This week I received a call from Matthews Playhouse with the results of the White Christmas callbacks....
I happily accepted the role of Rita!!
I'm so excited to get to be in another show that Rebecca has designed/painted and be in my first NC show (aside from the Opera Carolina supernumerary roles in high school). It's kind of strange that we Primms have lived here so long, but haven't gotten involved in the theatre community of Charlotte until just a few years ago.
The other day I found an issue of Backstage (a theatre resource which mainly lists auditions) that I had saved from the summer of 2010 when Rebecca and I were living in New York. The article that instantly caught my eye was "10 Things I Wish I'd Known Before Deciding to Become an Actor", and when I read number 7, I remembered how much that point had made an impression on me the first time I had read it.
Here's a quote from number 7:
"Money isn't everything.
You can have a satisfying actor's life without making a dime off your acting....I now believe that continuing to act, in and of itself, is success."
Rereading that article came at the perfect time. It was during my whole decision making process whether or not to stay in Charlotte for a bit to audition. Charlotte does have quite a few opportunities, but Chicago definitely exceeds theirs greatly and would be the better "career choice".
One of the friends I sought advice from was my long time actor friend Ryan Roets who replied, "You can work anywhere under the right circumstances, but it's all about what you want to do. I'm discovering that my happiness in doing theater is more important than where it is or what I'm getting paid. Have fun. I say stick it out and have a blast."
With all of the advice given and my prayers for wisdom, the decision to stay in Charlotte for a couple of more months to be in White Christmas with Matthews Playhouse, help out my family, and pursue audition opportunities here just felt right. Due to transportation costs, unfortunately, I won't be able to return to Chicago until the show ends, but probably not until after the holidays. I've felt bad for just vanishing and not saying goodbye to my Chicago friends (for now)! It isn't the first time I've "vanished" from a city, though ;)
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
a different plane
This past Friday evening, I enjoyed a brand new theatre experience--seeing Children's Theatre of Charlotte's production of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown with TECH PEOPLE (not with other theatre lovers or fellow actors).
When sitting in the audience of a show, I usually watch on the plane of soaking in the actors and musicians and learning from (and critiquing) them. I appreciate the set, lighting, and other aspects, but they aren't usually my main focus.
This time? I was sitting with my sister, Rebecca, to enjoy her set painting, as well as her tech friends.
It was amusing paying attention to all of the things they cheered for, clapped for, and laughed at, because a lot of the time they were non-actor related. It was fun getting to experience their pride in their contributions to the show.
Having a set designer/set painter sister has really taught me to show your appreciation for your tech people in your show genuinely even more. So many times actors can get wrapped up in themselves, other actors, and their art, and forget to properly thank the others who contributed. We would be so bare on stage without them!
Here is one of her works from the show (also in collaboration with Tim Parati):
When sitting in the audience of a show, I usually watch on the plane of soaking in the actors and musicians and learning from (and critiquing) them. I appreciate the set, lighting, and other aspects, but they aren't usually my main focus.
This time? I was sitting with my sister, Rebecca, to enjoy her set painting, as well as her tech friends.
It was amusing paying attention to all of the things they cheered for, clapped for, and laughed at, because a lot of the time they were non-actor related. It was fun getting to experience their pride in their contributions to the show.
Having a set designer/set painter sister has really taught me to show your appreciation for your tech people in your show genuinely even more. So many times actors can get wrapped up in themselves, other actors, and their art, and forget to properly thank the others who contributed. We would be so bare on stage without them!
Here is one of her works from the show (also in collaboration with Tim Parati):
Friday, September 28, 2012
New addition to my stage tools:
Tap dancing shoes! Also pictured: a piece of wood I found in the garage for my own mini tap floor so I don't destroy the floors.....you're welcome Mom ;)
In hopes of stretching my time spent with my family significantly longer as well as getting to participate in a fantastic show that my sister is also working on the set of, I auditioned for a production of White Christmas down here in NC. The audition went very well, and I have a callback for tomorrow morning! The leads were precast, so they are looking to cast the ensemble, and from the ensemble they will cast the other characters.
