Thursday, March 09, 2006

Race for the Finish Line

Is it really here? March 24th is just days...no, HOURS away! Tarzan's first public performance. Granted, yes, it is a preview. We won't be finished until we open May 10th. Still, a chill goes through me when I think that others will share in this experience come Friday. Is that chill nerves? Is it excitement? Is it terror? Is it child-like joy?

Yes.

I feel so very blessed by this experience. And as I see it come to life, I'm reminded why I love storytelling so very much. It opens the eyes of the heart! We learn about ourselves through parable. And this parable will touch you in so many ways.

Also, I cannot discount what an eager student I've become working with such brilliant minds. Smart, inspired, passionate. In discussing the story with many of the team, Tom Schumacher offered some wisdom to me that Howard Ashman imparted to him. That is to never discount a turn in the story. That resonated in me and ultimately was the catalyst for this letter. I am at a turning point and I hope you will join me on the journey.

From the Heart,

Merle

Wednesday, February 22, 2006

New Beginnings


Hello! Let me first thank you all for your tremendous patience as we figured out this blog situation. As you can imagine a lot of changes have been happening. First of all, I left RENT on November 20th. It was quite an amazing day. Thank you for all of your support, well wishes and fantastic energy during my last show. I also had 45 close friends and family in attendance. So, I couldn't have ended my run there in a better way. I am truly humbled by the love extended to me during that time. It is a fantastic cast and crew that grace the Nederlander and I was honored to have worked with them. Following a great closing show and WONDERFUL closing night party, I spent an extended time away with my family in Nebraska. And now I'm back! New apartment, new show, new website design! I hope you enjoy it. And as we iron out the kinks, please feel free to post your suggestions on them forum. Thank you for staying in touch and know that I will try to do the same. In the meantime, get your tickets to Tarzan. You are in for a very special piece of theatre. Everyday is an exciting challenge. Everyday I step out of my comfort zone. So, I as I close I leave you with this: "Go out on a limb--that's where the fruit is." -Will Rogers Love, Merle