Thursday, July 26, 2012
I've got so many ideas running through my mind all day. Lately, I've been writing down a lot of them, and tomorrow I have a meeting to get some of these projects started. I have such a huge urge to film a whole bunch of stuff. Some scenes, monologues, and mostly a series I would like to create. I am spending a lot of times these days at the library and Barnes and Noble, researching things to write about, studying things that seem irrelevant to my life but that I figure would be good to know... I need to write about what I know, what I'm close to, and since what I want to write about is not really my life, I am researching and in a sort of a Method maneuver am becoming the person I would like to write about.
If anyone is reading this and wants to direct their film friends to me, I'd love to make some new friends. It'd be great to find more people for this passion project.
...
As an aside to this, I am actively going out (mostly because work has been slow and I work only a few times a week) and I'm enjoying it. Of course, I need to find a way to finance this life a bit more, but I will manage it better upon my return from my trip at the end of summer. I will be out of LA, and in fact the country for the month of September. I can hardly wait! I'll be in NYC in just a little over a month from today. I have been thinking of all the people that I want to see and hope that they want to see me just as much. I want to see some shows and go to my favorite New York restaurants and locations! So stoked!!
Following a week in NYC, I will be visiting family in Israel. This, too, is going to be so incredibly joyous!
In fact, JOY is where it's at. My dear friend, Jennifer (shout out!), made me a bracelet with the word engraved onto a circle, and well, I've been thinking about it a lot. What Joy means to me, what joy I already have, what joy I would like, etc. And it reminds me of a journal entry I was assigned to write in a college musical theater class. The topic was Joy vs. Fear- to define them in my life and find similarities between them. I'll have to read the entry when I visit my parents' house next week and see exactly what I wrote. But in thinking of it now, I am realizing that many things that give me joy came out of conquering a fear or giving up on fear. And, going back to this bracelet, Joy is attainable, and exists all the time. You just have to be aware of it and welcome it into your life. Forget about the things you fear and the things that make you unhappy. Remind yourself of something small that brings you joy and it will brighten up your day.
Joy.
"If my world were to cave in tomorrow, I would look back on all the pleasures, excitements and worthwhilenesses I have been lucky enough to have had. Not the sadness... but the joy of everything else. It will have been enough." -Audrey Hepburn
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Happy June!
I can't believe it's already summer and that I've been in LA for 3 months now... I feel like there's still soo much to see and do and people to meet, friends to make, etc...
I work quite a lot- at least in the evenings which is making it difficult to be very social, but I'm trying to stay in touch with the few good friends I have out here. I desperately miss my friends out on the East Coast, but I am fighting to make it work for me out here in LA.
I started a new acting class, which I'm glad to be in, and I think it will get the ball rolling. In fact, I am amidst scene-searching right now. Just thought I'd put "pen to paper" or, in this case, fingers to keyboard for a brief moment...
To anyone reading, have a pleasant week
Saturday, March 31, 2012
$690 million lotto
Y'know, if everyone put as much money as they did on a lotto ticket toward a charity we could've all done something really amazing today.
Seriously... think about. It sort of breaks my heart that we've become a pretty selfish culture.
...
It's been an interesting week or two in lottery land in California. The mega millions are at a super high, and tonight's lotto was for $690 million... seriously? what?! That's wild! How did all that money get to one place?! It's just absurd. I mean, if that money got there, why doesn't even half of that, hell a quarter of that go towards other things? um... the homeless, the hungry, education, health problems, abuse, animals, etc...
First off, these charities need to find a way to be more effective in getting people to line up and give them money instead of people lining up at every gas station in hysteria to buy a lottery ticket.
In absolute seriousness, I was one of those people who figured "Hell, this only comes once in a lifetime. I'll try for the jackpot." And, thus, last week I got 5 tickets and again this week.
And, I'll say it again, could've done better things with my money. My roommate was telling me that a person's got a better chance injuring themselves with a right-handed utensil if they're left-handed than winning the lottery... now that's silly, and probably true, but I still went ahead and figured that You Never Know. That's true, as well... Maybe I could've won it. And then I'd probably vomit and not know what to do with myself.
I prefer that a few hundred people win the jackpot and it's split among many people. I think that would be best :) I mean, what could a person possibly do with so much money? Unless they have a very clear financial plan to help the world, which is what I would like to do if I was loaded.
All I'd want to win in a lottery is a nice million or two... I plan to make my millions, but if I was lucky enough to win the lotto, I don't see why I'd need more.
But really, the point of my writing at 2 am is that I can imagine what good we could have done in the world today if we all just put that money and effort into a charity or important cause. If I had spent $5 buying a homeless person a lunch today, or donating it to the ASPCA one less person (or puppy) would be in pain for a moment... and isn't that what we should all be striving for? To help others. To make a difference.
I think it's important to think what you would do if you had this massive jackpot, because it'll tell you a lot about yourself. Or ask your friends... do it!... are they still your friends? ;)
I know that I'd likely throw up, as I mentioned above, and then buy a house in LA, one in NYC, one in Italy, travel some, and donate an absurd load of it to causes that I am inspired by. I would definitely help to fund the National Women's Museum that Meryl Streep is helping to start up :)
So next week when you're off to buy your lottery ticket for what will now be over one BILLION dollars, I ask that you just think about it, and maybe get $5 worth of lotto tickets and then donate $5 to a cause you care about.
Good night, and in the words of Ellen DeGeneres, BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER :)
~Tal
Seriously... think about. It sort of breaks my heart that we've become a pretty selfish culture.
...
It's been an interesting week or two in lottery land in California. The mega millions are at a super high, and tonight's lotto was for $690 million... seriously? what?! That's wild! How did all that money get to one place?! It's just absurd. I mean, if that money got there, why doesn't even half of that, hell a quarter of that go towards other things? um... the homeless, the hungry, education, health problems, abuse, animals, etc...
First off, these charities need to find a way to be more effective in getting people to line up and give them money instead of people lining up at every gas station in hysteria to buy a lottery ticket.
In absolute seriousness, I was one of those people who figured "Hell, this only comes once in a lifetime. I'll try for the jackpot." And, thus, last week I got 5 tickets and again this week.
And, I'll say it again, could've done better things with my money. My roommate was telling me that a person's got a better chance injuring themselves with a right-handed utensil if they're left-handed than winning the lottery... now that's silly, and probably true, but I still went ahead and figured that You Never Know. That's true, as well... Maybe I could've won it. And then I'd probably vomit and not know what to do with myself.
I prefer that a few hundred people win the jackpot and it's split among many people. I think that would be best :) I mean, what could a person possibly do with so much money? Unless they have a very clear financial plan to help the world, which is what I would like to do if I was loaded.
All I'd want to win in a lottery is a nice million or two... I plan to make my millions, but if I was lucky enough to win the lotto, I don't see why I'd need more.
But really, the point of my writing at 2 am is that I can imagine what good we could have done in the world today if we all just put that money and effort into a charity or important cause. If I had spent $5 buying a homeless person a lunch today, or donating it to the ASPCA one less person (or puppy) would be in pain for a moment... and isn't that what we should all be striving for? To help others. To make a difference.
I think it's important to think what you would do if you had this massive jackpot, because it'll tell you a lot about yourself. Or ask your friends... do it!... are they still your friends? ;)
I know that I'd likely throw up, as I mentioned above, and then buy a house in LA, one in NYC, one in Italy, travel some, and donate an absurd load of it to causes that I am inspired by. I would definitely help to fund the National Women's Museum that Meryl Streep is helping to start up :)
So next week when you're off to buy your lottery ticket for what will now be over one BILLION dollars, I ask that you just think about it, and maybe get $5 worth of lotto tickets and then donate $5 to a cause you care about.
Good night, and in the words of Ellen DeGeneres, BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER :)
~Tal
Friday, March 30, 2012
WeHo
So, I've moved into LA. West Hollywood~ Beverly Grove to be precise.
I moved in almost a month ago! And I'm living with a friend from high school, Sarah. Things are going great. I got a job within my first few days here, and then got offered a better one and took that... so I'm waitressing at a cool place downtown where there are awesome shows in our back speakeasy cabaret room. And some celebs come hang out for dinner or do shows there... I also perform on Thursday nights at the Open Mic.
Other than that, I'm organizing my reel. I need another 2 actors to make it complete, and then I'm filming it in the coming weeks.
I'm looking for a second part-time job to make a bit extra money, as well.
I don't have anything funny to really write about right now, so I'm just gonna let this post be. :)
I moved in almost a month ago! And I'm living with a friend from high school, Sarah. Things are going great. I got a job within my first few days here, and then got offered a better one and took that... so I'm waitressing at a cool place downtown where there are awesome shows in our back speakeasy cabaret room. And some celebs come hang out for dinner or do shows there... I also perform on Thursday nights at the Open Mic.
Other than that, I'm organizing my reel. I need another 2 actors to make it complete, and then I'm filming it in the coming weeks.
I'm looking for a second part-time job to make a bit extra money, as well.
I don't have anything funny to really write about right now, so I'm just gonna let this post be. :)
Monday, February 6, 2012
2012- The Apocalypse Is Coming...
It's a new year and it's been a while...
