I was in the Washington Post yesterday! If you have a hard copy of yesterday, look on the back page (and front page lower left corner) of the STYLE section. It's a picture of me in the December show I performed in at Venus Theatre. I will work with them on their Fringe Festival show, "Lysistration".
You can check out the article here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/29/AR2007052902041.html
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The Understudy Experience
So, today I went on for one of the actors in a show that I have been understudying at Imagination Stage, the premier children's theatre in DC. It was a great kick in the butt, and while stressful, it was a super experience!
For those of you who heave an audible sigh when you are in the audience of a Broadway show and hear "In this evening's performance of WICKED, the role of Elphaba will be played by [Idina Menzel's] understudy .... ", please realize the discipline required of an understudy. Yes, I understand you have paid your $100 to see Idina, but give the other woman a chance, it's likely she's just as phenomenal, if not better (though I am in no way stating that I was today)! While the permanent cast has weeks to rehearse their parts, understudies have just a couple rehearsals (and I mean one or two, one in my case!), before they are expected to deliver.
It was a strange feeling being on stage today. The cast for this show is tight, and I have a great respect for all of them as talented performers. I hated that I was running all the technical aspects (stage directions, lines, moving set pieces, and keeping up the pace) in my head for the entire performance. I guess that's how it goes the first time, but I keep reminding myself that I can always be more prepared. If I had been, I would have been able to relax more and really act and react, rather than only making sure the other actors received what they needed, technically, from me. More fun next time!
Lesson learned...
Wow, it has been awhile since I have updated you all!
March and April were full of auditions, stage readings, and rehearsals at various theatres.
I ran my half marathon on May 6th, and made my goal time of 1:57. I will cross train for the next month or so, and then gear up for the Marine Corps Marathon in late October.
I am currently performing as a hotbox dancer, in a production of "Guys and Dolls". It has been fun putting my little experience in tapping to use... I have come far from where I started in early March. Please come check us out this weekend!
(below: me w/ Zehra (who plays Sergeant Sarah) and Jessica (who plays Adelaide))
My summer schedule is still up in the air, but it will most likely include performing as a Senior Operations Officer at the International Spy Museum. I am cast in two shows for the summer, and am still trying to work out details on another production. More details to follow as to dates, times, and places.
This week, I am also shooting an independent film called "Let It Be". I will be playing the part of Heather, a DC actress, well cast I think! I just received a copy of the short film I worked on over the summer. It's fun to finally see my face on screen :)
Be well!
Elise
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
A Good Week
My spirits are high this week as I prepare my body, mind, and soul for SETC (South Eastern Theatre Conference) auditions in Atlanta. I received my picture postcards early and the week, and have sent them to the theatres represented whose seasons most interest me.
Work on the short film was fun last week. Working on a film is like tech week in theatre. Alot of "Hurry up, and wait"-ing. At one point, a hot light was accidentally dropped on my head, that was a good time, NOT. .... the reaction to this was awesome, they had a doctor on call to make sure there was no damage, and that I hadn't passed out. The overall experience was rewarding, and of course it's always fun to have someone else do my hair and make-up... Kya was a pro! The film is called "The Exaltation of Mr. Pratt" and it is being submitted for the national 168 Hour Film Festival.
Onto STAGE NEWS: I have been cast in the company of "Guys & Dolls" at American Music Stage, and am looking forward to working with old friendss and making new ones. I haven't been in a musical chorus for several years, should be fun! Also, I was cast in Theater of the First Amendment's FIRST LIGHT FESTIVAL. I will play "Tess" (a 1940s radio actress) and "Leader" (a strong, modern woman) in a new play called Faithkillers. The reading will be directed by Jeremy Skidmore, psyched to have the opportunity to work with such a renowned DC area director!
Work on the short film was fun last week. Working on a film is like tech week in theatre. Alot of "Hurry up, and wait"-ing. At one point, a hot light was accidentally dropped on my head, that was a good time, NOT. .... the reaction to this was awesome, they had a doctor on call to make sure there was no damage, and that I hadn't passed out. The overall experience was rewarding, and of course it's always fun to have someone else do my hair and make-up... Kya was a pro! The film is called "The Exaltation of Mr. Pratt" and it is being submitted for the national 168 Hour Film Festival.
