Saturday, March 23, 2013

All You Need Is Love.

Holy crap. What happened to all of the time we had just one week ago as we were all asleep in anticipation for the craziest week of our lives. My mind hasn't stopped spinning since I first stepped into the airport in Minnesota, and now as we prepare to head back, my mind is in a completely new state of overdrive. So many new things that I have learned. So many new things TO learn about myself, and as a result of all of this thinking, one thing has become pretty clear to me. 

I love this city. 

People kept warning me about how much I would love this city the first time I came here, but the "love" that I share with NYC came in an entirely different form than I thought it would. I don't love this city for all of the tangible things it has to offer -- tourist sites, more food, coffee, and cheesecake than humans should have in such a condensed area, nor for the diversity. Although all of those aspects are fantastic areas to experience in this city, I love NYC because of the way I have grown as a person just through BEING in this city. New York challenged us as students and future performers to stand face to face with the fear of what our lives will be like if we chase after our dreams. It's hard to understand someone's passion for living off auditions, small paychecks and outside work to merely pay the bills. Who would have known that after just one week in this city all of those crazy ideas would actually appeal to me! The thought of performing is the drive that gets me out of bed each morning, and quite frankly nothing else really matters if you wake up thinking about that which you truly love. 

As I hear the horns of taxi cabs outside my window, I'm reminded of how different this city is compared to anything I'm used to back in Wisconsin. I think that the change might be just what I am looking for once I am done with my undergraduate studies, but it's scary, really scary, to think about packing up my things to move out here and live life as a performing artist in New York City. I have met so many amazing people this week who have played their cards right and landed great acting jobs right after their undergrad, and some of them who are years into the process and are still waiting for that "break" in their career to really get them going. All of their stories have given me different perspectives of how I hope to shape my life and career as I start to begin carving my own career path. 

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return. I love this city, and I can only hope that when I return in the future, this city will love me back too. 

Katherine

Friday, March 22, 2013

The week flew by, and we fly tomorrow.


As our adventure to New York drew nearer, I began to realize that we were going to be meeting some pretty cool people, and seeing some pretty cool things.

The past week has been bigger and better than I ever could have imagined. I knew I was going to have fun, and learn things. What I did not fully anticipate was that I would be sitting here on Friday night and thinking that my life has changed over the course of less than seven days.

I feel like the blurry lens with which I’ve been looking at my future has become significantly clearer. Things are better defined. It isn’t perfect, and it’s not focused on just one single thing, but that is okay. And it’s a big step for me to be able to accept that.

One striking thing about New York is the degree of welcoming and openness we have encountered at almost every level of performing artists. The first day we were here, we went to see Steven Sondheim’s Passion. It was a beautiful rendition of a very unique, special musical. It was classified as an off-Broadway show, which is really just based on the number of seats the theater has. But it was not lesser than a true Broadway production. Being able to be up close to the performance in a more intimate space is a special thing that could never happen in an official Broadway show. These theaters also allow for works of art to take place, which are very profound and interesting, but which might not be huge moneymakers.  Anyway, after the performance, our whole group was standing in the small coffee shop lobby just discussing our way home and getting our bearings because it was still our first day in the city. And then an actor came out to say hello to some of her friends. Her name was Judy Kuhn. She gave a brilliant performance in passion, and we all realized before the show that she had been the voice of Disney’s Pocahontas, so when she graciously accepted our interest in her and began to talk with us. Before we knew it we had talked to the two other lead actors as well! That was totally unplanned, and it was quite a way to kick-off the week.

That experience set the stage for the fact that the people we have contacted and met with and just ran into have been surprisingly open and friendly with us. Every performer we have met with has seemed genuinely interested in sharing all of the information that they are able to. From a Juilliard cellist riding the subway, to Laila Robins, a successful stage and film actor who graduated from Eau Claire! In addition to our initially planned meetings being incredibly fruitful, we have all found it very acceptable and beneficial to contact new people mostly by email, who we have just heard about this week. Many people have responded and have been eager to find a time to have lunch or coffee. Many of us were initially intimidated by the idea of networking, but now it seems that most of us actually enjoy making connections with people. And of course, everyone tells us how important it is to have many active relationships with people in the industry.

One of the most important things that I have begun to understand on this trip is that I have a true passion for and love of theatre and acting. I know now that if I do not pursue it, I will regret it, and therefore; I have to pursue it, and I now know a lot more about what that means, and all of the hard work that it is going to take. In some ways it’s scary to recognize the fact that I really am going to do this, but on the other hand, it’s comforting. Meeting so many people this week, I’ve come to the realization that there’s no real definition of “success” or “failure” in acting. And I think the same goes for many other careers and aspects of life. If you love something, you do your best with it until you can’t make it work anymore, and then you figure out what comes next. It’s just a matter of how much time, work, energy, and sacrifice you’re willing to put in. Yes, you need talent, and maybe even a little “luck.” But it goes a LONG way if you pinpoint the things that you can control, such as developing the innate talent you have, and learning how to effectively market yourself and seizing opportunities and setting yourself up for success.

Right now, I need to do quite a number of things. I need to ruthlessly pursue a solution to my voice problem. Once that is under better control, I will be able to immerse myself more freely in everything else. I need to explore dance lessons. I need to start working out and follow a more healthy diet. Those are some of the physical demands I need to meet. I can also create an actual address book of theatre contacts, starting with the people I’ve met this week, as well as many of my peers. I need to get headshots that represent me handsomely and accurately. I need to continue with voice lessons. I need to manage my time, do homework, and just develop a routine that allows me to devote enough time to classes while also being able to focus on aaallllllll of the things I do outside of class. I think that is possible. These are all things I can start on now. And importantly, I want to read about acting and theatre. I think I'll have time for that. And I know it will be good for me.

I also need to start considering what I really want to do after I finally get my B.A.s. At least I know now that it has to be theatre. But is it grad school? Or New York? Or Chicago, Minneapolis, or L.A.?? –Now it seems like New York might actually be an option. Exploring the possibility of an internship in New York is a must. I would also like to take this summer to create a more detailed typed-up basic plan of action for the next couple years. 

I have to prepare. I have to be ready for anything that comes my way. I have to be myself and always be doing this first and foremost for me, and no one else.