I'm currently working temp jobs at a private school in Orange County, making some money to move on into LA. I am officially moving into West Hollywood on March 1st and I cannot wait! I'm overly excited and can't wait to be a committed vegan and avid Los Angelino. It's super hard to be a vegan whilst living in my parents house... have you seen the pictures I keep posting on facebook? My mother is an UNREAL cook and the pastries and cakes that she makes just blow my mind. I always faulter on them. Never meat, obviously. It's been 8 years since I've had any non-vegetarian food. I love it! Thank you, Upton Sinclair (author of The Jungle)!
Life has been tres dull in SoCal, thus far, but I feel like I'm just in an hourglass waiting it out. I'm kind of suffocating by being at home, but I've found ways to keep busy. Singing a lot, making some new friends...
I still am heartbroken that I'm not in NYC right now, but I know that I can always go back. I think it's just necessary that I be here in California for the time being. I also miss Israel! I was there last summer and I am planning a trip this Passover for 2/3 weeks, as well as a stop in NYC. Broadway, beware, I'm coming and I intend to see a whole lot of ya!
What else? You would imagine a lot has happened or changed, but not really. I'm still actively trying to change where I'm at in life. I still hate driving in traffic, particularly. I still have AWFUL back pain, that is only getting worse by sitting in an office chair all day (oh- I'm getting an epidural in a week and a half). I'm uber nervous about the epidural but am reminded of how safe and easy of a procedure it is. I'll be "going under" anesthesia in order to get it done... I am already planning for someone to videotape me on the drive home with a series of funny questions in hopes that a video sensation can be born. I don't know how that works, but we'll see.
I'm starting a pop/rock repertoire class tonight in LA after work. I just hope I won't be overly exhausted all week because of how long my day goes. I'm already yawning. And I am still hungry, although I ate a very plentiful and initially filling lunch. I think I'm gonna have to find some sort of dinner en route to class tonight...
So long for today!
Oh, one thing I'm obsessed with lately:
http://youtu.be/t5jw3T3Jy70
http://youtu.be/t5jw3T3Jy70
I'm currently working temp jobs at a private school in Orange County, making some money to move on into LA. I am officially moving into West Hollywood on March 1st and I cannot wait! I'm overly excited and can't wait to be a committed vegan and avid Los Angelino. It's super hard to be a vegan whilst living in my parents house... have you seen the pictures I keep posting on facebook? My mother is an UNREAL cook and the pastries and cakes that she makes just blow my mind. I always faulter on them. Never meat, obviously. It's been 8 years since I've had any non-vegetarian food. I love it! Thank you, Upton Sinclair (author of The Jungle)!
Life has been tres dull in SoCal, thus far, but I feel like I'm just in an hourglass waiting it out. I'm kind of suffocating by being at home, but I've found ways to keep busy. Singing a lot, making some new friends...
I still am heartbroken that I'm not in NYC right now, but I know that I can always go back. I think it's just necessary that I be here in California for the time being. I also miss Israel! I was there last summer and I am planning a trip this Passover for 2/3 weeks, as well as a stop in NYC. Broadway, beware, I'm coming and I intend to see a whole lot of ya!
What else? You would imagine a lot has happened or changed, but not really. I'm still actively trying to change where I'm at in life. I still hate driving in traffic, particularly. I still have AWFUL back pain, that is only getting worse by sitting in an office chair all day (oh- I'm getting an epidural in a week and a half). I'm uber nervous about the epidural but am reminded of how safe and easy of a procedure it is. I'll be "going under" anesthesia in order to get it done... I am already planning for someone to videotape me on the drive home with a series of funny questions in hopes that a video sensation can be born. I don't know how that works, but we'll see.
I'm starting a pop/rock repertoire class tonight in LA after work. I just hope I won't be overly exhausted all week because of how long my day goes. I'm already yawning. And I am still hungry, although I ate a very plentiful and initially filling lunch. I think I'm gonna have to find some sort of dinner en route to class tonight...
So long for today!
Oh, one thing I'm obsessed with lately:
http://youtu.be/t5jw3T3Jy70
http://youtu.be/t5jw3T3Jy70
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Boy oh boy, it's been too long.
I'm living in Orange County... soon to be LA. And, I'm working as an assistant teacher as a school for the time-being. I've been substituting, but basically replaced a teacher who's been out on an injury since the beginning of the school year and continuing through the end of the holidays.
It's been great- amazing people, amazing kids, making a tad bit of money, and leading me to think that I should get a teaching credential. I'm getting lots of sweet compliments that I'm great with kids and all of that stuff, which I won't bore you about reading, but I figure I could get an official document that would allow me to work anywhere in California doing this... in case.
However, come January, I intend to be in LA auditioning, meeting people, enjoying my 20's which the earlier part is soon coming to an end(!!!!)
I'll be turning 24 in just a couple of weeks... I'm stressed over it.
I've even fainted! Completely unrelated and random- Saturday night. Weird situation... But, come on! I mean, it's happening so quickly! I wish I could go back to the age of 6 or 7 where I was singing and dancing around the house, took piano and dance lessons, watched Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid on repeat, and played Peter Pan with my brother and our friends.
I guess there are perks to growing up and advantages to be independent, but it's depressing to think about too long...
I'm optimistic, however, that things will fall where they should.
Also, I read a friend's facebook status today that I found very whimsical and lovely:
"You've got to get up every morning with a smile on your face
and show the world all the love in your heart ♥"
I noticed later that it's a Carole King song, Beautiful. And, indeed it is.
Peace, love, smiles,
Tal
I'm living in Orange County... soon to be LA. And, I'm working as an assistant teacher as a school for the time-being. I've been substituting, but basically replaced a teacher who's been out on an injury since the beginning of the school year and continuing through the end of the holidays.
It's been great- amazing people, amazing kids, making a tad bit of money, and leading me to think that I should get a teaching credential. I'm getting lots of sweet compliments that I'm great with kids and all of that stuff, which I won't bore you about reading, but I figure I could get an official document that would allow me to work anywhere in California doing this... in case.
However, come January, I intend to be in LA auditioning, meeting people, enjoying my 20's which the earlier part is soon coming to an end(!!!!)
I'll be turning 24 in just a couple of weeks... I'm stressed over it.
I've even fainted! Completely unrelated and random- Saturday night. Weird situation... But, come on! I mean, it's happening so quickly! I wish I could go back to the age of 6 or 7 where I was singing and dancing around the house, took piano and dance lessons, watched Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid on repeat, and played Peter Pan with my brother and our friends.
I guess there are perks to growing up and advantages to be independent, but it's depressing to think about too long...
I'm optimistic, however, that things will fall where they should.
Also, I read a friend's facebook status today that I found very whimsical and lovely:
"You've got to get up every morning with a smile on your face
and show the world all the love in your heart ♥"
I noticed later that it's a Carole King song, Beautiful. And, indeed it is.
Peace, love, smiles,
Tal
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
I did a reading of a new play, "Peter," by a fantastic writer, Kelly Feustel, a few weeks ago. Following the reading we did a Q&A and I gotta tell you, the feeling that you get when among artistic and creative people is like none other. It was great that over a minimally-staged reading people can discuss and interpret things in so many way. It's truly the magic of theater and the arts.
I think the question that I'm raising today is What Can I Do To Help?
(For one, http://www.indiegogo.com/Dreamcatcher-Theatreworks-presents-FaceSpace is a site where you can donate to help Kelly's theater company Dreamcatch Theatreworks get up and running some more!)
But, aside from that- I was thinking. How can I donate my time, my efforts, to getting theater and the arts widely accepted and available? I still don't really know the answer- if you do, let me know. But, I think that just like the discussion we had after the reading, it's all about talking about it. Talk about it with your theater friends, with your colleagues, with strangers at the bookstore. I think getting it out there is what makes theater go-round.
I was talking to my roommate last night about how the people that go to see theater are the people who work in the theater! We are basically financially supporting one another more so than anyone else! Isn't that silly? A carpenter doesn't have other carpenters buying from him, 'cause they can each make their own... Not that I think we shouldn't be active in this world because that'd be no fun, but we need others to come and participate just as much.
Well, that's just a thought that probed into my mind today.
...................
Yesterday I had a bit of a heartbreak. I never let myself expect something out of an audition, but yesterday's was different. I can't specify details, but I was what appeared to everyone and myself a sure thing for a prestigious show that is coming to the Broad-way in the Fall. The audition was fab, the connections beyond fab... everything going my way, right? And then, what could go wrong? Well... to put it bluntly- look. type. whatever you want to call it.
Something about how I looked didn't fit into the mold of what was going to end up comprising the show.
This is the reason we always do or don't get work. It just really struck a painful chord with me that I did everything in my power and the show creator's powers that I should be doing, but I'm not the right type. There's no one to blame, no hard feelings, nothing I can do... the end.
I haven't felt as stingy of a heartbreak for quite a while, I must say. I think I set myself up thinking I was going to get something that wasn't a guarantee, really, so the downfall is worst. I often say that I am a pessimist when it comes to auditioning so that when I book something it's the highest of highs and when I don't, I accept it and move on. In life I'm not like that, though I used to be. I expect great things to happen in life and am very optimistic in that regard. I think that by setting myself up for success and not achieving it, when it comes to auditions, is much more painful than saying to myself "I know I can book this. I know I can do really well, and if not it's okay. Whatever." By thinking the latter, I set myself up to give my best audition, but I let it go once I walk out of the room. This time, it was tougher to take.