Onto STAGE NEWS: I have been cast in the company of "Guys & Dolls" at American Music Stage, and am looking forward to working with old friendss and making new ones. I haven't been in a musical chorus for several years, should be fun! Also, I was cast in Theater of the First Amendment's FIRST LIGHT FESTIVAL. I will play "Tess" (a 1940s radio actress) and "Leader" (a strong, modern woman) in a new play called Faithkillers. The reading will be directed by Jeremy Skidmore, psyched to have the opportunity to work with such a renowned DC area director!
Monday, February 19, 2007
A Film!
I was once told that every ten or twenty auditions, an actor lands a role. What a truth I have found this to be. I have been auditioning as often as I can since moving to DC. This past weekend, I had two auditions and I told myself I was going to land one of them, and sure enough it happened-- not just by itself, my preparation was there. The job is a short film for the 168 Hour Film festival, that will be shot over a few days this coming week.
Also ahead of me this week, I have been called to audition for an Indy film in the Baltimore area, and a principle role for a play being produced in Alexandria. Time to keep the positive thinking and focus up! All the while, I should be prepping for a major audition at the South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETCs) in Atlanta, where I will audition for approximately 100 theatres all over the country. I'm psyched to head to Atlanta for the first time, where I'll also be able to meet up with some friends.
I ran my first 8 mile run yesterday in 1:17.40. I'm well on my way to running the Cherry Blossom Ten-Miler under an hour and a half!
Also ahead of me this week, I have been called to audition for an Indy film in the Baltimore area, and a principle role for a play being produced in Alexandria. Time to keep the positive thinking and focus up! All the while, I should be prepping for a major audition at the South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETCs) in Atlanta, where I will audition for approximately 100 theatres all over the country. I'm psyched to head to Atlanta for the first time, where I'll also be able to meet up with some friends.
I ran my first 8 mile run yesterday in 1:17.40. I'm well on my way to running the Cherry Blossom Ten-Miler under an hour and a half!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Radio Debut!
This afternoon, I will be on the air at WAMU radio 88.5FM in DC and streaming at www.wamu.org at approximately 1:50pm. A few members of the cast of "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse" were invited to accompany the play review with a brief dialogue from the show. Enjoy!
It's been a busy January, and although I don't have a show directly lined up following my stint at Adventure Theatre, I have been auditioning at several agencies, and am prepping for the South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC) auditions in March.
It's been a busy January, and although I don't have a show directly lined up following my stint at Adventure Theatre, I have been auditioning at several agencies, and am prepping for the South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC) auditions in March.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
A New Year, New Opportunities
Nothing like starting off the New Year with a seven mile run. That's how I began my Monday morning off work... time to think, time to dwell, time to begin chiselling away at the five pounds I gained over Christmas!
I have so much to celebrate with a year of accomplishments, and my first full year as a working performing artist behind me! Eight months on a national tour, three months in my new place here in DC--- making contacts, performing in movies, shows, taking classes, and auditioning! New headshots will arrive any day now!
My goals for the future continue to play in my mind, and as I attend a performance at Arena Stage or Studio, I see that my own bio isn't too far off from those performing and starring in the mainstage regional productions.
I have so much to celebrate with a year of accomplishments, and my first full year as a working performing artist behind me! Eight months on a national tour, three months in my new place here in DC--- making contacts, performing in movies, shows, taking classes, and auditioning! New headshots will arrive any day now!
My goals for the future continue to play in my mind, and as I attend a performance at Arena Stage or Studio, I see that my own bio isn't too far off from those performing and starring in the mainstage regional productions.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Elise's Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day
From Tuesday:
Don't worry, it's not THAT bad, I just broke my toe... ouch! It all began yesterday morning when I was dressed and ready to go to work and get my headshot done in the afternoon. I had my fave pair of pants on and was putting in a load of laundry, when I felt something on my leg, I smashed it and it crunched inside of my pants in my hands, a huge nasty bug. I immediately pulled off my pants and could see the guts, shell, and multiple legs inside. Ewww! I threw them in the wash, shook it off, and after putting on another pair of pants, left for work.
On my way, the photographer's assistant called to cancel the appointment. Roy (the photographer) was out of town on a family emergency, and wasn't sure when he'd be back. The day went well at Sidwell Friends, and they want me to begin substituting next week!