I have notes on all of the people we’ve been privileged to meet with, and on many of the performances we’ve attended. I intend to go over those and compile a more concise and organized account. I want to hold onto this experience as the beginning of a new part of my life. I have to bring a new level of focus to my education and pursuit of happiness. I can feel that focus and drive welling up inside me right now. And it feels good.

What a great week. Thanks friends and family and Mitra and Dr. Rieck for supporting me with this. It’s a pretty big deal.

I am looking forward.

Peace,

Sam Sirianni

"Nice work if you can get it, but you can get it if you try..."

It's so hard to believe that in just a little more than 12 hours, we will be back in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

If I had my way, I would never leave.  I love it - I feel like I can thrive here. I feel like taking part of this trip for a second time has been extremely beneficial to my growth as an artist.  I feel more confident about myself and my choices, and this will only be able to help me with my future.

The last few days have been a blur of information.  I can't even process it all right now - I'm so glad I took diligent notes through EVERYTHING!!!!

One extremely pleasant surprise for me was the New York Philharmonic concert we attended.  It was an all-Bach program and I thought I was going to be bored (because while I like Bach, there's only so much of it I can handle in two or more hours), but it was really enjoyable!  I had never seen a professional orchestra before (when there weren't singers involved) and definitely cherished that experience.  Sam and I ended up talking to our somewhat stern-looking usher at intermission and it ended up being informative.  Her name is Dana and she told us all about what it was like to usher at Lincoln Center - she gets to attend almost all of the performances! Incredible! :)

I also had my interview today.  I met with Joanna Dionis, who is a dramatic mezzo-soprano, and she's living the kind of life I will be in just a few short years.  We talked about what her transition period to the city was like, how she found friends in the city, what it was like adjusting to a big voice, etc...  It was refreshing to be able to hear about her process of figuring out her voice.  Even though I am definitely not a dramatic soprano, my voice is big, and it's been difficult to embrace the fact that it's changing.  I have cried several times throughout my collegiate career to the question:  "why won't my voice just do what I want it to?!" I'm not going to lie, it's frustrating not knowing where you're going to end up, especially when you have friends with light voices who sound very close to what they will in their careers.  I'm finally accepting the fact that I have big changes going on in my voice, and they're going to continue for a while.  Things will feel weird and different - because my voice is changing.  It's had some big changes in the last year.  All I can do is continue to work on my technique, and just let my voice simmer while my vocal folds mature.  It's gotten to the point where I realize that while my voice can sometimes be an annoyance, it's my annoyance.  Nobody else gets to have the joy I have in working and trying to improve as an artist.

I've felt moved by poetry recently, but I think the lyrics of my post title are very appropriate for this trip.  It's from the musical Nice Work if You Can Get It, which we saw tonight.  This song is about love, which is fitting for our work.  Going into art isn't just a career - it's a lifestyle. Performing is hard work - nice work, but possible to do if you work really hard.  After this week, I feel so much more confident about myself.  Even though I still don't know where I will end up - vocally, physically, etc... - I know what I want to do.  It's just a matter of figuring out the right path for me.


Well.... I need to pack. (I've been avoiding it so maybe I can stay)

Jordyn Beranek

P.S. I've been having problems with the internet uploading photos - so I'll do that when I get home!


Coming out on the otherside

This trip.....wow. What can I say about a life changing experience? That's what it was for me, life changing. I'ev never been in one place where so much is possible, and while my future is very uncertain I've come to this conclusion: it may take a long time, but as long as I stay commited and continue to market myself as well as working hard I will make it. It doesn't need to be a question of if I will make it but when will I make it, and I've come to realize that this is the right attitude. I have to believe in my art, simple as that.

 I still don't know exactly what I am going to do when I'm done with school, but the plus side is I'm young and have plenty of time to figure that out yet. However, this trip has given me some really good ideas.

I am no longer afraid of a big city (for the most part). I feel like I am ready to go back to Eau Claire a changed person. Just thinking about the normal everday confrontations in Eau Claire that used to stress me out so bad seems silly. I've done so much in such a short time that has prepared me for life to come. With that comes a new work ethic. Their is no reason why I shouldn't be working as hard as I can whenever I can. Especially now when all I have is time, and don't need to worry about surviving.

Yes sir I must say this little farm girl has had a piece of the big city, and has come out a new more confident version of herself. (please read my first post or else that metaphor is wierd...er)

Seth

Putting It Together

I know I have a different view of the city after this trip.
I have been challenged in so many ways. The subway takes a lot longer to get from point A to point B than I thought. Also, going the wrong way does not help.
I also used to think that this city was the end all to be all. And now I don't know if it is exactly that. Kayla put it well today in our discussion when she said that we have all the tools that we need to make great art at Eau Claire.

I finally do not have a fear of networking or of achieving my goal. Now the only problem is not being lazy.

When I get back to Eau Claire I plan to look into Graduate Schools and then I plan on preparing for those auditions within the next year. Also, I will be calling many restaurants in the Milwaukee area just to see if I might be able to play or gig out. I might not get paid, and they might say no, but in the end it will all be worth it.

Today I had my interview with David Holcenberg, the conductor of the Broadway musical Matilda.
It was probably one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life.
He was such a down to earth person, that was willing to answer any and all of my questions.
I cannot begin to explain to any of you how I felt after I left the theater. It was like I felt I could do anything. I feel like I need to conduct a Broadway musical.
Then at Nice Work If You Can Get It I got to watch the conductor from a box seat. Again. A feeling that I need to conduct musicals. With all of the musical, financial, and social, information I have been granted I believe I can do it. I can become a Broadway conductor.

It's our time.

I did it!

I figured out the subway system and I am here to confidently report to you that today I got the feeling that navigating the city is doable.

This morning I went to the today show again. My mom said that I was briefly on tv again!

I cannot believe that today is our last day here. Starting the week off it felt slow but then now all of a sudden time is racing past me. There is so much that is left unseen which is kind of a bummer. Today's time is precious so I will utilize every minute and report back to you later of what I accomplished.

Enjoy your day!
Kayla Shoemaker

Looking in

What fun to be even a small part of this NYC Immersion experience! Nancy Young here -  Mitra's friend who had the privilege to meet most of the students during my short stay.  What a positive, thoughtful, talented group!  My thank you for so openly sharing your experience with me is a poem - with this understanding - poems are never really finished even though they look that way once posted. May you have a great final day, a safe trip home, and much joy in the years to come! 

Immerse!