Since the show requires so much tap dancing, there will be tapping required tomorrow. This presents a ginormous problem for me, because I have no tap dancing experience, and a smidge of dance experience. Primms aren't known to run away from challenges, so what is my mission of today? Watch many many learn-to-tap youtube videos.
This will definitely be a good experiment. ;)
Sunday, September 23, 2012
life intersections.
After two years of knowing where I was supposed to be and what I was supposed to be doing in life, I'm at a fork in the road...again. Actually, it's more like those really confusing six-way intersections in Chicago. It's quite the dangerous situation, especially if you're a Primm. To keep up with the confusing six-way intersection analogy, we've been known to make a sudden lane changes or turns. For example? Our seemingly random NY move the summer of 2010, then the random move back to CHI the fall of 2010. It was instilled in us from the moment we were born to dream big, and we all have quite a lot of dreams that just seem necessary to accomplish.
Current theme song:
Oh, Disney. You're amazing.
Back to thoughts:
One direction tugging at me is due to my very recent experience acting in a short film titled Good People directed by the incredibly talented Hunter Spears. I was the character of Detective Sharon Dana. Oh yes, I sure did get to carry a gun. Oh yes, I even got to arrest someone. I won't spoil the rest, though. ;) That weekend on the film set and the rehearsals prior really opened my eyes up to how exciting film is. Hunter kindly reminded me to think subtle rather than large as you would on stage. The idea of having a simple regular conversation and not worrying about projection/microphones intrigued me instantly. Getting to try again if something wasn't correct during that scene and not only having one shot like you would in front of an audience was nice as well. I definitely want to continue to learn more and gain more film experience!
(Here's the film teaser for a sneak peek!)
Another direction? Well, I just had a birthday. I'm realizing that my dream of spending time in Europe is still lingering in my heart. The idea of being an au pair was introduced to me a year ago, and it has come up every so often in my mind. As another year rolled around, I realized that I won't always be free of commitments as I currently am to just be able to go experience a new culture in that way.
This past week I had a beautiful time with my brother visiting his home in Hartford. He and I got to take a day trip to Boston (which was absolutely gorgeous)! I also spent a few days in NYC visiting dear friends like my old roommate Jacquie, Ryan Roets, Will, and David. All of that time spent in travels really helped me begin to think about that six way intersection.
After returning from New England, I strapped my fish's tank in the seat next to me and took off to North Carolina for a much needed couple of weeks off from Chicago for family visiting/helping time. It's been something I've been desiring to do for a while! My main goal while here? Get some nice family time in and help get the house ready to move. Another goal while here? Learn Charlotte. While in Charlotte, I've mostly just gone downtown to see shows or rehearse for Opera Carolina when I was in highschool, but I've never taken time to actually learn the streets, restaurants, boutiques---basically learn all of the great things that Charlotte offers. So far, all of this southern time has been lovely.
Current theme song:
Oh, Disney. You're amazing.
Back to thoughts:
One direction tugging at me is due to my very recent experience acting in a short film titled Good People directed by the incredibly talented Hunter Spears. I was the character of Detective Sharon Dana. Oh yes, I sure did get to carry a gun. Oh yes, I even got to arrest someone. I won't spoil the rest, though. ;) That weekend on the film set and the rehearsals prior really opened my eyes up to how exciting film is. Hunter kindly reminded me to think subtle rather than large as you would on stage. The idea of having a simple regular conversation and not worrying about projection/microphones intrigued me instantly. Getting to try again if something wasn't correct during that scene and not only having one shot like you would in front of an audience was nice as well. I definitely want to continue to learn more and gain more film experience!
(Here's the film teaser for a sneak peek!)
Another direction? Well, I just had a birthday. I'm realizing that my dream of spending time in Europe is still lingering in my heart. The idea of being an au pair was introduced to me a year ago, and it has come up every so often in my mind. As another year rolled around, I realized that I won't always be free of commitments as I currently am to just be able to go experience a new culture in that way.
This past week I had a beautiful time with my brother visiting his home in Hartford. He and I got to take a day trip to Boston (which was absolutely gorgeous)! I also spent a few days in NYC visiting dear friends like my old roommate Jacquie, Ryan Roets, Will, and David. All of that time spent in travels really helped me begin to think about that six way intersection.