I had an hour and a half at home between work and rehearsal. I was watching the cast of "DREAMGIRLS" on Oprah w/ Calvin, my housemate, when I jumped up to get my tea that was whistling in the kitchen... On the way, I tripped on the coffee table, and over my bag, right on my chest. My arms didn't pull out in time. I jumped back up and shook it off. My knee hurt, and yea, I definitely stubbed my toe, but shook it off, went to rehearsal. By the end of the night, my toe was still bothering me, and my other housemate, Kendra said the same thing had happened to her awhile ago. She had broke hers, it was swollen and black and blue (like mine). She works for the athletic department at GWU, and they said all they will do at the emergency room is take an x-ray and tell you it's broken, then they'll tape it up. Since the toes are so small, they can't put a cast or splint on it. So ICE and TAPE wil be the solution. I took the day off, so that I'll be able to get through our preview of "Juanita the Walrus" this evening. Life has been so great lately, so I can hardly let something like this bother me. God is just telling me it's about time for a day off, slow down for a second . I can't remember the last time I've slept in, read a book, or watched a movie. I intend to do at least one of these today!
And on top of all that, our heat is not working in the 30-45 temps outside... Brr! At least I'm here to wait for the repairman~
Take care of your toes!
Don't worry, it's not THAT bad, I just broke my toe... ouch! It all began yesterday morning when I was dressed and ready to go to work and get my headshot done in the afternoon. I had my fave pair of pants on and was putting in a load of laundry, when I felt something on my leg, I smashed it and it crunched inside of my pants in my hands, a huge nasty bug. I immediately pulled off my pants and could see the guts, shell, and multiple legs inside. Ewww! I threw them in the wash, shook it off, and after putting on another pair of pants, left for work.
On my way, the photographer's assistant called to cancel the appointment. Roy (the photographer) was out of town on a family emergency, and wasn't sure when he'd be back. The day went well at Sidwell Friends, and they want me to begin substituting next week!
I had an hour and a half at home between work and rehearsal. I was watching the cast of "DREAMGIRLS" on Oprah w/ Calvin, my housemate, when I jumped up to get my tea that was whistling in the kitchen... On the way, I tripped on the coffee table, and over my bag, right on my chest. My arms didn't pull out in time. I jumped back up and shook it off. My knee hurt, and yea, I definitely stubbed my toe, but shook it off, went to rehearsal. By the end of the night, my toe was still bothering me, and my other housemate, Kendra said the same thing had happened to her awhile ago. She had broke hers, it was swollen and black and blue (like mine). She works for the athletic department at GWU, and they said all they will do at the emergency room is take an x-ray and tell you it's broken, then they'll tape it up. Since the toes are so small, they can't put a cast or splint on it. So ICE and TAPE wil be the solution. I took the day off, so that I'll be able to get through our preview of "Juanita the Walrus" this evening. Life has been so great lately, so I can hardly let something like this bother me. God is just telling me it's about time for a day off, slow down for a second . I can't remember the last time I've slept in, read a book, or watched a movie. I intend to do at least one of these today!
And on top of all that, our heat is not working in the 30-45 temps outside... Brr! At least I'm here to wait for the repairman~
Take care of your toes!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Juanita the Walrus
Come check us out!
"Juanita the Walrus Goes on a Shopping Spree"
by Deb Randall and Alan Scott
Nov. 23 - Dec 17
Fridays at 7
Saturdays at 3 and 7
Sundays at 1 and 3
This is a 45 minute holiday musical of whimsy. Appropriate for all ages!
Located at The Venus Theatre Play Shack
21 C Street, Laurel, MD
More information available at: www.venustheatre.org
Monday, November 13, 2006
Livin' it
It feels great to be pursuing the lifestyle I've dreamed of and hoped for. True, I'm not on Broadway or in a feature film yet, but I've got to start somewhere! It's definitely possible to be a working actress in this market, and I'm trying to make use of the resources available in this diverse, cultured metropolitan. This past weekend, I saw two plays (one musical, on straight), met with a fellow aspiring actress to introduce her to the industry here in DC, went to an audition, and ran my first 7-mile run in prep for an upcoming ten-miler.