Which is to
“involve oneself deeply in a particular interest”
or
“dip or submerge in a liquid”  

Eyes wide!
What cup of possibility brews for you here 
in this hot mix of talent, tones, tension, tongues?
Is this the flavor of your future?

Weave through the pretzels and push carts
among the hucksters and shisters
past the gilded tower of Trump
this place reserved for 
Mercedes drivin’ preachers immersed in conversion
Your barista may soon be a star
here career paths are
crooked as those in the Park
How will you find your way?
What is so special about you the City asks!

Stand clear of the open doors please
just 
for 
few 
beats 
Is this the right train?

With everything whizzing by
stop
look inside 
where something stirs that should 
never 
change

Your script, your step, your score, your sound, your soul
that makes you soar above
how the world may define you
Hold on to your 
Original Soundtrack
familiar yet fresh each time
And you’ll make it anywhere...


One Short Day in the Emerald City

It's our last day.  It's a bittersweet feeling.  The city has been so wonderful and has provided so much for us. As I reflect on my experiences here I can't help but think of how I am going to bring a part oft he city with me.  In Eau Claire, it's easy for me to get anxious and worked up about things when plans change, but in NYC, I haven't experienced that at all.  It's wonderful.  Going with the flow and just dealing with things as they happen is a lesson I have learned and will carry with me back at school.

I am confident in saying that I'll be back.  There's no doubt in my mind that this city is for me. There is so much energy, passion, and motivation.  It fuels and propels almost everyone we have met.  Their commitment to their craft and art form is so admirable and inspiring that I want to embody it in my own work.

I will touch briefly on my adventures of yesterday.

WOAH!


I went to see the Eric Whitacre Singers in concert yesterday and it was everything I expected and more.  Whitacre's writing was so influential to me as a musician.  His music stood out as something so incredibly different to me and touching that I wanted to know how it worked.  As a result, this was what kick-started my composing.  I started writing, trying to understand how the notes went together to create such a raw and real energy.  Seven-ish years later, I'm still working on it.


The concert opened, unexpectedly, with an arrangement that Eric did of the National Anthem.  I am someone who loves and appreciates a traditional performance, but I love seeing if anyone can put a new twist on it while still preserving its integrity.  I was so caught of guard by the ensemble's tone, blend and the overall arrangement that my jaw essentially hit the floor.  

The rest of the program was equally as phenomenal.  One of my favorite works of his is "Alleluia", a vocal transcription of his wind ensemble piece, "October".  It was stunning (except for ALL THE COUGHING that happened...).  
\
Anyway, I have had the time of my life in NYC.  I can't wait to come back and I can't wait to bring a little NYC to Eau Claire. 

Andy

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Reflection: Day One "We're off to see the city!"

We all took off on our journey to NYC together bright and early Saturday morning. You may or may not have heard, but this was the first time that I, Kayla Shoemaker had ever been on an airplane! Mitra told the pilot this and he kindly asked me what I thought of my first Plane ride. He then took these lovely pictures with me.

 The journey to our hotel was more complicated than the flight! Approximately 2 hrs later we got ourselves safely to our hotel. It was quite a riot navigating and lugging our luggage. Once again, I over packed.



More memories and reflections to come!

Kindly,
Kayla Shoemaker

Spiderman is my dream guy

Well day three in the city (give or take a few days), and I must say it's met all my expectations and still surprised me. Life here runs on a different clock then mine. It's fast. I've always been one to march to the beat of my own drum, literally, but this isn't the place for it. Also, the people have strong opinions. One thing I've always thought of as a great virtue was the ability to look at an issue from someone else s point of view, or at least realize that your answer is not always the only one. That's not how it works here, people are very confident in what they feel or have to say, which isn't a bad thing, it just doesn't allow a lot of room to be wrong. For instance we ordered pizza the first day here and the waiter insisted we ordered something that we didn't. This is a very different attitude from the Midwest's "the customer is always right" attitude. That being said the people are still people. They may be tough and forward but they are willing to help their fellow man. Something that I really appreciate here is how everyone is willing to let you mind your own business and just zone out. When I ride a bus in Eau Claire I feel pressured to smile if not actually communicate (gross!). Here I can disappear into my thoughts.


I finally saw my first Broadway show, and it was my favorite super hero Spiderman. It was everything I hoped spiderman would be, visually stunning and terribly cheesy. It was kind of like that fun feeling you get from watching a bad movie at some parts. Although it didn’t have the most to offer as far as dialogue goes, it just made me want to shoot for the moon even more and go for it out here.

So, this entire post will turn into word vomit from here on out. I love all the input we have been getting from all the people we have been talking to. I think the thing that is most important for me right now though is to keep in mind that everyone has gone about their performing career with a different approach. Some of them believe that their way of going about it was defiantly the best choice (obviously), but they all did it differently and at different levels of success. I guess it's just important to remember that while their advice is invaluable a lot of it is still just their experiences and opinions.

I am learning a lot about myself on this trip and so far I think I am more positive than ever that I want to perform for a living, I'm just not sure how yet. For as enlightening as this trip has been, it has caused just as many questions as answers. I don't know if I want to go to grad school yet, and of course I don't know if that will be for theater or musical theater (or even film for that mater) let alone what school I would go to. Also I don't know if I want to go straight to New York, or maybe try getting experience in Chicago or Minneapolis first, or maybe even L.A. All in all it's a lot of questions, but I know that I have passion, and a reinvigorated will to become better and reach for my not fully realized dreams. 
Seth

Reflections on Impact

A trip like this has the potential to be life-changing.  We learn by interacting with others and this trip has provided an opportunity to interact with so many new faces, new friends, and also with those who we thought were familiar.  (An experience like this one always provides new insights into those with whom we travel.)

A trip like this has the potential to be nothing more than a fancy vacation.  If we go through the sights, sounds, experiences and interactions without a focused reflection we take with us fleeting memories and good feelings, but not much more.

I have been very proud of this group of students who have candidly shared reflections on their experiences within our group meetings nightly.  They seem to be processing and digging.  They seem to be seeing themselves in new lights and raising new questions.  They have learned much about who they are and their potential........so have I.

I am challenged by the consistent excellence that I have been privileged to observe and experience.  Every night has brought a new and different adventure of performance: Passion, Newsies, New York Voices, Otello, and New York Philharmonic!  All are dedicated to true excellence--it is more than just a word and it shows.

