Alabanza

I don't blog. Ever. In fact I'd forgotten I had a blog. Since I last blogged a lot has changed. Things have come and gone. First of all this.

IN THE HEIGHTS is over. And while I write this I'm listening to the "Finale" form the show so naturally I want to cry. This show. I can't quite put words to the experience. From the moment I was introduced to this show I wanted to be in it. I never thought I would be because I'm not Latina. But I took a chance and auditioned anyway. And I'm so thankful I did. I started the rehearsal process a little nervous. The only people I knew before we started rehearsals were Ames and Josh, and they were I'm Europe. So for the first time in a very long time, I showed up to rehearsal not knowing a soul. That was weird for me. The people who know me would describe me as loud and a little crazy. But it takes a minute for me to show that. I can be a little shy at first. Especially when I feel like an outsider. The first rehearsal I spoke to Carolyn about carpooling and knew we would be good friends. She was so friendly and genuinely wants to get to know everyone. But for the first little while I would just sit back and learn the music and not really talk to anyone. And then one by one I got to know all of these new and incredible people. It's rare...being in a show that connects you to your cast the way In The Heights connected us. I've been in a lot of shows in my life, doing theatre consistently since I was eight. And this one has been one of the most special. I love these people. I learned so much from these people. These incredibly wonderful people. I miss this show all the time and I'm sure there are a lot of people sick of hearing about how much I love this show. But I do. It truly touched my heart. I miss it. Which I find mind boggling because it was a long process. I thought by the time it was over I would be grateful. Glad to stop driving to Orem everyday day and glad to have my evenings back for the first time since the summer. But on closing night I cried. I was truly sad to put this one to bed. This showed reminded me about hard work. Jenny Barlow pushed me in a way that I needed. Never give less then 100%. Push yourself to be better at every rehearsal and every performance. Tell the story and be engaged every second. I wish I could step back into that show. Just for one night to play with those silly lovely people. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life, and I feel so lucky. Every time we get to step out on that stage and tell that story is a privilege. You won't always get cast in every show you want...but every time you don't get cast there is a reason. Always. Which brings me to my next piece of news.

I auditioned for Les Mis at Hale and really wasn't expecting a whole lot, but thought it would he a great gig. And I was bummed when I didn't get it. I wanted something after In The Heights to look forward to. But I didn't get it. And now I am so so so thankful for that. Everything happens for a reason. That is true. I will be playing Bec in 4000 MILES at Salt Lake Acting Company in April. I am so excited to get back on that stage. I am thrilled to be in this beautiful play and really excited to work with the director and actors. It's going to push me and I can't wait till rehearsals start! I'm so giddy over it! 

So. That's a little insight on my life right now.