The Best Shows are the Shows you Get Without an Audition

The best shows are the shows you get without an audition.

What a reward, for an actor, to get an email or phone call inviting you to do a show you never auditioned for. What a relief, and compliment.

I have been performing in a show called "Fresh Talent" for the past 3 years. It's a variety show of musical theater performers, dancers and singer/songwriters and we show tour buses of high school students from the Midwest what it's like to be a working actor in New York City. It's a good regular gig with decent pay, all the performers & directors involved are ridiculously talented (as is usual for New York City). Marc Parees, who's been the director of the program for the past few years, is also involved in numerous film & theater projects in the city. He's part of a company called Genesius Theatre Group. He contacted me to offer me a role in an upcoming production of Suzan-Lori Parks' 365 Days/Plays to be performed in the lobby of the Vivian Beaumont Center @ Lincoln Center and on stage at the Public Theater.

I was psyched as I have always held a special respect for Marc's work. There is something vulnerable and open-minded about his methods.

To make a long story short, it was an incredible cast, and we got to work with an extremely talented pool of directors. It was a beautiful feeling to perform at Lincoln Center. Performing at the Public was more of a chaotic experience as we had to share the stage with 20 other companies - but all in all it was a bonding experience with the cast, and a beautiful creative experience. It reminded me of why, at age 9, I made a firm commitment to become an actress; nothing compares to the intimacy of working creatively with a group of people. I joined the theater to find family, community, and meaningful work and expression.

ENJOY THESE PIX (ps - sorry I didn't get a pix of everyone, and sorry for any misspelled names. Let me know!)

James! Ah James! James is now on an Andrew Lloyd Webber tour. James is always good for an outrageous story and infectious giggle.

Paul is a sweetheart. If he was a dyke, I'd marry him.

Steve is caring. And wicked on stage. Well, everyone is wicked on stage. For real.

Christa. Well, a picture speaks a thousand words.

Carey. You definitely want this girl as your bud.

Deborah is 2nd from left. Kick ass director. Sweet and smart as hell. This is outside the Public Theatre.

Faith & her beau. Faith is razor sharp on stage. Look how adorable they are!

Ah - the community of theater!