Note to self: Keep thinking the latter.
Well, needless to say I feel disappointed today, but I'm also optimistic that I'm meant to be doing something else right now. I am planning to go traveling as soon as possible. Looks like I'll be going to California by the end of this month, and then I'm definitely going to Europe and Israel. I have a few more auditions in the next week and a half, and I'm going to continue to plow through and do my best at each and everyone, because it's what I desperately want to be doing. But, I know that theater isn't my life. It's a huge part of my life, but I can't sit around when I feel an urge to go abroad, or go back to school, or do a different job, or whatever it may be. I'm feeling the urge to go roam the world and get re-inspired. And it's what I'm planning on doing. I'll be auditioning until the day I'm traveling and I'll be back at it when I return, because that part of my life is the one that brings me the most passion and joy at this point of my life.
I liken my life to my hand. Theater is my big ol' thumb. It's the one that helps make my life live-able. It is the passion behind all that I do (at this point in my life), and it's the biggest part of my life. That being said, there are four other fingers, knuckles, joints, and nails to think about and to discover. I told my friend, Dana, this metaphor today and I think she cringed quite a bit... but it's true, don't ya think?
I'm off to discover what other parts of my life are while I continue to do what I love, which is perform. I am not "giving up" and I am not even "taking a break." Performing is part of my life, not my life, and I just happen to be participating in other activities more than that one right now.
So, the plan is thus:
Out of NYC by the end of March (unless I book something that brings me joy).
"Babysit" slash hang out with my younger brother in California when my parents go on a vacation.
Vegas with my mommy-leh to see Celine Dion <3
Europaa (too many specifics to list)
Israel
LA
More info at a later date. I'm over it right now.
*And this post was more so for myself than anyone else. Because come to think of it, I just needed to place my thoughts down. I legit don't think anyone reads this. Maybe my mom every blue moon or if I tell her to. If you have any thoughts to share, though, they'd be much appreciated.
I think the question that I'm raising today is What Can I Do To Help?
(For one, http://www.indiegogo.com/Dreamcatcher-Theatreworks-presents-FaceSpace is a site where you can donate to help Kelly's theater company Dreamcatch Theatreworks get up and running some more!)
But, aside from that- I was thinking. How can I donate my time, my efforts, to getting theater and the arts widely accepted and available? I still don't really know the answer- if you do, let me know. But, I think that just like the discussion we had after the reading, it's all about talking about it. Talk about it with your theater friends, with your colleagues, with strangers at the bookstore. I think getting it out there is what makes theater go-round.
I was talking to my roommate last night about how the people that go to see theater are the people who work in the theater! We are basically financially supporting one another more so than anyone else! Isn't that silly? A carpenter doesn't have other carpenters buying from him, 'cause they can each make their own... Not that I think we shouldn't be active in this world because that'd be no fun, but we need others to come and participate just as much.
Well, that's just a thought that probed into my mind today.
...................
Yesterday I had a bit of a heartbreak. I never let myself expect something out of an audition, but yesterday's was different. I can't specify details, but I was what appeared to everyone and myself a sure thing for a prestigious show that is coming to the Broad-way in the Fall. The audition was fab, the connections beyond fab... everything going my way, right? And then, what could go wrong? Well... to put it bluntly- look. type. whatever you want to call it.
Something about how I looked didn't fit into the mold of what was going to end up comprising the show.
This is the reason we always do or don't get work. It just really struck a painful chord with me that I did everything in my power and the show creator's powers that I should be doing, but I'm not the right type. There's no one to blame, no hard feelings, nothing I can do... the end.
I haven't felt as stingy of a heartbreak for quite a while, I must say. I think I set myself up thinking I was going to get something that wasn't a guarantee, really, so the downfall is worst. I often say that I am a pessimist when it comes to auditioning so that when I book something it's the highest of highs and when I don't, I accept it and move on. In life I'm not like that, though I used to be. I expect great things to happen in life and am very optimistic in that regard. I think that by setting myself up for success and not achieving it, when it comes to auditions, is much more painful than saying to myself "I know I can book this. I know I can do really well, and if not it's okay. Whatever." By thinking the latter, I set myself up to give my best audition, but I let it go once I walk out of the room. This time, it was tougher to take.
Note to self: Keep thinking the latter.
Well, needless to say I feel disappointed today, but I'm also optimistic that I'm meant to be doing something else right now. I am planning to go traveling as soon as possible. Looks like I'll be going to California by the end of this month, and then I'm definitely going to Europe and Israel. I have a few more auditions in the next week and a half, and I'm going to continue to plow through and do my best at each and everyone, because it's what I desperately want to be doing. But, I know that theater isn't my life. It's a huge part of my life, but I can't sit around when I feel an urge to go abroad, or go back to school, or do a different job, or whatever it may be. I'm feeling the urge to go roam the world and get re-inspired. And it's what I'm planning on doing. I'll be auditioning until the day I'm traveling and I'll be back at it when I return, because that part of my life is the one that brings me the most passion and joy at this point of my life.
I liken my life to my hand. Theater is my big ol' thumb. It's the one that helps make my life live-able. It is the passion behind all that I do (at this point in my life), and it's the biggest part of my life. That being said, there are four other fingers, knuckles, joints, and nails to think about and to discover. I told my friend, Dana, this metaphor today and I think she cringed quite a bit... but it's true, don't ya think?
I'm off to discover what other parts of my life are while I continue to do what I love, which is perform. I am not "giving up" and I am not even "taking a break." Performing is part of my life, not my life, and I just happen to be participating in other activities more than that one right now.
So, the plan is thus:
Out of NYC by the end of March (unless I book something that brings me joy).
"Babysit" slash hang out with my younger brother in California when my parents go on a vacation.
Vegas with my mommy-leh to see Celine Dion <3
Europaa (too many specifics to list)
Israel
LA
More info at a later date. I'm over it right now.
*And this post was more so for myself than anyone else. Because come to think of it, I just needed to place my thoughts down. I legit don't think anyone reads this. Maybe my mom every blue moon or if I tell her to. If you have any thoughts to share, though, they'd be much appreciated.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Debbie-Downer
I had a dream a few nights ago that was very bizarre. I was marrying an acquaintance- who happens to be gay- in California. And I was inviting people the day of and asking them to participate in the wedding party on a whim. Honestly, it's an embarrassing dream... I flew out to California where the wedding was going to take place, and everyyyone was in the dream. People from New York, from LA, from abroad. But I didn't even know the wedding was going to happen until the day it was happening. And even then, nothing was planned. It just kind of showed up. I needed to find a dress, find location, find a person to marry us, everyyything. I was all scattered and most people didn't even know that I was engaged. Hell- I didn't know! My dream fiance was not someone I didn't know in real life- I know this guy, but we're not even good friends. I just see him at some parties and such. Sooo weird!
To make a long and ridiculous story short, I didn't even look for a dress or get married, but the dream was more of an uncomfortable limbo of anxiety.
Thank goodness that's not my reality!
I tried to analyze this as to what it could mean- maybe I want to get married? Maybe it's a sign that I find all the gay men in my life to be safe and that I am practically married to them rather than someone who is actually attracted to me...
Well, I pondered and pondered because all of the things I mentioned above were already in my head. I know that one day I'll get married and I know that I find great solace and friendship in many of my gay guy friends, but in NO way would I ever imagine spending my life with them, nor expect them to want that from me. Obviously.
Yesterday I had an appointment audition for a theater in Florida. If I hadn't gone I probably would have had a better chance of booking the job. It was truly the most bombed and god-awful audition of my life. I had to do 2 monologues, a song, and tell a joke. The song was to be acapella and the monologues to be contrasting.
My first monologue was a little over a minute. I began, felt good about it, and continued... and about two lines to the end they raised their hands. "TIME." hmm... okay. so this is how it's gonna be. I started into my second one with a lot of excitement to try and refresh... and, lucky for me, I flub a line which leads me to screw up in general. I ask to start again. They say yes. Then I start over and they stop me. "TIME." Well... grrreat (sarcasm). Then they ask for my song. I sang a musical theater song, which without accompaniment was not my preferred choice. I sang well and felt good about it. Then, they asked for a joke. I told them a cute one and they snorted and kind of laughed. I felt really uncomfortable the entire time I was there. They made the space feel very cold from the moment I walked in and I felt that they weren't the people wanting me to succeed that everyone talks about. Instead, they seemed bored the moment I walked in, with the exception of make the obvious "joke" saying "Tal, you are tall." Ha. Ha. Ha.
Well, what did I learn from this experience? That being prepared is the only thing that you can control, and when you fail to do so above and beyond 100% you screw yourself over. However, some things are just not meant to happen. I'd love to be going to Florida to work on a show in a few weeks instead of sticking around here in NYC. But, not if it means dealing with people that aren't excited and or passionate. For all I know, the people behind the table may have just had an off day or off hour. Maybe I wasn't what they were looking for and they didn't want to waste anytime at all (yet again they called me in for an appointment).
Either way, the only thing I can do in the future is be beyond prepared so that I don't feel as uncomfortable or awkward in the room as I did yesterday. And perhaps it's better not to audition if I'm not.
