To Quote Camp Rock: I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be

A few weeks ago, my near and dear friend Alex made a comment that made an impression on me. She's working at a politician's office in NYC and said something along the lines of- "It's politics everywhere. It's just reminded me why I love it so much and I felt like FUCK YEAH. This is what I want to do!"

Last night I had exactly the same reaction. I got to the rehearsal space at about 6:40pm, at which point the cast and crew were already playing a warm up game. I was invited to join, but chose to sit this one out- they were playing President/Assasin/ Bodyguard (whatever you want to call it)- that game where everyone throws a ball at one person who has to be guarded by another. Regardless. I tend to shriek every time the ball comes near me so I decided not to massively embarrass myself.

Then rehearsal really got started. They were working on cleaning up some of the fight choreography so Shannon, otherwise known as the world's (or at least Chicago's) most BAD ASS COMBAT CHOREOGRAPHER. I took a workshop with her a few summers ago at of course, CHERUBS.

Then the director pulled coupled characters (so- two characters who went together based on the story line) out together and orchestrated these gesture based dances. I am such a fan of this kind of work. I've done a little bit of it in some shows I've previously directed- but I'm looking to do a lot more of it in Mr. Marmalade.

Watching them all work (the crew, the actors, the director) reminded me and really, reinforced in my mind that this is my passion. There's just honest to God no other thing that would make me as happy.

After the rehearsal was done I watched as the entire cast and crew got together for a closing ritual. Every show should have one- and as somewhat of an outsider- it's a really beautiful thing to watch. It's cast bonding at it's very best.

I came home satisfied that the 2 hours of transportation for the day (1 hr there on the train, 1 back) were worthwhile and inspiring, but also dissatisfied that there was nothing for me to do at home. I was completely filled up with this great energy and desire to work and I had absolutely nothing to do.

So on that note- I miss you Oberlin. I miss the never ending spiral of activities that is constantly circulating campus. I miss the continual stream of people I encounter every day- the familiar faces which whether or not I know the person whom they belong to, are comforting. And while this internship is a nice alternative lifestyle, I'm ready to go home.