"Crestfall" was a rough, edgy play made up of 3 twenty or so minute monologues told by three Scottish women (American and British actresses) about their lives with abusive men. Nitty gritty and powerful, these actresses took the stage and held our attention. It was helpful to see this performance in the space where I think I'll be auditioning at tonight. "Coming Home" is the musical I attended last night. The piece was directed by Mary Hall Surface, and commissioned for the newly renovated Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street NE. It told the history of the neighborhood through the stories of local characters and places. There were riots there in the sixties that destroyed alot of the local feel and businesses (and probably this old theatre). A pre-show reception included desserts and coffee accompanied by a local motown quintet and a hip hop dance group- I think they were both local, a great sense of community! Hopefully the rejuvenation of the Atlas is the beginning of bringing this rundown neighborhood back to life. There's so much history in this city, and I find myself wanting to learn about it all. Next weekend, I will most likely audition for a show there: "Kiss Me Kate", produced by the Washington Savoyards.
Two auditions today: the Actor's Center Lottery audition (big cattle call) and "Reefer Madness" at Studio Theatre's SecondStage! I'm psyched for both, but REALLY want success at the "Reefer Madness" audition! The show goes up in July, but no more details until I land the show.
Rehearsals continue for "Juanita the Walrus Goes on a Shopping Spree". They're advertising it as "rock-a-silly" production and I can guarantee you that's what you're in for! My costume sounds super groovy, and I can say that it includes purple eyelashes. This kid's show would be a fun stress relief for your holiday shopping. Hope to see you there! For a schedule and ticket info, check out the Venus Theatre website: www.venustheatre.org.
"Crestfall" was a rough, edgy play made up of 3 twenty or so minute monologues told by three Scottish women (American and British actresses) about their lives with abusive men. Nitty gritty and powerful, these actresses took the stage and held our attention. It was helpful to see this performance in the space where I think I'll be auditioning at tonight. "Coming Home" is the musical I attended last night. The piece was directed by Mary Hall Surface, and commissioned for the newly renovated Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street NE. It told the history of the neighborhood through the stories of local characters and places. There were riots there in the sixties that destroyed alot of the local feel and businesses (and probably this old theatre). A pre-show reception included desserts and coffee accompanied by a local motown quintet and a hip hop dance group- I think they were both local, a great sense of community! Hopefully the rejuvenation of the Atlas is the beginning of bringing this rundown neighborhood back to life. There's so much history in this city, and I find myself wanting to learn about it all. Next weekend, I will most likely audition for a show there: "Kiss Me Kate", produced by the Washington Savoyards.
Two auditions today: the Actor's Center Lottery audition (big cattle call) and "Reefer Madness" at Studio Theatre's SecondStage! I'm psyched for both, but REALLY want success at the "Reefer Madness" audition! The show goes up in July, but no more details until I land the show.
Rehearsals continue for "Juanita the Walrus Goes on a Shopping Spree". They're advertising it as "rock-a-silly" production and I can guarantee you that's what you're in for! My costume sounds super groovy, and I can say that it includes purple eyelashes. This kid's show would be a fun stress relief for your holiday shopping. Hope to see you there! For a schedule and ticket info, check out the Venus Theatre website: www.venustheatre.org.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
more on the race
So my actual timing of the 10K (on the chip that judges) was 54:08, even better! My ranking was 149th among women and 503rd overall (out of approximately 4,000). Great start, and I'm back to work training today. Will post pictures once I receive them. 3-4 weeks till my next race, Ten-Miler. In the meantime, all is well working at Sidwell Friends (temporarily), and rehearsing for "Juanita the Walrus". I have a sweet solo, in the style of Jamiroquai or Macy Gray... rockin' it out~
Sunday, October 29, 2006
MCM 10K
I did it! And I felt great! 6.2 miles in fifty-five minutes and ten seconds, in chilly weather. 49-52 degrees was a great running temp, but not while standing around, waiting to begin, in a tank top and shorts. Hey, I'm an amateur, what can I say. I am on my way to the marathon in the spring! It was really inspiring to see 35,000 people committed to running so far and staying in such great shape. I must admit, I have definitely eaten back all the calories that I have burned in the past week, but it felt good to over carb it for a change, I even picked up McD's on my way to rehearsal tonight.
