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Wednesday, July 26th, 2006
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I know I haven't posted here for quite some time. That's because I've finally decided to just move my blog to MySpace. So, I apologize to anyone who has been looking for info on me and can't find it, but check me out at
http://www.myspace.com/montilicious.
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Comments: Read 1 or Add Your Own.
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Last week I ended up putting in over 70 hours at work. I had to ditch out of my friend Heather's wedding reception on Saturday because the box office ended up being short staffed. Sunday I spent nine hours helping shut down the building and move everything out to our temporary storage. And this was my downfall for the rest of the week.
I'm not exactly in the best of shape. I have a lot of lower back issues. Well, when I woke up on Monday it was a little sore. I didn't think much of it. I did some stretching. I took a hot shower to help relax the muscles. I thought I'd be fine. Wrong. All day it kept getting worse. I think someone switched out my office chair because I could not get comfortable all day. Slowly all the tension in my back built back up again. By the end of the day I'd started to not feel so hot. The tension in my back starting causing me to get a minor anxiety attack.
I left the office and headed over to the ISU Senior Showcase at Steppenwolf. I thought I just needed to get out of the office. Walk around a bit and stretch things out. I had to get off the El at Fullerton cause the anxiety started to make me claustrophobic. I walked from the Fullerton Red line to Steppenwolf, and I was feeling better. Again, until I got to Steppenwolf. I checked in and suddenly it hit me hard. I got hit with a hot flash. My legs felt like they were turning to Jello. I felt nauseous and dizzy. My mouth went dry and I got totally dehydrated. I tried sitting down and doing some breathing exercises, but that didn't feel like it was helping. I stepped outside for some fresh air. That didn't help either. I kept getting more and more nauseous. Finally I decided it wasn't worth sticking around and I was going home. I caught the first cab that would stop for me. By the time I got home I started to feel better, but the knot in my back started to just throb. I got home and climbed into bed so i could lie down and stretch out my back. I ended up falling asleep almost right away.
I feel like an idiot now. I left the Showcase after 5 minutes. It was long enough for everyone to see me show up and then not see me disappear. I wish I could have stuck around to support my friends. I don't know how many of those folks I'm going to see again. I also didn't get to hang out with a friend of mine from WCC that I haven't see in years. Over all, I just feel stupid about everything.
I need to get someone to work out the tension in my back. If anyone can recommend a massage therapist that would be wonderful. Unfortunately, money is definitely an issue. The last person to try and work anything out said it was like working knots out of wood. I just can't let this affect my summer.
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Thursday, April 27th, 2006
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Well, since people have been asking I'm going to assume at least some of you care about the outcome of my audition last weekend. For those that don't know what I'm talking about I'll explain.
Last week I received an email stating a friend of mine had recommended me for a part in a show. The show is a staged performance of an original "Arrested Development" script. The part is GOB. They were a week or so into rehearsals and the original actor had to drop out. The audition was Sunday afternoon.
I figure that I've got nothing to lose so I respond and scheduled my audition. Now, the thing to keep in mind is that I haven't been on stage since I graduated from ISU 2 years ago. The good news was that I didn't need a monologue. I was just going to be reading sides from the script. The bad news was that I never got my headshots done.
It was Betsy to the rescue. Betsy made me look pretty good for only 30 minutes and a little digital camera. I through together my resume and I was basically set. Except for the fact that I hadn't seen many episodes of AD before this weekend. Saturday I went out and picked up Season 1 and now I'm totally obsessed with this show. It's brilliant.
So, Sunday was the audition. I got there about 15 minutes early so I could relax and center myself. The audition itself was scheduled for 2:30PM and there were two of us who were reading. They gave us two different sides and we took turns going in and reading with the director and his assistant. The director gave me a couple notes and asked me to read again. I read 3 times on each side. Rehearsal that afternoon was starting at 3PM, so we didn't have a ton of time. The director went over to the other guy in my time slot, said thank you and goodbye, and then came over to me. He asked if I could stick around for rehearsal, not that I had the part. I then rehearsed a couple scenes with the cast and the director was giving me a bunch of notes (mostly character and context). After rehearsal he said that I didn't necessarily have the part, but he sent me home with a script and a couple copies of the DVD's. But I didn't necessarily have the part. I was told to expect a call that night.
Well, that was Sunday. I haven't heard anything since, so I'm assuming I didn't get the part. I sent them a courtesy email the next day, just saying thank you for taking the time to bring me in for an audition, that I enjoyed myself, and I looked forward to hearing from them. Still nothing.
