It’s Over Already?
December 25, 2008
There was a time when flying on Christmas Day meant half-full flights, with room to stretch out. Of course, one used to be able to smoke on planes, as well! But not in 2008! As I zoom back to warm, sunny LA, I once again am squeezed into a seat between two less-than-svelte passengers. But who cares, I’m on my way home after a truly wonderful Christmas visit!
It was a terrific holiday! The entire family first gathered on the evening of Tuesday, Dec. 23 at the Fireside Restaurant in Logansport, IN, to celebrate my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. Their actual anniversary isn’t until New Year’s Eve, but it was easier to gather the family now, while we were all in one spot. The weather that night was particularly treacherous, with the roads covered with ice, so not everyone was able to make it. But those who did had a great time. I think my parents enjoyed my gift, a personalized Monopoly game that traced their life together.
My family gathered again the next night, Christmas Eve, for our annual holiday tradition of eating a delicious meal while simultaneously torturing the kids (and my dad) by making them anxiously wait to open gifts until after dinner.
It was the best Christmas celebration with my family that I can remember, with everyone in attendance, lots of love and laughter in the air. It’s amazing to me that a family that started with just my parents, my sister and myself has now blossomed to a group of 12, with spouses, nieces and great-nephews (although I prefer the term “fabulous-nephews”). It’s always fun to play with my fbaulous-nephew Braydon, who is the smartest, sweetest, most conscientious kid I’ve ever known. Now his younger brother Dalton is becoming old enough to be fun, too—and what a little character he is! And I was particularly happy to have a chance to bond with my niece KyAnne, whom I haven’t been able to spend nearly enough time with. She’s gorgeous and smart, 12-going-on-26, and has a lot of potential. I hope she and I can continue to grow closer!
Now it’s time to get home, and start planning on the year to come, 2009, and my goals and aspirations for the new year – mostly, the Summer 2009 production of Carved in Stone.
*****
And speaking of which, I want to wish a Happy 100th Birthday to Quentin Crisp, wherever he is! I can’t wait to portray him again later this year!
The Weather Outside is Frightful,
But Being Home is So Delightful!
December 21, 2008
I sleep great at my parents’ big, secluded house nestled in the woods – once I’m able to fall asleep, that is! It’s so quiet here that not only can you hear a pin drop, but said pin is likely to cause a deafening echo! So, despite being in bed by midnight, I slept until 12 noon the next day! That’s what vacations are for, right?
After slowly waking up, I spent the day visiting with the folks, getting caught up, talking politics. Then, we braved the below-zero temps and headed to my niece Charlotte’s house for a wonderful dinner (where did she learn to cook so well?). We played Boggle, and I’m both ashamed and proud to admit that I got my ass handed to me by my brilliant nine-year-old nephew Braydon.
I miss the old, pre-9/11 days of Christmas travel, when you could board a plane with shopping bags full of wrapped Christmas presents. Alas, those days are long gone, so I waited until I got to Indiana to do some shopping.
Yes, I admit it; I made my first trip into a Wal-Mart. During my days in hyper-political San Francisco, it was drummed into me that Wal-Mart was the evil enemy, destined to destroy mom & pop stores and small-town values. Well, what can I say? One can’t be politically correct 24/7 – and within about 15 minutes, I was hooked! Now, don’t get me wrong, I’d never shop there for clothes; Zara remains my favorite – but for everything else? Well, I’m lucky that I’d have to drive all the way to the Valley to find a Wal-Mart. Since I tend to stay west of the 405 unless I have an audition, that ain’t gonna happen!! But while in Rome, do as the Romans do!
So today is our one day without any commitments, so it’s time for more shopping in the snow and wind (which I’m enjoying more than I expected), a search for a local Starbucks, and more time with my family!
I’ll Be Home for Christmas!
Dec. 20, 2008
Here I am, wedged into a seat some 37,000 feet over New Mexico, on my way to Indiana to spend the holidays with my family in arctic-like Indiana.
The trip has been surprisingly low-stress. There was very little traffic on the way to LAX, and practically no waiting at the Sky Cap or security. Ironically, the only waiting was at the airport’s Starbucks, to get my obligatory venti hot chocolate, no whipped.
Unfortunately, Northwest Airlines, the only carrier with a non-stop from LAX to Indy, is one of those airlines that charges for extra baggage. As I’m not known for packing light, I decided it was worth to not worry about squeezing everything into one case, especially since I needed to pack every fat sweater I own.
This year’s trip is two-fold; in addition to Christmas, we’ll also be celebrating my parents’ 50th anniversary on New Year’s Eve. I’m really looking forward to this visit, and am feeling full of the Christmas spirit! It’s been a tough year, with the death of my two closest friends, Jeffrey Hartgraves and Sami Antoinette, and the collapse of the economy – while mom recently lost her sister, and she and dad are worrying about the status of their auto-industry financed pension and health-care. So I think we’re all ready to kick back, put 2008 behind us, and celebrate the holidays, my parents’ marriage, and the year to come!
***** Speaking of Christmas, I think I’m beginning to believe in Santa Claus a bit! As many of you know, my beloved car was stolen the day after Thanksgiving. Last week, I got a call that it had been found, and was sitting in a tow lot in Marina del Rey. I looked it over yesterday at my mechanic’s shop, and other than a missing pair of $200 Italian gloves, everything else seems present and accounted for, and there appears to be no engine damage either!
*****
I really stink at keeping good news to myself, but that’s what I must do, at least for the next couple of weeks. Yes, we’ve secured the venue for the Summer 2009 production of Carved in Stone, and set the dates for the run!! We’ll be signing contracts after the first of the year, so until then, I must bite my tongue and keep this info to myself. But I am thrilled that, after so many false starts, it’s finally going to happen!
So despite the dramas and traumas of 2008, I still have so much to be grateful for!
Later that evening….
Apparently, I can’t leave LA without receiving a speeding ticket. But this was more than a run-of-the-mill ticket.
En route from the airport to my parents’ home, I was pulled over by an unmarked police car.
I should have been worried when the officer asked me to join him in his car. He looked at my license and remarked that, while they might drive like this in California, Indiana has a new, very strict anti-aggressive driving law. He explained the combo of speeding, “tail-gating” and “weaving in and out” of traffic gave him authority to arrest me on the spot and put me in jail!
In typical fashion, I responded to the stress of the moment with bad humor, cracking that Los Angeles would solve its traffic problem instantly if they adopted that law – half the freeway drivers would be behind bars! Alas, this prompted not even a smile from the cop.
After a few tense moments, he let me go with just a ticket. Thank God, as starring in a real-life remake of Escape from Macon County Line is not in my immediate career goals!
***** We eventually made it to my parents’ house, and spent the evening visiting with my parents, my nieces Charlotte and Leigha and their significant others, and playing with my two rough-and-tumble great-nephews Braydon and Dalton. It’s great to be here with my family.
After a few hours of wrestling and being pummeled (not to mention a wonderful margarita), I am ready to hit the hay.
Protect Those Who Built This Country, Damn It!
December 2, 2008
I am mad as hell at Congress’ inactivity on the plight of U.S. automakers – especially considering their willingness to bail out Wall Street firms willy-nilly.
Don’t get me wrong – Detroit is woefully behind the times, and is as much to blame for its current state as is the economy – but what nobody is talking about is this: If Congress gets its way, and the Big 3 are forced to file Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, all contracts – including all UAW union contracts – will be null and void.
That will leave at least 600,000 retired autoworkers (including my parents) with absolutely no health care coverage whatsoever.
Do what you will with the current automakers – but do not take the thousands who have already given their lives to building the American dream and hang them out to dry.
