I just wanted to give you an update on Midsummer Night's Dream.
Specifically to tell you that your pupil is having the time of his life.
Everything you taught me seems so clear today and "acting" seems to
effortless. Actually, I should amend that because it is taking great
effort to seek out and experience every shred of joy that is available
in the material, for there is such abundance.
I'm occasionally asked by my fellow actors how I thought of some funny
or clever gag in some performance and all I can tell them is that I had
no idea I was going to do it until the moment was upon me and that I
was just open to the inspiration. I trusted that the moment would be
there and that I just knew all the funny stuff would be there to be
discovered. The director's notes to me are mostly "oh, keep that!" "oh,
that was great" "oh, that works!" And to think all these things would
be lost to me if I weren't on the breath.
Joy seeking was never easier. Then again, I AM playing Shakespeare
(specifically such a comedy as Midsummer Night's Dream and such a
lively role as Bottom) and I'm beginning to believe that "the Bard's"
work is inherently easy to do. (We'll see if I ever get to do a tragedy
like Hamlet!)
I wish you could see it, but indeed we are performing at the same time
that you and Gary are teaching. Such the pity only because I assure you
that you have never in your life seen a 5th Act as "over-the top" as
this one. It really does steal the show.
Oh, I should also report on your OTHER pupil (Hans). He is a delight to
watch. He's playing Theseus and Oberon and is always looking for joy
and inspiration while he's on the stage. (Such the pity that Titania
doesn't recognize the gifts he constantly offers her while he's
playing.) He is always "present" even when he's hiding around a corner
with Puck watching a scene between the lovers unfold. He doesn't
upstage anyone, but you can tell he's one of the few actors who doesn't
"tune out" when it isn't his turn to speak. It's educational to watch
him.
Well, I just wanted to let you know how high and elated I am. Life's
petty dramas don't get to me when I'm doing what I truly love. Last
night I dreamed I was part of an acting company and the dream was full
of mirth and comedy and I was the silly, self-confident actor who
almost seemed able to dance on air. It's been so long since I've even
had dreams that were so lighthearted and confident.
Have a wonderful Spring and travel safely next week. You have my love
and thanks for all that you have given me.
Love forever,
Murray (Bottom)