First week of tour down! I’ve officially been on the road for a week and it’s been amazing. I still can’t believe that this is my job sometimes. It feels like a vacation.
Yesterday, we arrived in Peterborough and had the evening off. Thankfully, I’m rooming with B, who has the same love for wine and the Food & HG networks that I do, so our night was pretty set. I’m so glad I’m not with someone completely opposite of me, haha. Plus she’s super laid-back – I don’t foresee any drama.
Today, we had most of the day off as our show was at 6:30, so B and I went for a walk down to Value Village to do some thrifting, then we had coffee and chilled out until we had to go to the theatre.
The show tonight went really well! Of course, we had to adjust to a new space (which I’ll have to get used to doing every day over the next 2 months) but overall, I think it went smoothly. It’ll be bizarre doing a normal show again one day, when I can walk offstage and be able to see where I’m going (tonight I got stuck and kept walking into the wall repeatedly until someone pointed me in the right direction) or have use of all 5 fingers. I didn’t realize that those were luxuries until now, haha.
Tomorrow, we head to Richmond Hill for a few days and I’m starting to organize dates with all my GTA friends. I’m so stoked to be able to visit old friends who’ve moved away…and kind of be getting paid to do it, haha.
Seriously, life is pretty sweet right now.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
Day off in the capital
Today we had the whole day off in Ottawa, so our tour manager dropped a couple of the girls and myself off downtown so that we could explore the city a bit. Unfortunately, it was snowing non-stop all day (big, fluffy, WET flakes that don’t make for good walking weather) so we ended up spending much of the afternoon inside Rideau Centre getting our shopping on.
We did stop for lunch at the famous (well, famous among Ottawa people I know) Zak’s Diner and then we grabbed some Beaver Tails in the Byward Market district. It was my very first Beaver Tail experience and it was delicious.
We headed back to the hotel just in time for dinner and we ended up going back to The Works to eat as most of the cast hadn’t been able to come the first time around. It was just as delicious the second time – I had the “San Francisco Treat” burger which had Kraft Dinner on it. It was pretty amazing. I can probably die happy now.
And I may just die from over-eating, haha. I have definitely been well-fed in Ottawa. I may detox a bit for the next couple days…at least on days we don’t have shows and I’m not famished. It’s hard to eat healthy when you’re constantly on the road though – however, all the other girls are experts at it and I’m learning lots of good tips. We’ve actually joked about writing a “Tour Cookbook” full of recipes using non-perishable items that you don’t need to cook or if you do, that you can cook in the microwave, haha. I’m actually thinking of doing it though. It would be a good reference for other tour virgins!
But yeah, it was a busy day in Ottawa today. I am full, tired and happy. Tomorrow, we start heading toward the greater Toronto area. I’m even more stoked to shop and explore Toronto!! Oh, I miss it – it’s been so long since I’ve been there.
Let’s just hope the weather is more agreeable…
We did stop for lunch at the famous (well, famous among Ottawa people I know) Zak’s Diner and then we grabbed some Beaver Tails in the Byward Market district. It was my very first Beaver Tail experience and it was delicious.
We headed back to the hotel just in time for dinner and we ended up going back to The Works to eat as most of the cast hadn’t been able to come the first time around. It was just as delicious the second time – I had the “San Francisco Treat” burger which had Kraft Dinner on it. It was pretty amazing. I can probably die happy now.
And I may just die from over-eating, haha. I have definitely been well-fed in Ottawa. I may detox a bit for the next couple days…at least on days we don’t have shows and I’m not famished. It’s hard to eat healthy when you’re constantly on the road though – however, all the other girls are experts at it and I’m learning lots of good tips. We’ve actually joked about writing a “Tour Cookbook” full of recipes using non-perishable items that you don’t need to cook or if you do, that you can cook in the microwave, haha. I’m actually thinking of doing it though. It would be a good reference for other tour virgins!
But yeah, it was a busy day in Ottawa today. I am full, tired and happy. Tomorrow, we start heading toward the greater Toronto area. I’m even more stoked to shop and explore Toronto!! Oh, I miss it – it’s been so long since I’ve been there.
Let’s just hope the weather is more agreeable…
Sunday, February 26, 2012
You're never too busy for safety!
So, my mom is requesting more pictures...and unfortunately, I haven't actually taken very many as of yet. However, we are going into downtown Ottawa tomorrow so I will start taking pics. But for now, how about a couple videos from the show?!
Click Here!!
Click Here!!
Busytown is officially open!
Well, it is done. We have officially opened the show!! And I pretty much want to sleep for the next 24 hours…
Today was a bit of a long day. We got to the theatre at 9:30 am, even though the show wasn’t until 1:00. We had a lot to do though in terms of re-spacing certain things as well as fixing blocking, choreography etc…then, we had our very first show in a real theatre with a live audience! And it was awesome. Considering we never got a full tech day or anything, it actually went pretty well. The only thing that sucks is that the wings are so dark and when you add a mascot head to that equation, you’re pretty much walking offstage into total darkness and have no idea where to go. Thankfully, we had a ton of great stage hands to help us out though.
But it was fun. The kids are SOOOOO cute. Oh my god, they’re so responsive and they all just get so excited. It’s amazing. I could do this for the rest of my life just to see the kids react like that, haha.
Though, I did sweat more than I ever have in my entire life today. We had 2 shows with only about 45 min in between and I couldn’t even tell you how much water I drank or sweat out this afternoon. It was pretty gross. It’s by far the most physically challenging theatrical endeavor I’ve ever had to do.
But I love it. It feels so good to be open and know the show is fairly solid. And it’ll only get better.
Next stop – Peterborough!
Today was a bit of a long day. We got to the theatre at 9:30 am, even though the show wasn’t until 1:00. We had a lot to do though in terms of re-spacing certain things as well as fixing blocking, choreography etc…then, we had our very first show in a real theatre with a live audience! And it was awesome. Considering we never got a full tech day or anything, it actually went pretty well. The only thing that sucks is that the wings are so dark and when you add a mascot head to that equation, you’re pretty much walking offstage into total darkness and have no idea where to go. Thankfully, we had a ton of great stage hands to help us out though.
But it was fun. The kids are SOOOOO cute. Oh my god, they’re so responsive and they all just get so excited. It’s amazing. I could do this for the rest of my life just to see the kids react like that, haha.