So why did I share the dream story? Because I think that in some way it was a foreshadowing of yesterday's events. Plan. PLAN. PLAN! It's the only way to know that you're doing your part and you can't beat yourself up over how you did later.
I also feel like I really need to get back into a class that exercises my acting muscles and gets me going. I need to be creatively stimulated and constantly expressing myself or I feel different performing. This is one reason I'm really ecstatic that I am performing this on Sunday night at The Duplex. I'll be singing two songs in a friend's cabaret. I'll put up videos when I have them. Should be a great night, and I hope I have some friendly support in the audience.
Recently, more than ever, I have been feeling a pull to go back to California. I feel like a big fish in a smaller pool there- at least in regards to theater, and I was getting great callbacks for a lot of projects. I think I want to move back out there and hone my craft and work work work. I would like to be on Broadway today, but that's not happening right now, and I don't know if it will in the very near future, either. I think I need to grow into a lot of roles that I can play, and I would be very happy working in Equity theaters elsewhere right now where I can develop into a stronger actress and be working in a field that I love. My life just feels really unbalanced right now, and I don't feel like I'm living as passionately as I would like to.
I'll be making my official decision by the end of March.
To make a long and ridiculous story short, I didn't even look for a dress or get married, but the dream was more of an uncomfortable limbo of anxiety.
Thank goodness that's not my reality!
I tried to analyze this as to what it could mean- maybe I want to get married? Maybe it's a sign that I find all the gay men in my life to be safe and that I am practically married to them rather than someone who is actually attracted to me...
Well, I pondered and pondered because all of the things I mentioned above were already in my head. I know that one day I'll get married and I know that I find great solace and friendship in many of my gay guy friends, but in NO way would I ever imagine spending my life with them, nor expect them to want that from me. Obviously.
Yesterday I had an appointment audition for a theater in Florida. If I hadn't gone I probably would have had a better chance of booking the job. It was truly the most bombed and god-awful audition of my life. I had to do 2 monologues, a song, and tell a joke. The song was to be acapella and the monologues to be contrasting.
My first monologue was a little over a minute. I began, felt good about it, and continued... and about two lines to the end they raised their hands. "TIME." hmm... okay. so this is how it's gonna be. I started into my second one with a lot of excitement to try and refresh... and, lucky for me, I flub a line which leads me to screw up in general. I ask to start again. They say yes. Then I start over and they stop me. "TIME." Well... grrreat (sarcasm). Then they ask for my song. I sang a musical theater song, which without accompaniment was not my preferred choice. I sang well and felt good about it. Then, they asked for a joke. I told them a cute one and they snorted and kind of laughed. I felt really uncomfortable the entire time I was there. They made the space feel very cold from the moment I walked in and I felt that they weren't the people wanting me to succeed that everyone talks about. Instead, they seemed bored the moment I walked in, with the exception of make the obvious "joke" saying "Tal, you are tall." Ha. Ha. Ha.
Well, what did I learn from this experience? That being prepared is the only thing that you can control, and when you fail to do so above and beyond 100% you screw yourself over. However, some things are just not meant to happen. I'd love to be going to Florida to work on a show in a few weeks instead of sticking around here in NYC. But, not if it means dealing with people that aren't excited and or passionate. For all I know, the people behind the table may have just had an off day or off hour. Maybe I wasn't what they were looking for and they didn't want to waste anytime at all (yet again they called me in for an appointment).
Either way, the only thing I can do in the future is be beyond prepared so that I don't feel as uncomfortable or awkward in the room as I did yesterday. And perhaps it's better not to audition if I'm not.
So why did I share the dream story? Because I think that in some way it was a foreshadowing of yesterday's events. Plan. PLAN. PLAN! It's the only way to know that you're doing your part and you can't beat yourself up over how you did later.
I also feel like I really need to get back into a class that exercises my acting muscles and gets me going. I need to be creatively stimulated and constantly expressing myself or I feel different performing. This is one reason I'm really ecstatic that I am performing this on Sunday night at The Duplex. I'll be singing two songs in a friend's cabaret. I'll put up videos when I have them. Should be a great night, and I hope I have some friendly support in the audience.
Recently, more than ever, I have been feeling a pull to go back to California. I feel like a big fish in a smaller pool there- at least in regards to theater, and I was getting great callbacks for a lot of projects. I think I want to move back out there and hone my craft and work work work. I would like to be on Broadway today, but that's not happening right now, and I don't know if it will in the very near future, either. I think I need to grow into a lot of roles that I can play, and I would be very happy working in Equity theaters elsewhere right now where I can develop into a stronger actress and be working in a field that I love. My life just feels really unbalanced right now, and I don't feel like I'm living as passionately as I would like to.
I'll be making my official decision by the end of March.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Frozen Tundra
It's sooooo fucking cold! Whyyyy?
On top of it being cold outside, the hotel I work at is FREEZING, as well! The doors keep sliding open and a rush of frigid wind blows in. It just adds to the annoyance that has been this winter. Everything is moving soo slowly.
I can't deal with much more. Living in Astoria has become a major pain in the cold. The 5 minute walk to the subway feels like an eternity. Waiting for the subway to leave the station is in itself another frustrating experience. You never know if it will leave once you get on it or if you'll be stuck sitting on it for a good 15 minutes before it journeys into Manhattan, which is also too far for me right now. It takes me almost an hour to get to work- leaving me with a lot of unhappiness once I reach the igloo that is my desk.
Then, once I get here to this frozen over hell, I am surrounded by egotistical pricks. One particular manager, let's call him Harry, acts as though he is superior to everyone and everything on this planet. His second-in-command is a dimwit who stares off into space and doesn't know right from left. Harry likes to use his cell phone and when you are using yours (for when your boss texts you) he gets upset... Lead by example, perhaps? The thing is, the concierge company I work for does not work for these corporate hotels. Rather, they rent the space so that they can sell tickets, tours, etc. So we really shouldn't need to follow their commands at every moment. Pain in my ass.
(Shout out to James! He's cool.)
Life right now just feels like one long waiting game. I'm waiting for the next audition and the next performance. I just want to be doing something fun and passion-filled. I think that come April I will be abroad in Europe or Australia, and Israel for a few weeks/months. I need to get out and enjoy what surrounds us and what's in nature. I'm just hoping that I have the strength to survive all of this BS in the meanwhile.
Another thing that frustrates me right now are people. It's upsetting to me that not everyone is empathetic and caring. So many people, particularly, in the hotel business, are sly and conniving. They just manipulate and lie... and I don't get it. What makes them that way? I talked to my mom about this recently and she told me that education and family dynamics have a lot to do with it. But I can't help but wonder how some of my friends who have grown up in "broken" homes have turned into stunning beautiful people, while others have turned into the polar opposite. I need to find the good in everyone again. I used to believe that people are generally good in their core, but my opinion is changing. I want to live among happy and positive people. But, I also don't want to be sheltered from the reality that everyone else is living. It's very depressing that so many people live in harsh and horrible conditions. Why can't everyone, as Ellen says, be KIND to one another? Seriously, peeps. Seriously.
It's an easy choice- smile or be a douche. It takes much less energy to smile. Not only are you putting happiness unto others, you're increasing your own endorphins and making you happier by default! Look at that! Amazing.
So, I hate to put out all of that negativity regarding my dislike for a particular Debbie-downer, but I am using Harry as an example. There are billions of him out there.
....
Moving on.
I saw American Idiot last week, co-starring Melissa Etheridge for the week. She was stellar! I loved it! I won the lottery and sat front row(!!) where it blew my mind. The cast is fantastic- so powerful and energetic. They were GIVING every moment...
which leads me to the show I saw the following night where they were not....
Spiderman: Turn off the Dark, aka spiderman: turn the houselights on
I refused to actually pay money towards this show, so I ended up lucky that my friend got me comps. I think it's absolutely embarassing and egotistical for $65 MILLION dollars to be shelled out on a project like this. Do they realiiize how much money that is?! Thousands of teachers in New York are losing their jobs this year- $65 million could have gone to saving their jobs, among additional educational projects. It could have gone anywhere!
I, of course, believe that we should be investing in the arts- hell! I am IN the arts- but who in his/her right mind said "YES! $65 million dollars to make SPIDERMAN, the MUSICAL." I mean, really?? What were you thinking?!
Basically, the Michael Riedel article from the NY Times sums up exactly what i said to anyone willing to listen, and it can be read here: http://theater.nytimes.com/2011/02/08/theater/reviews/spiderman-review.html?scp=1&sq=spiderman&st=cse
In summary, it was disconnected, poorly written, filled with unmemorable music, and tiring to watch. I literally started to doze off in Act Two, when a flying tarantula was singing some bizarre music. The cast- they're talented- I mean they're on the Broad-Way. I just think the show was poorly conceived and didn't let them be their amazing selves.
Well, when it first started I thought it could be okay- it looked really pretty! All of these gorgeous orange silk sheets flying around and people swinging around. But then... oh boy....
I don't really want to write about it anymore, actually. So I'm moving on...
In fact, I think I'm done with this post.
peace, happiness, and kindness.