Not that I'm surprised, because, quite frankly, despite all the signs saying that they were interested...I felt like I sucked it up big time. I definitely can tell that I haven't been on stage or taken any classes in the last two years. It was one of my worst auditions. I tried to do what the director was asking of me, but I never felt like I understood. I was over-emoting, stiff in my movement, and using this bizarre character voice that never seemed right. He kept asking me to go further with everything but everything seemed so over the top to begin with I was uncertain of myself and therefore too restrained. It was just bizarre; because when everyone else was giving slightly more subdued performances he just kept asking me to be bigger and more animated and affecting this character voice that I just couldn't find.
In the end, I am so happy I went on the audition. I had a great time and despite not getting cast it was a definite ego boost. It has also encouraged me to consider auditioning more. I definitely don't want to pursue it as a career. But I do miss being onstage. I miss having a creative outlet. First I need real headshots, which means a few months of saving money. Second I need to take some classes around the city. I definitely want to take an auditioning seminar. I could use a lot more help on my auditioning skills. But also, I just need to refocus myself and become comfortable exposing myself emotionally. Who knows, it might even help my dating life.
Thank you Morgan for recommending me. I had a great afternoon and I owe it to you.
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Wednesday, April 12th, 2006
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Where do I begin? I've been a bit busy lately. ComedySportz is in a transition period right now. The administrative offices move next Monday and the rest of the theater moves on April 30th. So a lot of time has been spent organizing and packing and preparing for the big move.
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Last weekend was "A Farewell to 2851". It was a kind of public wake for the building. We hosted members from Steppenwolf, Goodman, St. Nicholas, Touchstone/Organic, and the general Chicago theater community for a day of saying goodbye to this theater landmark. It was very cool to see Jeff Perry, Al Wilder, Roz Alexander, Danny Goldring, and Beth Caputo acting on the CSz stage. Also, to have the chance to meet and talk with these people about what they remember from working in this building (and also talk to Jeff and Al about ISU). It was definitely a happy-sad day.
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Tom and I are back on good terms. I don't know whats going on with that whole relationship or whatever it is. It's a game and we're making up the rules as we go. It's Calvinball Dating.
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I've been having some weird dreams lately. Some totally random dreams involving ex-boyfriends and bizzare situations. I think spring fever is starting to hit. But also, some really odd dreams involving tornadoes. I've had several tornado dreams in the last 2 weeks. Does anybody know what tornadoes are supposed to represent in dreams? Do they mean anything or is this just me being insane again?
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My anxiety attacks aren't as bad as they had been. I've started getting more sleep and cutting back on the partying. I had an appointment with a therapist my doctor recommended when he couldn't find anything physically wrong but I showed up at her office to find out she was sick and someone forgot to call me to reschedule it. I wasn't able to reschedule right then, so I still don't know if I'll ever get in for that. But as long as my anxiety isn't as bad as it had been, I'll get around to it eventually.
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Yesterday I played hooky at work and went to the Cubs game. It was a beautiful day for a game. If only the Cubs didn't get their asses kicked it would have been perfect. I made it a full day of fun. Betsy, Ann, and I got to Wrigley about 11:15 for batting practice. The game started at 1:20. Great seats in the first section up right along the first baseline. Eventually Chad, Justine, Joey, Joe, Kelly, and Alan showed up. After the game we headed over to the Cubby Bear to meet up with James and Diyah, and Nate was bartending. Eventually CB was closing so Chad, Justine, and our new friends Christine and Uta (and some crazy guy whose name I forget but was really trying to get Uta home with him...weird creepy guy) decided it would be a great idea to head to Frank's. Eventually I made it home, but I was very drunk and now I am very hungover and broke. But thats a price I'm willing to pay for a great day with some great friends. I need to play hooky more often, and hopefully next time the Cubs will win.
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Saturday, April 1st, 2006
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This week has been a little rough for me. There is this guy who I really liked and we tend to antagonize each other a lot. It's mostly an attention thing. We like getting each other riled up because it means the other is paying attention. I went a little too far last weekend and didn't realize it until too late. Now he's not speaking to me.
I found out he went out with his ex-bf earlier this week. I should say his cheating, abusive ex-bf. I've never met this guy but I truly hate him. He doesn't care about anyone or anything if it doesn't help him get off. I'm just worried now that they might get back together. Not because I want to get back with this guy (although I would like that despite how unlikely it is to happen) but because it would be totally wrong for him. He just started school and is doing well. He's excited about it. It's inspiring. And he's doing it all on his own, which I can't fathom being able to do. His ex won't care about any of this. I just don't want him to fall behind in his classes or do anything that would jeopardize achieving his goal of getting out of Chicago.
I will survive if he doesn't talk to me. But still, I just worry about him. That's been my week. Worrying. I've wanted to be angry. I wanted to be bitter. I can't. I just keep worrying that he's going to need someone to be there and I won't be able to help.