Though, I did sweat more than I ever have in my entire life today. We had 2 shows with only about 45 min in between and I couldn’t even tell you how much water I drank or sweat out this afternoon. It was pretty gross. It’s by far the most physically challenging theatrical endeavor I’ve ever had to do.
But I love it. It feels so good to be open and know the show is fairly solid. And it’ll only get better.
Next stop – Peterborough!
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Dear Ottawa: I love you!
I have officially landed safe and sound in our nation’s capital. It’s so relieving to finally be here and be starting the show tomorrow. I’m just about to head to rehearsal at the theatre and I’m so excited to see it and get everything back in my body again. It’s only been a few days but it feels much longer since we last ran the show.
The drive yesterday was actually much shorter than we anticipated, and it’s a good thing too. The snow started shortly after we arrived yesterday afternoon and went strong for a few hours. I gotta give props to Ottawa’s plow system though – the roads and sidewalks were all plowed by this morning. AMAZING.
Last night, we went to this absolutely incredibly burger joint for dinner. It was called The Works and they had over 70 different gourmet burgers, with so many creative and hilarious names and combinations. Some of them had crazy toppings like peanut butter or Kraft dinner! And they brought out all the drinks in glass measuring cups and the salt and pepper shakers were old lightbulbs…it was so cool.
But yeah, I better get going before I miss my call. So far though, totally loving Ottawa!!
The drive yesterday was actually much shorter than we anticipated, and it’s a good thing too. The snow started shortly after we arrived yesterday afternoon and went strong for a few hours. I gotta give props to Ottawa’s plow system though – the roads and sidewalks were all plowed by this morning. AMAZING.
Last night, we went to this absolutely incredibly burger joint for dinner. It was called The Works and they had over 70 different gourmet burgers, with so many creative and hilarious names and combinations. Some of them had crazy toppings like peanut butter or Kraft dinner! And they brought out all the drinks in glass measuring cups and the salt and pepper shakers were old lightbulbs…it was so cool.
But yeah, I better get going before I miss my call. So far though, totally loving Ottawa!!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
12 hours in a van is a long time...
Today was a 12-hour drive…it was long.
I had 2 naps. I also had 2 coffees. I also watched a couple episodes of Dexter. And I nearly finished my book.
But yeah, you start to go a little loopy after that long…thankfully, that’s one of the longest drives we’ll ever have. Tomorrow is nice. Only 7-8 hours…I’m already at the point where that is a comfortable travel time. 3-4 hours will be a piece of cake!
It was a BEAUTIFUL drive though. A good chunk of it was all along Lake Superior and it was so gorgeous. I always think I should be a BC girl – I love the Rockies and I don’t think there’s a more beautiful drive than going through the mountains – but the drive today was pretty close…Ontario is a pretty place.
When we got to the hotel though, all I wanted was a salad (I miss vegetables) and another hot bath. We’re staying at a really nice Holiday Inn tonight though and they actually have a fitness room! So yeah, Melissa (one of the girls in my cast who I have an uncanny number of things in common with) and I immediately headed to the restaurant for some green food and then we hit the gym. It felt so good to run and sweat after being cooped up in a vehicle all day.
Now, I’m back in my room, freshly bathed and ready to hit the hay. I didn’t get much sleep last night…I don’t know if it’s the time zone change or what but I have a feeling my sleeping and eating schedule is going to be all over the place. I’m starting to learn that you sleep when you can and eat when you’re hungry.
It’s nice not knowing what each day will bring though. This complete lack of routine is extremely refreshing.
Anyways, I’m off to bed. Tomorrow – Ottawa!!
I had 2 naps. I also had 2 coffees. I also watched a couple episodes of Dexter. And I nearly finished my book.
But yeah, you start to go a little loopy after that long…thankfully, that’s one of the longest drives we’ll ever have. Tomorrow is nice. Only 7-8 hours…I’m already at the point where that is a comfortable travel time. 3-4 hours will be a piece of cake!
It was a BEAUTIFUL drive though. A good chunk of it was all along Lake Superior and it was so gorgeous. I always think I should be a BC girl – I love the Rockies and I don’t think there’s a more beautiful drive than going through the mountains – but the drive today was pretty close…Ontario is a pretty place.
When we got to the hotel though, all I wanted was a salad (I miss vegetables) and another hot bath. We’re staying at a really nice Holiday Inn tonight though and they actually have a fitness room! So yeah, Melissa (one of the girls in my cast who I have an uncanny number of things in common with) and I immediately headed to the restaurant for some green food and then we hit the gym. It felt so good to run and sweat after being cooped up in a vehicle all day.
Now, I’m back in my room, freshly bathed and ready to hit the hay. I didn’t get much sleep last night…I don’t know if it’s the time zone change or what but I have a feeling my sleeping and eating schedule is going to be all over the place. I’m starting to learn that you sleep when you can and eat when you’re hungry.
It’s nice not knowing what each day will bring though. This complete lack of routine is extremely refreshing.
Anyways, I’m off to bed. Tomorrow – Ottawa!!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Goodbye Winnipeg, Hello Thunder Bay!
First day of travel down!! Only, many, many, many more to go…haha.
We arrived in Thunder Bay tonight safe and sound. It ended up being about a 9-hour drive, and while I was a little nervous that I would hate my life being in a vehicle for that long…I kind of loved it. Maybe my thoughts will change in a couple months, but it really wasn’t that bad. Plus, I am fortunate enough to live in a time where I have multiple electronic devices to keep me busy (and I’m exceptionally good at falling asleep absolutely anywhere – thank you, college) so it didn’t feel that long.
Plus, we’re short 2 girls in the van right now as they both have other engagements that require them to meet us in Ottawa, so we each had a full length seat to ourselves to spread out, lay down, or whatever.
(Plus, one of the girls missing is my roommate – so I have a hotel room all to myself tonight!!)
But yeah, it was fun. The drive was actually really beautiful – it was pretty much all forest with these amazing rock walls and adorable little towns. I think I forgot just how stunning our country really is. I felt really proud to be Canadian today.