~Tal
On top of it being cold outside, the hotel I work at is FREEZING, as well! The doors keep sliding open and a rush of frigid wind blows in. It just adds to the annoyance that has been this winter. Everything is moving soo slowly.
I can't deal with much more. Living in Astoria has become a major pain in the cold. The 5 minute walk to the subway feels like an eternity. Waiting for the subway to leave the station is in itself another frustrating experience. You never know if it will leave once you get on it or if you'll be stuck sitting on it for a good 15 minutes before it journeys into Manhattan, which is also too far for me right now. It takes me almost an hour to get to work- leaving me with a lot of unhappiness once I reach the igloo that is my desk.
Then, once I get here to this frozen over hell, I am surrounded by egotistical pricks. One particular manager, let's call him Harry, acts as though he is superior to everyone and everything on this planet. His second-in-command is a dimwit who stares off into space and doesn't know right from left. Harry likes to use his cell phone and when you are using yours (for when your boss texts you) he gets upset... Lead by example, perhaps? The thing is, the concierge company I work for does not work for these corporate hotels. Rather, they rent the space so that they can sell tickets, tours, etc. So we really shouldn't need to follow their commands at every moment. Pain in my ass.
(Shout out to James! He's cool.)
Life right now just feels like one long waiting game. I'm waiting for the next audition and the next performance. I just want to be doing something fun and passion-filled. I think that come April I will be abroad in Europe or Australia, and Israel for a few weeks/months. I need to get out and enjoy what surrounds us and what's in nature. I'm just hoping that I have the strength to survive all of this BS in the meanwhile.
Another thing that frustrates me right now are people. It's upsetting to me that not everyone is empathetic and caring. So many people, particularly, in the hotel business, are sly and conniving. They just manipulate and lie... and I don't get it. What makes them that way? I talked to my mom about this recently and she told me that education and family dynamics have a lot to do with it. But I can't help but wonder how some of my friends who have grown up in "broken" homes have turned into stunning beautiful people, while others have turned into the polar opposite. I need to find the good in everyone again. I used to believe that people are generally good in their core, but my opinion is changing. I want to live among happy and positive people. But, I also don't want to be sheltered from the reality that everyone else is living. It's very depressing that so many people live in harsh and horrible conditions. Why can't everyone, as Ellen says, be KIND to one another? Seriously, peeps. Seriously.
It's an easy choice- smile or be a douche. It takes much less energy to smile. Not only are you putting happiness unto others, you're increasing your own endorphins and making you happier by default! Look at that! Amazing.
So, I hate to put out all of that negativity regarding my dislike for a particular Debbie-downer, but I am using Harry as an example. There are billions of him out there.
....
Moving on.
I saw American Idiot last week, co-starring Melissa Etheridge for the week. She was stellar! I loved it! I won the lottery and sat front row(!!) where it blew my mind. The cast is fantastic- so powerful and energetic. They were GIVING every moment...
which leads me to the show I saw the following night where they were not....
Spiderman: Turn off the Dark, aka spiderman: turn the houselights on
I refused to actually pay money towards this show, so I ended up lucky that my friend got me comps. I think it's absolutely embarassing and egotistical for $65 MILLION dollars to be shelled out on a project like this. Do they realiiize how much money that is?! Thousands of teachers in New York are losing their jobs this year- $65 million could have gone to saving their jobs, among additional educational projects. It could have gone anywhere!
I, of course, believe that we should be investing in the arts- hell! I am IN the arts- but who in his/her right mind said "YES! $65 million dollars to make SPIDERMAN, the MUSICAL." I mean, really?? What were you thinking?!
Basically, the Michael Riedel article from the NY Times sums up exactly what i said to anyone willing to listen, and it can be read here: http://theater.nytimes.com/2011/02/08/theater/reviews/spiderman-review.html?scp=1&sq=spiderman&st=cse
In summary, it was disconnected, poorly written, filled with unmemorable music, and tiring to watch. I literally started to doze off in Act Two, when a flying tarantula was singing some bizarre music. The cast- they're talented- I mean they're on the Broad-Way. I just think the show was poorly conceived and didn't let them be their amazing selves.
Well, when it first started I thought it could be okay- it looked really pretty! All of these gorgeous orange silk sheets flying around and people swinging around. But then... oh boy....
I don't really want to write about it anymore, actually. So I'm moving on...
In fact, I think I'm done with this post.
peace, happiness, and kindness.
~Tal
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Goodbye until tomorrow...
This weekend was filled with a lot of passion, sadness, and joy.
Friday night was my wonderful friend, Abby, and her fiance's goodbye party. They are moving to the Midwest and I am so excited for them and the adventure and life that they're starting up! BUT, at the same time it is also heartbreaking to see a dear friend of mine leave New York. In New York City we are always saying hello and goodbye. There's no constant here. That's part of the reason I like it, but when you've known someone for over 5 years who you admire so much it's hard to see them go. I've been bugging Abby for weeks now about "leaving me" with, what I hope she is finding, amusing text messages and facebook wall posts.
I've known Abby since I first got to Pace University in 2005. She was one of the cool kids and definitely someone I looked up to. We only became close friends in the latter part of college when she kind of joined my class year- 'cause she booked a tour and left for a while (she's talented like that). Long storyshort, it's been wildly wonderful to have a friend who I feel like I can share so much without abandon. I have always felt like I can speak honestly and openly to Abby because she is so welcoming and forthright. You rarely meet such a genuine person- perhaps one of the reasons why she's going back to where she's from (the people there sound lovely!)
The goodbye party we had for the two of them was an absolute blast. There were only wonderful people there. Seriously. No bullshitting people or fakes... it was just a group of people who deeply care and are generally kind. After a few hours it dwindled down to a few of us who pulled out some musical instruments and ended up having a jam session into the wee hours of the night. It was a really lovely way to say "see you later" and it all ended on a super happy note. Can't wait to see my friend again in the future and so excited for the happy couple!!
.......
The following morning I was supposed to see my super talented friend, Kate, in a Wicked workshop... but couldn't make it. Let's just say, I hate winter.
I'm sure she was incredible, as usual... but I was sad 'cause I haven't seen her in a while and I adore her, her husband, and friends! It was a bummer.
.......
Last night, however, I went out with a few friends in the West Village. I forgot how wild it gets out there. It was incredible fun! Met a bunch of my friend's friends and all that... even acted as a little Yenta and made a match happen between two strangers I didn't even know at the beginning of the night.
Made it home after waiting for the subway for an absurd amount of time, and now guess where I am?
Yup... work. The uje.
I'm seeing two wonderful friends for dinner tonight and can't wait. At least that's something for me to look forward to for the rest of the day.
peace, love, and harmony.
~T
Friday night was my wonderful friend, Abby, and her fiance's goodbye party. They are moving to the Midwest and I am so excited for them and the adventure and life that they're starting up! BUT, at the same time it is also heartbreaking to see a dear friend of mine leave New York. In New York City we are always saying hello and goodbye. There's no constant here. That's part of the reason I like it, but when you've known someone for over 5 years who you admire so much it's hard to see them go. I've been bugging Abby for weeks now about "leaving me" with, what I hope she is finding, amusing text messages and facebook wall posts.
I've known Abby since I first got to Pace University in 2005. She was one of the cool kids and definitely someone I looked up to. We only became close friends in the latter part of college when she kind of joined my class year- 'cause she booked a tour and left for a while (she's talented like that). Long storyshort, it's been wildly wonderful to have a friend who I feel like I can share so much without abandon. I have always felt like I can speak honestly and openly to Abby because she is so welcoming and forthright. You rarely meet such a genuine person- perhaps one of the reasons why she's going back to where she's from (the people there sound lovely!)
The goodbye party we had for the two of them was an absolute blast. There were only wonderful people there. Seriously. No bullshitting people or fakes... it was just a group of people who deeply care and are generally kind. After a few hours it dwindled down to a few of us who pulled out some musical instruments and ended up having a jam session into the wee hours of the night. It was a really lovely way to say "see you later" and it all ended on a super happy note. Can't wait to see my friend again in the future and so excited for the happy couple!!
.......
The following morning I was supposed to see my super talented friend, Kate, in a Wicked workshop... but couldn't make it. Let's just say, I hate winter.
I'm sure she was incredible, as usual... but I was sad 'cause I haven't seen her in a while and I adore her, her husband, and friends! It was a bummer.
.......
Last night, however, I went out with a few friends in the West Village. I forgot how wild it gets out there. It was incredible fun! Met a bunch of my friend's friends and all that... even acted as a little Yenta and made a match happen between two strangers I didn't even know at the beginning of the night.
Made it home after waiting for the subway for an absurd amount of time, and now guess where I am?
Yup... work. The uje.
I'm seeing two wonderful friends for dinner tonight and can't wait. At least that's something for me to look forward to for the rest of the day.
peace, love, and harmony.
~T
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Happy 2011
Quite a bit has happened since mid-December and my last post.
The first major blizzard of this winter happened. It's gotten painfully frigid here. And I'm tired of the commute from Astoria 'cause it's sooo cold. I adore my sweet roommate and the apartment itself. But the cooold! Oy.