Is that selfish? I want him to be happy. I wish I could be there to enjoy it with him. Our relationship was never the easiest. We had a lot of problems. But it seemed that despite our own personal screw ups we always knew we liked each other. Last week I ruined that. Now he hates me and I don't know what to do.
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Final curtain to fall on the '2851' building
March 31, 2006
BY HEDY WEISS Theater Critic
Rondi Reed has always believed that the theater building at 2851 N. Halsted was haunted.
"We'd be down on the main floor rehearsing, and we'd hear footsteps above us," recalled the Steppenwolf Theatre actress who is now playing Madame Morrible in the Chicago production of "Wicked." "Or we'd be in the office on the second floor and hear someone walking above. Or a door would suddenly shut."
The ghosts will soon be homeless. Or perhaps they will just bide their time and take up residence again in Halsted Row. That's the development of 44 upscale condos and 15,000 square feet of commercial space stretching from 2845 to 2909 N. Halsted that will soon replace the legendary Off Loop theater and its scraggly surrounding property.
The theater at 2851 N. Halsted (originally a bakery), was a pivotal spot in Chicago's Off Loop theater movement. At various points since the 1970s it has served as home to the legendary St. Nicholas Theatre (co-founded by David Mamet); to Steppenwolf Theatre (during the crucial period between residence at the now-demolished Jane Addams Hull House Theater at Broadway and Belmont, and its current home at 1650 N. Halsted); the Organic-Touchstone Theatre and, most recently, Comedy-Sportz, the improv company. But the building has a date with the wrecking ball this May. So on April 9, just before it will all turn to dust, its current occupants plan to host a farewell party.
"This place just has so much history," said Greg Werstler, managing director of ComedySportz, which will be moving to temporary quarters at the Fizz bar this summer while it renovates a new home. "And we thought it was important to have one last moment in the space, a formal goodbye, and to let people see things like the wall where the Steppenwolf actors listed each show they did and made hatch marks for every performance."
Stuart Oken, now head of Elephant Eye Productions, a company devoted to developing new musicals, vividly recalls his own history at the theater. In 1976 he was managing director of the Organic Theatre, but along with business partner Jason Brett he wanted to present his own production of "Moonchildren," Michael Weller's tale of hippie-era college grads.
"We had raised the money, and we were pulling Bob Falls out of his last semester at the University of Illinois to direct, but we didn't have a theater," Oken said. "We heard the St. Nicholas people [W. H. Macy and Steven Schacter] were building a new space, but they'd run out of money before being able to stage a transfer of Mamet's 'American Buffalo.' So we made a deal with them, paying all our rent upfront, giving them a six-week run, and then coming in with our show."
After St. Nicholas, it was Steppenwolf's turn to occupy the space. And Rondi Reed recalls how the move from the 125-seat Hull House to the 200-plus seat theater at 2851 made many people nervous.
"They said we'd never fill twice as many seats, and that we were way out of hand with our growth," said the actress. "So it was a big step for us, a very important time in our history."
"And I'll never forget [John] Malkovich stopping me in the stairwell of that building one day and saying 'Rondi, I've got to leave; I've got to go to New York; I've done everything I could here.' It felt like my big brother was going away to school."
Reed also remembers July 4,1984, when she was performing in Sam Shepard's "Fool for Love" with William L. Petersen, "and after the show we all went up to the roof and shot off fireworks."
And there was her admittedly "disastrous" direction of "Ring Around the Moon," too. "Kevin Rigdon designed a real goldfish pond and the morning after the fish were put in it we found them floating belly up," said Reed. "That should have told me something."
Ina Marlowe, whose company was in residence at 2851 N. Halsted from 1992-99, staged many memorable productions there, including Wendy Wasserstein's "An American Daughter" and Sebastian Barry's "The Steward of Christendom."
"I loved directing in that space," said Marlowe, who was still a graduate student when she assisted on a production of Peter Handke's "A Sorrow Beyond Dreams," featuring John Malkovich and directed by Falls. (She also briefly lived on the third floor of the building when she was between homes.) "The problem was always that it was a very expensive building to run, especially the huge utility bills."
For Martha Lavey, now artistic director of Steppenwolf, the 2851 theater marked her first major professional appearance -- and it was quite a star turn as she portrayed the strange, troubled girl, Lemon, in Wallace Shawn's "Aunt Dan and Lemon," directed by Frank Galati.
"I have a tremendous fondness for that theater," said Lavey. "I remember how there were three dressing rooms all in a row and kind of connected, with little distinction by actor or gender -- and no showers you'd want to use. After the shows we'd go to the little Gaslight bar across the street."
For Steven Golovan, the developer of the site, the most worrying part of the whole deal was unearthing artist-photographer Fred Burkhart who had a gallery on the street for decades.