Tomorrow’s drive will be a little longer…we’re leaving pretty early…but I don’t really mind. It’s almost therapeutic to be curled up in a van in my sweats and glasses and just be able to chill all day. Plus, 2 of our cast and crew smoke, so we get ample bathroom/leg stretching breaks. Although, our first break of the day ended up being a pee break for one of the girls on the side of the road…in snow up to her thighs…ah, the joys of Canadian road trips! She was a trooper though. I don’t think I could’ve done it.
But yeah…nothing else really happened today, haha. As soon as I got back to the hotel I had a long, hot bath (oh, how I missed baths!!) and now I’m pretty much ready for sleep.
But it’s good to be on the road. Officially.
And…I kind of love my life right now. That is all.
We arrived in Thunder Bay tonight safe and sound. It ended up being about a 9-hour drive, and while I was a little nervous that I would hate my life being in a vehicle for that long…I kind of loved it. Maybe my thoughts will change in a couple months, but it really wasn’t that bad. Plus, I am fortunate enough to live in a time where I have multiple electronic devices to keep me busy (and I’m exceptionally good at falling asleep absolutely anywhere – thank you, college) so it didn’t feel that long.
Plus, we’re short 2 girls in the van right now as they both have other engagements that require them to meet us in Ottawa, so we each had a full length seat to ourselves to spread out, lay down, or whatever.
(Plus, one of the girls missing is my roommate – so I have a hotel room all to myself tonight!!)
But yeah, it was fun. The drive was actually really beautiful – it was pretty much all forest with these amazing rock walls and adorable little towns. I think I forgot just how stunning our country really is. I felt really proud to be Canadian today.
Tomorrow’s drive will be a little longer…we’re leaving pretty early…but I don’t really mind. It’s almost therapeutic to be curled up in a van in my sweats and glasses and just be able to chill all day. Plus, 2 of our cast and crew smoke, so we get ample bathroom/leg stretching breaks. Although, our first break of the day ended up being a pee break for one of the girls on the side of the road…in snow up to her thighs…ah, the joys of Canadian road trips! She was a trooper though. I don’t think I could’ve done it.
But yeah…nothing else really happened today, haha. As soon as I got back to the hotel I had a long, hot bath (oh, how I missed baths!!) and now I’m pretty much ready for sleep.
But it’s good to be on the road. Officially.
And…I kind of love my life right now. That is all.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Ottawa-bound in t-minus 12 hours!
Tomorrow, it begins. The actual “tour” part of this tour. Tomorrow, we drive to Ottawa!
…well, actually we drive to Thunder Bay. Then the next day, we drive to Sudbury. Then, on Friday, we drive to OTTAWA!!
(It’s a 30 hour drive otherwise.)
But yeah, I’m super excited. Just finished the majority of my packing, and I should probably be going to bed soon. Though, I doubt I’ll get much sleep. I’m a little wired.
Today, we had media training…which was actually really informative and useful. Basically, we went through a series of exercises and interview situations (should we have to do some sort of media interviews for the show) and then we were taped being interviewed and had to watch and critique ourselves. And as awkward as it is to watch yourself…it was super helpful. I wish I had gone through a seminar like that earlier in life. I might have pulled off some better TV interviews!
But yeah, it was a really productive morning, then we ran some stuff in the afternoon, then I ran around the city finishing all the errands I had to do and now I am in bed, showered, packed (nearly) and ready to go!
Ottawa…here I come.
…well, actually we drive to Thunder Bay. Then the next day, we drive to Sudbury. Then, on Friday, we drive to OTTAWA!!
(It’s a 30 hour drive otherwise.)
But yeah, I’m super excited. Just finished the majority of my packing, and I should probably be going to bed soon. Though, I doubt I’ll get much sleep. I’m a little wired.
Today, we had media training…which was actually really informative and useful. Basically, we went through a series of exercises and interview situations (should we have to do some sort of media interviews for the show) and then we were taped being interviewed and had to watch and critique ourselves. And as awkward as it is to watch yourself…it was super helpful. I wish I had gone through a seminar like that earlier in life. I might have pulled off some better TV interviews!
But yeah, it was a really productive morning, then we ran some stuff in the afternoon, then I ran around the city finishing all the errands I had to do and now I am in bed, showered, packed (nearly) and ready to go!
Ottawa…here I come.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Only one more day left in Winterpeg!
Another long day…my alarm actually went off when it was still dark out! I had been getting used to this beautiful “starting at 10 AM” business…but, I guess it doesn’t last forever, haha.
We had dress rehearsal this morning and it actually went really well. There were a TON of kids who came too and holy moly, were they adorable. I think my new favorite part of this show is going to be doing my solo every night and just watching the little ones dance along with me. TOO CUTE!
Man, I love kids.
But yeah, the afternoon was spent working out any last kinks in the show and then we helped pack everything up so that it can head to Ottawa tomorrow. I can’t believe I’m only in Winnipeg for one more day…seems surreal.
…and also a little stressful. I have a full list of things I have to get done tomorrow before we leave on Wednesday. Plus one last rehearsal.
It will be super relieving to finally be on the road though. 2 relaxing days of driving across Ontario, haha. At least, I hope…I’ve never been on a road trip that long before. It will certainly be an adventure.
But I’m gonna sleep. Everything in the city will be open normal hours again tomorrow (Sunday + Louis Riel Day in Winnipeg basically means nothing is open and no one leaves their houses for 2 days) and I’m determined to wake up early and make the most of it!
We had dress rehearsal this morning and it actually went really well. There were a TON of kids who came too and holy moly, were they adorable. I think my new favorite part of this show is going to be doing my solo every night and just watching the little ones dance along with me. TOO CUTE!
Man, I love kids.
But yeah, the afternoon was spent working out any last kinks in the show and then we helped pack everything up so that it can head to Ottawa tomorrow. I can’t believe I’m only in Winnipeg for one more day…seems surreal.
…and also a little stressful. I have a full list of things I have to get done tomorrow before we leave on Wednesday. Plus one last rehearsal.
It will be super relieving to finally be on the road though. 2 relaxing days of driving across Ontario, haha. At least, I hope…I’ve never been on a road trip that long before. It will certainly be an adventure.
But I’m gonna sleep. Everything in the city will be open normal hours again tomorrow (Sunday + Louis Riel Day in Winnipeg basically means nothing is open and no one leaves their houses for 2 days) and I’m determined to wake up early and make the most of it!
