Because weekend bus schedules offer less frequent trips, I had to go into the city early yesterday, arriving just about 2 hours before I had to be at rehearsal. So I walked east from Port Authority to Bryant Park, one of my favorite places in NYC. It’s a bit bleak at this time of year, but it was very satisfying to have a little free time apart from immediately walking 20 blocks to rehearsal.
The rear of the New York Public Library Main Branch.
The skating rink.
It was cold, but there were lots of people there, buying hot chocolate or a cup of coffee. Whenever I go there, I am reminded of Paris. I really miss Paris.
Then I visited Kinokuniya across the street, a shop full of books and Japanese manga and stationery and pens and journals and planners. There’s so much in this section that it’s almost overwhelming and I could only pay a brief visit. I’ll be back there next week, so maybe I’ll have a bit more time to visit.
Then I headed back to Port Authority to 9th and 41st and headed north to rehearsal. I walked down Don’s old street and – press release – I was wrong!
The Mexican restaurant next to Don’s building didn’t close! There is new signage and I was looking at it from across the street so I thought it was a new business. Needless to say, I sent this photo to Don, who was very happy indeed. The steps lead down to the front door of Don’s former apartment.
Rehearsal went well – we ran the whole show for the first time. Then a lunch break in which I got to chat with all the wonderful people working on the show, including Darko. Then I had some private time with the actors to give them notes.
Then I had to hang out in the dreaded Port Authority for 90 minutes until the next bus.
All in all, 12 hours from the moment the bus left the station for NYC until I got off the return bus at 8 pm.
One more day next week. I’m supposed to go in on Wednesday, but the weather may be an issue. We may get snow that day. The forecast keeps changing, so I’ll have to keep an eye on it.
So. I added 10 more blocks on to my ‘normal’ 40 blocks and, given that I had only slept for 4 hours, I’m quite pleased with myself! After a few days of this trek, I’m in better shape. I just have to continue to walk around here, which is not nearly as interesting as walking in a city.
Stay safe.
Happy Sunday.