"I bought a large painting of his that used to hang in the Salt & Pepper Restaurant on Lincoln Avenue, and that will definitely hang in the lobby of the new building with a plaque about his history," he said. "I love the arts, and I've been extremely accommodating to ComedySportz." (Its administrators agree.)
As for a plaque about the theater, no promises, but he hasn't ruled it out. So now is the time for all theatergoers with a sense of history to push for a plan.
THE '2851' FAREWELL PARTY
1-4 p.m. April 9
ComedySportz Theatre at 2851 N. Halsted
Tickets, $25 (limited spaces)
(773) 549-8080
THE FESTIVITIES
Here's the schedule for the April 9 farewell (times are approximate):
1-1:30 p.m.: Champagne brunch.
1:30-2 p.m.: Readings from past productions at the theater, including Danny Goldring and Bethany Caputo in "Reunion," by David Mamet (presented by the St. Nicholas Theatre in 1976); Steppenwolf Theatre co-founder Jeff Perry in Harold Pinter's "The Caretaker" (staged here in 1985, with John Malkovich directing, and later moved to New York); Roslyn Alexander in Donald Margulies' "Collected Stories" (presented by the Organic-Touchstone Theatre in 1999), and ComedySportz in an improv game called "Blind Line," which involves the use of a line from an existing play, and here will include excerpts from "American Buffalo" and other works performed in the building over the years.
2-3:30 p.m.: Panel about the history of the theater, including retired theater critic Richard Christiansen; director Ina Marlowe and designer Kevin Snow of Organic-Touchstone; David Gaudet, owner of ComedySportz, along with shared stories from those in the audience.
3:30-4 p.m.: Guided tour of building with exhibit of memorabilia on three floors, and continued reception.
A CRITIC REMEMBERS
The truth is, it was never an ideal space. The long, narrow stage, and similar rows of seating, made the blocking of a play and audience sight lines something of a nightmare. And there was no fly space for scenery. Yet for the sheer potency of theater memories, 2851 N. Halsted couldn't be beat.
You learned to dress down for shows there, too, especially during the Steppenwolf Theatre days (remember "Coyote Ugly"?) and during a commercial remount of Tracy Letts' "Killer Joe." Theatergoers in the first few rows were just inches away from the performers. And it could be quite a wild and messy ride. Here are a few top memories:
Peter Handke's A Sorrow Beyond Dreams, with John Malkovich playing a man haunted by his mother's suicide.
Lyle Kessler's Orphans, with John Mahoney as the gentlemanly gangster who plays dad to the wild boys played Kevin Anderson and Terry Kinney.
Wallace Shawn's Aunt Dan and Lemon, with Martha Lavey and Molly Regan as the odd student-mentor pair.
Athol Fugard's A Lesson from Aloes, with the very proper Joan Allen and the powerhouse Danny Glover neatly matched in this South African tale.
Hedy Weiss
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Wednesday, March 29th, 2006
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Smile tho' your heart is aching,
Smile even tho' it's breaking,
When there are clouds in the sky
You'll get by,
If you smile
thro' your fear and sorrow,
Smile and maybe tomorrow,
You'll see the sun come shin-ing thro' for you
Light up your face with gladness,
Hide ev-'ry trace of sadness,
Al -'tho a tear may be ever so near,
That's the time,
You must keep on trying,
Smile, what's the use of crying,
You'll find that life is still worth-while,
If you just smile,
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Tuesday, March 28th, 2006
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So, I started out today with energy and I was ready to go. Right now, I am dragging ass. It's something about working in an office by myself without any windows that drains me. I can't wait for this summer when I will actually get to spend some time in the sun. Right now all I want to do is sleep. I'd go tanning just to make it feel like I've been in the sun, but I think I'd look weird with a fake-bake tan. I've already got dark skin. I don't want to be orange. I still might, just to see if I get some energy out of it.
My anxiety attacks have decreased, so thats a good thing. I still get them a little, but nothing crippling or as frequent as they were. I went to the doctor and he doesn't hink they are anything to worry about. It's not like I've got stress in my life or anything. I've got an appointment with a socio-psycho-someone who will hopefully be able to tell me that its all just in my head and to stop worrying so much. I'd atleast prefer that over the pharmacological solution. I just don't like the idea of getting doped up just to function.
I had a blast this weekend at ISU Theater Alumni Karaoke: Part 2. If you didn't go to after hours, go next time. It was fun as well. I'm really starting to like Frank's. Who knew I'd have multiple bars in this city I could walk into and be friends with the staff. I like it. If you haven't heard already, I won a VIP party there (Franks, 250 N Clark, Chicago) on Sunday, April 2nd. It starts at 8pm. Free drinks from 9-10pm. I know its a Sunday, but it only goes until 10. Even you 9-5'ers can stay out that late every now and then.