Our interactions with the people who are a part of these experiences have shown us a level of dedication, hard work, and perseverance that most have not ever even dreamed possible.  The story of someone just having it and making it is much too exagerated.  There is a tremendous amount of work involved.

My challenge for myself is to examine my patterns to discover places where I have been willing to accept something less than excellence and take responsibility for making the choices that will make excellence a reality for me and for my students musically and educationally.

Just a few thoughts from a life-changing trip!!

Alan

Day Four in the Concrete Jungle… We haven’t lost anyone. Yet.


We got here on Saturday afternoon, and now Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday have passed. What an amazing 4 days. This place is special. During the first meeting we had here as a group, on Saturday night, Marie described how, once we finally made it to the hotel and got rid of all of our luggage, it really began to sink in that we were really here. There is an energy and buzz here that seems as if nothing else in the world is like it. I’ve learned over the past few days that one has a personal connection with the city, and if you’re not careful, you can sort of get left behind and it can be very confusing and disorienting. If you get caught up and too rambunctious, that energy can also work against you, because you can’t be thinking and moving to fast, but you also can’t be thinking and moving too slowly. The third way I have found, is when I can become in sync with the ebb and flow of what is going on around me. I can feed off of that energy and I can make it work to my advantage. It’s been a challenge at times to find that balance between being cautious and reserved, and being hasty and injudicious. Over the most recent couple days, I’ve begun to feel as if I’m finding a way to conquer Manhattan in a safe, but fun way.

I cannot believe how much I have experienced in learned in the past few days, and I'll be back online to post detailed descriptions of some of the experiences that were most special to me.

Peace,

Sam

Better to Give, than to Receive

Well, it's day six.  One of our last days in the city.  My experience here has been so incredibly rewarding on many levels.  The city has been so generous to us all.  We've gotten to meet, talk, and see so many people who are making it work out here.

For many of us, the Midwest is a place of comfort, just like any place we grow up.  When there's discomfort in anything we do, we tend to shy away and not be as active in making it more comfortable.  I believe this city operates in the same way.  "Making it big" or "getting a break" comes from hard work and dedication.  There is no substitute for hard work and persistence.  Another thing that I have learned and taken away is the value of relationships.

In this competitive industry, it's not always what you know, it's who you know.  Knowing the right people, making the right connections, and maintaining those relationships are sometimes what makes a person successful.  It's easier to burn bridges than to repair/build them.  I know that for many of us, we are anxious to leave the area of the country we have spent the vast majority of our lives so far.  It's easy to see it in people, but it's important, to me at least, to always remember where you've come from, who helped you along the way, and that anyone can help you in the future, regardless.

Sure meeting with composers, conductors, singers, actors/actresses, and dancers is important and crucial to understanding the crafts we want to pursue and explore.  Really, the internal transformations and realizations are what will and have made the trip memorable and for some of us, life changing.

Because we have all received so much from this city and its inhabitants, we are putting on a performance.  We knew we had always wanted to share our gifts with a city that has given so many gifts as well.  Venues kept falling through but we were finally able to land a location at a senior living home.  Even with busy schedules still on our last day, I know we are all excited to leave something with New York, because New York has left so much with us.

Andy

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Living the NYC Dream

Monday I woke up early and went and got tickets to "La Traviata" with Jordyn. On the way there we where on the subway with an older woman and a dog. I kept to myself and had my purse on my lap. When we got off to switch trains, she switched to the same one and a young businessman in a suit helped her into it. It turns out she was blind and used the dog to be a seeing eye dog. This struck me to realize that our assumptions of a person is not always what it really is and that some people in NYC are very kind.

We got our tickets then headed to the Public Theatre for a tour. This was very cool to see all the sets and hear the perspectives of the people who make it happen! The tour came to an abrupt stop when the fire alarm went off. We then went to the Paul Taylor Dance Company show. This was amazing and it struck me to see the underlying meanings and subject matter in the dance.

We then had an interview with Laila Robins who taught us a lot about acting. Some things that stuck out to me where to find out what you like and why you like it, how much preparation there is to do before a performance, finding a pattern that you can rely on and within tat have freedom (passion married with structure), and having and outside in approach to acting by finding things that are different than you in the character, and then feeding it through your personality.

Jordyn and I then headed off to the Julliard Book Store where I got some music I couldn't find anywhere else. We then went to the MET for my first opera at the MET! I was so excited! We had lower level standing room seats and the view was great! Diana Damrau was amazing! It was just breath taking to hear her  voice resonate through the house. It was the red dress production, which I had previously seen on TV. I thought it was strange when I saw it on TV and liked it done traditionally. Seeing it live at the MET changed my view completely. This production, in my opinion, was amazing. The simplicity allowed us to focus on the performers and I thought the stylistic choices where wonderful. When Placido Domingo entered the stage everyone applauded. The production took my breath away.

On Tuesday, we had a meeting with Ken Benson who is an artist manager and consultant. He taught me a lot about auditioning, finding an agent, when the right time is to find an agent, and getting feedback.

We then had an interview with Rob Kleinendorst who was a dancer in the Paul Taylor Dance Company performance we saw. From Rob I learned a lot about artistic choices and life as a performer. One thing that struck me was how he spent basically the whole day preparing for the dance so he can do it, and then stretching after so that he stays healthy.

We then went to New Jersey to see New York Voices. This was interesting because it was a jazz group, and I really haven't seen much jazz like that. It was interesting to hear other forms of art and the different ways people express the human experience through sound.

Today I woke up early to go to the Today Show with Laura and Kayla. We couldn't stay long because we had interviews to get to, but we did get to see it! I thought it was interesting how elaborate the set was outside!

I then went with Jordyn and Andy to look at some apartments, and explored the area to get a feel it.  We then went out to lunch with David Sytkowski and talked to him about being a vocal coach and living in NYC. After that Jordyn and I went to his apartment and had a coaching. I learned so much in that coaching including thinking more vertical in order to have a top down approach, speaking the recitative and then singing it like it's spoken, and making sure I'm taking a breath for the highest note of the phrase not just the first note.

We then headed to the MET to see "Otello" This was such an amazing show, and was so well done. The set was very elaborate and large, the chorus was phenomenal, and the leads where breath taking. After, we got a picture with Abigail Wright who is in the MET chorus. We will be meeting with her tomorrow for an interview!

I am learning so many things about NYC. I have realized that sometimes things do not go as planned here and you have to be very adaptive. I have also learned that people will generally help you if you ask for help. A couple of performance things that I have heard multiple times is that the goal is to express your love for what you do and not to be perfect and that you have to be your own light.