They deserve much better, don’t they?
Good News from the Living Room Floor
November 30, 2008
I had a very nice Thanksgiving evening – foregoing all invites, Laurence and I instead opted for a nice steak dinner at Buggy Whip.
Alas, the next day I was stricken by both a killer head cold and a back spasm – and spent most of the weekend on the floor.
But I’m even beginning to find the plus side of being inert on the floor.
I also have a couple of other things to be grateful for this season:
I was selected, along with four other working actors, to be Back Stage newspaper’s “Take Five” subjects for 2009. Once a month, I’ll check in with articles about my progress in Hollywood and, more specifically, the progress of getting Carved in Stone produced.
Speaking of Carved in Stone and progress, our ship now has a captain! John Clark has come aboard as director for our show. We’re determined to raise the funds (despite the dismal economic news) and should have more info very, very soon!
And finally: Imagine my surprise when I learned that, after several years and a couple of title changes, Final Remains will finally make its US DVD debut in January. Better late than never, I suppose!
Bigotry and Religion – Shouldn’t They Be Mutually Exclusive?
Nov. 24, 2008
I recently caught a screening of Milk, sponsored by SAG’s GLBT Caucus at Mann’s Chinese in Hollywood. I was deeply moved by this film, on a number of levels.
First of all, it is a brilliant film. But I’ll leave it to the film critics to rave about Mr. Penn’s performance – although I guarantee he WILL win Best Actor – and the film’s attention to detail and period. Inspiring.
Also, maybe I was also a bit moved because I’ve lived in San Francisco for 20 years, moving there just weeks before Dan White committed suicide (“He had twinkies for lunch,” was the common remark about town.) I’d also met, however briefly, a few of Milk’s real-life “supporting cast,” including Cleve Jones and Denis Perron, through my friend, gay activist Gil Block. (The casting, by the way, is spot on!)
But what struck me most was this: Man, we have come one hell of a long way. Yet, we still have a hell of a long way to go. I was a freshman in high school when the Briggs Initiative was on the California ballot. I can remember – in my own lifetime – when certain folks wanted to legislate me and my kind out of existence.
How quickly we adapt to our circumstances. Seeing the police bar raids that open the film, I was shocked that I was surprised – I’ve become so complacent with our minor victories over the years.
But Milk leads me (and just about everyone else) to think deeply about Proposition 8 and what it means. I admit I’ve been less than passionate about Prop. 8’s passage. I signed the petitions, joined the on-line groups. But I haven’t attended any protests (while most of my straight friends, bless them, have). Maybe I’ve grown up expecting that major change would be very slow in coming. Or maybe marriage isn't a priority for me.
Hell, I was even somewhat initially supportive of Richard Radden, Director of LA’s Film Independent (producers of the Independent Spirit Awards, among other things), a practicing Mormon who donated to the Mormon’s Pro-Prop. 8 campaign, despite his organization’s support of gay and lesbian film fare. I felt, at first, like many others: that his contribution was "private," and that support of Prop. 8 from a religious standpoint was acceptable; that somehow, that made it less than bigotry.
And then I saw Milk. And I realize bigotry is unacceptable, no matter the cause or source.
I’m from Indiana. Believe it or not, there are still some “Christians” there who quote Scripture to justify the persecution of blacks, claiming they are a “cursed race” that is "forever marked" or some such ridiculous nonsense. But those outrageous beliefs are, in their way, based in religious dogma. Does that make racism acceptable?
Absolutely not. And really, it’s the same basic argument the religious right has used against us for years -- that comes straight out of uninformed fear. Therefore, Mr. Radden was correct to resign.
Bigotry is unacceptable, even when it has religion as its cause.
We need to reach a point where we finally, totally separate church and state, where we don’t allow religious dogma to infringe on the civil rights of any group or race.
So bring on the protests, and I will be at the next one! Thank you, Harvey Milk, for your message – and to Gus Van Sant, Sean Penn & Co. for bringing that message back to life.
Meanwhile, join me in signing those petitions, and boycotting Prop. 8 supporters such as El Coyote restaurant in West Hollywood, and ebay.
Ashes, Clashes, Smashes and More Ashes
November 18, 2008
Every time there’s a fire anywhere in Southern California, my mom calls (usually around 6 a.m.), worried that I’m in danger.
“No, mom, the fire is 50 miles away, we can’t even see smoke.”
That’s not the case with LA’s most recent “ring of fire.” With blazes to the south, north and east --- and Santa Ana winds blowing west – Friday night’s air was nearly unbreathable. I felt guilty running two air conditioners on a November evening, but that’s what the experts were advising.
By Saturday morning, everything – the porch, the cars, the yard – was covered by a thin layer of gray ash. The air reeked of charred something – and everything appeared though a red camera filter. The whole atmosphere seemed very Mars-like.
Fortunately, the fires are still far enough from West LA to pose a threat to us personally – but my heart goes out to those thousands who have lost everything.
* * * * *
My heart and appreciation also go out to all those protesting the passage of Prop. 8 in California. I’m particularly impressed by the number of my straight friends who have expressed their outrage.
I’ve signed the on-line petitions, but alas, I have skipped the protests. But I so appreciate those tireless folks going to all the protests – thank God for the extreme, as they lead us to the middle. And I’m beginning to think we will get there eventually, and will have them to thank!
Obama is just the beginning. Change can no longer be denied!
* * * * *
I was honored to be invited by Kevin Schoeller and Philip Van der Voet to GLAAD’s annual Winter Holiday Party on Sunday, Nov. 16, at Jeanne Pritzkin’s gorgeous Bel-Air mansion.
It was a fun, glamorous affair, with host Camryn Manheim – who lamented the end of her career as an ordained minister with the passage of the aforementioned Prop. 8. Billy Porter sang a wonderful rendition of Christmas Time is Here. And then, the fabulous Lypsinka took the stage with a hilarious drunken rendition of 12 Days of Christmas, then her patented phone-ringing routine. I hadn’t seen her perform for years, so it was a great treat.
The silent auction was epic, but the snacks left a lot to be desired, so we slipped out for an impromptu dinner at Houston’s. But not before picking up our “swag bags” (a lot of coupons and CDs, some wonderful cologne from Diesel, and some terrific skin care products from Diane Young!).
* * * * *
The Carved in Stone reading on Nov. 9 was a smashing success – and a wonderful tribute to Jeffrey Hartgraves and his wonderful script.
We had a large, incredibly responsive audience that seemed to laugh at every single joke. The actors were on the top of their game (Matthew Martin, Kevin Remington, Curt Bonnem, Jesse Merlin, Levi Damione & Andrew Kelsey), and we succeeded in attracting both another possible venue, and a director interested in coming aboard.
Hopefully, I will have details to report soon.
After the tragedy of friend, playwright and would-be director Jeffrey Hartgraves’ untimely passing, the reading provided the show just the shot in the arm it needed. And Jeffrey was there, in a sense -- I had a statch of his ashes in a silver vial in my pocket.
Now the work continues to find financial angels in the midst of the worst possible economic mess. But we will! We raised the budget for the SF production the year after 9/11 – and now we have an angel of another kind up there, pulling some strings.
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A Friend Passes; A Nation Reborn
Nov. 4, 2008
It’s been well over a month since Jeffrey Hartgraves passed away on Sept. 25. Since then, I’ve struggled to put my thoughts and feelings into words. The emotions, however, have been too overwhelming, and the words have been too difficult to put together in any cohesive way.