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Engagements, fires, crappy internet and tuna...? (Yeah, it's a good one today)
What a weekend. Aside from losing gallons of sweat (I’m officially never complaining about wearing a hot costume onstage ever again. This show takes the cake. But at least I’m building up my stamina!), I got a couple crazy phone calls. First off, one of my very best friends called me to tell me that she just got engaged…and secondly, my mom called me to tell me my baby brother’s car went up in flames (thankfully, he was not inside when it happened and is totally fine).
Seriously, though. The things I miss when I’m away from home!!
Tonight, I tried to Skype with my whole family but because my internet connection here has a mind of its own, it didn’t work…and it really pissed me off. I hope that when we’re in hotels, the internet will be a little better. I don’t know what is wrong with it here, maybe it’s the building – I’m not sure – but it drives me insane. I just want to see and talk to the people I love! Is that too much to ask?!
…I suppose a couple decades ago, people really didn’t have that option at all…so maybe I should just shut up about it.
Anyways, I should also probably eat something and get some rest – tomorrow is gonna be an insane day. Gotta be up bright and early for dress rehearsal in the morning (and we even have some real live kids coming in to see the show) and then we get to run it again in the afternoon. Then I’m gonna do a ton of laundry…I honestly may be washing some of my clothes in the bathtub on tour – everything just gets so disgusting. I even have to wash my headbands!
But I’ll really go now. Gonna have the dancer dinner of champions – tuna and rice cakes! Might even have an all-bran bar for dessert…
…I’m trying to use up my groceries :P
Seriously, though. The things I miss when I’m away from home!!
Tonight, I tried to Skype with my whole family but because my internet connection here has a mind of its own, it didn’t work…and it really pissed me off. I hope that when we’re in hotels, the internet will be a little better. I don’t know what is wrong with it here, maybe it’s the building – I’m not sure – but it drives me insane. I just want to see and talk to the people I love! Is that too much to ask?!
…I suppose a couple decades ago, people really didn’t have that option at all…so maybe I should just shut up about it.
Anyways, I should also probably eat something and get some rest – tomorrow is gonna be an insane day. Gotta be up bright and early for dress rehearsal in the morning (and we even have some real live kids coming in to see the show) and then we get to run it again in the afternoon. Then I’m gonna do a ton of laundry…I honestly may be washing some of my clothes in the bathtub on tour – everything just gets so disgusting. I even have to wash my headbands!
But I’ll really go now. Gonna have the dancer dinner of champions – tuna and rice cakes! Might even have an all-bran bar for dessert…
…I’m trying to use up my groceries :P
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Confessions of a Saturday night hermit
It’s weird being busy during the day. I mean, I guess I’ve always had a day job, but I’ve always done theatre as either a hobby or a little (and I mean little) supplementary income and therefore it usually took up my evenings. So I would always be constantly busy. I had very little of a “social life” to do normal 20-something-year-old activities.
But now that theatre is my “day job”, I find myself wondering what to do with my evenings. Usually, I’m too wiped to do much of anything…but I almost feel bad spending my Friday and Saturday nights in. However, I don’t know a lot of people in Winnipeg (aside from my cast…who I will be seeing 24/7 in a few short days so I think we’re all trying to get as much alone time in now as we can), so I don’t really have much to do.
Like tonight. I’m probably gonna get some pizza from the little place down the street and then spend the rest of the night cooped up in my room watching Dexter. And I guess that’s ok. For now. But I just miss socializing with people I know. Being away from home has made me realize just how amazing my friends and family are and how lucky I am to have found some truly sensational people in this world to share my life with.
Don’t get me wrong – my cast is lovely too – but I miss my old friends. I talked to Krystyn on the phone last night for over an hour and it made me realize just how much I miss being able to see and talk to her whenever I want.
But I’ll cope. I’m sure when I’m seeing new cities every day I’ll be more distracted. I’ll probably be out and about more too – I don’t want to travel across this country only seeing the insides of theatres and hotels.
I’m anxious to get on the road. It’s coming up really fast and even though we’re still making constant changes to the show, it’s really coming together. We open a week from tomorrow! It’s all gone by so fast – I can’t believe I’m leaving Winnipeg in just a few days.
But enough babbling. I’m gonna get my pizza (I’ve definitely already paid for it in sweat today) and call it a night. Happy Saturday!
But now that theatre is my “day job”, I find myself wondering what to do with my evenings. Usually, I’m too wiped to do much of anything…but I almost feel bad spending my Friday and Saturday nights in. However, I don’t know a lot of people in Winnipeg (aside from my cast…who I will be seeing 24/7 in a few short days so I think we’re all trying to get as much alone time in now as we can), so I don’t really have much to do.
Like tonight. I’m probably gonna get some pizza from the little place down the street and then spend the rest of the night cooped up in my room watching Dexter. And I guess that’s ok. For now. But I just miss socializing with people I know. Being away from home has made me realize just how amazing my friends and family are and how lucky I am to have found some truly sensational people in this world to share my life with.
Don’t get me wrong – my cast is lovely too – but I miss my old friends. I talked to Krystyn on the phone last night for over an hour and it made me realize just how much I miss being able to see and talk to her whenever I want.
But I’ll cope. I’m sure when I’m seeing new cities every day I’ll be more distracted. I’ll probably be out and about more too – I don’t want to travel across this country only seeing the insides of theatres and hotels.
I’m anxious to get on the road. It’s coming up really fast and even though we’re still making constant changes to the show, it’s really coming together. We open a week from tomorrow! It’s all gone by so fast – I can’t believe I’m leaving Winnipeg in just a few days.
But enough babbling. I’m gonna get my pizza (I’ve definitely already paid for it in sweat today) and call it a night. Happy Saturday!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Day off adventures and cheesecake
I tried to sleep in this morning. I really did. But my body automatically wakes up at 7:45 am now. So instead of fighting it, I decided to get up early to try and make some use of my lovely day off.
I started off the morning with coffee, followed by a long walk up to the Exchange District. It’s a part of downtown where all the buildings are really old and businesses have just inhabited them instead of tearing them down and putting up new buildings. Apparently they film a lot of movies there. It is really cool though – almost feels like you’re in New York City or something. Well, it’s not nearly as busy. Winnipeg really isn’t that busy of a place most of the time, haha.