Loving NYC!

Kelly

A lovely adventure.

Hello everyone,

I have been so involved in my NYC adventure that I have not been blogging. I apologize! My family and friends are eagerly waiting for me to blog every moment of this trip. I promise tonight I will blog about everything so far. I am only sitting for a minute and I don't have the necessary time to do this blog justice at this moment. This day has been so great! I am in a adorable coffee shop in Brooklyn with Andy right now. He is interviewing this great composer right now! We need to hustle to get to the Opera soon! I am very tired but in the fast pace of this city I am just compelled to keep going! Today was filled with two major events for me! I will post pictures as soon as I upload them! Stay tuned!

The adventure carries on.
Sincerely,
Kayla Shoemaker

Day Three--Backstage, Uptown, and Free Night

Monday, March 18 was a truly fabulous day.  When we had our group meeting at 11:30 p.m. the energy in the room was palpable.  I felt invigorated, too.

Got some sleep and didn't get up until 9.  Nancy got me a coffee, and I then headed to Union Square on the subway.  I really like Union Square and I sat in the park and slowly drank my coffee and tried not to get divebombed by pigeons!  From there, walked to the Public Theatre where we had a backstage tour!  I love the mission of the Public, I love the space, I love the history of the building and that section of the city (the Astor brownstone is across the street).  We got this opportunity through Sam, a student on the trip, and his networking that got us hooked up with Sara in the props department.  She gave us a tour of the 5 theatres- in two of them we saw the electricians and crew working on upcoming productions.  Then she took us through the prop shop, and then we had a Q and A with her, the production manager Elizabeth, Jay the head of props, and Stephen, an actor.  We learned a lot what each of those job descriptions entails and I hadn't previously known what a production manager did.  I think I could do that!  It's about communication, big picture, and details.  I was again struck by the work ethic of the young actor--the auditioning, preparing of monologues, reels, and sides, networking, etc--it seems that it would be exhausting.  All while holding another job so you can live.  My respect for working artists continues to grow.  The almost two hour tour/interview ended with a fire alarm and we had to evacuate the building!

Went to a Mediterranean Restaurant with Seth, Sam, Kayla, Kelly, and Jordyn and very much enjoyed chicken schawarma, then dashed to the upper west side to meet UW-Eau Claire grad Laila Robins.  She has had a 30 year acting career in the city and was gracious enough to invite us into her home for more than two hours!  She did an amazing career talk and Q and A, and for the first time I understood how an "outside in" approach to acting would actually work.  I was fascinated to her about her acting process and was completely drawn in as she got more and more animated, stood up, physicalized some of what she was talking about, and gave descriptive examples.  She was gracious to the students, giving them water, apples, and cookies, and answered every question thoroughly.  She went above and beyond, that's for sure.  Thank you to Marie for contacting her and setting this up for the group!

Monday night was our free night, so people went their separate ways in small groups.  Andy had his interview with a man who composes, conducts, performs, and generally does it all (like Andy wants to do), Ruth and Alan went to Newsies, some students went to La Traviata at the Met, some to the performance art piece Sleep No More, some to Avenue Q, and I went to part of the Joy of Singing concert at the New York Public Library.  Lovely mezzo sang a song cycle by Argento and I briefly spoke to Paul Sperry who coordinates the series.  Then Nancy and I trekked through the snow and sleet to the Lower East Side for a reading of a play- Logan Tracey, who will be doing our "Hustle" workshop on Friday is the one who got me in touch with this play.  Here is what she had to say:
Regarding the play on Monday the 18th:
"The play is new and it's in really good shape - it's a bit edgy and it's got a ton of comedy in it.
It will be at 7:30pm on Monday at University Settlement in the Lower East Side located at 184 Eldridge Street where On the Square Productions has its artist in residency. It's near the F train.


Mass by David Ian Lee directed by Candace Cihocki
A brief summary of the play from the playwright: Kay Hitchens abandons her life for an adventure, and finds what she's looking for in Leo, a brilliant cosmologist who believes a mutation in Kay's genetic code can unlock all secrets of creation. In an abandoned corner of the Arizona desert, Kay and Leo confront life-threatening forces -- and the unexpected arrival of Kay's husband, Tom -- in a search for meaning at the edge of time and at the end of all things."

Cool little company, small audience, different area of town.  We really enjoyed it!

Afterwards we went to Katz's Deli for huge pastrami sandwiches, fries, and pickles--Nancy had matzo ball soup,too- and then a taxi ride home.  Weather was too bad to walk.  Had a great meeting with the students, who were all buzzing about their experiences.  What a great day.  

I absolutely loved the time we spent at the Public and I'll never forget all the things we experienced today.

Mitra

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

"Places I love come back to me like music, Hush me and heal me when I am very tired" - Sara Teasdale

Well, it's the morning of our third full day.  I feel so at home and at ease, I never want to leave. 

Yesterday, Kelly and I got up early to get student tickets at the Met - but since they only had orchestra seats left, they weren't selling them.  So we got standing room tickets.  Once again, I was struck by the humanity and rudeness of people - I know everyone says New Yorkers are scary and don't really care, but that is completely false.  There was a blind lady on the subway next to us, and a businessman (an important-looking one) took her by the arm and led her to where she needed to go.  On the flip side of that, at the Met's revolving door, a lady pushed the door faster and knocked a little old lady onto the floor.  I was the only one to help her up!


But yes, yesterday was amazing.  The tour of the Public Theatre was enlightening - I didn't know that much about straight theatre, and learned so much in just a short amount of time! 


Then we met Laila Robins, who is an absolutely delightful woman! She gave us so much advice, and much of it I found applicable to opera instead of just straight theatre.  I felt so much better when she said that often, you don't do much besides your work - "I'm a Broadway nun."  We lived that with "Fledermaus."  


Finally, we saw "La Traviata."  It was the production with the red dress and the giant clock.  I wasn't sure I'd like it - the video clips I had seen just didn't impress me all that much (set-wise).  But it makes so much sense live.  I found myself being even more focused on the voice!  It was really special to be able to see "Traviata" after having completed research on Violetta this past summer.  I found myself gaining a deeper understanding of the show and the character, because I knew what was going to happen.  (I was even thinking - 'Okay, this is in Ab, and soon it'll switch to f minor to draw attention on the love theme and Brindisi.'  Those of you who know me know that I really don't like theory, so I was amazed I was thinking that way!) Plácido Domingo and Diana Damrau sang, and their artistry was impeccable.  I was struck by some of their choices (I cried through the entire third act, like usual.)  I'm actually glad that we had standing room tickets - the ledge was the perfect height for me to be able to take notes.  Even though we were far under the overhang, we still could see.  It was stunning and I am so glad we got up early for tickets.  