But finally, on Sunday, Nov. 2, we drove up to SF for A Celebration of Life, a tribute to Jeffrey at his artistic home, Theatre Rhinoceros. It was a beautiful event, and I finally feel able to “go there” and talk about Jeffrey without coming undone.
As many of you know, Jeffrey was scheduled to direct his play Carved in Stone for its Los Angeles premiere this summer, beginning with a staged reading scheduled for Nov. 9. In fact, we had just done a photo shoot days before he passed – so the loss was even deeper and more of a shock.
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| Jeffrey Hartgraves |
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I got the dreaded call upon waking Sept. 25 from T.J. Lee, Jeffrey’s roommate and best friend. I’m surprised at how well I received the news. It was passing the news to others, however, that proved too much to take. After hanging up with T.J., I called Laurence, and as soon as I blurted, rather undiplomatically, “Jeffrey is dead!” the news knocked me to the floor, along with a chair I was grasping. I heard Laurence say “I’ll be right there,” right before my cell phone hit the ground and broke apart. But that’s about it. I don’t know how long I laid on the floor, wailing and sobbing, “Why, Jeffrey?” I do remember, at one point, thinking to myself “Jeffrey would accuse me of over-acting right now.”
As the bad news spread through SF, to LA, Arizona, New York and beyond, my cell phone began to ring off the hook. Jeffrey has worked with hundreds of theatre professions, but because I gave him his first SF job and worked with him on Carved in Stone, among other shows, we seem to be “linked” in many people’s minds. I spoke with many of our mutual friends and co-workers that morning: Matthew Martin, Liz Ryan, Erika Atkinson, Jenn Garaglino. I received emails from many, many more, all expressing their shock and disbelief.
After so many calls and emails, I should have been “all cried out,” but each one brought more tears. I finally turned off the phone and computer, and allowed myself to fade away in a Valium haze.
The next few days were surreal. I tried to move on with life while grieving, but the brain was sluggish. As days turned into weeks, I still found myself seeing things and thinking “I’ve got to tell Jeff--” before the truth would slug me again. I felt as if I would never be able to accept it.
Suddenly, it was a month later, and time for the Celebration of Life. Jeffrey, being the consummate showman, basically outlined what he wanted – an evening of music, memories and laughter. He specifically did not want drama and angst. With that in mind, I asked not to be an “active participant,” as I wasn’t sure how much I could say without coming unglued. So I asked instead to read a poem from Jeffrey’s lesser-known “poetry slam” period.
The Celebration was incredibly moving – that man touched so many! – and I think it’s helping all of us finally accept the unacceptable. T.J. was a wonderful MC, and delivered a very moving eulogy. Veronica Klaus, Jeffrey’s favorite chauntuese, sang several of Jeffrey’s favorite songs. Unfortunately, I had to follow one of her moving performances, but I made it through okay by remembering the first piece of direction Jeffrey ever gave me: “They won’t cry if you do it for them.”
Afterwards, people came to the stage to share their favorite memories of Jeffrey. And there were lots of them. What a funny, clever, zany, intellectual, caring and concerned man Jeffrey was.
Quentin Crisp always said that once you’re dead, you’re dead – that you won’t be watching from above, to see who comes to the funeral. But I so hope he is wrong! Jeffrey would have loved to see the SRO crowd, and the whole gamut of emotions we went through.
Jeffrey’s good friend and executrix Fritha Knudsen invited us to her lovely home afterwards, and it was heartwarming to see how Jeffrey had brought so many divergent folks together.
Meanwhile, what of Carved in Stone? Yes, the show will continue. While I was on the floor that dreadful morning, my immediate reaction was, “No! The show is off!” My doing the show without him felt a bit like a widower, checking into the hotel where he spent a wonderful honeymoon with his late wife.
But the consensus of the cast is, “There’s no better way to honor him than to present his work to the world.” And though it hurts my heart, my head knows they are right. So the staged reading on Nov. 9 will go on as scheduled, as will the Summer 2009 run.
But I miss my good friend very deeply.
* * * * *
One very sad chapter closes, but another, more positive one is opening. I was up and at my local polling place at 7 a.m. on election day to cast my vote, and the lines were already around the block.
By evening, my sadness was replaced with the unbelievable joy that Obama actually won the White House! It’s been so long since I’ve felt hopeful about America, it’s going to take some time for it to sink in. I am elated that America has its first black president (and a Democrat at that)! McCain might not have won, but this time, nobody really lost.
Obama is taking over at the worst possible time – I pray he is able to lead us out of the mess Bush has caused, and bring pride back to this country. By Wednesday morning, it felt as if anything was possible.
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She Knew Wonder Woman ...
And You, Mrs. Palin, Are No Wonder Woman
September 11, 2008
The "powers that be"
in Hollywood -- at least the few I've met -- almost always comment that
my blog should remain free of politics. But I really think people must speak out. This is probably the single most important presidential election most of us will experience in our lifetimes -- god willing -- and the consequences are dire indeed.
Since Sarah Palin's borderline-facist speech at the Republican Convention, I've fought to control my rage, and tried to find an intelligent way to voice my disgust with McCain's cynical, irresponsible choice.
As I struggled to express my feelings, I came across Victor Fiorillo's interview with Lynda Carter in Philadelphia Magazine -- and I think she says it perfectly:
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Okay, last question. I'm sure you've seen all the
comparisons in the media and among Republicans of Sarah Palin to Wonder
Woman. How do you feel about that?
Don’t get me started.
She’s the anti-Wonder Woman. She’s judgmental and dictatorial, telling
people how they’ve got to live their lives. And a superior religious
self-righteousness ... that’s just not what Wonder Woman is about.
Hillary Clinton is a lot more like Wonder Woman than Mrs. Palin. She
did it all, didn’t she?
No one has the right to dictate,
particularly in this country, to force your own personal views upon the
populace — religious views. I think that is suppressive, oppressive,
and anti-American. We are the loyal opposition. That’s the whole point
of this country: freedom of speech, personal rights, personal freedom.
Nor would Wonder Woman be the person to tell people how to live their
lives. Worry about your own life! Worry about your own family! Don't be
telling me what I want to do with mine.
I like John McCain. But this woman — it's anathema to me what she stands for. I think America should be very afraid. Very
afraid. Separation of church and state is the one thing the creators of
the Constitution did agree on — that it wasn’t to be a religious
government. People should feel free to speak their minds about religion
but not dictate it or put it into law.
What I don’t understand,
honestly, is how anyone can even begin to say they know the mind of
God. Who do they think they are? I think that’s ridiculous. I know what
God is in my life. Now I am sure that she’s not all just that. But it’s
enough to me. It’s enough for me to have a visceral reaction. And it
makes me mad.
People need to speak up. Doesn’t mean that I’m
godless. Doesn’t mean that I am a murderer. What I hate is this
demonization of everybody but one position. You’re un-American because
you’re against the war. It’s such bullshit. Fear. It’s really such a
finite way of thinking about God to think that your measley little mind
can know the mind of God. It’s a very little God that way. I think that
God’s bigger. I don’t presume to know his mind. Or her mind.
Seven years ago today, terrorists struck this country.
If the objective of
terrorists is to cause such fear that people behave and react out of panic instead of from logic, then
haven't the
terrorists won?
Can any government ruled by strict religious dogma -- be it Christian or Muslim -- truly be trusted?
If Americans vote for four more years of this insanity, then it's clear: We have lost, and America, as it once proudly was, will be no more.
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When Just Being Invited is a Compliment...
August 11, 2008
I have a neurotic confession to make: whenever I find myself surrounded in a production by truly talented artists, my first impulse is “I must be the weak link!”