I then hit some of the shopping areas downtown and had lunch in a cute little market/deli that had tons of fresh soups, sandwiches and hot and cold buffet items. I wish I had found it sooner – I would’ve been eating there a lot more often.
I also went back to the mall for a bit, picked up a few more things I’ll need for tour (more socks, sports bras etc). Then, on my way home, I grabbed a slice of cheesecake from this adorable bakery café in the Village called Baked Expectations. Omg, I am IN LOVE! I pretty much could move in to that shop. And the cheesecake was to die for. I power-walked home so that I could curl up and eat it in bed. It was pure bliss.
…and I pretty much haven’t left my bed since I got home at about 3:30 this afternoon. I’m exhausted. Physically and mentally. I vowed to go over all my choreography tonight, but I’m not sure it’s gonna happen. I think I just need the rest.
In happy news – I got my full tour itinerary today! Now I know exactly which days we’re travelling, which ones we have off (and where we have them off) how long the drives are and most importantly – how long we are in each city. I’m actually in Sherwood Park for 4 nights and 3 days, one of those days being a complete day off. I’m pretty excited – I didn’t think I’d be there that long. I know it’s over a month away, but I’m already looking forward to it.
I also have a full day off on the Vancouver mainland (and it’s a Saturday!!) so I’m organizing a dinner date with a bunch of my girlfriends out there who I haven’t seen in ages. I can hardly wait!
Ugh, but now I should probably sleep. I have a big 4 days ahead of me.
I started off the morning with coffee, followed by a long walk up to the Exchange District. It’s a part of downtown where all the buildings are really old and businesses have just inhabited them instead of tearing them down and putting up new buildings. Apparently they film a lot of movies there. It is really cool though – almost feels like you’re in New York City or something. Well, it’s not nearly as busy. Winnipeg really isn’t that busy of a place most of the time, haha.
I then hit some of the shopping areas downtown and had lunch in a cute little market/deli that had tons of fresh soups, sandwiches and hot and cold buffet items. I wish I had found it sooner – I would’ve been eating there a lot more often.
I also went back to the mall for a bit, picked up a few more things I’ll need for tour (more socks, sports bras etc). Then, on my way home, I grabbed a slice of cheesecake from this adorable bakery café in the Village called Baked Expectations. Omg, I am IN LOVE! I pretty much could move in to that shop. And the cheesecake was to die for. I power-walked home so that I could curl up and eat it in bed. It was pure bliss.
…and I pretty much haven’t left my bed since I got home at about 3:30 this afternoon. I’m exhausted. Physically and mentally. I vowed to go over all my choreography tonight, but I’m not sure it’s gonna happen. I think I just need the rest.
In happy news – I got my full tour itinerary today! Now I know exactly which days we’re travelling, which ones we have off (and where we have them off) how long the drives are and most importantly – how long we are in each city. I’m actually in Sherwood Park for 4 nights and 3 days, one of those days being a complete day off. I’m pretty excited – I didn’t think I’d be there that long. I know it’s over a month away, but I’m already looking forward to it.
I also have a full day off on the Vancouver mainland (and it’s a Saturday!!) so I’m organizing a dinner date with a bunch of my girlfriends out there who I haven’t seen in ages. I can hardly wait!
Ugh, but now I should probably sleep. I have a big 4 days ahead of me.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Sweat, Valentine's Day Hang-Overs and Homesickness
So, as of today, the show is completely blocked and choreographed, we leave for Ottawa in a week and tomorrow is a day off! I’m pretty stoked. Mainly just to sleep in a bit and get some stuff done as we really won’t have any other days off until we’re in Ontario. Plus, I apparently need to check out the Exchange District here in Winnipeg – so that’s my plan for tomorrow.
This week has been pretty busy so far though – all 3 days of it. Monday, we did a bunch of taping for the promo video so it was a long, sweaty day of dancing. I’ve started showering in the evenings now because of how gross I am at the end of the day. It’s like a mini-sauna in those mascot heads. Mine and B’s are covered in thick fur so they are even hotter than all the others. But I’m slowly getting used to it…it’s frustrating having zero peripheral vision though – especially during dance numbers with 5 other people onstage, all with the same problem. It truly is the scariest thing I’ve ever had to do onstage. I’m just praying that I don’t walk right off the stage and fall into the audience during a show.
*knocks on wood*
Yesterday was Valentine’s Day, so after rehearsal I went out for drinks with some of the single ladies in my cast to celebrate. We ended up having a bit too much fun though, so I was hurting a little this morning…but it was worth it. I’m just happy we weren’t in costumes today. I can think of no greater hell than being hung-over in a mascot costume.
The homesickness started to kick in today too…I don’t know if it was the fact that I wasn’t physically in great condition, or that it was a cold dreary day – maybe it was a mixture of both – but I just felt kind of down and I couldn’t shake it. It was easy to forget about it when I was in rehearsal having fun with everyone, but as soon as I started walking home, it just hit. I felt like I had been in this beautiful new exciting bubble all week – almost like a dream – but something about being hung-over really causes reality to smack you in the face and suddenly I was super depressed. I dunno, it was strange…but I’m sure it was just overdue. I’ll work through it.
I’m a tough cookie. A “feisty midget” as Krystyn so lovingly calls me. I probably just need some sleep.
And to not see a bottle of tequila ever again.
This week has been pretty busy so far though – all 3 days of it. Monday, we did a bunch of taping for the promo video so it was a long, sweaty day of dancing. I’ve started showering in the evenings now because of how gross I am at the end of the day. It’s like a mini-sauna in those mascot heads. Mine and B’s are covered in thick fur so they are even hotter than all the others. But I’m slowly getting used to it…it’s frustrating having zero peripheral vision though – especially during dance numbers with 5 other people onstage, all with the same problem. It truly is the scariest thing I’ve ever had to do onstage. I’m just praying that I don’t walk right off the stage and fall into the audience during a show.
*knocks on wood*
Yesterday was Valentine’s Day, so after rehearsal I went out for drinks with some of the single ladies in my cast to celebrate. We ended up having a bit too much fun though, so I was hurting a little this morning…but it was worth it. I’m just happy we weren’t in costumes today. I can think of no greater hell than being hung-over in a mascot costume.
