Turned my comfy, beat-up, old man leather recliner away from the noise of that sad 30″ TV and faced it toward the rising morning sun. Just sat there in the incredible brightness of nature’s light. A meditation set in. From my time at American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco in the early 70s, the great William Ball, our Artistic Director, provided us with a meditation room which is where I was taught the practice. Twenty minutes twice a day was prescribed. I never really stuck with it but I do appreciate its benefits when I think to do it. It’s good to clear the mind. Quiet. Calm. Still. Of course, Shorty jumps up on the arm of the chair and starts vocalizing. I open my eyes and he’s fixed on two mourning doves perched on the snow-covered railing of the balcony. Their heads together make a heart shape silhouetted, crowned by sunshine. “Aw, I could sit here all morning!” But there’s exciting stuff to do…!
Plans for next season, (OMG, Season 10!) are full steam ahead! Tim’s office was buzzing yesterday in the attempt to finalize where we’re heading and all I can tell ya at this point is, it’s shaping up to be another thrilling-something-for-everyone roster of Paramount productions! Newsies scored big this fall and Beauty and the Beast is knocking it out of the park 8 to 10 shows a week this holiday season (until Jan. 19). Rehearsals for the world premiere of The Secret of My Success begin in a few weeks. I love this show! Chicago’s own Michael Mahler and Alan Schmuckler make a dynamite team composing a hot, new original score that I promise is gonna rock your world in 2020! Co-book writers Gordon Greenberg (who also directs) and Steve Rosen (who co-wrote the Off-Broadway hit, The Other Josh Cohen) have adapted and updated the Universal movie’s story line elevating its appeal hilariously packed with fun and genuine heart. It’s gonna be your new favorite musical! Paramount’s Amber Mak returns to choreograph with these guys and speaking of new favorite musicals, how about the phenomenon that has become Amber’s direction in Beauty and the Beast! What Amber has done hits home with everyone, kids and adults, so powerfully and authentically, the sensation she has created with Team Paramount production and design and this divine cast is a holiday memory to last a lifetime. The grand finale of the season this spring will be Grammy Award winner Cyndi Lauper’s Tony Award winning musical Kinky Boots! Directed by Trent Stork (who directed Paramount’s fresh and fabulous Legally Blonde last season), this production is poised to blow your minds, people! Last week’s production meeting presentation of Kevin Depinet’s scenic design and Ryan Park’s costume design are positively jaw dropping! “Everybody Say Yeah!”
There’s a glow over the crowds and in their hearts. To be a part of it, all you have to do is walk through the doors on Galena Boulevard.
So, I’m going on about all this for a reason, dear reader: yes, you can still subscribe and enjoy all the benefits of affordable theater-going adventures experiencing one new favorite show for you after another! I have the privilege of hearing from patrons and first time members of our audience who remark so sincerely and enthusiastically in comments, messages and in person. Everyone relates to the truth and humanity illuminated onstage as well as the epic spectacle on display. There’s a glow over the crowds and in their hearts. To be a part of it, all you have to do is walk through the doors on Galena Boulevard. It’s a bit of a meditation in itself, something to think on and share. Happy Holidays!
Love and thanks,
Jim