After returning from New England, I strapped my fish's tank in the seat next to me and took off to North Carolina for a much needed couple of weeks off from Chicago for family visiting/helping time. It's been something I've been desiring to do for a while! My main goal while here? Get some nice family time in and help get the house ready to move. Another goal while here? Learn Charlotte. While in Charlotte, I've mostly just gone downtown to see shows or rehearse for Opera Carolina when I was in highschool, but I've never taken time to actually learn the streets, restaurants, boutiques---basically learn all of the great things that Charlotte offers. So far, all of this southern time has been lovely.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
4
Four years living with the hole in our hearts that your warmth once filled.
This picture of my dear little diva on my last day as her nanny brought all of us tears as we thought of what it symbolizes. She didn't know I wasn't coming back the next day as was her routine. I didn't know that when we parted at the apple festival after you dropped me off at college for my junior year that it would be the last time.
Love you, Dad. Can't wait for the day we are all reunited in heaven.
This picture of my dear little diva on my last day as her nanny brought all of us tears as we thought of what it symbolizes. She didn't know I wasn't coming back the next day as was her routine. I didn't know that when we parted at the apple festival after you dropped me off at college for my junior year that it would be the last time.
I was very thankful to have gotten to spend today with Matthew on a day trip to Boston. The ships, the water, Mike's pastries, the history you soak in as you explore...basically everything was a reminder of you. You would have loved it. Definitely wish Mom, Bec, Victor, and Jonathan could have experienced it, too.
Love you, Dad. Can't wait for the day we are all reunited in heaven.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
"cause you helped me find my way..."
Each show I do, I'm amazed at what you can learn from the process. Of course, you're going to grow more in the art of acting as you gain experience, BUT, here's a random list of key things I've learned from either experience or observation outside of acting knowledge gained:
1. In every cast there will be drama. Stay out of it.
2. Don't fall in love with actors.
3. The show will come together. It always does.
4. Keep any negative thoughts to yourself.
5. Always respect and thank your director.
6. Are you being handed roles yet? No? So respect the smaller companies that let you work in the field you love!
7. If you accidentally fall into the drama, get back up quickly and quietly.
In the beginning process of Legally Blonde I was super excited to get to explore a new character--a "mean girl". The end result? People shocked that "always nice Rachelyn" could do that ;). It was truly so much fun getting to develop the character and play off of the other actors. My friend Kristin who played Paulette (who has been in every single Chicago show I've been in) and I were both scared of the belting nature of our roles since we had never belted..let alone belted in public before, but guess what? We did it! SHE especially owned it!
We had quite the talented and unique cast, too. Closing night was sad, but it'll be refreshing to have a little break until the next project, plus I'm sure I'll see those darling people again soon.
Guess what amazing present arrived in Chicago on July 2? None other than my sister, Rebecca! This #primmladeezsummer has definitely been a treat. Parts of it remind me of our NYC life experiences together...especially our fascination with .50 cones from BK (I got a little tubby-tub in NY from a MCd's cones and Shake Shack addiction) and also our lack of A/C in the apartment...oh wait, and accidentally snuggling with her when she sleeps in my bed.
Our summer was made this past Sunday afternoon from boat captain neighbor. He got us onto a BOAT RIDE on Lake Michigan! Yes, we freaked out and put much thought into what would be the best boat outfits. Yes, I danced for a long time to Beyonce out of excitement when we received the text invite. Yes, we were more than thrilled to be arm candy for the afternoon. Yes, we drove the boat, used the captain binoculars, and took lots of photos. Typical primmladeez event.
Primmladeez & boat captain
Yes, boat captain neighbor and I posed as a married couple. Only in the photo though. It was such a perfect view for a couples' photoshoot, Becca and I couldn't resist making Tom go along with it. So, don't worry, Mom, I'm still single... ;)
Sadly, Becca will be departing Chicago in a week for more NC set design projects, but maybe soon we'll end up living together again?
More lovely guests visited this summer, too! It was the first time I got to celebrate Bastille day with my momma, and I loved spending time with my little brothers as well as watching Coda, Victor's dog, enjoy city life. I seriously almost stole him. Here they are!
This photo was during our enjoyment of the music of Frank Loesser in Millennium Park just before we viewed the Navy Pier fireworks.