Work is hectic right now. We are prepping for our office move in two weeks and then totally moving out of the theater at the end of April. On top of that we've got a special Farewell event to our space on April 9th that includes ComedySportz, Steppenwolf, Goodman, Organic, Touchstone, and St. Nicholas Theaters. We've added a Friday night Midnight show and a Wednesday night primetime show in April. Starting in May we are working out of a temporary space and I'm letting my entire staff go. Same ammount of work, but I'm going to be 9 people down. YAY! Watch Monty's head explode.
I'm never good at ending these. I feel like there should be some sort of resolution/conclusion. A kind of moral that ties everything together. I can't think of one for this post, so I shall just leave you with a maxim that gets me through my day.
"There is not business like show business, but there are several businesses like accounting."
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First I was afraid
I was petrified
Kept thinking I could never live
without you by my side
But I spent so many nights
thinking how you did me wrong
I grew strong
I learned how to carry on
and so you're back
from outer space
I just walked in to find you here
with that sad look upon your face
I should have changed my stupid lock
I should have made you leave your key
If I had known for just one second
you'd be back to bother me
Go on now go walk out the door
just turn around now
'cause you're not welcome anymore
weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
you think I'd crumble
you think I'd lay down and die
Oh no, not I
I will survive
as long as i know how to love
I know I will stay alive
I've got all my life to live
I've got all my love to give
and I'll survive
I will survive
It took all the strength I had
not to fall apart
kept trying hard to mend
the pieces of my broken heart
and I spent oh so many nights
just feeling sorry for myself
I used to cry
Now I hold my head up high
and you see me
somebody new
I'm not that chained up little person
still in love with you
and so you felt like dropping in
and just expect me to be free
now I'm saving all my loving
for someone who's loving me
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Hosted By: Christopher Weise
When: Saturday Mar 25, 2006
at 10:00 PM
Where: Gio's Sports Bar
4857 N Damen Ave
Chicago , IL
US
Description:
Christopher Weise
Click Here To View Event
Ladies and Gentlemen,
ISU Theatre Alumni Karaoke is back! We had a great turn out last month. At the height of the evenings revelry there were about 20 to 25 of us there. It was sweet. Ask anyone who attended. Hopefully this time we can get around 30. (Yeah I'm looking at you, and you! You know who you are.)
Gio's is a fun sport's bar on Damen. Please spread the word. Feel free to bring as many people as you like: family, friends, personal slaves and assistants, pets...etc...
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Saturday, March 18th, 2006
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St. Patrick's Day didn't turn out to be the bust I thought it was. After having Mexican for lunch and a can of soup for dinner (I really had a taste for corned beef and cabbage), I think I managed to turn the rest of the night around. I watched John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara fall in love in "The Quiet Man" (a St.PDay tradition). Then I, naturally, went to Joey's Brickhouse after dinner to hang out. I also had some stuff to drop off for on of the staff. When I got there I figured I'd just stop in, have a cider and a stout and leave. Who wants to hang out in a bar run by Italian Jews on the most Irish of holidays? Well, Joey managed to surprise me again. The specials last night were fish and chips or corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. I tried the fish was excellent, but decided to order the corned beef. OMG. I usually don't go crazy for food, but I really had a taste for it, it's a family tradition for me, and they did an incredible job with it. The beef just melted in my mouth. This Irish boy was definitely happy. I then proceeded in the proud Irish pub tradition to get plastered and make a new friend. Ryan is a former member of the Air Force and avid improv enthusiast who wandered into Joey's. He started getting a little out of control, so I figured I'd talk to him and keep him calm. So, he had someone to talk to and I had someone who kept buying me drinks. Doubt I'll ever see him again, but that doesn't matter much. Betsy showed up and we had a good laugh about the situation. I managed to make it home and into bed. Now I do laundry and get ready for a late night at ComedySportz. My staff isn't able (sometimes it seems willing) to fill out the schedule I need and now it's my responsibility to cover for them. So, I'm selling concessions tonight. I think I'm going to take a few extra days off in the coming weeks to make up for all the time I've had to cover for my staff.
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May you be in
Heaven a half hour before the
Devil knows you're dead!
There are many good reasons for drinking,
One has just entered my head.
If a man doesn't drink when he's living,
How in the hell can he drink when he's dead?
May you live to be a hundred years
With one extra year to repent.
As you slide down the banister of life,
May the splinters never point in the wrong direction!
Here's to a long life and a merry one
A quick death and an easy one
A pretty girl/handsome lad and an honest one
A cold beer and another one!
May your troubles be as few and as far between
as my Grandmothers teeth.
Here's to our husbands/wives and boy/girlfriends:
May they never meet!