The homesickness started to kick in today too…I don’t know if it was the fact that I wasn’t physically in great condition, or that it was a cold dreary day – maybe it was a mixture of both – but I just felt kind of down and I couldn’t shake it. It was easy to forget about it when I was in rehearsal having fun with everyone, but as soon as I started walking home, it just hit. I felt like I had been in this beautiful new exciting bubble all week – almost like a dream – but something about being hung-over really causes reality to smack you in the face and suddenly I was super depressed. I dunno, it was strange…but I’m sure it was just overdue. I’ll work through it.
I’m a tough cookie. A “feisty midget” as Krystyn so lovingly calls me. I probably just need some sleep.
And to not see a bottle of tequila ever again.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Day off...and PICTURES!
So, I’ve been in Winnipeg for a week. Officially. A whole week. And so far, I really like it. Not sure I’d want to move here permanently, but as a city – it’s not bad.
Well, minus the fact that it’s next to impossible to find a liquor store here. But maybe Edmonton just has so many that I naturally expect to find one on every street corner. I did find one today though, finally…nearly did a happy dance in the middle of the street…but yeah, I just really wanted a glass of wine tonight. And now I have one. In a coffee cup…but I can’t really be too picky.
I started off my day today by heading down to the Forks. It’s a little part of town that sits right where the 2 rivers meet so they have lots of activities and shopping and restaurants and such. I wandered through the market, had a coffee, took a walk along the river…they also have the world’s longest skating rink there apparently. I was tempted to just rent some skates and go it alone, but it was a little chilly. However, it was really cool down there. Reminded me of a much smaller Granville Island. But definitely the same idea.
After the Forks, I headed back to the mall to catch a movie. I went and saw The Vow, all by myself…and actually really liked it. Both the movie and seeing it alone. I really need to start going to more movies by myself.
After the movie, I had lunch and then shopped a bit. I picked up some groceries on my way home (as well as the wine) and now I’m curled up in bed, ready for sleep. From now until we open in Ottawa, I will have very little time off. It’s gonna be crazy – but I’m excited. I’m already anxious to get on the road. The show is so adorable; I’m super stoked for kids to see it.
But yeah, that was my day off…and I will leave you with some pictures I took before I hit the hay. Goodnight!!
The market at the Forks.
A small part of the super long skating rink.
A snow dragon.
The Fort Garry hotel - probably the most expensive hotel in the city.
Parliament building.
Louis Riel statue.
My Valentine's Day gift to myself - chocolates & wine.
Well, minus the fact that it’s next to impossible to find a liquor store here. But maybe Edmonton just has so many that I naturally expect to find one on every street corner. I did find one today though, finally…nearly did a happy dance in the middle of the street…but yeah, I just really wanted a glass of wine tonight. And now I have one. In a coffee cup…but I can’t really be too picky.
I started off my day today by heading down to the Forks. It’s a little part of town that sits right where the 2 rivers meet so they have lots of activities and shopping and restaurants and such. I wandered through the market, had a coffee, took a walk along the river…they also have the world’s longest skating rink there apparently. I was tempted to just rent some skates and go it alone, but it was a little chilly. However, it was really cool down there. Reminded me of a much smaller Granville Island. But definitely the same idea.
After the Forks, I headed back to the mall to catch a movie. I went and saw The Vow, all by myself…and actually really liked it. Both the movie and seeing it alone. I really need to start going to more movies by myself.
After the movie, I had lunch and then shopped a bit. I picked up some groceries on my way home (as well as the wine) and now I’m curled up in bed, ready for sleep. From now until we open in Ottawa, I will have very little time off. It’s gonna be crazy – but I’m excited. I’m already anxious to get on the road. The show is so adorable; I’m super stoked for kids to see it.
But yeah, that was my day off…and I will leave you with some pictures I took before I hit the hay. Goodnight!!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Saturday is the new Friday
I did it! I made it through my first week of rehearsals. Now, I have tomorrow off and then it’s pretty much back to “work” until we leave for Ottawa on the 22nd. It’s gonna be busy!
Today was good though – we ran through the first act a few times, both without costumes and with. It’s gonna be a really sweaty show…like, we get sweaty just running through everything in a cold gym WITHOUT costumes on. It’s about a million times worse with the costumes and then you add the stage lights and everything…it really is hot yoga onstage. Every day.
I am excited though. It’s hard, but I know in week when all the kinks have been worked out and we’re more used to the costumes and space, it’ll be fine.
After rehearsal, I took myself out for dinner. Alone. Unlike Matt (who did that all the time when he was on tour), I don’t usually go out to eat by myself. I was a little nervous about it…but I actually ended up really enjoying it. There’s a little Thai food place in the bottom of the building next to mine that I had been wanting to try out. And even though there was no one else in there at 6 PM on a Saturday night, the food was really good and pretty cheap. I may end up going there a few more times this week…there’s also a deep dish pizza place right next door that Cam (the guy I’m staying with) recommended so I may check out that place too.
Tomorrow, I’m gonna go out and see the city a bit (hopefully it’s a little warmer, I’m not a fan of this -30 business). I also may go see a movie…alone, again. Another new experience for me, haha. Although, I don’t really mind it. Don’t get me wrong, I love people, I really do – but sometimes, it’s nice to do things on your own.
I think this trip is going to be really good for me. Therapeutic, almost. I’ve never been on my own before and I think maybe I just need to be for a bit. Granted, for a lot of this experience I won’t be alone (I’ll be with my cast) but right now…I kind of like my alone time in the evenings.
As scary as the whole idea of moving to a new city where I knew practically no one was…I’m really glad I did it. I feel like I’m already growing, evolving and learning in a totally new way.
Sometimes, you need to do scary things in life. You never know – they could end up being the best experiences you ever have.
Today was good though – we ran through the first act a few times, both without costumes and with. It’s gonna be a really sweaty show…like, we get sweaty just running through everything in a cold gym WITHOUT costumes on. It’s about a million times worse with the costumes and then you add the stage lights and everything…it really is hot yoga onstage. Every day.
I am excited though. It’s hard, but I know in week when all the kinks have been worked out and we’re more used to the costumes and space, it’ll be fine.