When Plácido came onstage, the entire house stopped and applauded - I had never seen that before.  I thought that was cool. :)  After the show, we waited at the stage door as long as we could, but had to leave for our group meeting before Plácido or Diana came out.  Oh well, it was still wonderful. 


Now onto our next adventure - a meeting with Ken Benson (an artist manager),  then a meeting with Rob Kleinendorst (one of the dancers in the Paul Taylor company and Mitra's college friend), and then a trip to Jersey to see the New York Voices! 


Jordyn Beranek

Rekindling

I can recognize and accept my age, in a society that quickly judges, can be a hindrance.  In school, my age has shown me how easily and quickly it is to run one's self into the ground.  I remember coming to school with a passion, drive, and energy that could fuel myself and at least four others.  As I began to get more involved and see more success, the passion and drive started to fade.  It was becoming a chore to do the things that I once enjoyed so much.  My flame was diminishing.  Yesterday was the day for rekindling and giving more fuel to my fire.

I had my first "interview" yesterday.  I met with Jim Bassi who sings, accompanies, conducts and composes. The things that I am interested in are what he has managed to be incredibly successful in.  I needed to know how and why.

I quickly learned, through this meeting and one other, that you can do whatever you want to do, so long as you are consistently pursuing it and taking what offers come your way.  The love and dedication for this industry needs to be so strong that it doesn't matter how much work comes your way.  When I asked him how he managed to stay so involved and active in all four areas he said, one thing just opened up another door for something else he was interested in.  Being a reliable person, also, was one thing he was strong about.  Being an accompanist, sometimes people would ask him to play for something that was a few days out and he would have to prepare the accompaniment in a short amount of time.  This is what he meant by one thing kept leading into another.  As a result of his background as a composer, he is able to pick up music quickly, especially vocal music because he understands from a singer's perspective as well, what the idea of the overall piece is.

Dr. Alan Rieck and his wife, Ruth, joined me for this meeting.  The rest of the group was meeting up with Laila Robins, a success actress in the city who graduated from UW-Eau Claire.  Alan and his wife accompanied me and loved it just as much as I did.  A great connection was made between Jim, Alan, Ruth and I.  We discussed somethings that could potentially happen in the future at UW-Eau Claire and I am excited to bring those back with me.

For me, one the most exciting things was having him look at my portfolio.  I looked at some of his pieces to see what he was doing and he, in return, looked at my work.  It was probably the nerdiest meeting ever.  Our meeting, that we originally scheduled for an hour, went for two and a half hours!!! Alan had said it was like two good friends reconnecting after many years apart.  The relationship between the two of us was immediate and genuine.  He gave me great advice and warnings about some writings styles and techniques I'm using that I took to heart.  I am confident in saying that no composer wants to be stuck in the same rut and writing the same material over and over without growing as a musician.  So, his advice was to stay away from sub-dominant cadences a lot (I love my IV add 9), to not leave sections of a piece too early and have them be underdeveloped, and to not contradict myself with ideas.

All in all, it was a great and important connection for me, I believe, to make.  This man has rubbed elbows with James Lepine who has worked with Sondheim and Adam Guettel, grandson of Richard Rodgers of Rodgers and Hammerstein.  This meeting was far more significant that I realize I think and it definitely was what I needed to rekindle my tiring flame.

Andy

It Rocks to be Me

Good morning!
Wow, this trip is going so great. I absolutely love the city even though I'm exhausted and my back is a little sore.
Yesterday, we met at the Public Theatre and were given a tour by a girl named Sara. She was from Minnesota herself, and had us meet some of the people that worked there including the production manager, the props master, and an actor himself. They responded to many of the unanswered questions that I had. It was super great minus the fire alarm that went off at the end. :)
The next thing that we did that I absolutely loved was talking to Laila Robins who is a UWEC graduate (many years ago) and has been freelance actress for over 30 years now. It was great to talk to someone that knows the Eau Claire area. She met us in her incredibly beautiful apartment and we talked for over two hours with her. One of the best pieces of advice she gave us was to be frugal with our money, so that we can spend it later on a place to live, and we will be happy that we did so. She was a welcoming and open person, and I loved talking with her!
After that, Seth, Kayla and I went to the off-broadway production of Avenue Q. This was, how do I describe it- a messier version of sesame street? However, it was quite a funny and oddly charming musical. The actors were animated and extremely skilled with the movement of the puppets. This musical was filled with so much crude humor, however there was a huge aspect of honesty to it as well. I really liked it and found it to be quite enjoyable. I was, however, a little taken back when the first song in the musical was called "It Sucks to be Me". However, it doesn't suck to be me, not this week at least. ;) We of course got lost on our way back (second time that day), but we walked through the upper east side with the snow falling and saw the Empire State Building in the distance and through the fog. It was beautiful. 
Can't wait for my day today!

Laura

What. A. City.

As the end of day 3 in NYC comes to an end...my adventures have only just begun, and each day continues to be even better than the next! However, after our second "free night" in the city, I'm not sure if many other things will be as unforgettable as today.

This is my first official blog ON the trip, and I can honestly say that this city is a LOT different than I expected. Upon arriving here I have learned very valuable lessons about this big city life.

The subways can be hard to navigate. SUPER hard to navigate.

Winter coat should've been on the packing list.

I have to find my "rude" pants in restaurants because apparently that's how you get your way

Did I mention how much trouble the subways have given me?

It's been a whirlwind of a true "Immersion" into this huge city and what it's like trying to navigate, get places on time, and be able to have your "bearings" no matter where you are. The first night we were here we saw "Passion" over at a small theatre which was the first musical I've ever seen without an intermission, and with such a "simple" set design that kept the show moving smoothly from start to finish. One of the leading ladies was also the voice, THE voice of Pocahontas -- we met her.....!!!!!