I had a wild and fun new years- attended about 5 parties. My friend, James, and his two buddies came into Manhattan and we were all over the place. I got hit in the eye with a snowball by accident, which left me with an eye inflammation for about a week :/
But everything turned wonderful when I reached California for a two-week vacation... and boy, oh boy was it a wonderful vacation! It was wondrous weather, wondrous company, wondrous everything. I spent so many morning and afternoons with my mom wandering around, shopping, going to the beach, strolling around... then cafes and bars with some friends, seeing my friend's new baby (precious!), adventuring in LA, and then to end it all a girls-weekend out in Vegas, followed by pool/jacuzzi/smoothie fun when we got back, the Golden Globes, and Disneyland with my younger brother the next day.
Yes, I realize that was all one wildly outrageous run-on sentence. I just couldn't contain myself! It was sooo much fun!
And since the trip I've been struggling with whether to return to the joys of Los Angeles and California... to make a very long story short, though, I have decided that if I leave now all that I have worked on the past few months since September will sort of have been a waste. Or so I feel. I didn't do anything, really. I kind of just supported myself. Which is great! BUT, I didn't accomplish any great feat or book a great show or a job that I actually want to be doing all the time. So, I made money and then I spent it on living. The end? Not good enough for me... I am developing a stronger network here, and really LOVE the theater world here and am just dying to be a greater part of it. I'm continuing to get to know people in the industry and hopeful that together our talents will conjoin.
I'm planning a trip abroad this Spring if I'm not working where I want to be come April... and I will reassess when I'm off in Ireland in the sunlit green fields. :)
In the meanwhile, I am here working in the hotel business (Shout out to Jamie- one of my hotel front desk followers)... and there are perks. Last night I had free dinner at an unbelievably delicious Italian home-style restaurant right by our hotel. I'm definitely suggesting you all go- Trattoria Del Casa Isaaco. You will be glad you did! I guarantee. Not only is the food soo flavorful and rich (addictive, might I add), but the host of the evening, the owner, runs the whole place like it's house and personally comes up to each of the 10 tables to tell you the specials, get your orders, and even sing to you. You leave with a kiss or hug... I know I'll be back.
Signing off for now. I'm going to read some of my new book, The Kind Diet- thank you and shout out to Michelle, another fab front-desk-y, for the book!
peace, love, kisses, and kindness,
Tal
The first major blizzard of this winter happened. It's gotten painfully frigid here. And I'm tired of the commute from Astoria 'cause it's sooo cold. I adore my sweet roommate and the apartment itself. But the cooold! Oy.
I had a wild and fun new years- attended about 5 parties. My friend, James, and his two buddies came into Manhattan and we were all over the place. I got hit in the eye with a snowball by accident, which left me with an eye inflammation for about a week :/
But everything turned wonderful when I reached California for a two-week vacation... and boy, oh boy was it a wonderful vacation! It was wondrous weather, wondrous company, wondrous everything. I spent so many morning and afternoons with my mom wandering around, shopping, going to the beach, strolling around... then cafes and bars with some friends, seeing my friend's new baby (precious!), adventuring in LA, and then to end it all a girls-weekend out in Vegas, followed by pool/jacuzzi/smoothie fun when we got back, the Golden Globes, and Disneyland with my younger brother the next day.
Yes, I realize that was all one wildly outrageous run-on sentence. I just couldn't contain myself! It was sooo much fun!
And since the trip I've been struggling with whether to return to the joys of Los Angeles and California... to make a very long story short, though, I have decided that if I leave now all that I have worked on the past few months since September will sort of have been a waste. Or so I feel. I didn't do anything, really. I kind of just supported myself. Which is great! BUT, I didn't accomplish any great feat or book a great show or a job that I actually want to be doing all the time. So, I made money and then I spent it on living. The end? Not good enough for me... I am developing a stronger network here, and really LOVE the theater world here and am just dying to be a greater part of it. I'm continuing to get to know people in the industry and hopeful that together our talents will conjoin.
I'm planning a trip abroad this Spring if I'm not working where I want to be come April... and I will reassess when I'm off in Ireland in the sunlit green fields. :)
In the meanwhile, I am here working in the hotel business (Shout out to Jamie- one of my hotel front desk followers)... and there are perks. Last night I had free dinner at an unbelievably delicious Italian home-style restaurant right by our hotel. I'm definitely suggesting you all go- Trattoria Del Casa Isaaco. You will be glad you did! I guarantee. Not only is the food soo flavorful and rich (addictive, might I add), but the host of the evening, the owner, runs the whole place like it's house and personally comes up to each of the 10 tables to tell you the specials, get your orders, and even sing to you. You leave with a kiss or hug... I know I'll be back.
Signing off for now. I'm going to read some of my new book, The Kind Diet- thank you and shout out to Michelle, another fab front-desk-y, for the book!
peace, love, kisses, and kindness,
Tal
Thursday, December 23, 2010
What else?
I've been a fairly good vegan as of late. I've been making some really exciting dishes at home, and have found some unbelievable places around NYC. And thus, I will be starting a new blog soon entitled The Cheapskate Vegan Cook (link to be provided soon).
I constantly take photos of my food and post them on facebook. It's time that my facebook friends are not forced into seeing everything I make. And, I think the world needs a person to show them a cheap, quick, and easy way to make vegan food. I keep finding all these amazing looking recipes with faar too many ingredients. They'll just cost soo much money to make! So, I'm gonna start writing out a price list of different items I buy and what I do with them for the cheapskate vegan cook, like me! :)
In the meanwhile, work continues. I came in today, on my day off(!), to cover for my boss for 4 hours. And then I have all of these fun things to do with the rest of my day! I'm meeting Erica for lunch at what I'm sure will be a new favorite vegan spot, V-Note, in the UWS. Then, I'm reorganizing a bunch of stuff, working on some music, maybe seeing a movie, and cooking dinner with another friend... tomorrow it's back to the real grind- work from Friday through Sunday :/
And, oh-so-soon I'll be in California on vacation!! Two weeks in warmth and sunlight and a weekend in Vegas with my best friend, Lisa!! I can't even wait!!!
For now I'll continue to peruse websites whilst at work and play some Sudoku.
peace, love, serenity,
Tal
I constantly take photos of my food and post them on facebook. It's time that my facebook friends are not forced into seeing everything I make. And, I think the world needs a person to show them a cheap, quick, and easy way to make vegan food. I keep finding all these amazing looking recipes with faar too many ingredients. They'll just cost soo much money to make! So, I'm gonna start writing out a price list of different items I buy and what I do with them for the cheapskate vegan cook, like me! :)
In the meanwhile, work continues. I came in today, on my day off(!), to cover for my boss for 4 hours. And then I have all of these fun things to do with the rest of my day! I'm meeting Erica for lunch at what I'm sure will be a new favorite vegan spot, V-Note, in the UWS. Then, I'm reorganizing a bunch of stuff, working on some music, maybe seeing a movie, and cooking dinner with another friend... tomorrow it's back to the real grind- work from Friday through Sunday :/
And, oh-so-soon I'll be in California on vacation!! Two weeks in warmth and sunlight and a weekend in Vegas with my best friend, Lisa!! I can't even wait!!!
For now I'll continue to peruse websites whilst at work and play some Sudoku.
peace, love, serenity,
Tal
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
It's Been a While...
I'm still working as a hotel concierge. It's a job. Easy enough. Can be really dull at times and crazy at others. One thing I am not good at controlling is my cookie-intake. These hotels offer warm cookies throughout the afternoon and evenings, leaving me completely salivating for their sweetness in the later half of the work day.
And, I've been trying to be 100% vegan... clearly unsuccessful with all of the baked goods that I am surrounded by all the time. But, I'm trying- and I figure I'm making a difference even just a little at a time. :)
I went on an audition yesterday for Tom Stoppard's play, The Real Thing. I hadn't been on one in a few weeks! There's been nothing going on! It went really well, even though I had to prepare a standard RP British accent! I didn't suck! They even complimented me and we had a nice little sincere chat post audition.
Oh! My birthday was last week! I'm now a 23 year-old! YIKES! It was a lot of fun- had 17(!) friends meet me for dinner at a fantastic vegan restaurant in the UES. Then partied all night at a fantastic bar/lounge with a live band that did some great covers of everyone from Madonna to Elton John.
And the festivities continued for over a week. Hannukah parties galore, clubs, brunches, and even a dinner two nights ago with knafe, a brilliantly delicious middle eastern dessert!
All in all, really joyous and fun!
Hopefully 23 will be a good year! :)
And, I've been trying to be 100% vegan... clearly unsuccessful with all of the baked goods that I am surrounded by all the time. But, I'm trying- and I figure I'm making a difference even just a little at a time. :)
I went on an audition yesterday for Tom Stoppard's play, The Real Thing. I hadn't been on one in a few weeks! There's been nothing going on! It went really well, even though I had to prepare a standard RP British accent! I didn't suck! They even complimented me and we had a nice little sincere chat post audition.
Oh! My birthday was last week! I'm now a 23 year-old! YIKES! It was a lot of fun- had 17(!) friends meet me for dinner at a fantastic vegan restaurant in the UES. Then partied all night at a fantastic bar/lounge with a live band that did some great covers of everyone from Madonna to Elton John.
And the festivities continued for over a week. Hannukah parties galore, clubs, brunches, and even a dinner two nights ago with knafe, a brilliantly delicious middle eastern dessert!