Here's to you and here's to me
I pray that friends we'll always be,
But if by chance we disagree,
The heck with you and here's to me!
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It's been another week with ISU folks. I really enjoy the fact that I have a group of friends that have stuck with me past graduation. I was worried when I graduated that I would never see my friends again. I didn't expect to see so many of them on a regular basis...and some not so regularly, but frequently enough that we don't lose touch.
This weekend Steph came into town. It was so wonderful seeing her. I can't believe it's been over a year since we've seen each other. We talk on the phone fairly frequently (or frequently for me), but we don't get to see each other enough. I met up with her and Jodie and Nick at the Brickhouse (surprised? doubt it) on Friday night. Steph and I then had a sleepover and we stayed up way to late talking about boys and braiding each other's hair. Okay, thats a lie. We didn't braid each others hair. I didn't want to let her go. NYC is too far away and I'm jealous of what she's got out there.
It was also nice seeing Jodie again. I can't remember the last time I saw her. I think New Years Eve, but I got really wasted that night and don't remember a lot of things from that night. When she walked into Joey's that was the biggest surprise. I litterally stopped talking mid-sentence. Most of you know, that's not something I do very often. We closed out the restaurant that night. I could have sat there talking to them all night if they'd let me.
Saturday night Nick and I went to check out Chicago Shakespeare Theater's production of "A Flea in Her Ear". His parents have season tickets and decided that they weren't going to see this production. So, we had the best seats in the house and they were free.
The show was okay. The second act set was incredible. It was 3 stories tall and all of it playable space. It was visually stunning. The acting on the other hand left something to be desired at times.
Rian Jairell was in it, and he did a fine job. It was funny seeing him there. We actually ran into each other in the lobby before the show. Rian had just grabbed dinner and was getting back for his call. Nick and I were joking that we can't find a theater in this city that doesn't have someone from ISU working there. We didn't run into him, but Brett Presson is also the ASM. Then, to top it all off Chris Cantelmi is an understudy. It's nice to have known so many people finding success in their careers right now. I also like the fact that everyone seems to be finding their successes at the same time. Even if it's on a show that I'm not thrilled by...
This is the third production of this show I've seen. This one was adapted by David Ives and had a very modern, conversational tone to it. Definitely differnt than the previous versions I'd seen at ISU and Drury Lane. I think the casual style did a disservice to the script. For this to work as a farce, I believe the characters need to have a high sense of stature. They need to be seen as far above the common folk. However, the language didn't support that. In the end it slowed down much of the action. The intensity didn't pick up until the last 5 minutes of each act. Nick and I decided to leave during the second intermission to grab a drink and relax. I don't need to say where we went drinking. I'm sure you can guess. We met up with Betsy and closed down the restaurant, again.
Other than meeting up with friends and drinking all weekend, I also ended up having to work all weekend. I wasn't able to get anyone to cover shifts this weekend, which means that I work. I know it's part of my job, but I'm so tired of working 7 days a week. I'm sure it'd help my anxiety attacks go away. I'm really starting to feel exhausted by everything. The stress of the holidays has gone away but I'm still feeling the effects of it. Hopefully I can get all the shifts covered next weekend and find some time to relax finally. Of course, I might find time to finally relax and my body won't know what to do. Everything will just shut down. My life is like the movie "Speed". I need to keep my blood pressure above a certain level or I'm going to explode.
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It's been a while since I've done these...
Friday Five
1) 10 years ago what did you think you would be doing now? I had no clue. I'd just started acting and hadn't focused my life yet.
2) Where do you think you will be in 5 years from now? That's very hard to say...I'll probably still be in Chicago, possibly New York. I hope to be working with a producer and getting some freelance work on the side.
3) Do you live life one day at a time or look to the future? I live one day at a time. I've found that major life changes don't happen the way you plan them. It's easier to direct your life little by little.
4) Do you wish you could go back in time and undo something in your life? Can't say I do. There was one parking ticket I know I could have easily avoided had I cared more.
5) If you could send a message back in time and give a younger version of yourself some advice, what would it be? Dear Monty: Slow down and relax. You don't need to do everything. Take some time for yourself.
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Thursday, March 9th, 2006
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I've been on a quiz binge today, but the Sesame Street Character quiz brought back some funny memories. Now, I know SS is supposed to be a kids show, but there are just some lines in there that are priceless. You can't tell me that the writers thought this material was going to be directed at kindergartners. If so, then I am ashamed of the level my sense of humor is on. Check out these quotes and tell me they aren't classic...
Bert: Umm, where am I?
Elmo: Oh, hi, Bert! You're in Elmo's World!
Bert: Oh. (pause) How do I get back out again?
Oscar: OK. For my plan to work, I'll need some table salt.
