Guthrie Theater

Gulp

So, we're entering our last week and a few days of rehearsal

I am nervous.  To put it mildly.

(Now, as mentioned in a previous blog, I'm not allowed to worry, because my stage manager, Elizabeth hasn't authorized it.  And another caveat is that I'm not in the least bit nervous about the beautiful work so many others are doing on this production.)

Nerves are a part of the business. (As I write that I feel like it's coming across with this air of earned wisdom like a trusted balding avuncular mentor speaking around his stogie.) I had a teacher once who said, "If you're not nervous, then something's wrong." And what he meant by that is --- taking a risk to do something you believe in will make you nervous because you care.  Obviously, the fear or panic can be too big and it can overwhelm.  But I was thinking the other day that these "nerves" we get are such a boiled down, intensified evidence of what we do as actors: mind, sprit and body mixing together almost to the point where you lose sense of self.  So in a way performing through these nerves is like harnessing lightning; if you're not grounded both physically and mentally, it'll blow you the hell up. (And the crew will be really pissed at you because of all the extra clean up.)

And I'm so lucky to have a reason to care.  I love this show so much it takes my breath away. I feel so fortunate to be able to share it! And I love these 9 women beyond words.  The other day I told my dear friend, Adena, these women/characters are like amazing people whom you desperately want to introduce to friends and community.  To those who may fear that the show would be intense or harrowing to watch, I'd have to say - perhaps at times. Those times are only a part of the whole. I find that it's also funny and surprising and beautiful and strong and exciting and unique and sweet and human and lovely. And and and...

Like I said... I feel really, really lucky. But now, back to the script ;)

Kate