The thought occurred to me this past Saturday, as the cast of Starving Artists for Starving Children’s Monologue Madness! A Benefit for Doctors Without Borders gathered at the Electric Lodge Theatre in Venice to test-run Saturday, August 16’s show.
The level of acting is amazing, and the range of monologues run the gamut from Shakespeare (Courtney Scheuerman) to Paul Ruddnick (Lisa-Beth Harris), from Tennessee Williams (Sharon Samples) to Tom Stoppard (Al Bernstein), from John Sayles (Laurel Feierbach) to John Leguizamo (Carlos San Miguel). There are tastes of performance art (Joel Shapiro), stand-up comedy (Stevie Mack), and original theatrical material by Dorothy Spirus and Carmell Marchino. There’s even a piece by my once-fellow San Franciscan Prince Gomolvilas performed by Alexis Salonen. Brianna Shaughnessy, Adam Langsam, Stephen Knight, Terri J. Freedman, Leonard Quarles and Charles Harlander round out the ensemble.
My feelings of inadequacy were short-lived, thankfully, as everyone was so supportive of my two monologues from Last Sunday in June and OUT. It’s been fun, having a chance t revisit two of my favorite past characters.
Producer Lisa Soule is amazing – pulling together a rather big show in record time, without ever loosing her smile or sense of humor. I hope this is the first collaboration of many with her and Starving Actors for Starving Children.
The Electric Lodge is a great space in which to perform, and there’s not a bad seat in the house!
I know $30 is a lot for a night of monologues, but its for a great cause, there’s free parking, and I promise the talent on stage are more than worthy!
For reservations, call 310-577-1515. Hope to see you at the Electric Lodge Theatre, 1416 Electric Avenue in Venice!
* * * * *
Meanwhile, things are moving swimmingly with the planned production of Carved in Stone. We're working on a trailer of the hi-def video of the San Francisco production; the cast is booked for a photo shoot next month with the wonderful Peter Solari; and we're soon to meet with a possible theatrical producer/investor to talk venue. I'll update you soon!
Shaking Walls and Juggling Balls
August 5, 2008
I’ve lived in California for almost 25 years, so I’ve felt the earth move many times. You could even say I’ve become a bit blasé over the decades.
But the quake LA experienced last week was the most unnerving one I’ve ever experienced—even more so than the 1989 Loma Prieta temblor that belted SF, and knocked out all my windows and left me without power for three days.
The latest one began as I sat at my computer at home.
“Oh, how cute! A little earthquake!” I thought to myself. I then went right back to work, even as the swaying continued.
“… boy, this is a long one!” I thought, still not considering myself at risk.
As the rocking not only continued, but grew stronger, and I could hear wall hangings and window blinds rapping against the walls, the thought occurred that fleeing to safety might not be an overreaction.
“Come on, Charlie!” I yelled to my dog. We ran down the hallway, now swaying to and fro like a railroad car, past many of the aforementioned flapping wall hangings. I braced myself against the doorframe at the base of the hallway.
But now Charlie was running excitedly about the house, whining at the walls and ceiling like the dog in Poltergeist.
“Come here!” I yelled to my never-obedient mutt. “Oh shit, it’s still going on!” I said, as I weighed going after the dog versus staying safely put.
But as soon as I stood and dashed for Charlie, the noise and rocking stopped. And the phone ringing began.
Luckily, the only damage to report was to my nerves.
* * * * *
Being a Gemini, I’m never happier than when I’m multi-tasking and juggling several projects all at once. And so far, I’m having a very happy August!
First up, I’ve been doing pre-production work on Carved in Stone. After a very long and particularly winding road, we’re finally laying the initial foundation for the Los Angeles debut of Jeffrey Hartgraves’ comedy in Spring 2009.
Right now, I’ve been coordinating a photo shoot amongst our new stars, photographer and possible cemetery locations, while also getting the website ready for its official launch.
I’m also reviewing high-digital footage of the San Francisco production, shot with three cameras on closing night, to cut together for a trailer of sorts to attract investors.
This is the first time I’ve seen this footage, as it has laid dormant for the past six years. While some old-school VHS footage exists on YouTube, it doesn’t hold a candle to the bright, sharp, vibrant, close-up digital resolution of this video. It’s been a blast to relive the wonderful experience of doing that show. My God, I’ve never had so much fun on a stage! It makes me even more excited about doing it again!
I’ve also started doing a bit of Quentin Crisp research, in preparation. It feels like greeting an old friend you haven’t seen in a while.
Meanwhile, I’m also shooting a 20-minute short, Vow of Silence, written and directed by Teddy Kushner. In it, a gifted young pianist gives up his promising career following a crushing tragedy and an act of betrayal – then returns 30 years later to confront his ex-girlfriend about her backstabbing ways.
It’s a very touching and inventive script. It’s a fun challenge sharing the role of the pianist with the young and very talented Brendon Brandt.
Finally, I’m performing August 16 at the Electric Lodge Theatre in Venice as part of Monologue Madness!, a benefit for Doctors Without Borders produced by Starving Actors for Starving Children. The theme of the evening is actors performing their audition monologues for actual audiences, instead of the usual stone-faced casting directors. I’m doing a dramatic piece from my film OUT, and a very funny sequence from Last Sunday In June. I’m looking forward to how they "play" to an audience of “civilians.”
Carved in Stone – We Are “Go” for Launch!
July 15, 2008
There have been so many false starts and stops in our
long-running battle to get Jeffrey Hartgraves' Carved in Stone produced in Los Angeles that it was starting to get
embarrassing! We got very close once, in
2005, at Company of Angels theatre.
Alas, the Company lost their lease three days before rehearsals were to
commence! Goodbye show, hello heartbreak.
But the heart is resilient! I’m learning that things
happen for a reason -- and all good things are worth waiting for!
Well, the wait is finally over. This past Saturday, we gathered our new cast for a table reading with director/playwright Jeffrey Hartgraves. Joining us was Kevin Remington as Truman
Capote, Jesse Merlin as Oscar Wilde and, from our last go-round, Curt Bonnem as
Tennessee Williams. Levi Damione took
over the “male ingénue” role of “Gryphon Tott” originated by David
Tenenbaum. Matthew Martin, who will reprise his role(s), was there in
spirit – since gas prices prevented him from traveling down from SF, we inserted
his bits from the video of the SF production. (T.J. Lee will appear in Matthew's segments in the show, playing William Shakespeare, among others.)
The reading was beyond amazing, and totally exceeded our
expectations! The general consensus is
that, if the table read was that good, we can’t wait to see it on stage!
I used to feel that doing this show with a cast other than
the original one would be like Diana Ross replacing The Supremes. But this cast rocks, too! Everyone is so enthusiastic! I had hoped to avoid “LA Actors” who show up
for rehearsal with a “what can you do for me?” attitude – and avoid them we
did! This troupe is as in love with this
script as I am, and seems willing to do what it takes to get it on the boards.
So Carved in Stone is back on track, with a projected launch
of Spring 2009. We’re currently working
on the budget and about to check out theatre venues.
But it wasn’t all work and no play while Jeffrey was
here. We did manage to squeeze in an
evening of libations at the Abbey – what little I remember of it! In fact, one of our first “official”
producing decisions was: This is where
we’re having the cast party!
Until then, please check out the new site for the show at
www.CarvedInStoneThePlay.com.
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Another niece, another heat wave!
June 26, 2008
My eldest niece Charlotte
Lowe arrived from Indiana last week for a visit –
and just as when my niece Leigha visited in May, Los Angeles was struck with another heat
wave! I’m beginning to have second
doubts about inviting family to come west!