Yesterday was the first full day in the city which most of us began in the Mt. Neboh Baptist Church. For all of who may have seen the Blues Brothers, John Belushi wasn't doing cartwheels through the aisles, but it was definitely one of my favorite memories of any church I have ever been to. Singing from the "soul" really takes on a new meaning, and it was amazing to see how the songs and the message each person had was literally moving the members up and out of the seats.

The rest of the day was spent with a short walk through Central Park, a wonderful chat with voice coach Dave Cy...something something ski and the one and only Vince B. Vincent. Both of these men were so inspiring as far as the idea of "achieving success in a performing career" and they both really made me realize that the goal of becoming a performer is much more obtainable than the world seems to let on. I can do this. ...I can do this....I ...can...do...this! : )

Following a talk with them, we headed over to Lincoln Center and saw the remarkable Paul Taylor Dance Company and got to go back stage to talk with a few after the show! After seeing the company, we paid a visit to the famous Strand (4 story) bookstore, a sneak peek to "The Chocolate Bar" that I am planning to actually purchase delicious chocolate from later this week, and then Mr. Sam Sirianni and I headed uptown to have dinner with one of Sam's relatives and his wife! Dinner was yet another amazing conversation about the reality of the dreams that Sam and I both have about performing, and his wife had the words of wisdom of "If you love something, DO IT!" -- It was a repeating topic that we have heard from every person we've talked to thus far.

Today was exploration day! We began with a tour of the Public Theatre followed by a slew of knowledge about the "behind the scenes" look into what it takes to run 4 theaters in one building. Just hearing the Aussie talk was enough for me to want to sit there all day! After our talk, Laura and I ate food, and I got us all sorts of turned around in the subways (THEY'RE AFTER ME) but we still ended up being the first ones at our next venue of the apartment of actress Laila Robins! She's a beautiful woman who told us about her amazing career as an actress, and she also graduated from Eau Claire. She is yet another person who supports each and every student on this trip and be another contact as we embark on our own performing careers in the next couple years.

As the day came to a close, the most memorable show of my life took place on 27th Avenue in NYC called "Sleep No More" Marie, Sam and I ventured into this interactive theatrical show in which we really didn't know what we were getting ourselves into, but as we checked in our bags and coats, walked through pitch black hallways and had our drinks, we entered into the most intense and amazing 3 hours of my entire life. Each floor of the "hotel" that the show was set it had a different theme, and the role of the audience was to walk around with our masks on the entire time, not talk, and venture off on our own to try and see every thing we possibly could. As we walked through the eerie levels of the hotel and watched the actors create their amazing scenes around us, some of the audience members were fortunate enough to actually be physically touched or pulled away by the actors -- including ME! I had one of the actors take my hand and run off with me, and I returned to the rest of the audience members with a ring and a lipstick stain from him kissing my cheek. This spin off of "Macbeth" is definitely one that I will hold with me for the rest of my life,  aaaand sometime in the near future I guess I'll wash off the lipstick...

What an incredible three days it has been here. Full of countless memories, and we still have the rest of the week to make even more! DANCE DAY NUMBER TWO TOMORROW

You made it to the end! Hooray! 10 points for Gryffindor!

Katherine

Monday, March 18, 2013

Day Two--from Harlem to the East Village

It is hard to believe everything we experienced today.  My head is swimming.

New York Immersion Team met in the hotel lobby at 7:00 to travel together to Harlem and the Mount Neboh Baptist Church for the 8 am service.  We met Natasha, the soloist, after the service and she was sweet, humble, and she has a fantastic voice.  Hammond organ accompanying the service, men's choir in matching suits and red ties, dynamic choir conductor, music director at the keyboard, singing pastor and guest pastor.  Wow.

Met the group again after eating a green bagel for St. Patty's Day and a cup of coffee from the Bagel Maven--for our coaching session and question and answer with David Sytowski and Vince Vincent.  Three students sang and played and David coached them, and then David and Vince talked about career, what to try to get out of school as a student, singing, practicing, performing, etc.  It was a wonderful 3 hour session.

Raced to Lincoln Center after pics with David and Vince for a performance by Paul Taylor dance Company at the David Koch theatre.  Half the group got inside, and the other half got caught outside and were held back by the police who were keeping people from entering the plaza.  Apparently there was a bomb squad inspecting a suspicious package in the parking structure below Lincoln Center--it was really odd because no one seemed very concerned.  So we hung out, and eventually they let us into the plaza where I picked up our tickets and we found our seats in the first ring.  Wonderful seats--3 dance pieces, two of which my college friend Rob Kleinendorst was in.  We were able to go backstage to the green room to meet him and we also met his wife (also a dancer with the company) and saw other Taylor members.  Rob, you handsome devil!!!!  We will see him again on Tuesday for a Q and A.

Took the subway to The Strand!  Spend almost 2 hours there, and my friend Nancy met me there.  I bought thank you cards for our guest speakers, and several books about New York and a novel though of course I was absolutely drooling about the hundreds of books I wanted! Walked extensively around the East Village where Nancy usually stays when she is in NY and ended up in the same Vietnamese restaurant I ate in last year.  Jordyn and Kayla were there already.  The food was amazing (the spring roll platter was so cool- you got all the pieces for making your own spring rolls!) and we had a window table where you could people watch.  We shut the place down!  Group meeting back in the lobby where we talked about what stood out to us about the dance performance.   A great day

Ah, But Underneath


Three days in and already so much done.
I saw Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark and I can honestly say it is the best piece of technical theatre I have ever seen.
For all who don't know, I love Stephen Sondheim. So going to see Passion was an extra special event for me.
The Paul Taylor Dance Company was astounding.
The Baptist Church was inspirational and enlightening.
David made me rethink doing musical theatre and maybe going into opera.
Laila was completely thought provoking.
The Public Theatre was just plain cool.
I just ate dinner with my Uncles and Aunt. It was probably one of the best times I've ever had just relaxing. They are some of my favorite people in the world and I love them very much.

One of my goals is starting to come true! I think I have figured out how to use the subway while on the town! It's awesome knowing that I can navigate my own way beneath the streets.

What a wonderful town. I love this place.

I wonder, however, if I would still love it if I were to live here.
I'm trying my very best this trip to not be a tourist and actually see what it's like to work here. I've done all the tourist like activities many times already, but I haven't actually worked in the city, known what it is like to come here everyday and deal with the struggles like the ones who work here have to do.
So.
I try and listen. To the town, to the people, to the car horns and see what they have to say. So far I have not been deterred from my dream of working here. The expensiveness does not bother me, the crowdedness does not bother me, the noise does not bother me. But who knows? Maybe it would if I   lived here for longer than a week.

