stage with her. I play Giuseppe one of three Italian opera singing chefs. High A's: bring it on!! With only four days rehearsal and three performances, the week of March 8-14 should be a hectic, exciting, scary and fun one. Other amazing people in the cast include my NDNU friend Beth Guido, my former voice teacher Debra Lambert and the fabulous Annmarie Martin. Annmarie and I haven't worked together since we did Anything Goes at BBBAY 10 years ago!! (I was Moonface to her Reno) She is such a hoot and I am so looking forward to this project. I know of another friend in the show but she hasn't announced it yet and I will wait to gush until she does.

On Friday I went to see NDNU's production of Chicago and my friend Kris Hauck and I had a great time. Kudos to the entire company. Alanna Pinnell who will be Dottie's assistant choreographer in my production of Urinetown was a fabulous Velma, Mike Reed was a terrific Billy Flynn and Samantha Bruce a delicious Roxie Hart. I have to single out the incredible Heather Orth. I was beyond proud of her. I have been a friend of her mom Robyn Tribuzi for many years and the fruit did not fall far from that talented tree. She knocked it out of the park as Mama Morton. Some of us went out to Heidi's Pies after the show and a great time was had by all. The show runs until next weekend and I recommend it.

Finally, a devastating loss to the world happened this week. My beloved friend Beverly Grant-Walsh passed away after her 10 month battle with cancer. I can't describe how special she was and how many people's lives she touched. I will never forget her and all the wonderful times we had offstage in the wings. She was one of the most sincere and genuine individuals I have ever known. Rest in peace Bev and shine that beautiful smile over us. Keep her husband Mike Walsh in your thoughts and prayers.

Love you very much my friend.

Hope y'all are doing well and hug someone you love this week. Life is so short and we should constantly remind each other that we are loved.

Martin