Possibly more career updates soon--we'll see how recent auditions pan out. ;)
1. In every cast there will be drama. Stay out of it.
2. Don't fall in love with actors.
3. The show will come together. It always does.
4. Keep any negative thoughts to yourself.
5. Always respect and thank your director.
6. Are you being handed roles yet? No? So respect the smaller companies that let you work in the field you love!
7. If you accidentally fall into the drama, get back up quickly and quietly.
In the beginning process of Legally Blonde I was super excited to get to explore a new character--a "mean girl". The end result? People shocked that "always nice Rachelyn" could do that ;). It was truly so much fun getting to develop the character and play off of the other actors. My friend Kristin who played Paulette (who has been in every single Chicago show I've been in) and I were both scared of the belting nature of our roles since we had never belted..let alone belted in public before, but guess what? We did it! SHE especially owned it!
We had quite the talented and unique cast, too. Closing night was sad, but it'll be refreshing to have a little break until the next project, plus I'm sure I'll see those darling people again soon.
Me as Vivienne and Kristin as her opening scene Delta Nu character
Gus who played Bruiser, Elle's doggie. He always sat on my lap while I did my makeup!!
Guess what amazing present arrived in Chicago on July 2? None other than my sister, Rebecca! This #primmladeezsummer has definitely been a treat. Parts of it remind me of our NYC life experiences together...especially our fascination with .50 cones from BK (I got a little tubby-tub in NY from a MCd's cones and Shake Shack addiction) and also our lack of A/C in the apartment...oh wait, and accidentally snuggling with her when she sleeps in my bed.
Our summer was made this past Sunday afternoon from boat captain neighbor. He got us onto a BOAT RIDE on Lake Michigan! Yes, we freaked out and put much thought into what would be the best boat outfits. Yes, I danced for a long time to Beyonce out of excitement when we received the text invite. Yes, we were more than thrilled to be arm candy for the afternoon. Yes, we drove the boat, used the captain binoculars, and took lots of photos. Typical primmladeez event.
Rebecca
Moi
Yes, boat captain neighbor and I posed as a married couple. Only in the photo though. It was such a perfect view for a couples' photoshoot, Becca and I couldn't resist making Tom go along with it. So, don't worry, Mom, I'm still single... ;)
Sadly, Becca will be departing Chicago in a week for more NC set design projects, but maybe soon we'll end up living together again?
More lovely guests visited this summer, too! It was the first time I got to celebrate Bastille day with my momma, and I loved spending time with my little brothers as well as watching Coda, Victor's dog, enjoy city life. I seriously almost stole him. Here they are!
This photo was during our enjoyment of the music of Frank Loesser in Millennium Park just before we viewed the Navy Pier fireworks.
Possibly more career updates soon--we'll see how recent auditions pan out. ;)
Sunday, May 13, 2012
"T-H-E E-N-D. I can't believe it...
...I've finished my first [lead]!"
It's just a little bit appropriate to use part of a Betty Schaefer line. ;) Sunset Boulevard closed a week ago Saturday evening. Once again, lots of hugs to everyone involved. This is the first show that I've cried on closing night. I grew so much in the show with the mentoring of Dante Orfei the director, Sarah Bright the choreographer, and James Nedrud who played Joe Gillis. The cast of Sunset Boulevard was so much fun to work with, and it was especially nice having dear friends involved such as John Warren who music directed and his wife Tiffany who played the flute beautifully in the orchestra. (Tiffany is the one who encouraged me to go for Betty Schaefer in the first place!) Kristin Lutzeier who was Joanna and Heather in the cast has been in all 5 of the Chicago productions I've been in, and the tradition continues with our next show! Lindsay Prerost, our costumer, was so lovely in letting me use a couple of my own dresses/shoes/pieces of jewelry in the show, so now I have an even more special attachment to them when I see them in my closet, haha.