Beneath its exterior the town has a heartbeat that keeps drawing me in. I just hope that it is the right temptation to act upon.

Many days and many lessons

Wow, hard to believe it's the morning of Day 3 for us in NYC.  Our days are definitely limited.

Well, the past couple of days have been nothing short of amazing, life changing, and eye opening.  For sure one of the biggest things I've noticed and have embraced is the independence that the city operates on.  Everyone is completely on their own, determined within the city.  Fending for yourself ourselves no matter what comes our way has been something I've noticed.

Since I've never been to a cit of this size, it has been interesting and neat to feel something different compared to Eau Claire (EC).  When I'm home in EC, there is not nearly as much activity and "things", I feel, to do.  I'm notorious around my friends for having "high anxiety" 24/7.  Interestingly enough, I have had no feelings of anxiety here.  The city has liberated me from feeling so tied down and nervous about everything, which I feel is ironic since there is, for some people, so much more to be concerned about.  Any ways, I can touch on that in another post or later on.

On the first night we were here we saw "Passion" by Stephen Sondheim.  Having never seen any sort of Broadway or Off-Broadway show before it was exhilarating.  The story line, music, and performers were superb and spot on.  It was the perfect way to begin our journeys in the city.

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to attend a Baptist church service.  We have been talking about culture and diversity a lot in preparation for NYC and many people, at the surface level, think of culture/diversity as only relating to race and ethnicity.  It really points towards race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, ability, look, and one other facet that I'm blanking on (oops!).  The church service was eye-opening and rejuvenating.  The congregation was warm and opening to us, strangers, entering their place of solitude and comfort on Sunday.

After church we had the opportunity to work with a vocal coach, David Sytkowski, who is from the Milwaukee area originally.  We all learned wonderful things from a person who is similar to us and is finding success in such a competitive in industry in a large city.  Part of my own journey on the trip is to figure out exactly what I want to do with my life - big question, I know!  What I took away from him and one of his clients was that, it's possible to do it all.  Pursuing all areas and taking opportunities for any of the things you're interested in is important, especially if you want to maintain all the areas you're interested in.  I am confident in saying that the appeal of utilizing all facets of my abilities in my professional career is desirable.  Another thing is that I wonder how someone becomes a vocal coach.  That is now something I want to understand possibly pursue more.

Next, we scurried to Lincoln Center to see the Paul Taylor Dance Company.  The show was phenomenal.  I have never seen a professional dance company perform and it was awesome.  Having danced and taught dance for 7 and 9 years, it made me miss my dance family and the thrill of moving around the stage.

Afterwards, we had a night to ourselves.  Myself, as well as two others, Miles and Seth, went and saw "Spiderman" on Broadway.  It too, was phenomenal.  The technical aspects of the show were the most exhilarating of all.  The staging, lines and music were a little cheesy, in my opinion, but it made the experience that much more enjoyable.

Tonight we have an entire evening free again.  I am planning on meeting up with one of my cousins who attends NYU for film.  Having only met him twice in my life, I am excited to connect with him and get to know my own family better! :-)

Today, we are getting a tour of the Public Theatre, and some of us are going to meet Laila Robbins, who graduated from UW-Eau Claire and has been incredibly successful in the city as an actress.  I am unable to attend the meeting with Laila and will be on my first interview.  Jim Bassi is a conductor/composer/pianist/Tenor.  He's literally everything I want to be and is doing it all in the city. I WANT TO KNOW HOW! I feel like the two of us are going to have a great connection, but who knows!  I'll have to let everyone know afterwards!

Wowie zowie. Wrote a lot, BUT there was a lot to write about!

Andy
 

Sunday, March 17, 2013

A young soprano in a big city

I just arrived back at the hotel after a second eye opening day in the concrete jungle. I was just thinking how we only arrived here yesterday, yet it feels like I have been here for so much longer. I am surprised at how easily I have adjusted to the city. We talked about how people say that their heart beats with the city, and it's really true. I actually don't feel threatened in the city, and I feel more confident in my ability to get around.  I really love it here.

Yesterday we arrived to the city in the afternoon. Dr. Rieck and Mitra took a cab to the hotel, and we had to find our way to the hotel using public transportation carrying all 50 Lbs of my luggage with. That was my first time going on a subway and using the metro cards. I watched other people to see how they did it, and tried hard to keep up with the fast pace. When the subway first started I actually fell over because I didn't expect how quickly it would move. It was a huge culture shock and very overwhelming for me. Everything moves so fast here and everyone is very assertive. Once we got to the hotel I felt relieved. We then went to a curry restaurant and I had my first lamb curry, and it was delicious! After that we got settled in the hotel and then went out to dinner. I was surprised at how different the waiters act here than back at home. I felt like they wanted us to eat and leave right away. We then went to the show "Passion" and it was amazing! I really enjoyed how well the musical flowed, how the music foreshadowed events, and showed both the positive and negative effects of passion.

This morning I woke up early and we went to a baptist church. I was interesting to experiencing the different culture and the huge role that gospel music has in the service. We then got bagels (which where very good) and headed to Opera America to have a vocal coaching with David Sytkowski. I sang "Lascia ch'io pianga" and he gave me wonderful tips on the recitative using the importance of the Italian language, use of the score, use of word stressing, and so much more! We also got to talk to him and his friend Vince B. Vincent who is a young professional singer. They gave us such wonderful advice on making it as a performer, and what life is like in NYC as a performer/pianist. We then left for the Paul Taylor Dance Company performance. This was a very cool performance. It was amazing to me how they where able to communicate the story through movements making me laugh one second, then stunned the next. After that I decided to try and get tickets to spider man, but the tickets where to expensive so I went off with Laura to Time Square where we found lunch at a pizza place. We walked  around a bit until we found Laura's friend who she knew. He lives in NYC and is a student at AMDA. We went with him to see his dorm and walked around the neighborhood a bit. We went to this bakery with this amazing banana pudding! We then treated ourselves to manicures! It was really nice to walk around the city and see that part of NYC!

I am still getting used to the fast pace, the assertiveness,  the transportation systems, and the diverse culture, but I really feel love it here. I am learning so much about what the performance industry and am looking forward to seeing my first opera at the Met tomorrow!

Kelly