Bert: Oh! (produces a salt shaker...from his pocket.) I've got some right here. (reacting to everyone's disturbed looks) Oh, like none of you carry your own seasonings.
Ernie: Why, Bert! A pigeon that plays checkers? Why, that's amazing! That must be the smartest pigeon in the world!
Bert: Umm, actually, Ernie, she's not all that smart.
Ernie: Not all that smart? Bert, how can you say that?
Bert: Out of the five games we've played...she's only beaten me twice.
(Grover and Fred the Wonder Horse re-enact the invention of sound in film for their Western.)
Grover: This town ain't the big enough for the two of us!
Fred: I've got one word for you...plastics!
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The Five Love LanguagesMy primary love language is probably
Physical Touch
with a secondary love language being
Acts of Service.
Complete set of results| Physical Touch: | | 10 | | Acts of Service: | | 6 | | Quality Time: | | 6 | | Words of Affirmation: | | 5 | | Receiving Gifts: | | 3 |
Information Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.
Take the quiz
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Bert
You scored 68% Organization, 61% abstract, and 59% extroverted! |
This test measured 3 variables.
First, this test measured how organized you are. Some muppets like Cookie Monster make big messes, while others like Bert are quite anal about things being clean.
Second, this test measured if you prefer a concrete or an abstract viewpoint. For the purposes of this test, concrete people are considered to gravitate more to mathematical and logical approaches, whereas abstract people are more the dreamers and artistic type.
Third, this test measured if you are more of an introvert or an extrovert. By definition, an introvert concentrates more on herself and an extrovert focuses more on others. In this test an introvert was somebody that either tends to spend more time alone or thinks more about herself.
You are very organized, both concrete and abstract, and both introverted and extroverted.
Here is why are you Bert.
You are both very organized. You almost always know where your belongings are and you prefer things neat. You may even enjoy cleaning and find it therapeutic. Bert is a big neat freak and gets quite annoyed when Ernie makes a big mess.
You both are sometimes concrete and sometimes abstract thinkers. Bert is probably a bit more concrete in his bottlecap collecting addiction and his love of the weather. He does show his abstract side when he sings and performs his "Doin' The Pidgeon" song. You have a good balance in your life. You know when to be logical at times, but you also aren't afraid to explore your dreams and desires... within limits of course.
You are both somewhat introverted. Bert is probably more introverted, because he spends most of his time either with Ernie or alone. Still he has no problem being around other people in his role as chairman of "The National Association of 'W' Lovers." Like Bert, you probably like to have some time to yourself, but you do appreciate spending time with your friends, and you aren't scared of social situations.
The other possible characters are
Oscar the Grouch
Big Bird
Snuffleupagus
Ernie
Elmo
Kermit the Frog
Grover
Cookie Monster
Guy Smiley
The Count
If you enjoyed this test, I would love the feedback! Also if you want to tell me your favorite Sesame Street character, I can total them up and post them here. Perhaps your choice will win! |
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My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
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You scored higher than 79% on Organization |
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You scored higher than 79% on concrete-abstra |
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You scored higher than 43% on intro-extrovert |
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Monday, February 27th, 2006
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So, I haven't had a day off work in 3 weeks. But at the same time, I've been out 13 of the last 14 nights. I'm gonna wear myself out again, but I'm having a good time doing it.
This last week has been a whirlwind of ISU reunions. Wednesday night was Carlo's birthday party, Thursday night was a party for Kiana in honor of her being hired by Steppenwolf, Friday night I introduced Nick to Tom (that was interesting...I'm not sure if they like each other, but it was fun to watch), Saturday was ISU Theatre Alumni Karaoke at Gio's (last Saturday of every month, you should be there, too), Sunday was the premiere of Mary-Arrchie's "The Killers" (excellent show, check it out...I particularly appreciate the lighting design), and tonight I got to see Sarah Vowell (NPR, NY Times Op-ed writer, the voice of Violet in Disney's "The Incredibles") read a couple of selections from her works at Steppenwolf with Kiana. I've had a very nice week.
Tomorrow night though I need to spend at home. I need to just relax, do laundry, and not get drunk. Hopefully this week will be a relaxing one for me. I also need to get the doctors. I've getting these minor anxiety attacks and I'm not sure why. It's not like they happen when I'd expect them. They happen when I'm waiting for the bus, about to go to a meeting, or sitting down to watch a play. Never when I'm under any sort of pressure, but its the feeling of anxiety that I associate with stage fright except slightly worse...if that makes sense. My heart starts to beat faster, my stomach feels like there is a pit in it, and I get a little light headed. But then I focus myself, take a few deep breaths and it usually starts to settle down. I don't know. I'm just screwed up in the head I think. Hopefully the doctor will know, if I can find one that doesn't have a 3 week waiting period to get an appointment.
