In about two weeks, “Stage Lights” will open at the Theatre Building here in Chicago. After years of dreaming and months of planning, it is finally happening.
I apologize for not updating more frequently. With work and the countless moving parts of this show to look after, I haven’t had much time to reflect, let alone write. So much has happened in the last month that I don’t really know where to begin. However, the first thought that comes to mind is this:
I love this cast. I love this crew. I love everyone and everything about this rehearsal process, something that rarely happens during the production of a show. Theatre is an artistic process, and assumedly, should always be full of dreams, exploration, connection and applause. But, more often than not, working on a show is just that – work. Yes, this particular show has been at times stressful and time-consuming, but as a whole, it has been very pleasant. “Stage Lights” has been nothing but a joy so far, and that is worth noting.
I am constantly humbled by how much passion this cast has brought to their roles and the play as a whole. They certainly did not need to, and matching my own passion for this project is a tall order indeed. But here we are, six weeks into the rehearsal process and every cast member has come to each meeting full of ideas, energy and immeasurable talent.
Take Billy Fenderson, for example, the brilliant actor playing Max, the strongman. I worried while writing the script that Max would come off as flat, uninteresting or, worse, a cheap plot device. But Billy brings something to Max that I could never have written – a soul. He cares about Max and works meticulously to flesh out every corner of the character. I can’t wait for you to see this man’s face – bright and eager, yet with Max’s true self groaning under the weight of his celebrity. Watch his performance on June 3rd, and you may be lulled into the belief that I am a very good writer.
I could go on and on. I could rhapsodize about Niq Tognoni’s impish smile, Jim McDoniel’s flawless comic timing, Gabby Cauchon’s boundless energy, Gabe Smith’s rare stage presence, Stephanie Kalil’s alluring grace, Susan Steinke’s unflappable stone face, Bethany Hedden and DeChantel Kasmatka’s understanding of what poise and sass really are. And Alexis Buryk? Simply the most talented physical actress I have ever seen.
They make me feel relaxed. They give me my second wind, and they replenish my confidence in this material every day.
Anyway, just wanted you to know that. More frequent updates to come, for there is a lot more to say. In my next post, I have to tell you about Scott, our music director. If you are able to come see “Stage Lights,” I guarantee that he’ll be the first thing to knock your socks off.
- Jack
