Monday, March 23, 2009

The Raven

It's Monday, the day after our original 'closing'. I can feel things winding down. This weekend's shows were really pretty good, I can feel the material finally getting into 'my body'. We extended the show to include this coming Thursday and Friday, but if the box office doesn't pick up, we will close the show on Tuesday and pack up our things for another move. Honestly, I'm a little exhausted at this juncture of the project, and could use a rest away from L.A., (even though I really like it here). Even with the great reviews, the audiences have been only so-so, but all the positive press will definitely support a tour show. Its time to make a 'grand' plan, so that I don't feel I'm caught in a the whirlwind of 'by the seat of my pants' mentality. 

In another week, I will return to Boulder, to rest, build a touring set, and focus on doing some shows around that area. We have also filmed the show over the weekend, so I can put together a sample of the show to send out. Austin, for now, will have to wait. After the reviews came out, I thought I would parlay them into a whirlwind show in Austin, but after hearing that theatre revenues are down sixty percent here as well as other parts of the country, I began to have second thoughts. I am still really excited about the show, and think it has an audience, it just needs  to be planned ahead. I've been working with a great producer here, and am learning much about how all of this works. I am convinced I can find the theatres to work with. 

Yesterday morning it was raining and a quiet Sunday in Los Angeles. I went over to the Seven-Eleven store to get my coffee at about 6:30am. As I was walking back, a raven flew ten or so feet in front of me and landed on a sign nearby. It was the first raven I've seen here in L.A., and in shaman fashion, it was definitely a little message supporting my departure. The raven has always been that 'messenger bird' in my life, and so I will follow this bird back home. In the fields where my Dad's old trailer lies, the ravens come and go with wistful looks and sometimes weary heads--it will be good to see them again. I've been day dreaming more and more about Boulder, its been along time since I've spend a Spring there, I'm looking forward to it. 

Saturday night after the show, there was another live show in the same theatre where I've been performing called 'Anita's Tea Party'. Its a combination of music, theatre, comedy, and poetry, and I was invited to sing a few songs. I sang two of my original songs, and of course, one Neil Young song--it was good to perform in a less formal setting, and a full house. I'm longing to sit on a couple of porches and focus for awhile on some music 'chops'. 

Once again, I am so thankful for the support and following of this grand adventure. Genet, the existentialist writer and philosopher said that, "We are defined by the actions we take, and not by just the thoughts..." After this experience, I'm convinced they both work in unison with each other, thoughts are like prayers, supporting the action in a powerful way. Thank you for supporting this vision. 

10 comments:

FTBP said...

This entry seemed a bit somber, with a sense of relief, yet boasted with a sense of satisfaction. I'm proud of you for doing all you have done. You got guts, kid, enjoy Boulder and the beauty of Spring.

and the raven.....

Anonymous said...

Ahhh. Job well done. Planning is a good next step and that can be done so well on a porch in Boulder.

Gerry said...

A bird sign is always good. Yes, the economy has probably made ticket sales more iffy, but you can still count this experience an inspiration. Unforgettable. I think life is all about living in the moment and making great memories. That's how you become a good story teller. I just posted the first scene of Blue and the Spirit Walkers Convention play reading. Check out Doc playing you, Gilbert, Dale, Bruce, Daddy, Uncle Kent, and Blue! I get to play CS! And others.

Jude said...

Shurtz. You're a true soul.

Poecat said...

The Ravens here are excited that you will be returning.
A.

DB said...

Raymond, I would say it's always by the seat of the pants. But sometimes the pants can be part of a high class designer tux. DB

Coy said...

Ahhh ... Boulder in the spring time, nice payoff for all of the hard work. Enjoy!
*** Coy ***

kanyonland King 2.blogspot.com said...

It sounds like both you and Cheryl are headed for a summer in Boulder with added places to go here and there. I hope you can get a tour put together and take your show on the road. You ought to do one in Grover! Couldn't Adus do that. They seem to be able to draw a crowd. So many places to go. So much to do.
I am glad your messenger birds have arrived. I was amazed that the Elephant would be there in L.A.
Are you staying for Bukowski night?
I will be looking forward to seeing your show in Boulder!

kanyonland King 2.blogspot.com said...

Oh yes, keep on blogging...the summer awaits!

LaRena said...

So the Raven came to say goodbye. That was a nice ending for a great adventure. Or should I say a grand beginning. It's not just the memories we live but those that take our breath away that gives us strength and the ability to see what all we can become. I will be thrilled to be able to purchase a dvd. Think of marketing that. Ann is right about Grover. They have a wonderful little theater there and it has been packed each time I have gone. Wayne County is beautiful in the springtime too and a journey around the magnificent Boulder mountain will help restore your soul after all your hard work. Rest easy dear boy.