Anyway...
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Tuesday, February 21st, 2006
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I know I live in Chicago and it is February, but I'm not enjoying this cold spell. I haven't been able to walk to work or home all week. And now it's suppose to drop to below zero wind chills tonight. This does not a happy Monty make. Anyway...I'll deal. It is winter in Chicago.
In happier thoughts..."If Trane Wuz Here" was an incredible show. I listened to it twice a night and I couldn't get enough. These artists are absolutely amazing. They wanted to bring me on tour for morale.
To start with, Savion Glover is reigning king of tap. To watch someone who is the top of his field working on a project that is personal to him like this is an incredible experience. The only thing that tops it is watching him and his son. His son is 1 year old and is constantly trying to run out on stage and start dancing with his dad. I love it. Finally, on Friday night he made it. It was just as they were ending their set. He crawls right up to his dad and just stares at his feet. It was one of those incredible moments when you can see the next generation. After the crew finished and left the stage, Cheney was still standing there applauding right with the audience, who was eating it up. Then, he did it. He stomped his foot. The audience went crazy. He did it again. Thunderous applause and cheering. Finally he starts dancing and bobbing up and down. It was so incredibly amazing to see. After about 2 minutes of this, the band returns for their encore while Cheney stands watching and studying. This was one oc those magical moments that very few get to see. It was no longer about performing for an audience, it was about a father and son. So amazing. Oh, and apparently I'm Savion's new body man.
reg e gaines has the best spirit of anyone I've worked with in a long time. He always has a smile on his face. reg has this incredible story of pulling himself up and finding his voice. From being a dope fiend to stone cold sober and searching for himself (he'll never say he's found himself because there is always more to look for) he is inspirational. Also, reg was probably the friendliest of the three. I got to know him first. He was always very appreciative of what everyone else did to help make his performance possible. I don't find that very often, someone who is grateful to everyone from the box office and house manager to the bar staff and the girl that cleans up the lobby at night. Just a wonderful guy. I hope I get to see him again.
Matana Roberts is gorgeous to start out with. She is just a beautiful woman. She is an amazing musician. She never stops. And to top it off, she's a native Chicagoan - a Southsider and graduate of Curie High School and DePaul. I'm looking forward to the next time she's in town with her other band "Sticks and Stones". I didn't get to talk to Matana very much. She had a lot of family and old friends that would be around after shows who she'd rush out the door with. But we did get to have dinner together after the last show on Sunday and that was nice. Such an amazing spirit.
In the end this has been an amazing experience. I'm hoping I don't jinx it, but wish me luck. The producer enjoyed working with me on this project, and sounds interested in considering me for other work with her. She's got a 28-city tour coming up of "Classical Savion" that she's going with on and is looking for someone to handle project development and management while she's on the road. Basically watch the shop while she's gone. She was also very adamant about me sending her my resume so she has all my contact info. I don't know what this means. If this means NYC or if it's something I can do in Chicago, but in any case I'm more than a little excited. This is a huge step in a direction I'd love my career to go. Anyway...don't want to jinx it, but send good energy my way on this one.
Now back to Chicago, where nothing is set in stone yet and I'm not going to hold my breath.
Other things I've done this week:
- Worked the premiere of the new musical "Josephine Tonight!" It's the Josephine Baker story. A really good book and score. Definitely nice to see some diversity at TBC. Also, I had fun playing bartender. Apparently a cute one, too. The Marketing Director came up to me as I was cleaning up from the reception and mentioned that all his friends were asking him about me and whatnot. But he assured me that he let them know I don't play for their team. To which I gave a very surprised, "I what? When did I go straight?" He was astounded that I'm not. Is this why I've always had trouble getting dates? Gay men don't realize I'm gay. I'm a stealth gay. I'm not detectable by gaydar.
- I spent a lot of time in the Brickhouse this week. My parents came and visited and we had dinner there (big mistake, now my parents love the place and we'll have to go every time...also, Joey thinks my mom is hot). I took the producer and Matana there. I ate there every night. In the last week I also have developed a taste for wine. It's been a good week.
- A light I thought had gone out is starting to relight itself, which makes me happy. He's done a lot of maturing recently and has surprised a lot of his friends. I shouldn't say surprised...impressed and pleased. We all knew he could get things together, it was a matter of him realizing it, too. I'm very happy that things are starting to work out between us again. I'm just afraid of rushing it and scaring him or taking it too slow and letting him get away. We'll once again see how it plays out.
Thats about it for my week. I also worked at ComedySportz, but nobody wants to hear about that. The most exciting thing about that is the possibility of putting a four-square court in the lobby of our new space. Now, that'd be cool.
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montster's journal
hungover.
guilty.