After rehearsal, I took myself out for dinner. Alone. Unlike Matt (who did that all the time when he was on tour), I don’t usually go out to eat by myself. I was a little nervous about it…but I actually ended up really enjoying it. There’s a little Thai food place in the bottom of the building next to mine that I had been wanting to try out. And even though there was no one else in there at 6 PM on a Saturday night, the food was really good and pretty cheap. I may end up going there a few more times this week…there’s also a deep dish pizza place right next door that Cam (the guy I’m staying with) recommended so I may check out that place too.
Tomorrow, I’m gonna go out and see the city a bit (hopefully it’s a little warmer, I’m not a fan of this -30 business). I also may go see a movie…alone, again. Another new experience for me, haha. Although, I don’t really mind it. Don’t get me wrong, I love people, I really do – but sometimes, it’s nice to do things on your own.
I think this trip is going to be really good for me. Therapeutic, almost. I’ve never been on my own before and I think maybe I just need to be for a bit. Granted, for a lot of this experience I won’t be alone (I’ll be with my cast) but right now…I kind of like my alone time in the evenings.
As scary as the whole idea of moving to a new city where I knew practically no one was…I’m really glad I did it. I feel like I’m already growing, evolving and learning in a totally new way.
Sometimes, you need to do scary things in life. You never know – they could end up being the best experiences you ever have.
Friday, February 10, 2012
The week is almost over...
I danced for 8 hours today.
...I guess we had a lunch break. 7 hours then.
I danced for 7 hours today. I don't think my body or brain can handle much of anything else right now. By the end of the day, everyone was (as Marie put it) "on the fried food menu". Just dunzo. Physically and mentally.
On the plus side, we only have one song left to choreograph! And only a scene or 2 left to block in the second act. So that's good.
Tomorrow will be another busy day though (I wish I could make some sort of joke out of that in relation to the show - but I got nothin'). We have to clean a bunch of numbers and work them in costume as we're taping all the promo stuff on Monday. I may also go out dancing with some of the girls tomorrow night - if I still even want to dance recreationally when I now dance for a living, haha. Regardless, it could be fun.
But yeah...that's all I got today...gonna have some pretzel M&M's for supper and go to bed at around 7. Goodnight!
...I guess we had a lunch break. 7 hours then.
I danced for 7 hours today. I don't think my body or brain can handle much of anything else right now. By the end of the day, everyone was (as Marie put it) "on the fried food menu". Just dunzo. Physically and mentally.
On the plus side, we only have one song left to choreograph! And only a scene or 2 left to block in the second act. So that's good.
Tomorrow will be another busy day though (I wish I could make some sort of joke out of that in relation to the show - but I got nothin'). We have to clean a bunch of numbers and work them in costume as we're taping all the promo stuff on Monday. I may also go out dancing with some of the girls tomorrow night - if I still even want to dance recreationally when I now dance for a living, haha. Regardless, it could be fun.
But yeah...that's all I got today...gonna have some pretzel M&M's for supper and go to bed at around 7. Goodnight!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Short day, dancing and SHOPPING!
Rehearsal was short today. We had to be out of the church by 4:00 (generally, we rehearse 10-6, Mon-Sat) as they have a function or something tomorrow so we spent the day learning one new song and going over all the others we had already learned before packing everything up. I know this is going to sound a little pretentious...maybe – but it is so nice to work with girls who are not only dancers, but better dancers than me. Mainly because everyone can pick up choreography quickly and actually remember it. It’s really frustrating doing community theatre musicals (or any show involving any sort of dancing whatsoever) with non-dancers because it takes FOREVER to get through anything. But with this show, we’re actually working at a good pace. We can choreograph more than one number a day and the choreography can be challenging but we can all do it. I feel like I’m finally working at the level I should be at. Of course, there are added challenges when we add our character feet and heads and your vision is suddenly severely limited and you have zero flexibility in your feet…but I see now why they need dancers for these shows. You need people who can handle challenging choreography and still make it look good with a huge, physically constricting costume on. It’s a hell of a work-out and by far one of the most challenging things I’ve ever had to do onstage. Pirouettes in over-sized solid flat shoes are not the easiest things in the world. But I’m learning.
I’m actually learning a lot from everyone. Everyone in the cast but me has done one of these shows before, so I’m really trying to watch how they move and what works and what doesn’t in terms of my physical acting. It’s totally different having to act to a pre-recorded voice and convey what you’re trying to say with no use of your face. Or other parts of your body shrouded in huge costume pieces. Plus, you only get 4 fingers. You’d be surprised how many more challenges that creates.
But it’s fun. So so fun. I feel like I’m at this magical summer camp everyday – it doesn’t feel like work. Plus I’ve been so busy every day at rehearsal and then at home going over everything that I haven’t really had time to get too homesick yet. I know it’ll probably come – I haven’t even been here a full week – but for now the busy-ness is helping.
After rehearsal, I hopped the bus to Polo Park Mall to pick up some stuff. I needed another pair of sneakers as I play 2 characters in the show, each with different feet and my quick-changes are too fast to switch my sneakers between the feet. I got lucky and found a pair at payless for $12. I also finally bought a new water bottle as well as a scarf and hat as I really wasn’t anticipating how cold it would be here and the hat I did bring just isn’t cutting it. The mall was really nice though – I have a day off on Sunday so I may go back for a bit. I might even see a movie too. By myself. Which I’ve never done before…but I figure there’s no better time to start.
I’m actually learning a lot from everyone. Everyone in the cast but me has done one of these shows before, so I’m really trying to watch how they move and what works and what doesn’t in terms of my physical acting. It’s totally different having to act to a pre-recorded voice and convey what you’re trying to say with no use of your face. Or other parts of your body shrouded in huge costume pieces. Plus, you only get 4 fingers. You’d be surprised how many more challenges that creates.
But it’s fun. So so fun. I feel like I’m at this magical summer camp everyday – it doesn’t feel like work. Plus I’ve been so busy every day at rehearsal and then at home going over everything that I haven’t really had time to get too homesick yet. I know it’ll probably come – I haven’t even been here a full week – but for now the busy-ness is helping.