But, the race is over, so tomorrow is a rest/stretch day, and kick my diet back into check. Why? because I've just been contacted by a talent agency in the area to come audition/interview, and if they like me, I'll be offered an exclusive contract. Who knows though, I'm not going to rush into anything, but I'm pretty psyched that they've chosen me out of hundreds of headshots/resumes they receive, to come in!
The last few weeks have been busy, and it doesn't look like I'll be slowing down anytime soon, which is great! I thrive on being busy, and I've been out of practice for a year and half. I've enjoyed that time (on the road, and the interim) but I'm thrilled w/ the opportunities I've had this month, and those which I know are just around the corner.
But, the race is over, so tomorrow is a rest/stretch day, and kick my diet back into check. Why? because I've just been contacted by a talent agency in the area to come audition/interview, and if they like me, I'll be offered an exclusive contract. Who knows though, I'm not going to rush into anything, but I'm pretty psyched that they've chosen me out of hundreds of headshots/resumes they receive, to come in!
The last few weeks have been busy, and it doesn't look like I'll be slowing down anytime soon, which is great! I thrive on being busy, and I've been out of practice for a year and half. I've enjoyed that time (on the road, and the interim) but I'm thrilled w/ the opportunities I've had this month, and those which I know are just around the corner.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Show #2
Alright, these auditions are starting to pay off! I have been cast in "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse" at Adventure Theatre which will run January-February. Rehearsals will begin just as my current show goes into production! For more info on this show, check out the website: http://www.adventuretheatre.org/
Friday, October 20, 2006
The 9-5... not my bag
After a solid week temping at the same place (which is definitely full of cool, laid-back researchers and other professionals mind you), I am BORED. Seriously. Well, it's paying the bills and I can't complain (it's also my last day here at my week-long job), but looking forward to a promo job tomorrow, it's good to be on my feet. Speaking of on my feet, as I continue my race training, I'm checking out gyms to join down here. Woke up in time to hit the gym at 6am this morning just in time to take a tour before getting ready for my 9-5-er (or 8:30-5:30) rather. I do love the city life though, and it's always good character research taking the city bus twice a day... also cool, because there are alot of recurring characters (like the sweet mom who holds her 1 and 1/2 year old boy in her lap everyday- he checks everything out, she just has a quiet, warm smile, or the yuppie girl from Kentucky w/ her fun twang heading home from her new job, or the nurse on her way home at 8am from the G-town hospital).
Should be another good weekend. Goin' to see Aaron in "DreamGirls" (the production is sponsored by DreamWorks, so that's pretty sweet) and have a few auditions lined up. Last weekend before my first 10K. I'm getting excited, and somewhere in the middle of this past week, I realized, I LIKE running!
Should be another good weekend. Goin' to see Aaron in "DreamGirls" (the production is sponsored by DreamWorks, so that's pretty sweet) and have a few auditions lined up. Last weekend before my first 10K. I'm getting excited, and somewhere in the middle of this past week, I realized, I LIKE running!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
New Show and Inspiring Weekend!
Fiona the Fish is my character in Venus Theatre's production of "Juanita the Walrus Goes on a Shopping Spree". The character description: Fiona has mermaid hair, can fly through air... a bit of a diva, but loves her friends ! Okay, how much fun am I gonna have?! Mark your calendars, we open Friday after Thanksgiving and run for four weekends.
This morning, I attended an awesome acting/improv workshop with Gary Austin, and AMAZING teacher who works out of LA, but frequently teaches in the area. His students include Helen Hunt and Lisa Kudrow. I am going to try to work w/ him whenever he's in town, and hopefully his wife who is the vocal coach for MANY MANY big performers out there (which may or may not include Barbara Streisand).
I finished the day by attending a performance by Betty Buckley (Cats, Sunset Boulevard, Elegies, etc.) at GMU's Center for Arts (my old stage :). She was PHENOMENAL! The concert was so inspiring, and it didn't hurt that my friend Mike hooked me up w/ a ticket 3rd row front and center!
So, all and all great weekend! Tomorrow, will run my final 10K for time, before I taper (not too extreme, since it's a short race) for the race in two weeks. Psyched and feelin' good~
This morning, I attended an awesome acting/improv workshop with Gary Austin, and AMAZING teacher who works out of LA, but frequently teaches in the area. His students include Helen Hunt and Lisa Kudrow. I am going to try to work w/ him whenever he's in town, and hopefully his wife who is the vocal coach for MANY MANY big performers out there (which may or may not include Barbara Streisand).