The heat notwithstanding, it was terrific to spend time with
not only Charlotte, but her incredible son Braydon, who celebrated his 8th
birthday while here. Braydon is such a
smart, cute and well-behaved little boy – if he lived in LA, he’d be a star,
hands down! I was tempted to sneak him
off to my agent’s office – but I resisted!
He’s so well adjusted, I’d hate to ruin it by getting him into “show
biz.”
The five days flew by, with stops at the Santa Monica Pier, Museum of Natural History
(Braydon loved the dinosaurs, natch), the smoldering remains of Universal
Studios (Braydon loved the Jurassic
Park ride, natch), and
lots and lots of eating out and shopping.
Fortunately, all three of us love nothing more than spending hours in
bookstores!
Charlotte
has become one of the best mothers I’ve known.
I was really impressed with how she handled Braydon – always explaining
why she’d ask him to do something, and never threatening or talking down to
him, never resorting to the age-old
“Because I said so!” She encourages him
to “try everything once,” especially things that scare him, and talks to him
like a person. And you can’t argue with
the results – Braydon’s the best-behaved kid!
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| Mother-of-the-Decade Charlotte Lowe |
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| Braydon Lowe -- isn't he cute? |
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It’s so gratifying to see that my little “Bon Bon” (my
nickname for her since she was a baby) has grown into a compassionate, loving
woman. And it looks like my great-nephew
is on the right path, too!
* * * * *
I always enjoy seeing photos from the Spring/Summer Men’s
Fashion Week in Milan & Paris.
This year is no exception, though I’m a bit dismayed by the state of
some of the “fashion to come.” Bathing
trunks that expose pubic hair?
Pajama-like draw-string pants with Asian patterns? Comme des Carcons’ skirts for men?
But it’s not all bad.
I love the new double-breasted vests from Giorgio Armani, and the trend
of using ties and scarves as belts. My
favorite “looks” were from Calvin Klein, Louis Vuitton, Carlo Brandelli and
Thierry Mugler, who’s keeping the “skinny suit” alive in nice muted colors.
But I’m not too crazy about all the shiny, metallic fabrics.
The trend of skinny female models is, supposedly, on the
wane. But being a stick insect myself,
I’m actually very happy to see the “skinny male model” trend is continuing!
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Getting Your Money's Worth
Monday, June 2, 2008
When the final tally for The Butterfly Effect beneft topped $10,000, I joked to Jeffrey Hartgraves that, for that price, I expected another remission!
Well, who thought he'd take me seriously?
I am beyond THRILLED to announce that as of Friday, Jeffrey is, officially, back in remission!!!
See what positive thought can do, along with some terrific doctors? But the main credit belongs to Jeffrey -- he really suffered through this last round of chemo, but I guess it was worth it!
So don't stop now, keep those positive thoughts coming!
* * * * *
And speaking of getting your money's worth, I saw Sex and the City: The Movie on opening night, and thought it was terrific. A little too long -- but totally worth it!
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Anything But a “Drag”
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
I never think of my friend
Matthew Martin as a "drag queen."
Believe me, I made my professional show-biz debut at 19 with a nightclub
act in an otherwise drag bar; I know my queens— the good, the bad, and the
ugly! But Matthew is more, and less,
than any stereotype.
He is, first and foremost, a
theatre artist. When you compare his “Bette
Davis” to his “Jane Russell,” or against his “Judy Garland,” you see what I’m
talking about. He does not “impersonate”
his subjects – he truly becomes them! (For proof, scroll down to see his hilarious Baby Jane spoof!)
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| Matthew Martin |
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When I first saw his “Gertrude Stein” in Carved in Stone, I
realized it’s not about “glamour” with Matthew (though he can easily rise to
the occasion as needed). No, Matthew is
an actor, first and foremost.
Matthew just spent the
Memorial Day Weekend with us, in town for a special LA appearance of the San
Francisco-based Trannyshack at West Hollywood’s
Fubar.
He arrived Saturday evening,
exhausted and slap-happy from the long drive, and a bit terrified of navigating
LA streets. Remembering how scary
driving in LA can be for newbies, I agreed to drop his friends at their respective
“crash pads.” Then Matthew and I ordered
in, settled in to watch Notes on a Scandal and the video of the recent Jeffrey
Hartgraves benefit, and we laughed longer and louder than I have in some time. My sides are still sore from all the laughter!
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| Matthew as "Margo Channing" |
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Fubar was packed to the
rafters with an interesting assortment of patrons for his show Sunday
night. I found what I thought was a
nifty little raised perch beside the sound booth – alas, I would soon discover
I was directly in front of one of the main speakers.
The show was very
interesting and entertaining, as it ran the gamut, from traditional to cutting
edge. Who knew there are actually
hair-metal drag queens? I might be
partial, but Matthew was by far my favorite performer of the evening.
They say that Joan Crawford
committed as much to a B-film as she would to an Oscar-caliber movie. It’s the same way with Matthew. He commits to every performance as if doing a
Broadway show. Never mind that he was on
a little stage in a bar. He gave it his
all, risking his neck (not to mention his ankles), dancing up a storm on that
small, carpeted stage.
I’ve told Matthew that
nobody else could duplicate his “Gertrude/Bette/Judy” combo for the Los Angeles production of
Carved in Stone, and happily, he says he will be here! I’m looking forward to it!
* * * * *
Alas, for every good
experience, it seems you have to have a dud.
I’ve never been a “party
boy.” I’ve even skipped some of my own
closing night parties. Not because I
didn’t like my co-stars (well, maybe that was the case once or twice),
but because I’m not crazy about booze, noise and strangers.
But I was delighted to score
tickets for the “VIP Finale Party” of American Idol. While not particularly a big fan of the show,
I looked forward to attending a Hollywood
party, meeting some folks, and maybe spotting a celeb or two.
Security was knee-deep
downtown, with American Idol at the Nokia Theatre, and the Lakers playing Staples Center across the street. We bypassed the red carpet, and went right to
the gigantic tent erected behind the Nokia.
I have to say, the place looked impressive, with aerial performers
spinning above, while giant (I mean GIANT!) monitors silently broadcast the
tape-delayed West Coast feed of the show.
But what a snooze that party
was! It felt like an over-produced
hooker's prom, with young girls in too much make-up, and dresses cut down-to-there
and up-to-here, standing around hoping to see someone famous. In fact, it seemed as if everyone was craning
their necks, on constant look-out for stars.
Alas, we were all
disappointed. I saw only some American
Idol runner-ups, including Sanjaya, and David Archuleta’s father, who seemed
everywhere at once. But alas, no stars. (I’ve since learned that the “real” scene was
the after-after-party at Sky Bar. Oh
well.)
Even the food was a bit
mundane, although I found the portable mini-shrimp cocktails to be a clever
touch.
By
the way, since I've grown my hair out, I've noticed this odd thing when I go to
events “glammed up.” Its almost like
being cruised at a gay bar. People look
at me with this quick "Is he someone?" look. Then, realizing I’m NOT, they quickly snap
their heads and look away. Still, it’s
nice to be able to grab attention, even if it lasts for only a nano-second!
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My Guardian Angel is in Heaven
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
At times, writing this blog is very, very difficult – and
this is one of those times.
My joy over my niece Leigha’s visit was immediately followed
by horrible news: I just learned that
Sami Antoinette, my first acting coach when I moved to SF – the woman who made
me believe in my talent for the first time, and who introduced me to the world
of Quentin Crisp – has passed away in Sacramento following a very long, painful
illness.
Her husband Kevin
contacted me last night with the bad news. He told me that I had
always been her "favorite pupil" and that she loved me dearly. The
feelings were mutual, to say the least, so you can imagine the
waterworks that followed.