All in all, really joyous and fun!
Hopefully 23 will be a good year! :)
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Oh boy- It really has been far too long since I've blogged.
I honestly can't even re-assess all that has happened in the past two months since being back. Basically, I've been working at one hotel and hated my life. And so I quit last week, and I started a new job today! I'm now a concierge at a few hotels in midtown. It's pretty sweet- I sit and tell people what shows they should see, what restaurants to go to, where the atm's are... yada yada yada...
It's also flexible and a positive work environment. I'm not being spoken down to by managers or can't run a hotel properly (not that I've ever experienced that (sarcasm)).
I've been auditioning as much as possible. Luckily my jobs do allow me some flexibility to do so. I couldn't even tell you, however, what I've auditioned for. I put it all just behind me and hope to book it. Hahaa!
There were two or three that I still recall and am uncertain what kind of happened- basically, who knows why I didn't book it.
I've been dating a little too much, and kind of over it. I don't really care. I'd rather spend time with friends I like more than some of the dates I've been on. And, I've been going out on the town quite a bit, enjoying being a 22-almost-23-year-old.
...
Oh boy! Work has been such a bore today. I'm also super tired and awake on about 5-6 hours of sleep. My eyes are so droopy and I'm so tired... and now hungry! Ah! Only two more hours.
I honestly can't even re-assess all that has happened in the past two months since being back. Basically, I've been working at one hotel and hated my life. And so I quit last week, and I started a new job today! I'm now a concierge at a few hotels in midtown. It's pretty sweet- I sit and tell people what shows they should see, what restaurants to go to, where the atm's are... yada yada yada...
It's also flexible and a positive work environment. I'm not being spoken down to by managers or can't run a hotel properly (not that I've ever experienced that (sarcasm)).
I've been auditioning as much as possible. Luckily my jobs do allow me some flexibility to do so. I couldn't even tell you, however, what I've auditioned for. I put it all just behind me and hope to book it. Hahaa!
There were two or three that I still recall and am uncertain what kind of happened- basically, who knows why I didn't book it.
I've been dating a little too much, and kind of over it. I don't really care. I'd rather spend time with friends I like more than some of the dates I've been on. And, I've been going out on the town quite a bit, enjoying being a 22-almost-23-year-old.
...
Oh boy! Work has been such a bore today. I'm also super tired and awake on about 5-6 hours of sleep. My eyes are so droopy and I'm so tired... and now hungry! Ah! Only two more hours.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
The Past Week
So, over the past week, I started auditioning in NYC again! It's been on hell of an intense week doing 40 hrs at work and auditioning plus travel to and fro. Basically, I get home to Actoria and pass the f*$% out.
Monday I went to the South Pacific dance call- so much fun! It was not hard at all! It was in fact a basic movers call, I would say, and I had such a good time. It was a required call, so if anyone books it long term, who's to say, but here's hoping.
On Monday I also went and auditioned for Follies at the Kennedy Center, which is starring Bernadette Peters. How beyond amazing would that be for anyone to be a part of? It went really well, and awaiting my call ;)
My final Monday audition was for H2$ on Broadway, and there were soo many people. It was quite a bit of a cluster-f*%k initially. And unfortunately the audition got cut down to 8 bars. Fortunately, my 8 bars went wonderfully, and the people in the room had a wonderful energy and vibe. Good times. At this point, though, I know they're looking for a cast, but I think it really just depends on what type you are and such... cause in 8 bars they're not really looking for all that much skill. It's only enough to hear that you can sing, and if you look right then perhaps you'll go farther.
Tuesday I auditioned for a production of "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change." It went so well and I got an instant callback for the next day with high appreciation and compliments... Wednesday had a really fun callback with an amazing scene partner and was asked to stay and sing some more. They told me to check my messages... and as much as I'd like to be optimistic (and I am) you never know with this business. It's such a risk to anticipate so much. They may have wanted to hire me and then came in a girl who was much more what they were looking for... so if I don't hear by mid this week I'm moving on completely from the possibility of doing it, I guess.
But, that's alright. I feel like I've had great auditions this week.
I also auditioned for American Idiot on Bway this past Thursday- it went really well. It was lovely to see familiar faces in the room. I felt really great about how I did, but in retrospect I should have sang a much rockier and punk song... my choice was too musical theater.
I'm glad this week was so busy, though, because I really got to just jump back on the audition bandwagon and get myself back into "the grind" of it all.
Coming back to NYC I feel really confident. I know what roles I'm right for, what I'm not, what I should go in for, and all of that. And I know that I can compete for these roles. However, sitting in the waiting area hearing other people perform threw me back a bit. I'm now in a different league. I'm competing with some people who are currently on Broadway, some who have been in the business longer, some who have really strong connections and great networks, and some people that are really stupendously talented. It's a real fight to get a role, and it's much more visible to me now that I'm back. I do not feel like I'm a shoe-in for anything here. I may be "right" for a role, and I may be skilled to do it, but it's not always enough. And, I'm hoping that in time (sooner rather than later, please), I will be successfully booking consistent work and making a happy living doing what I LOVE to do.
Doing my 40 hr/a week hotel job is not living. It's so bizzarre to me that this is the systematic way we lead our lives. I want to be working for something of a greater good. Customer service- not so much my thing. I feel comfortable doing it. It's easy enough. It's mindless... thus quite boring. I need to feel like I'm really doing something efficient and helpful. I am not receiving any helpful motivation where I'm at right now, and I don't think I will within this industry.
I'm planning to do something wild in March/April if things aren't working as I'd like. I'll relay this information in the future, as I don't want to plan it for certain. It's only a back-up. A fun one, but one I'd rather do if I'm not leading the life I want right now.
peace and love and optimism,
Tal
Monday I went to the South Pacific dance call- so much fun! It was not hard at all! It was in fact a basic movers call, I would say, and I had such a good time. It was a required call, so if anyone books it long term, who's to say, but here's hoping.
On Monday I also went and auditioned for Follies at the Kennedy Center, which is starring Bernadette Peters. How beyond amazing would that be for anyone to be a part of? It went really well, and awaiting my call ;)
My final Monday audition was for H2$ on Broadway, and there were soo many people. It was quite a bit of a cluster-f*%k initially. And unfortunately the audition got cut down to 8 bars. Fortunately, my 8 bars went wonderfully, and the people in the room had a wonderful energy and vibe. Good times. At this point, though, I know they're looking for a cast, but I think it really just depends on what type you are and such... cause in 8 bars they're not really looking for all that much skill. It's only enough to hear that you can sing, and if you look right then perhaps you'll go farther.
Tuesday I auditioned for a production of "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change." It went so well and I got an instant callback for the next day with high appreciation and compliments... Wednesday had a really fun callback with an amazing scene partner and was asked to stay and sing some more. They told me to check my messages... and as much as I'd like to be optimistic (and I am) you never know with this business. It's such a risk to anticipate so much. They may have wanted to hire me and then came in a girl who was much more what they were looking for... so if I don't hear by mid this week I'm moving on completely from the possibility of doing it, I guess.
But, that's alright. I feel like I've had great auditions this week.
I also auditioned for American Idiot on Bway this past Thursday- it went really well. It was lovely to see familiar faces in the room. I felt really great about how I did, but in retrospect I should have sang a much rockier and punk song... my choice was too musical theater.
I'm glad this week was so busy, though, because I really got to just jump back on the audition bandwagon and get myself back into "the grind" of it all.
Coming back to NYC I feel really confident. I know what roles I'm right for, what I'm not, what I should go in for, and all of that. And I know that I can compete for these roles. However, sitting in the waiting area hearing other people perform threw me back a bit. I'm now in a different league. I'm competing with some people who are currently on Broadway, some who have been in the business longer, some who have really strong connections and great networks, and some people that are really stupendously talented. It's a real fight to get a role, and it's much more visible to me now that I'm back. I do not feel like I'm a shoe-in for anything here. I may be "right" for a role, and I may be skilled to do it, but it's not always enough. And, I'm hoping that in time (sooner rather than later, please), I will be successfully booking consistent work and making a happy living doing what I LOVE to do.
Doing my 40 hr/a week hotel job is not living. It's so bizzarre to me that this is the systematic way we lead our lives. I want to be working for something of a greater good. Customer service- not so much my thing. I feel comfortable doing it. It's easy enough. It's mindless... thus quite boring. I need to feel like I'm really doing something efficient and helpful. I am not receiving any helpful motivation where I'm at right now, and I don't think I will within this industry.
I'm planning to do something wild in March/April if things aren't working as I'd like. I'll relay this information in the future, as I don't want to plan it for certain. It's only a back-up. A fun one, but one I'd rather do if I'm not leading the life I want right now.
peace and love and optimism,
Tal
Thursday, September 9, 2010
The Brilliant Sites I've Found:
Whilst at work, let's just say I have some leisure time.
I'm lucky enough to work in an office that lets me peruse the web and chat with people when not under a high work load. Thus, I have learned about some fantastic sites.
The first is Dear Blank, Please Blank:
http://www.dearblankpleaseblank.com/index.php?&page=11
It's pretty self-explanatory once you open it up. Check it out! Highly enjoyable.