I finished the day by attending a performance by Betty Buckley (Cats, Sunset Boulevard, Elegies, etc.) at GMU's Center for Arts (my old stage :). She was PHENOMENAL! The concert was so inspiring, and it didn't hurt that my friend Mike hooked me up w/ a ticket 3rd row front and center!
So, all and all great weekend! Tomorrow, will run my final 10K for time, before I taper (not too extreme, since it's a short race) for the race in two weeks. Psyched and feelin' good~
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Mark Wahlberg and VIP
Fun week! Shot a movie "Shooter" starring Mark Wahlberg and Danny Glover due to come out next spring. Yes, I was an extra, but you'll probably be able to see me in the shots since they gave my friend Jacquie a stroller w/ baby. We stuck together for the day, our plot line was that I was the cool aunt (of the doll) taking my sis out for lunch. And Mark Wahlberg, ahh, beautiful! I learned a little bit more about joining SAG in talking to other background actors, and met two guys who are actor/directors in the area who will keep me in mind for future projects.
Check out Robin William's new movie "Man of the Year". Marcel invited me to a special preview screening of it at G-town Thursday night, since Robin Williams would be there Friday afternoon shooting "Hardball w/ Chris Matthews". Marcel was busy all week helping them set up, so there may be future possibilities w/ them once they see his work on past film projects. I joked that we're gonna be the next Maggie & Jake Gyllenhal-brother/sister Hollywood duo.
Good times last night! My good college friend, Jason, got us VIP into a couple trendy, popular nightclubs downtown, felt like I was on "Sex & the City". Can't wait to see what this week'll hold!
Check out Robin William's new movie "Man of the Year". Marcel invited me to a special preview screening of it at G-town Thursday night, since Robin Williams would be there Friday afternoon shooting "Hardball w/ Chris Matthews". Marcel was busy all week helping them set up, so there may be future possibilities w/ them once they see his work on past film projects. I joked that we're gonna be the next Maggie & Jake Gyllenhal-brother/sister Hollywood duo.
Good times last night! My good college friend, Jason, got us VIP into a couple trendy, popular nightclubs downtown, felt like I was on "Sex & the City". Can't wait to see what this week'll hold!
Monday, September 25, 2006
A Day on Capitol Hill
There may be more to come as I am temping in a city of politians. Yesterday, I had no idea I would find myself as a receptionist for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, but here I am! It's certainly not boring, as far as switchboard/receptionist work goes. Several congressmen and women walk down the hall, say their hellos and make small talk with me. I sure wish I knew who they were and what they stood for, but really how much can I stay on top of? Who knows what's in store for tomorrow, besides an audition at the Smithsonian and work at another DC office?
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Virgin Fest & Running
Four long, not hard days working for Virgin Mobile was well worth it! Culminating in the Virgin Fest (featuring Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Who, The Killers, The Flaming Lips, Gnarles Barkley) yesterday, I was a virgin angel and ambassador (pretty much looked pretty and passed out free stuff). I met some great people, and even made it into the VIP tent to meet some head honchos in the company.
Helping a new friend train for his 6th or 7th marathon, I was motivated to really commit to running. It's something I've been doing once in awhile for a couple of years, but I really haven't put in the discipline needed to become a runner. Now is the time. Today I ran four miles, and signed up for the Marine Core Marathon- 10K race. It's definitely do-able, as I really only need to add 2 miles to what I can already run. The discipline I put into running, I will also be able to apply to audition prep, and vocal and instrumental practice.
Best news of the week: I found a place to live! Just across the street from Jacques and Liz, I have the top floor of a Georgetown townhouse!
Helping a new friend train for his 6th or 7th marathon, I was motivated to really commit to running. It's something I've been doing once in awhile for a couple of years, but I really haven't put in the discipline needed to become a runner. Now is the time. Today I ran four miles, and signed up for the Marine Core Marathon- 10K race. It's definitely do-able, as I really only need to add 2 miles to what I can already run. The discipline I put into running, I will also be able to apply to audition prep, and vocal and instrumental practice.
