March 24, 2020
Hunkered down! What’s up? Lots more phone chats and FaceTime and Zoom – taking time to listen and talk more (don’t think I’ve ever spent so much time on the phone) – while “social distancing,” give a nod, a smile, a “How’s it goin’?” – that’s what’s up! Connection is ever more meaningful these days. And staying safe on essential runs to the pharmacy and grocery store; the hand-washing-awareness-of-touching-surfaces-weirdness is a bit of a reality series sitcom for me! But I get it done. “I Get It Done!” – Whoa, how I miss the thrill of Sydney Morton’s knock-out singing of that song in The Secret of My Success! The World Premiere Paramount Broadway Series production would be in its final week this week closing on Sunday night. I so miss that brilliant cast led by the incredible Billy Tighe and our world class orchestra – I miss the crowds, the bright lights and the traffic! Every song from the show plays a hit song mashup in my head, a soundtrack that gets me through the day. How do we get through these hard times if not for the love of music? Sunday was the great Stephen Sondheim’s Birthday and I flashed-back to our remarkable Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street and West Side Story. Remember? It’s a wonder to think of one man’s esteemed and everlasting contribution to music and art and the golden opportunity he gave us to experience his genius here at Paramount!
Think to when Paramount’s doors will be open again to you! Anticipate what’s coming by remembering the excellence of our past.
As for the status of the rest of Paramount’s season and Kinky Boots, nothing to report at the moment but an official update is imminent. As I write this, our staff and board are working on what’s to be done to navigate the uncertainty that exists. While working from home, our creative teams have continued to prepare for next season, web-meeting, designing and preliminary renderings are looking out of this world! Just what we need to lift our spirits and synchronize our heart beats! Keep positive and keep supporting what’s ahead by subscribing and donating. (And don’t forget Downtown Aurora’s local businesses with curbside pickup and delivery). Think to when Paramount’s doors will be open again to you! Anticipate what’s coming by remembering the excellence of our past. We’re hunkered down and looking up!
Love & thanks,
Jim