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| Sami Antoinette & Leon |
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She was a very staunch supporter of mine. She wouldn’t hold back criticism
when it was needed, but was also very nurturing! (She told me, early on, that I had the comedic timing of a “male
Judy Holliday.” A nice compliment!) She helped me “understand” how the “Method”
works – and how, sometimes, it doesn’t.
She introduced me to many, many films I’d had never seen, and taught me an appreciation for Tennessee Williams.
She wouldn’t hesitate to get rough with me when
needed – more than once, she would corner me against a wall on stage and pummel me, forcing
me to fight past her in order to reach a level of intensity I needed for a scene.
Ninety percent of what I learned from her, I still use to
this day. (Every word must breathe; you
must THINK in character even if its what the character needs to buy at the grocery; you can be anything except boring; etc.)
Sami was more than just my first acting teacher. During the seven years I studied with her,
she was my champion and mentor. She was
my surrogate mother – although she hated it when I'd say that! At one time, she was even my landlord. She fed me when she knew I needed a meal.
But most of all, she was my dear friend.
I never would have had enough faith in myself to pursue
acting as a living if not for her initial belief.
We began merely as student and teacher. But when I was directing and acting in OUT,
I gave her a copy of the script, never thinking she'd have time to read it. But she
called me the next morning, with ideas and suggestions. I invited her over for breakfast, and she
stayed for over eight hours – discussing the script, putting me through
exercises to help me find the emotions I would need. And she wouldn’t accept a dime for her efforts.
Many nights, following class, we’d head to my house, gorge
on junk food, and discuss the coming weekend’s scenes to be shot.
She was so dedicated, I eventually made her a co-producer on
the film. She played several small roles
in the movie, and to her credit, you can’t recognize her as any of her
characters. She was there almost every
day of shooting. She coached the child actor playing me as a boy. She worked as a
casting director, location manager and extras wrangler.
We talked alot about working together again -- so I was thrilled, in 1995, to make my SF stage debut with her, in a Tennessee Williams one-act entitled The Strangest Kind of Romance, in which I played a delicate, sensitive writer undone by a sexually aggressive landlady. We were a hell of a team, and it was great to see her strut her stuff on stage. I loved being "Blanche DuBois" to her "Stanley Kowalski."
Sami
was a true bohemian, who taught me not only
how to act, but also how to live as an artist. Her life read like a
novel -- in fact, it inspired a play called Dancing in a Whirlwind. She started as pre-teen runaway who was raped and brutally
assaulted; she was then adopted by a household of drag queens in New
York's Greenwich Village; in the late 1950s/early 1960s, she owned her
own nightclub in Florida, where she was a star belly dancer. A brief
marriage produced a couple sons, and a daughter who was born
with mental deficiencies. After that, came her stint as an actress and,
then, a teacher, and then my mentor.
I love you Sami. I won't say "good-bye," because I will never, ever forget you, or the
positive influence you've had on my life.
You’ll always continue to live on in my heart -- and I hope someday to teach others as well as you've taught me.
Forget Lucy...I Love Leigha!
Monday, May 19, 2008
I just spent a wonderful weekend with my niece, Leigha Hall, in
town from Indiana
for a long weekend. She is not at all
into the tourist thing – thank God, since LA experienced its first heat wave of
the year while she was here!
So we spent our time shopping in air-conditioned stores –
and when the heat got too much, we returned home and watched movie after
movie.
She turned me on to Across the Universe and 28 Weeks
Later, both wonderful films. I showed
her Cloverfield and Vacancy. And she
loved them both.
I love Leigha, and I’ve always known she was incredibly
intelligent! (One doesn’t graduate with
dual majors in chemistry and biology without some smarts!) As
a kid, she was mouthy and inquisitive and sometimes got herself into
trouble (much like her uncle!). But now she's a funny, well-adjusted
woman with a lot of compassion. She's had some tough knocks early in
life -- but she has not only overcome them, she has thrived!
But I was so impressed with her poise and
grace, as well as her conscientiousness.
I took her to dinner Sunday evening to meet my “Los Angeles family.” I hoped she wouldn’t be as uncomfortable as I am
when meeting new people – it certainly wouldn’t be the only thing we have in
common.
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Boy, was I surprised!
She fit right in, discussing her work at an ethanol lab with
brother-in-law Norm, and practicing American Sign Language with sister-in-law
Lisette! And I was worried she’d have
nothing to talk about!
The weekend flew by, and too soon, it was time for her to
leave. I guess the sign of a perfect
house guest is one you miss terribly before you ever even have a chance to get
tired of them! But it would take a lot
for me to get tired of her!
Come back soon, Leigha!
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| Leigha Hall, Laurence Whiting & Leon |
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$10,000! $10,000! $10,000!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
As of today, it's official! The Butterfly Effect has raised MORE THAN $10,000! In fact, we're at $10,300 -- and with contributions still dribbling in via mail, we'll eventually go even higher!
Thank you so much to all of our performers, volunteers, donors, contributors and, especially, to everyone who turned out for the show and spent money, then spent some more!
So Funny, It's Scary!
Monday, May 5, 2008
You have to check out my friend Matthew Martin's performance in this trailer for the upcoming Baby Jane spoof.
This is so amazing! It's a parody, an homage, and a reinterpretation all in one!
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May Day! Hooray!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Long-time blog readers know
how much I love this time of year.
Things always seem to “pop” for me in the spring – possibly because I’m
a Gemini. And things have already begun!
I began the first day of my
favorite month doing what I love most:
acting. Rather, auditioning. But this time, for a recurring regular series
role on a TV pilot! Forget about my
chances of getting it; I’m just happy to finally be auditioning at this
level. I’m very grateful to my new agent,
Eddy McLachlan, and hope this is the first of many auditions to come!
* * * * *
In honor of Quentin Crisp’s
100th birthday this year, Nigel Kelly of the QuentinCrisp.info website is
trying to interview the actors who have played the amazing Mr. Crisp. And I’m lucky to have been included!
Click HERE for the
interview. And while you’re there, check
out the rest of this terrific site dedicated to the naked civil servant.
As if the benefit for
Jeffrey Hartgraves didn’t make me nostalgic for Carved in Stone
already, this interview certainly did! And thankfully, the interview
has already stirred up talk, yet again, of producing this fabulous show in
LA. We’ve been talking about it and
trying for years. But now, its time to
get serious!
* * * * *
But first, I’m prepping for
a busy spring of playing host to a few visiting guests.
First up, my niece Leigha,
who arrives in two weeks. She’s
fantastic, a recent college graduate with a double major in chemistry and
biology, and now a working scientist!
Clearly, she got the brains in our family.
Memorial Day Weekend, I’m
putting up my good friend Matthew Martin, in town for a couple of shows. Matthew’s great fun, and a terrific guy. I’m really looking forward to getting caught
up.
Finally, in June, my niece
Charlotte and her son Braydon are flying out for a few days of California sun. Charlotte’s
a terrific mother, and Braydon is the proof – a smart, cute, sensitive, funny
kid just this side of precocious.
Its going to be a great
spring, and its only just beginning!
And What A Show It Was!
Friday, April 25, 2008
I’m very, very happy to
report that Butterfly Effect, the benefit for Jeffrey Hartgraves that I
hosted and co-produced at Theatre Rhinoceros in San Francisco, was a tremendous success on every level: completely sold out, a wonderfully entertaining show, a great party for
all involved, and – oh, yeah – a beyond-expectations fundraiser that pulled in
close to $10,000 for the Jeffrey Hartgraves Cancer Recovery Fund!
