Yesterday was a long day, but a lovely one. Traffic was crazy on the Interstate and what is normally a 2 hour journey took 3. On the way home, we drove through torrential rains, low visibility, and fog. Needless to say, when we walked in the house at about 11:30 pm, we were beat.
But, the purpose of the journey was to honor my friend, Darko, as he leaves his position as Artistic Director of Hartford Stage after 8 years in that role. And not being there was unthinkable.
I love this man. From the day I flew out to San Diego to coach the Summer Shakespeare Festival after being away for 7 years, and met Darko for the first time, we clicked. Our styles of working are much the same. I’m not needy when I coach. I just quietly work behind the scenes, doing everything I can to both help the actor be the best he can be and help the director realize his/her vision. That, fortunately, is exactly what Darko was looking for. We worked together for another summer after that and when he moved on from San Diego, he told me he would use me again.
And he did. Little did I know that time in San Diego would lead to work at Hartford Stage for 8 years as well as work with Darko both off-Broadway and on. I am so grateful. I always said that Hartford Stage became a second home to me and last night I said goodbye to that home.
It was wonderful watching everyone celebrate Darko. He deserves it. Like me, many people there were also dealing with a future that most likely does not include more work in Hartford. A change in Artistic Directorship always involves a change in the creatives who come in to work there. As it should be. Last night, several designers whom I have worked with on Darko’s shows were there. They’d come up to Hartford from the city. I will miss working with them. It’s not that they won’t work with him in the future, they will. It’s simply that their time at HS has most likely ended.
A changing of the guard.
He is loved and adored, our Darko, and deservedly so. Brilliant, loyal, funny, kind, he is a true gentleman. I’m in awe of the way his creative brain works. I’m in awe of his passion for what he does. And I’m in awe of his playfulness; he creates a safe atmosphere in rehearsals where actors feel free to play, where laughter is always just around the corner, and where we all want to be the best we can be. He trusts us.
I know I’ll work with him again. He told me so last night. It might not be for a while, but it will happen. I’m thankful for that.
Don got to talk with a lot of people that I’ve worked with in Hartford. Some he already knew, others were people he had heard me speak of, but had never met. We had a great time.
Circulating around the party was a cardboard cut-out of Darko and one of his beloved dog, Hector. People were having their picture taken with “Darko.”
My friends and colleagues – Jane Shaw, sound designer, and Alexander Dodge, set designer – and I are certainly fans of all things Darko. And many is the time I’ve had the real, live Hector in my lap at rehearsal. Don took this picture and I love it.
Thank you, Darko, for EVERYTHING. The list is too long and, besides, you know what I’m talking about.
Happy Tuesday.
what a lovely tribute to darko and your friendship and work together! long may it all continue.
kathy in iowa
ps: glad the rain happened on the way home and not before the party!
It was not the best day to travel, that’s for sure! Thanks, Kathy.
Claudia, so glad you and Don got to celebrate your friend and see so many others! Great pictures!
Thank you!
It sounded like a wonderful celebration of Darko. So happy you were both able to attend…and the rain didn’t come on in til you were on your way home. And then….there’s the promise of more work with Darko? Something to look forward to for sure! Enjoy your day! ;)
It rained on the way there, as well, just not so much! Thanks, Donnamae!
Claudia, the look on your face in the first picture tells your story with Darko…there’s a lot of affection there.
I adore him!
What a special event and fun celebration. Ugh to the weather, but glad that it didn’t deter.
Hope you can both rest today and enjoy the memories of yesterday!
We talked about it this morning during our second cup of coffee. It was lovely.
Everything you said about Darko is spot on. He is unique, not only for his genius but his kindness. As well as acknowledging all who contribute to the process. He is a rarity. We also loved being there last night and seeing all the love that surrounded him and Josh. Loved seeing you and Don (although we live very near.) And relieved you made it safely home. We are on train now after leaving Hartford at the crack of dawn to close on sale of coop. I loved that last night’s event was sweet, simple, elegant and moving. As befits Darko.
I did, too.
Love the photos and the reveling in the glory of working with Darko. Every minute of those times are precious. Cheers to the next occasion.
Thank you, Martha!
What a nice tribute. Your affection for him shines through every word. It always helps to really enjoy the people you work with. Hope you don’t have to wait too long to do it again. Sounds like the trip there was no fun though.
Travel wasn’t fun, but the tribute was worth it!
What a beautiful tribute to a remarkable professional and friend. Yes, you will be part of his upcoming projects at some point, I know. And until then, the memories are priceless.
Yes, they are. I’m so grateful to him.
This post is such a wonderful tribute to Darko! I don’t know him but I am feeling like I should have such a wonderful friend in my life! I am so happy you will work with him again. His doggie is a cutie.
Hector has LOTS of personality!
Catching up on your blog posts and so happy to see this tribute to such a great man. From the years I’ve followed you I know how much Darko and his work mean to you. I’m glad there will be more work with him. Beginnings and endings are always happening in life and so it goes. Hugs!
Probably not for over a year, but there’s something he said that is coming up. Thanks, Linda.
seeing a gentleman and a life celebrated while his life has many more years to create and share
and delight the world is wonderful! and your post proves it. very good pictures of you too!
love the cut out one! and any man who would name a cute little French bull dog Hector is wonderful in my book. LOL
so glad you and Don arrived home safely and had a memorable and fun evening. xo
After the composer Hector Berlioz! Thanks, Tammy.