After rehearsal, I hopped the bus to Polo Park Mall to pick up some stuff. I needed another pair of sneakers as I play 2 characters in the show, each with different feet and my quick-changes are too fast to switch my sneakers between the feet. I got lucky and found a pair at payless for $12. I also finally bought a new water bottle as well as a scarf and hat as I really wasn’t anticipating how cold it would be here and the hat I did bring just isn’t cutting it. The mall was really nice though – I have a day off on Sunday so I may go back for a bit. I might even see a movie too. By myself. Which I’ve never done before…but I figure there’s no better time to start.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Days 1 through 3 - Getting Settled
As of today, I’ve officially been in Winnipeg 3 days. The first day was a bit of a whirlwind – my flight landed on Sunday around noon and I immediately hopped a cab to the place where I would be staying. The condo building is BEAUTIFUL. It’s about 100 years old and consists of 6 units. I’m staying on the top floor in a gorgeous old-fashioned apartment with all these old-school heaters, big wooden doors and stained glass windows. My room is small and consists of a single bed, closet and ensuite bathroom. It’s perfect for me though, and I usually spend my evenings snuggled up in my bed with my computer.
Anyways, back to the first day. After I got settled in, I immediately headed out to test the bus system. Turns out, it’s pretty easy to figure out and I even got an app for my phone. I took the bus to my rehearsal space, and then walked around this really cute part of town called Osborne Village. It kind of reminds me of Whyte Ave – but the shopping is way better. For real. There are a couple super adorable dress shops where I could easily drop a few hundred dollars…which I may just do and send a box of clothes back home before we leave on tour. O.M.G. So cute.
I finished off the day by picking up some groceries at the IGA down the block from my place and heading to bed early. It had been a crazy day and I was a little overwhelmed. I was starting to feel really lonely already but I still didn’t want to talk to anyone. I figured I just needed some time alone. To kind of let everything sink in.
Monday was my very first day of rehearsal! I headed down to the church where we would be rehearsing that week and the set and most of the props were already there and set up. The set is HUGE! It’s absolutely amazing and everything is so adorable. I met the majority of my cast (B wouldn’t be back from her tour until the next day) and everyone was super nice. We jumped right in to blocking and choreographing the show and in that first day, I danced more than I had in the past year. It felt so good to be back dancing again. And even though the day was long and tiring, I headed home with a smile on my face. However, I made the mistake of thinking I could walk home from the Village after dark without appropriate clothing for the weather and was frozen solid by the time I got to the apartment. In all fairness, the place I’m staying at is a solid 15-min walk from the Village but the weather got deadly this week and Winnipeg after dark is a little scary…I also had just misread the bus schedule. Turns out, there are a few busses that can get me home safely and quickly later in the evening. Though, I felt a little dumb as I had promised my mother and Krystyn that I wouldn’t go wandering around after dark and I had barely been in the city 24 hours and already broken that promise.
But I promise I won’t do it again! I got the busses figured out. I promise. FOR REALS.
Tuesday and today were more full days of blocking and choreography. There are A LOT of songs in the show. Thankfully, all my lines are pre-recorded so all I really have to do is dance, but it still is a lot to remember. We also got costumes in today and started trying everything on and discussing our concerns with the costume designer. Everything has to fit really perfectly so there are lots of adjustments to be made. Thankfully, my main character’s head is brand new and I’m the first to wear it so it fits really well. They also have really good fans in them (unlike the mascot costumes I was used to…) however, when you turn the fan on, it’s hard to hear the music. So they may not get used a lot in the end.
I really like my cast though. Everyone is super nice and we all get along really well – I don’t foresee much drama, haha.
Anyways, back to the first day. After I got settled in, I immediately headed out to test the bus system. Turns out, it’s pretty easy to figure out and I even got an app for my phone. I took the bus to my rehearsal space, and then walked around this really cute part of town called Osborne Village. It kind of reminds me of Whyte Ave – but the shopping is way better. For real. There are a couple super adorable dress shops where I could easily drop a few hundred dollars…which I may just do and send a box of clothes back home before we leave on tour. O.M.G. So cute.
I finished off the day by picking up some groceries at the IGA down the block from my place and heading to bed early. It had been a crazy day and I was a little overwhelmed. I was starting to feel really lonely already but I still didn’t want to talk to anyone. I figured I just needed some time alone. To kind of let everything sink in.
Monday was my very first day of rehearsal! I headed down to the church where we would be rehearsing that week and the set and most of the props were already there and set up. The set is HUGE! It’s absolutely amazing and everything is so adorable. I met the majority of my cast (B wouldn’t be back from her tour until the next day) and everyone was super nice. We jumped right in to blocking and choreographing the show and in that first day, I danced more than I had in the past year. It felt so good to be back dancing again. And even though the day was long and tiring, I headed home with a smile on my face. However, I made the mistake of thinking I could walk home from the Village after dark without appropriate clothing for the weather and was frozen solid by the time I got to the apartment. In all fairness, the place I’m staying at is a solid 15-min walk from the Village but the weather got deadly this week and Winnipeg after dark is a little scary…I also had just misread the bus schedule. Turns out, there are a few busses that can get me home safely and quickly later in the evening. Though, I felt a little dumb as I had promised my mother and Krystyn that I wouldn’t go wandering around after dark and I had barely been in the city 24 hours and already broken that promise.
But I promise I won’t do it again! I got the busses figured out. I promise. FOR REALS.
Tuesday and today were more full days of blocking and choreography. There are A LOT of songs in the show. Thankfully, all my lines are pre-recorded so all I really have to do is dance, but it still is a lot to remember. We also got costumes in today and started trying everything on and discussing our concerns with the costume designer. Everything has to fit really perfectly so there are lots of adjustments to be made. Thankfully, my main character’s head is brand new and I’m the first to wear it so it fits really well. They also have really good fans in them (unlike the mascot costumes I was used to…) however, when you turn the fan on, it’s hard to hear the music. So they may not get used a lot in the end.
I really like my cast though. Everyone is super nice and we all get along really well – I don’t foresee much drama, haha.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
First Post
So, I figured that I would start a little blog (well, another one)…documenting my life as I embark on this new 3-month adventure away from home. This is mainly to share with my friends and family, just so that they can know what I’ve been up to. It’ll also stop me from talking too much about myself when we talk on the phone or something. Cus we all know I tend to do that…especially if I’m excited about something.
Also, I know my dad religiously checks Facebook and Twitter at least twice a day. So I know that at least he’ll read this, haha.
Also, I know my dad religiously checks Facebook and Twitter at least twice a day. So I know that at least he’ll read this, haha.
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