Best news of the week: I found a place to live! Just across the street from Jacques and Liz, I have the top floor of a Georgetown townhouse!
Monday, September 18, 2006
"City Girl" At Last
So, it's not quite New York, but Washington DC is where it's at for me! On my drive down from Rhode Island, I have to admit that a small part of me was anxious that all would not go as planned... but I really am just jumping in head first, and everything looks positive so far... well, I really haven't landed any acting gigs or found an apartment yet, but really, that's all gravy! Right?
Anyway, I've moved into a temporary place in a wealthy part of town, just near the Maryland border. It's convenient to the metro, and I've even found a parking place a few blocks away. Over the weekend, I checked out some apartments. I did NOT know what I was in for. These open houses are like mass exoduses from group row house to house in the city, interviewing with grad students or young professionals in the hopes that you'll be their favorite of the afternoon. As if auditions and job interviews were not enough. It's all good though, you can never get enough interviewing experience, right? It's not like I haven't already introduced myself to hundred of people in small towns the past fifteen months on tour!
I'm learning the streets, and am so thankful for my DC family down here. Jacques, Liz & Marcel are making the transition so easy for me. I stayed in Marcel's dormroom one night, and met Jacques and Liz at the Sunday night mass in Georgetown.
Today was an interview at a temping agency where it looks like I should be able to get consistent work. This weekend should be good times, as I'll be a Virgin Angel at the Virgin Festival (Virgin Records) up in Baltimore. I'll be getting paid and I receive a free pair of VANS shoes. This girl can never have too many shoes!
Anyway, off to check out another apartment, and then later meet some theatre people at a Didactic Theatre (Kristen Cornwall's theatre) fundraising meeting.
Anyway, I've moved into a temporary place in a wealthy part of town, just near the Maryland border. It's convenient to the metro, and I've even found a parking place a few blocks away. Over the weekend, I checked out some apartments. I did NOT know what I was in for. These open houses are like mass exoduses from group row house to house in the city, interviewing with grad students or young professionals in the hopes that you'll be their favorite of the afternoon. As if auditions and job interviews were not enough. It's all good though, you can never get enough interviewing experience, right? It's not like I haven't already introduced myself to hundred of people in small towns the past fifteen months on tour!
I'm learning the streets, and am so thankful for my DC family down here. Jacques, Liz & Marcel are making the transition so easy for me. I stayed in Marcel's dormroom one night, and met Jacques and Liz at the Sunday night mass in Georgetown.
Today was an interview at a temping agency where it looks like I should be able to get consistent work. This weekend should be good times, as I'll be a Virgin Angel at the Virgin Festival (Virgin Records) up in Baltimore. I'll be getting paid and I receive a free pair of VANS shoes. This girl can never have too many shoes!
Anyway, off to check out another apartment, and then later meet some theatre people at a Didactic Theatre (Kristen Cornwall's theatre) fundraising meeting.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Transitions
my lil bro who I'll finally be catching up with this year in DC
it's about time we had all these ladies in the Arsenault home
my first horserace @ Colonial Down in Virginia
Alvaro Ibanez, an artist from Columbia who hosted us for dinner @ his gallery
Ava Gaudet after a Monday night performance of "RENT"What an awesome summer it's been! Amy and I rocked out all summer from attending Broadway shows, to concert readings, to Shakespeare in the Park, we've seen some fabulous performances. The kids worked so hard in our many productions! Above all, we've both become stronger women in the situations we've encountered and the problems we've solved. Not to mention, I've gained a lifelong friend!
It's crazy to think that in just a few weeks I will begin my life in the city for the first time! I've been waiting for this for a long time, and I think- actually, I know I'm ready. Can't imagine what it'll be like to live in a place longer than a week or two... my first time since graduation. After the auditions I've been to in the DC area, I feel competitive right now. It's a competitive business, but worth every moment on stage or in rehearsal. Even the auditions are exciting- afterall I've already been called back for two professional shows in the League. I am most excited to be able to take dance and acting classes again. I look forward to getting my voice back, and making appointments with casting and talent agencies in the area.
Please keep in touch and let me know if there's anything you'd like me to write more about! As I start to wrap up my final tour with Missoula Children's Theatre (who knows, I may be back), I look forward to the future with hope and excitement!
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