Monday, August 28, 2006

It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.


I've been thinking a lot lately about my start on Broadway. I think it's because of how much I loved the group, how proud I am of all of them and how in love I am with them still. This is the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2000 at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts (now the Hilton Center). We were the second show to occupy that theatre. Ragtime was the first (and what an honor to follow that show).
But if you look closely, you'll see a kind of "Who's Who of People I Love".
You probably can't find me. I'm in the back sandwiched between two of my favorite people. I'm 3rd from the right in the back row (gees, I feel like i'm looking at an elementary school photo) between Manoel Felciano (Tony nominee this year for Sweeney Todd) and Jason Pebworth (the greatest Judas I've ever seen and a dear friend) Jason struggled for years with his band Halogen. Just recently they changed their name to Orson and are a huge hit overseas! Yay!
To Mano's left, Tony Vincent, then Max VonEssen (Dance of the Vampires), Bonnie Panson, Patrick Vacariello, Ira Mont (Equity Vice-President). Let's see...down front and center, Deidre Goodwin (Chorus Line, Chicago The Movie...the sweetest woman alive). Down the row to her left you'll see Christian Borle (Spamalot) and Lisa Brescia (closed Aida as Amneris). Others: Shayna Steele, Michael Seelbach. I could talk about them all forever. I loved this time and I love that it brought me to where I am now.

Friday, August 25, 2006

Seasons

I'm smelling fall in the air. I love fall! It's crisp and it feels refreshing after a muggy summer. I smell it coming. School's starting (that means nothing to me, but I know it does to a lot of you), shows are closing and opening, college football is gearing up and my first solo gig comes closer. Thank you for the kind words to all of you who are not going to be able to make it now. It means so much that you're willing to drive all those hours back from school, but you will be there in spirit. Spread the word. It should be a fun time!
Sept. 11th...for so many reasons. Let's get together and celebrate life!

**What I'm rockin' to now: Orson- "No Tommorrow"

Love,

Merle

Thursday, August 03, 2006

New Flyer


Many many thanks to everyone during the transition of changed gig dates. There are a few updates on where to get your tickets. Since the new date will be a part of the New York Music Theatre Festival, the new ticket info is as follows:
212.352.3101 or
www.theatremania.com

Things continue to go incredibly well at Tarzan. The response is overwhelmingly wonderful and I'm having such a great time. So, I thank you for the love!

Hang in there with this heat...

Love,

Merle