Second, 27b/6 is:
http://www.27bslash6.com/p2p2.html
This guy, David, basically posts email conversations that he's had with people... and well, he's an asshole. But they're pretty darn addictive to read. Highly enjoyable and mindless.
Enjoy! :)
I'm lucky enough to work in an office that lets me peruse the web and chat with people when not under a high work load. Thus, I have learned about some fantastic sites.
The first is Dear Blank, Please Blank:
http://www.dearblankpleaseblank.com/index.php?&page=11
It's pretty self-explanatory once you open it up. Check it out! Highly enjoyable.
Second, 27b/6 is:
http://www.27bslash6.com/p2p2.html
This guy, David, basically posts email conversations that he's had with people... and well, he's an asshole. But they're pretty darn addictive to read. Highly enjoyable and mindless.
Enjoy! :)
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
I'm BAAACK
Here I am, back in NYC!
I'm residing in Astoria, which from here on forth shall be known as ACT-oria. I moved in a week and one day ago to a lovely two-bedroom apartment (pics to follow in a future post) with a lovely roommate, Laura, a fellow actorian.
So far, things have been going well but in a rocky fashion, I would say. Once I got here on Tuesday, the magical Laura had already moved in and the apartment was fairly set up with a couch, tv's, some kitchen supplies, blinds, and such. The one thing it was lacking, which in the monstrous heat everyone wanted, was air conditioning. Since the weekend, and the supposed Hurricane Earl, the temperature has dropped substantially, however, and the need for ac has decreased. We've been using fans when necessary and just keeping the windows open for a breeze.
I didn't have a bed until Monday night. That was a tough one. Boy, do we/I take beds for granted! I slept on the couch for the first night, which was unfortunately, uncomfortable (but for all those of you who may come to visit, don't worry, we'll be getting an air mattress soon enough). After one night on that, we got a borrowed air mattress from Laura's friend, who also gave us a bunch of free furniture, including my now bed.
This weekend I started to put the bed together. It was quite a task- pieces were missing, I was lacking the proper tools, and I had never built such a huge IKEA piece on my own before. Well, I got my "laundry day clothes" and my sneakers on, put on some Joan Jett, and built that baby from the ground up. Sunday I had a treacherous evening at Ikea, where everything was just falling to pieces: they were out of white fitted sheets, they sent me all over the place to get a missing piece, waiting in absurd lines, and then the best part- it was so late when I was done that the ferry was no longer running and I had to lug all my new stuff on a bus, to the subway, only to transfer a second time. A trip that should've taken an hour and half took about 4.
Monday night I picked up the mattress, a nightstand, and a coffee table, also from the same friend of Laura's, with a really cool guy I hired to move it for me. Then, I completed the construction of the bed, and put my room together... and it's HEAVENLY. I am so relaxed when I get into it, and it makes a WORLD of a difference. It's just clean and white and pure. And I'll get some decorative items in the coming weeks.
But, first, I need to make money. Which brings me to the new job I have! Very fortunately, I was lucky to get a job after being here for two days! Unreal, I know. A huge thank you to Mr. Jacob King. I'm working at The Gershwin Hotel in the Flatiron District as a front desk/guest service agent. In fact, I'm at work as I write this. I'm working in the reservations office right now, which is beyond lovely. The people are great, I've got a basic handling of the hotel system, and it's flexible with my audition schedule (which looks like is getting hectic next week.)
So, in general, things are looking up! I can't believe in one week of getting to NYC, I have a job, a fairly settled into apartment, already seen a bunch of friends, and am back into the swing of the city! It has been a bit more difficult this time around. After living in Southern California all summer, with its perfectly weathered luxury, coming to NYC I initially felt cramped and frustrated. I still do feel grossed out by certain things that didn't use to bug me as much. But, I'm here for a reason. And, I must go forth and enjoy the things that I love about NYC- my friends, the art, the theater, the vivaciousness of the buildings around me, the constant change, and the fact that I'm one step closer to achieving my goals.
I'm residing in Astoria, which from here on forth shall be known as ACT-oria. I moved in a week and one day ago to a lovely two-bedroom apartment (pics to follow in a future post) with a lovely roommate, Laura, a fellow actorian.
So far, things have been going well but in a rocky fashion, I would say. Once I got here on Tuesday, the magical Laura had already moved in and the apartment was fairly set up with a couch, tv's, some kitchen supplies, blinds, and such. The one thing it was lacking, which in the monstrous heat everyone wanted, was air conditioning. Since the weekend, and the supposed Hurricane Earl, the temperature has dropped substantially, however, and the need for ac has decreased. We've been using fans when necessary and just keeping the windows open for a breeze.
I didn't have a bed until Monday night. That was a tough one. Boy, do we/I take beds for granted! I slept on the couch for the first night, which was unfortunately, uncomfortable (but for all those of you who may come to visit, don't worry, we'll be getting an air mattress soon enough). After one night on that, we got a borrowed air mattress from Laura's friend, who also gave us a bunch of free furniture, including my now bed.
This weekend I started to put the bed together. It was quite a task- pieces were missing, I was lacking the proper tools, and I had never built such a huge IKEA piece on my own before. Well, I got my "laundry day clothes" and my sneakers on, put on some Joan Jett, and built that baby from the ground up. Sunday I had a treacherous evening at Ikea, where everything was just falling to pieces: they were out of white fitted sheets, they sent me all over the place to get a missing piece, waiting in absurd lines, and then the best part- it was so late when I was done that the ferry was no longer running and I had to lug all my new stuff on a bus, to the subway, only to transfer a second time. A trip that should've taken an hour and half took about 4.
Monday night I picked up the mattress, a nightstand, and a coffee table, also from the same friend of Laura's, with a really cool guy I hired to move it for me. Then, I completed the construction of the bed, and put my room together... and it's HEAVENLY. I am so relaxed when I get into it, and it makes a WORLD of a difference. It's just clean and white and pure. And I'll get some decorative items in the coming weeks.
But, first, I need to make money. Which brings me to the new job I have! Very fortunately, I was lucky to get a job after being here for two days! Unreal, I know. A huge thank you to Mr. Jacob King. I'm working at The Gershwin Hotel in the Flatiron District as a front desk/guest service agent. In fact, I'm at work as I write this. I'm working in the reservations office right now, which is beyond lovely. The people are great, I've got a basic handling of the hotel system, and it's flexible with my audition schedule (which looks like is getting hectic next week.)
So, in general, things are looking up! I can't believe in one week of getting to NYC, I have a job, a fairly settled into apartment, already seen a bunch of friends, and am back into the swing of the city! It has been a bit more difficult this time around. After living in Southern California all summer, with its perfectly weathered luxury, coming to NYC I initially felt cramped and frustrated. I still do feel grossed out by certain things that didn't use to bug me as much. But, I'm here for a reason. And, I must go forth and enjoy the things that I love about NYC- my friends, the art, the theater, the vivaciousness of the buildings around me, the constant change, and the fact that I'm one step closer to achieving my goals.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Update
I forgot to mention...
I fractured my foot while in Missouri during the show and I am now back home in California. I had to leave because it was impossible to dance on. In fact, I am STILL healing 'cause doctors didn't see a fracture until a few weeks later(!!!!) when I got back to California. Pretty crazy!
So, I'm much better but can't go running and all that fun stuff just yet. It's silly 'cause it's been 2 months already! You'd think I'd be fine... but because it was mis-diagnosed, it should have been cared for differently. Anyways, I've started physical therapy, am auditioning in LA any chance I get, looking for a job, and such.
In retrospect, it was bitter sweet to leave "Max and Ruby"- there were good times... a la synchronized swimming routines, some great dinners out, the City Museum in St. Louis, funny people to be around. but there were difficulties as well... repetition of the show, feeling like you're at the bottom of the food chain within the company, being physically exhausted, being in a car non-stop, not getting to be alone.
I'm thinking of continuing this blog some more, just changing what's happening with me now... so from now on, think of this blog as a little bunny who fell down another rabbit hole... it's called Los Angeles... maybe? hahaa... That doesn't even makes sense. But, here goes!
I fractured my foot while in Missouri during the show and I am now back home in California. I had to leave because it was impossible to dance on. In fact, I am STILL healing 'cause doctors didn't see a fracture until a few weeks later(!!!!) when I got back to California. Pretty crazy!
So, I'm much better but can't go running and all that fun stuff just yet. It's silly 'cause it's been 2 months already! You'd think I'd be fine... but because it was mis-diagnosed, it should have been cared for differently. Anyways, I've started physical therapy, am auditioning in LA any chance I get, looking for a job, and such.
In retrospect, it was bitter sweet to leave "Max and Ruby"- there were good times... a la synchronized swimming routines, some great dinners out, the City Museum in St. Louis, funny people to be around. but there were difficulties as well... repetition of the show, feeling like you're at the bottom of the food chain within the company, being physically exhausted, being in a car non-stop, not getting to be alone.
I'm thinking of continuing this blog some more, just changing what's happening with me now... so from now on, think of this blog as a little bunny who fell down another rabbit hole... it's called Los Angeles... maybe? hahaa... That doesn't even makes sense. But, here goes!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Y'know what's crazy?
People live in shacks in Lawton, OK ... and then there's Beverly Hills. What? How does this work? Just a thought.
peace.
peace.
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