I flew into San Francisco on Thursday morning, on time
and without incident. I rented the car,
and checked into my small, too-loud hotel room.
I had some time to kill, so I took a nice, long walk through some
favorite old neighborhoods, stopped at a Starbucks, grabbed the papers. I was happy to see the show listed in all the
calendar sections, and that most called our cast “local luminaries.” It felt so good to be back in town, and for
such a good cause, that the devil himself couldn’t have ruined my mood.
A conference call between
wonder-producer Jenn Garaglino, techie extraordinaire davidmahr, co-producers
T.J. Lee, Alan Quismorio and Fritha Knudsen, Jeffrey and myself took place Thursday evening at
Mr. Mahr’s home, over pizza and soda.
Despite revealing much work still to do, the call was great fun. Afterwards, david played us various sound
cues for the show, including the many phone messages we’d received from
Jeffrey’s friends around the world, many of which we played throughout the
evening.
That night, I had horrible
insomnia. A combination of
too-many-details about the show, worrying about my opening remarks, noise from
the street, and a strange bed in a strange room. I literally slept 25 minutes; so, of course,
I was an absolute zombie on Friday, as I zipped around town picking up auction
items, to the airport to pick up Laurence, and to Glama-Rama for a haircut from
my dearly missed former hair dresser, the fabulous Deena Davenport (who also
contributed a gift certificate to the raffle).
I was so out of it, in fact,
that I lost my wallet! So Saturday
morning, before heading to Theatre Rhinoceros, it was off to the DMV to get a
replacement license. I didn’t even want
to think of the horrors that lay ahead – trying to talk my way onto a plane
without a photo ID! I called the airline
and all they would tell me is “Get to the airport several hours in
advance.” Credit cards were cancelled. I just tried not to think about it, and stayed focused on the show.
Going on sheer nerve, I went
to Rhino Saturday afternoon, and witnessed some incredibly talented people
run their bits for the show. Alan
Castaneda & Bill Lundy blew us all away with their acappella rendition of
“The Rose” -- none of us can believe they aren't really "performers." They should be! I flipped when I saw how
well Libby O’Connell tap danced, in her duet with Matthew Martin. Is there nothing that woman cannot do? And Matthew and I worked on our bits, finally
sharing the stage and fulfilling a mutual goal we’ve had since we worked
together (but didn’t act together) in Carved in Stone.
David Bicha and davidmahr
kicked ass with their respective numbers. Likewise,
Trauma Flintstone and her haunting performance of “What Makes a Man.”
Veronica Klaus arrived, suffering from a horrible cold. But she was a trouper, singing the first of
two numbers before we told her to save her voice for Sunday night. Donald Currie had the room in stitches with
his comedic monologue, as did Liz Ryan!
The brave DayTrippers troupes arrived at 8:30 to receive their “topic”
from Jeffrey. The subject of the two
one-acts? “And then everything changed.”
The directors and
playwrights quickly confabbed with their casts, and I returned to my room for
much needed sleep. And I was thrilled to
find my “lost” wallet under the bed.
I’ll take “idiot” over “stranded” any day.
Jenn Garaglino and davidmahr
really showed their know-how in the next 24 hours: running the rehearsals, coordinating with
stage manager Lara Rempel and assistant stage manager Sarah Chase, their
volunteers, and auction coordinators Fritha Knudsen and Bonita Hart Andrews. They were so in control that I was able to
catch up on my sleep without guilt Sunday morning.
But soon enough, it was off
to the theatre, dragging enough costume changes to choke Cher
herself. There was much to do: provide lunch to the already-rehearsing
DayTrippers casts; provide manpower to set up tables and counters for both the
lunch and the auction items; accompanying Jenn as we finalized and printed
programs, and as she gathered props for DayTrippers.
Jenn is absolutely amazing,
OK? I mean, I cannot express enough how
hard she worked, how organized she was, how tolerant she is, and how tough she
can be. She even offered to kick ass for me
more than once—thankfully, I handled my own battles. It sounds cliché, but the show never would have
happened without her. She not only got
it done, she made the doing a hell of a lot of fun!
And what a night it was!
The show itself was
wonderfully entertaining, and never a dull moment. Every single performer was at the top of his or her game. The evening ran like clockwork, without a single
‘train wreck’ – surprising, given we never had a formal “dress rehearsal” -- and disproving the naysayers who warned I
was trying to do “too big” a show! Even Connie Champagne and Leigh Crow, who were unable to stop by on Saturday, slipped seamlessly into the mix.
It was great fun playing
host, despite some first-time jitters.
The audience certainly helped my confidence – they couldn’t have been
more generous, in every way! Their love, applause and cheers immediately
made me feel welcome, and put me a bit at ease.
It was great being back on Rhino's stage! Almost all my stuff “worked.” But
don’t get me wrong, I won’t be heading out on the stand-up circuit anytime
soon! I prefer to have a character and scripted dialogue to hide behind!
I was surprised at
intermission by Jared Scott, my "love interest" in Message to Michael and
fellow actor from A Few Gay Men. It was
great to see him after all this time, and terrific of him to show up and give his support!
Jeffrey closed the show with
the last bit of his recent hit show Shark Bites. As the cast gathered on stage for curtain call,
Jeffrey returned to the stage to thank everyone for their generosity. He mused that, despite being told he’s had
“rotten luck,” he felt like the luckiest man in the world amongst such friends
– and that, since “charity” was still a hard concept to accept, he’d replace
the word “charity” with “friendship.”
His words were so genuine and heartfelt – and the love flowing from the audience
and cast so intense – it’s a moment I will never forget. You’d have to have a baboon heart not to be
deeply moved.
Jenn G. came through again,
and breakdown was incredibly fast. I was
grateful, as I was incredibly spent, despite doing less than my share of the
actual “work.” I thought we'd be at the theatre til dawn's early light, but were able to leave before midnight.
As we drove Jeffrey and T.J home, we couldn’t stop talking about how perfect the evening had been,
or how good the show was! I think we
were both a little bit in shock by how perfect it had all gone. It was an incredible high! We decided to do another fundraiser someday -- but agree that we hope we never have to do this again for Jeffrey!
So now, sadly, its over, and I’m
back in LA. This weekend, I’m off to the
Tides Hotel in Laguna Beach
for a little R&R, and some spa action.
After a few days in windy, foggy San
Francisco, I could use a little sun!
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Hey, Let’s Put On A Show!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
“Somebody needs to produce a fundraiser!”
Jeffrey Hartgraves and I had been chatting about the
financial difficulties he expected to endure as he faced another round of
chemotherapy.
Since worrying about money can make a healthy person ill, I
don’t know how anyone can heal while fretting about paying the rent. Given Jeffrey’s long and fruitful (pun
intended) theatrical career in San
Francisco, a benefit seemed like a logical and simple
solution.
Jeffrey seemed a bit embarrassed by the prospect – after two recent hits
in a row at Rhino, he wondered, wouldn’t folks be sick of him? Silly boy!
I had worked quite a bit on Celebration Theatre’s recent
anniversary party/fundraiser, and had learned a lot while I was there. So maybe that “somebody who should do
something” was me!
Since there’s only so much I could do in LA, I emailed some
of my theatre “connects” in SF. Jennifer
Garagliano stepped up to the plate immediately, offering to co-produce,
coordinate, direct – hell, she’d probably do laundry for us if I asked!
Then, the venue. I
asked Laurence (the “lari” of “Larilee Productions”) to put in a call to John
Fisher, artistic director of Theatre Rhinoceros, Jeffrey’s artistic home. Would they give us the use of their main
stage, box office, web site, and anything else we could think of, for
free…? Pretty please?
