In 1989, I played Matt in a production of THE FANTASTICKS at the Terry M Fischer Theatre on the campus of St Louis Community College at Florissant Valley. Doing that Show, I met a few people that to this day remain my closest friends. That production was directed by Donna Spaulding and it was the first of many collaborations with Donna that I have done in the past 23 years. Under Donna's direction at the Fischer Theatre, I played Jesus in GODSPELL, Bobby in COMPANY, and Music Directed 110 IN THE SHADE, CAMELOT, SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM, JERRY HERMAN'S SHOWTUNE, and PUTTING IT TOGETHER. But my proudest moment on that stage was revisiting THE FANTASTICKS a few years ago, but this time as the Music Director and Pianist for a production that utilized deaf actors combined with hearing actors. The result was a spectacularly moving experience that I won't forget. The Terry M Fischer Theatre holds a very special place in my soul and it has always been my hope and prayer that the Theater Program at Flo-Valley continues to build and thrive under it's incredibly gifted staff. Last night I had the immense pleasure of attending the final dress rehearsal of Donna's latest production there. She has bravely undertaken the Eve Ensler classic THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES. Eve Ensler continues to update this piece and in this production, there are a few monologues about women in Bosnia that are incredibly effective. But the gist of the piece has remained intact since I saw it Off Broadway several years ago. This production at Flo-Valley is a powerful one. Donna has directed 13 women of different color and nationalities with great tenderness and sensitivity. The production opens with a video introduction giving a bit of background to Eve Ensler and preparing the audience for the evening ahead. Then the sound of Sister Sledge singing their timeless anthem WE ARE FAMILY is heard and the cast dances on jubilantly. The beautiful and perfect production design by Marie McCool puts the action on four separate levels that are draped in lush pink and red colors. One of the great things about the Fischer Theater space is the intimacy that it allows between the actors and the audience and Ms McCool has created a design that welcomes the viewers in even before the performers take the stage. The costuming is also perfect. Each woman is wearing contemporary clothing that seems to perfectly compliment their own personalities while sticking to the similar theme of red, pink, and black. The 13 women are cast perfectly and it's a delight to see a wide range of ages represented. This production not only consists of the monologues themselves but most are introduced with a bit of background that describe Eve Ensler's inspiration in writing each moment. Among the performances, there are certainly some that stand out above others, but on the whole, it is a unified ensemble that make these delicious words come to life. My personal favorite moment is the closing of Act One....a brilliant and damn near perfect performance of MY ANGRY VAGINA. Donna Nelson (aka Spaulding) never allows the show to become visually dull. The stage pictures are truly wonderful and the lighting design by Ms McCool adds the ideal touch. Sitting with Troy and a few other friends last night watching these women perform their final rehearsal before tonight's Opening Performance was a gift to us. To be a part of that last moment of intimacy between a Cast and Director before "giving it away to the audience" as Donna is fond of saying on Opening Nights. It made my heart happy to see the Terry M Fischer Theatre in such amazing shape. It is truly a beautiful performance space and when I walk into that building, my sense of smell immediately lets me know that although I have moved on, I will always feel that sense of "home" there. I also felt a strong feeling of pride and gratitude last night that Donna and I have not only remained great friends but also strong colleagues through the years. Our dream of creating our own Acting Company came to fruition last fall with the creation of the North County Ensemble Players. This is a creative community outreach company that specilizes in celebrating African-American Playwrights and Performers. We premiered with a production of FOR COLORED GIRLS... that was a huge success and we will produce another production this October. Donna is a true gift to North County and her love for the Community and Theater shows in every production she undertakes. I urge all of you to see THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES. It is free admission and the show runs April 13, 14, 20, 21 at 8pm with a 2pm matinee on April 15. No reservations are needed. Besides supporting an incredible Cast and Creative Staff at Flo-Valley, you will see a dynamite celebration of women, friendship, and Eve Ensler.
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