I left everyone hanging on this ;) --I didn't end up going blonde, but had a long dark brown wig (which I didn't perfect styling until closing night). Here's a photo:
It's just a little bit appropriate to use part of a Betty Schaefer line. ;) Sunset Boulevard closed a week ago Saturday evening. Once again, lots of hugs to everyone involved. This is the first show that I've cried on closing night. I grew so much in the show with the mentoring of Dante Orfei the director, Sarah Bright the choreographer, and James Nedrud who played Joe Gillis. The cast of Sunset Boulevard was so much fun to work with, and it was especially nice having dear friends involved such as John Warren who music directed and his wife Tiffany who played the flute beautifully in the orchestra. (Tiffany is the one who encouraged me to go for Betty Schaefer in the first place!) Kristin Lutzeier who was Joanna and Heather in the cast has been in all 5 of the Chicago productions I've been in, and the tradition continues with our next show! Lindsay Prerost, our costumer, was so lovely in letting me use a couple of my own dresses/shoes/pieces of jewelry in the show, so now I have an even more special attachment to them when I see them in my closet, haha.
I left everyone hanging on this ;) --I didn't end up going blonde, but had a long dark brown wig (which I didn't perfect styling until closing night). Here's a photo:
For an opening weekend cast gift, I was inspired by a gift my sister previously created. The outcome was devoured probably before Act I was over:
Ensemble member Alicia Hurtado surprised me with this adorable drawing of Joe and Betty's love scene:
I was overwhelmed with the love and support of friends who came out to see the show!Unfortunately, my mom and little brothers couldn't make it, but my brother, Matthew, and sister, Rebecca, came two separate weekends! Matthew had a whirlwind of a trip--flew in on a Saturday morning and left at 5am that Sunday. I always love Matthew time. Here's an unflattering photo of us trying to get Chick-fil-a in the background (which we were ecstatic about devouring since we are chick-fil-a deprived):
After Chick-fil-a happy time, we sipped hot chocolate in the Signature Room at the top of the Hancock Tower. Breathtaking views. Reminded me of my days working at the Sears Tower gift shop. This photo below was taken from the restroom. Yes, I know, the coolest restroom ever.
The following week after Matthew visited, Rebecca flew into town, and it was bliss! I came down with ridiculous sinus infections/sore throat that week, so our activities were limited, and my performance with her in the audience that Friday night wasn't up to par, BUT it was still so enjoyable to have her here. She is going to spend the summer here beginning June!
If you'd like to see a few clips from opening weekend of Sunset Boulevard, go to www.jpactheatre.com. I have a couple second clip in the middle of the video. Hopefully I'll be able to post a couple of videos in the near future ;)
I have an audition horror story. Stiletto Entertainment held auditions on April 30 for singers/dancers for the Holland America Cruiseline's Showroom at Sea. I was scheduled to audition for the female lead opera singer who was required to be 5'6"-5'9", which explains my excitement for the audition, because it was something I have a degree in, AND I'm not too tall which is beginning to be the case for Disney auditions. The appointment was during the afternoon when my nanny child is usually asleep, so my nanny mom was completely fine with it, since she'd be working from home. Fifteen minutes before I was planning to leave, my other nanny child's school called and said he had a fever and needed to be picked up from school ASAP. After about 10 minutes of debating what to do, I have permission to go audition then pick him up. I zoom to the audition, then drive around for a while looking for parking. Finally parking was found, then I rushed in the pouring rain to the audition. I'm late, my dress is soaked from the rain, my slip keeps on showing no matter how much I pulled it up, and I'm frazzled from all of these factors. I get called in, don't sing my best from being frazzled, my dress has wet spots all over from the rain, and my slip is still showing in front of the casting people. What makes this situation worse? This was all recorded on camera!
"I have some good news!" (another Betty Schaefer line reference) I'll be in the ensemble of Legally Blonde at JPAC this summer. We all will get "Whipped into Shape" (Legally Blonde song reference) this summer for sure with all of the dance numbers, which will be fantastic experience.
[Edit: 5.15.12---I received a call last night from the director of Legally Blonde offering me the role of Vivienne Kensington. I accepted and am ecstatic! It's the exact role that I wanted when going into the auditions!]
Lastly, our amazing improv class has graduated onto Level E, which is the final level before auditioning for the conservatory. Our teacher is great! All of the exercises we've done so far are brilliant, and definitely helpful in gaining confidence on the improv stage.
One thing more: HAPPY MOTHERS DAY to my darling mom. I LOVE YOU! Can't wait to see you again.
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