Fun is done, but the Stress has just begun
So this week was definitely the most fun and the least productive, but that's okay because I expected it to be that way. I planned since the very beginning to have a game night with my cast and crew, which was supposed to just be fun and have no stress involved. So that was on Wednesday. As for Monday, there was an improv (Suit Jacket Posse) show, which I felt like we should go support, given that 3 of my actors are involved with it. Meaning, I would be lying if I said that this week was stressful.
I even contacted two of my actors and asked if they wanted to run their scenes before we headed down to the show and they both said yes. It was so nice to sit down with them and answer any questions that they might have had and reinforce the work we've already done. The show was so fun and I loved just being able to laugh at my goofy friends and relax for a night. I didn't even think about all of the things we could have been doing with the time because it was so great.
Wednesday was the same and I am so grateful that my cast and crew entertained me by bringing their own games and actually having a good time! Not everyone showed up, but I didn't expect them to so the people that were there were ready for fun. I learned new games, got a little bit too competitive, and played one of my all-time favorite card games and I couldn't have been happier. The best part was looking around the room and watching everyone around me having a good time too. I want to do another night like that one if we have the time for it, but looking forward, we might not.
Heading into this week, I have a lot on my mind. 8 more rehearsals until tech week. Less than 30 hours of rehearsal time. I just can't even fathom how quickly time has escaped from me. I know what I need to do, I know what I need from my actors, and I know what we can do to get to a good place. I am optimistically looking forward and excited about the next phase of production. Once we come back from spring break, the foundation (blocking, character work, lines, etc.) will be complete and it's all about implementing props, costumes and lights/sounds eventually. The fun is done, but the stress has just begun.
But I need to listen to the quote for this week. This week was a great example of just enjoying life when it happens and not worrying about everything that is ahead. I had so much fun to just be in the moment, which does not happen enough. Even when I tend to look to the future in a positive light, it's taking away from the present. I need to take life hour by hour and appreciate all that it offers or else it will continue to blow past me. I am so excited for what's coming, but more importantly, what's right around the corner. Until next time!
"We're so busy watching out for what's just ahead of us that we don't take time to enjoy where we are" ~ Bill Watterson