I’m back from NYC after a full day of rehearsal. The show is in excellent shape, the band has been added, and on Friday, it will be presented in workshop form to producers, etc. I left the house at 7:15 and returned home at 7:30 pm. Sorry I didn’t get any photos, I was too intent on getting to rehearsal and then, at the end of the day, catching a slightly earlier bus. But it was a lovely sunny day in the city – the only sunny day I encountered on these January trips.
But, I have to say, the last couple of times I’ve walked all those blocks, it’s been so much easier. Just had to get back in shape. The same thing happened when I worked on the film. I wish I had access to the city a bit more often because there’s nothing I like more than walking in a city.
Today we’re dealing with a snow event which will bring 3 – 5 inches, but then, in an all too familiar pattern, will turn to sleet and then rain. This happened a lot last winter. Frankly, we’d love some beautiful white stuff on the ground to help brighten up the bleak landscape. Anyway, this ‘event’ impacted my decision to go in yesterday rather than today. Because you never know – and the snow was expected during my travel times.
On Monday, we learned of the death of Peggy Hickey from cancer at the age of 60. Peggy was the choreographer for Anastasia and for A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, both of which were directed by Darko. The latter won several Tony Awards. I knew she had been ill, but what I didn’t know was how long she had been ill – over a decade. For all those years she had been fighting cancer and, at the same time, doing some of her best work as a choreographer. I don’t know how she did it. She had two daughters and a wonderful husband. She was loved and adored by all who knew her. She had a marvelous toothy grin that made everyone happier and the joy she exuded as she worked was beautiful to behold. I texted Darko on Monday and he was – and is – devastated. Four of us at rehearsal yesterday had worked on Anastasia and knew and loved Peggy. I wasn’t at Monday’s rehearsal, but I know it was extremely difficult for Darko. He and Peggy were close colleagues and friends.
God bless you, Peggy. Rest in Peace.
So much loss lately. Don is still having a very hard time with the loss of his friend.
A little Blythe photo for you – maybe it will bring a smile to your face – it does to mine.
Mei reading her journal.
Stay safe.
Happy Wednesday.
kathy in iowa says
condolences on the loss of a friend and colleague. prayers will be said.
glad the job and travels have gone well, that you could switch a day to avoid having to get around in the snow. hopefully you don’t get rain or sleet so today’s snow can stick around a while.
thanks to colder temperatures and lovely, moody gray skies, we still have five inches of snow on the ground … and we are to get maybe another inch of snow today. it is beautiful!
there was a school shooting here on monday … two students were killed and the founder (of this school for at-risk teens) was injured. thankfully will (the founder) is said to have made it through surgery. and that the shooter is in custody. said to have been gang-related and not random. scary and sad.
otherwise nothing new here. getting groceries for members of my family and me today … best i get going.
hope everyone has a good, safe day!
kathy
Claudia says
I’m so sorry to hear of the tragic shooting. This has been a week full of tragedy.
Stay safe, Kathy.
Elaine in Toronto says
It’s very sad you have lost another friend, Claudia. I’m so sorry. On a happier note, I’m happy for you that the rehersal yesterday went well. Glad you had sunshine. We’re expecting a snow event today, too, 15 to 20 cm or about 6 or 8 inches. Time to snuggle in like Mei is doing. Lovely she has her own comfy chair. What a cutie. Hugs, Elaine
Claudia says
She is a cutie!
Stay safe, Elaine!
Darlene says
I’m so sorry for your loss! She was beautiful! Cancer sucks!
Claudia says
It does.
Thank you, Darlene.
Linda MacKean says
This year has started off with several losses and I guess now that I’m in my 70’s its to be expected but it’s still hard. Sending comforting thoughts your way. Love the Blythe girl and yes she does make me smile.. Hugs
Claudia says
She was ten years younger than me, though. So unfair.
Stay safe, Linda.
Barrie says
So sorry to hear of your loss. It does sound like she had an incredibly rich life.
Claudia says
She made the lives of everyone she worked with richer, Barrie.
Stay safe.
brendab says
So sorry about your loss and Don’s friend. I know it has been one person after another these past two years…my journal is full of the names…my columns have been about some of them…I have had more health problems, but I am moving forward. Prayers accepted. Thanks for telling us about NYC. I love hearing my granddaughter talk about it and love to remember the times I have been there.
Claudia says
Prayers are headed your way, Brenda. Feel better.
Stay safe.
Brendab says
You are so sweet
Thank you
Claudia says
xo
kathy in iowa says
just stopped by tonight and saw your comment. i will be praying for you, brenda. and everyone else here, too.
take good care of yourself and tell people what you need (iowa’s a long way from florida, but i’d do what i can for you)!
hugs,
kathy
jeanie says
I’m so glad to hear the show is looking good and hope the producers workshop goes well. So glad you won’t have to go in on Wednesday. We’re getting snow now — It’ll have to snow longer and harder to get to the predicted 6″ max. I’m not a fan but have to admit, it looks much prettier outside with the ground blanketed in white. And the birds are chowing down like there’s no tomorrow. I’m glad I loaded the feeders before the snow.
I read about Peggy yesterday or the day before and assumed you probably knew her. I’m so sorry. She sounds like an amazing woman.
Claudia says
Our storm ended up being a dud. For once, we really wanted some snow!
Peggy was an amazing woman. It’s a profound loss not only for her family and friends, but for the theater.
Stay safe, Jeanie.
Tana says
I am so sorry for your loss of a friend. It is never easy but as we get older, it happens more often. But 60 is so very young! You and Don stay close with all the yucky weather coming your way.
Claudia says
Thank you, Tana. 60 is way too young. It’s heartbreaking.
Stay safe.
Gayle Olson says
I need help, too. My only sister/sibling died of a rare lung cancer a year ago, my only son died of glioblastoma last April. I am heartbroken. I don’t even remember why I am posting this sad news.
Claudia says
Oh Gayle! I’m praying for you. I’m glad you shared this with us. I can’t imagine your pain and I’m so sorry you are experiencing such devastating loss. Know that prayers are being sent your way.
Much love.
Claudia