To John’s credit, he immediately said yes!
While I can never be accused of “thinking small,” I really
didn’t set out to produce an extravaganza!
I had no expectations about what the show would eventually be; I was
ready to settle for a staged reading of Jeffrey’s “greatest hits,” if need
be.
I sent emails to every actor and performer I know in San Francisco, and the
response was overwhelming – not surprising, since everyone loves Jeffrey! In less than a day, we had commitments from
headliners Matthew Martin, Veronica Klaus, Leigh Crow, Trauma Flintstone, David
Bicha, and about every actor Jeffrey has ever worked with. The program was quickly becoming “Night of 100
SF Stars”!
Did I say it would be simple? The next week was a flurry of emails back and
forth with the talent, the producers, the theater, our publicist, and me. We all finally settled on Sunday, April 20 –
the theatre would be empty – and most everyone was in town and/or not
performing.
Rapidly, it’s been coming together. Good friend Jim Kumiega will work his magic
and whip up a set for gratis; we got a wonderful poster and graphics from
designer Brian Chavez. Lawrence Helman
is on board as publicist.
And while we’re going to all this trouble, why not make as
much money in one night as possible? We
have lots of terrific donations to offer for sale in our silent auction.
And Jeffrey, being Jeffrey, can’t help but want to get
involved with the show! Thank
God. Like I said, always work with the best!
I’m driving up to SF this weekend to confab with him, to take meetings
with him and Jennifer, and to pose with Jeffrey for a photo shoot promoting the
show.
While I’m still not used to all the “down time” of an LA
actor, it feels great to use that time constructively and for a good
cause! I’m really happy to repay – in a
very small way – someone who’s given me the greatest moments of my stage career
so far!
Knowing When to Say When
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Well, I didn’t plan to sign with a new agent on the
spot! I intended to play it cool, ask
for time to think about it. I was just
investigating what possibilities there might be … I wasn’t unhappy, per se;
just feeling a need to turn things up a notch.
Finding the right fit with an agent is a very important process.
I think I have that right fit. I met recently with Eddy McLachlan of
McLachlan Talent and Literary Agency.
What might have been a 10 minute look-see turned into an hour-long
conversation about show business, Hollywood,
self-important actors, loyalty, communication.
I was very impressed that Eddy encourages his clients to call or pop
in. I don’t think I’ve ever had as good
a time in an agent’s office.
So when he pulled out the papers, I pulled out my pen.
* * * * *
I also connected with a new theatre company, the Unknown
Theater Co. in Hollywood. Dan Oliverio is directing their next play,
Kingdom Come, which he translated from an ancient Spanish text. Dan directed me way back in 2000 in Dream
Boy, then gave me my first Hollywood gig in
2004 in The Scheme of Things. I’ve
always admired Dan’s skill and work ethic, so I went to check it out.
The callback was fun, a total physical workout that worked
muscles I haven’t exercised since college.
Given the number and level of talent of guys in the room, I was
pleasantly surprised to be offered both membership in the Company and a role in
Dan’s new play.
Alas, though it breaks my heart, conflicts keep me from
being able to do the show (more about those conflicts soon!). But I’m really excited about working soon with
this great company.
* * * * *
That wasn’t the only role I reluctantly passed on
recently. I’ve been jones’ing to get
back “on the boards” again, so I was thrilled to be offered the lead role in a
new play (that shall remain nameless).
I was less than thrilled, however, to “accidentally”
discover two days before the first table read, that the show was “double-cast.”
I know this is something of a common occurrence in LA, and
that there are plenty of actors who have no problem “sharing” a role. But I’m not one of them. To me, a double-cast show smacks of amateur
community theatre. A show should be
about the show, not about how many actors can get seen doing it. And the fact that I wasn’t told when offered
the role was a really bad omen.
The casting director did not take the news lying down. It was one of the most uncomfortable
telephone conversations I’ve ever had.
But you have to have the courage of your convictions; a desire to work
can’t override one’s standards, no matter how good the part. As an actor, the
work you won’t do defines you as much as the work you will do.
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Beatings, Brains & Bites
November 9, 2007
During the past couple of weeks, I’ve been tied up in a
chair and pushed over, punched in the face, hit upside the head, and had a
knife held to my throat. I’ve also
delved deep into my consciousness and confronted the left and right sides of my
brain.
Yes, its student-film season again at USC!
I’m lucky to have been cast in two wildly different short
films, and grateful to be busy, considering the current Writer’s Guild
strike.
The first, Zero Tolerance, is a drama written and directed
by grad student Anthony Bushman. Its
about an alcoholic woman (Audrey Fiorini) who signs up with the “Zero Tolerance
Recovery Program,” a detoxification program that stops at nothing – nothing! –
to ensure results. Mark McCullough plays
the sinister “Mr. Black.” I play her
husband, who is brutalized when she relapses.
The terrific stunt coordinator Tony Snegoff was on set
(thank god!) with lots of tips and a very handy floor mat. He taught me a very important lesson: when tied up in a chair and about to be pushed
over, make sure your arms are at your side, not behind you! He’s the second stunt man this year to
compliment me on how well I “sell” a punch – alas, I think my hair deserves the
credit. Thanks to Tony, I got through it
all without injury, although Kate Frey’s amazingly bloody make-up job was
painful to even look at!
This film has a terrific twist ending, so the less said
about it, the better. Shooting wraps at
the end of November
The second film, which I’ve just completed, is the
delightful comedy Inside Leo Krempkin’s Brain, written and directed by Jackie
Fiske. I play Leo, a shut-down investor,
who retreats into his own head and meets the two sides of his brain,
represented by Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum.
The result gives new meaning to the term “splitting headache.”
The Tweedles are wonderfully played by Kyle Mooney and Beck
Bennett, members of the Good Neighbors comedy troupe. They are hilarious, fearless, and intense in
their dedication. So good, in fact, that
I admit I felt a bit intimidated at first – a rather foreign sensation for
me! But I soon loosened up and “played
ball” and had an absolute blast! We
shot the entire thing in front of a blue screen, so I’m anxious to see the
finished product.
* * *
Last month, before Los Angeles
was engulfed in a ring of fire, I traveled to San Francisco to witness a circle of love: my
good friend Jeffrey Hartgraves’ “almost” one-man show Shark Bites, directed by
Libby O’Connell. Jeffrey is always
brilliant, whether as an actor, writer, director, poet or general bon vivant
around town. Any time his magic is on
display, its well worth the drive, flight or walk to witness it!
Even having read the script beforehand, I was totally
unprepared for just how good this show was!
I cannot remember the last time I was howling with laughter while tears
streamed down my face during a show.
Shark Bites is all about personal fears, and how they either
spur us into action or keep us immobile.
Being the consummate honest performer, Jeffrey touched upon his recent
bout with bone cancer. It was both
harrowing and uplifting at the same time.
His on-stage “chorus” included several friends who were there when he
got the diagnosis (P.A. Cooley, David Bicha, David Mahr, TJ Lee), while
the audience that evening also contained myself, Liz Ryan, Veronica Klaus,
Issac Brantner – who were also there those first awful days. So you can imagine how emotional it was.
But to Jeffrey’s credit (and because that’s just the kind of
guy he is), there was no self-pity. In
fact, it reminded me of one of the most valuable lessons Jeffrey ever taught me
when he directed my one-man show – the audience won’t cry if you do it for
them!
Theatre Rhino is wisely talking to Jeffrey already about
bringing the show back – and if they do, I’ll be driving back up for another
look. It’s really that good!
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