After talking to Darko last night and getting the okay to leave early, I came home to a Scout who was frisky, hyper, and full of energy.
She did her pounce. She ran a little bit in the park. She ran down the hall in the apartment building.
She was completely different than earlier in the day. So I called Don and updated him and explained what he already knew about me – that I didn’t feel comfortable leaving this early if I didn’t have to. It just doesn’t sit right with my work ethic. The show is in great shape and I could leave with no problems, but if I can see one more preview, I’d feel better about the whole thing. And if I could make it to Opening Night, I’d feel even better. We’ll see. I’ll just take it day by day. I sent an email to Darko updating him on the whole thing.
I’m not quite ready for our adventure to end. At least not so abruptly.
So, for today, I’m sticking around. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.
I think Don is right: This is going to be the new normal. Scout will have good days and bad days – even good hours and bad hours. Our job is to be there for her through thick and thin. And we will.
Hamlet is everything it should be; powerful, gut-wrenching, heartbreaking, funny. The acting company is superb. The production is gorgeous. I’ve worked on a lot of Darko’s productions. They are all striking and beautifully designed. But this one, this one is my favorite. Darko designed the sets. Fabio Toblini designed the costumes. Lighting and sound designed by Matthew Richards and Jane Shaw, respectively. I’ve worked with all of them before and I marvel at their talent.
Photo by T. Charles Erickson for Hartford Stage
Photo by T. Charles Erickson for Hartford Stage
A cast of amazingly skilled actors, a gorgeous design, and the words of William Shakespeare – nothing better. Truthfully, this cast made my work easy. I’m very lucky to be associated with this theater, and with this production. It’s been a very satisfying experience.
If you can get here to Hartford to see it…do. It’s an amazing production you won’t soon forget.
So Miss Scout and I are hanging in there for at least one more day here in Hartford. At the very least, I have about 50 more pages I have to finish in Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good so I can return it to the library before I leave.
Happy Wednesday.
Hi Claudia, sorry to hear about Scout’s ups and downs. I bet Don is correct that this will be the new “normal.” It’s so good that Scout will have you and Don to be by her side. She’s a lucky Dame for sure. I’m sending thoughts and prayers your way that the days won’t be too difficult for you. On a brighter note, thanks for sharing the photos from Hamlet. Those costumes are wonderful!! I’m not a huge Shakespeare fan, but I do appreciate his work and I bet I would enjoy a production much more than reading one of his plays – lol. Hope your day goes well. Hang in there!
The first time I was exposed to Shakespeare was at the Stratford Festival in Canada. That was perfect, because I got to see it acted and interpreted by incredible actors and I quickly realized that what appeared to be dense text on the page was as relevant and powerful and alive today as it was in Shakespeare’s day. That’s the best way to first experience Shakespeare.
Oh I’m so glad Scout had a better evening. I hope that she continues to feel better so that you can finish up your work to your desire/need in Hartford before heading home. With you and Don apart, I can only imagine how stressful this all can be. I am looking forward to your post where all three of you are back together for awhile in your cottage. Enjoy the moments and days Claudia. Hugs, Deb
I feel better begin here at least one more day, Deb.
Your hubby is a wise man indeed! The exact words have been spoken by our little senior citizen buddy’s veterinarian. With the elderly dogs, we have to rejoice when their days or hours are lively and roll with the not so good ones. Positive vibes being sent for more good than bad :-) Those costumes are magnificent!!! I am in awe of anyone who can take a bolt of fabric, some thread and create such beauty. I have absolutely no theater experience, but I would think those costumes might be an aid in slipping into character? I’m also in awe of anyone who can memorize pages and pages of dialogue! Such a treat to see what each of us brings to the creative “table”.
Yes, the costumes help the actors enormously. If costumes are designed well, and these are, they really give a boost to all the work the actors have done in rehearsal.
Claudia, That is some good news about Scout. Happy for you too. Wow, the costumes are gorgeous. I would love to see that play…so much. Take care, xoxo,Susie
It is a wonderful production, Susie.
The production looks amazing! If I wasn’t on the other side of the country I would be there. Glad that Scout has rallied. She is so sweet.
She is a fighter, that’s for sure.
The new normal. Wise words. It’s something my Mom has had to get use to also. Good Days, Bad days and sometimes all in the same day. Scout is so loved but it’s hard to watch our babies decline. Glad you can stay at least one more day. I agree with everyone else, those costumes are gorgeous. You’ve encouraged me to check out the local theater scene here to see what’s happening. Maybe I’ll find a good production to see.
hugs,
Linda
Good for you, Linda!
Hang in there Claudia. Don is right about Scout. You know how you feel on a day by day basis and Miss Scout is no different. You just have to roll with it.
Doing my best, Sharon!
Claudia, I think that Scout senses that it is almost time to go home. Animal intuition is pretty good sometimes. I believe that the three of you are all longing for the cottage. Hang in there! You will all be home, and together soon.
Scout and I will be home within the next few days, I think. Also – Don left yesterday and I know that has upset her.
Yes, our “normal” does have a way of changing. It is the adjusting to it that I know I struggle with each time. Our animals do seem to be smarter about it. They rest and sleep and even move a bit more slowly when they aren’t feeling their best and then rejoice when all is well. We really should take a lesson! We keep pushing until we are ready to collapse instead of listening to what our body is trying to tell us.
I am glad you can extend your stay ~ even if it is one day at a time, that is great! I’m sure you are happy to be there and to watch each new night’s performance unfold and to delight in everyone’s hard work. It looks like the entire production is amazing!!
I am. This is an extraordinary production. I also just heard from one of the actors who isn’t feeling well, so I’m so glad I’m still here to give advice!
Claudia,
So glad the Scout has perked up and you feel comfortable enough to stay a little longer. Hoping it will last for you. Wow, what beautiful costumes. I’ve only seen stage plays in high school many many years ago. Would love to see a real professional production. Enjoy your last day/days and rejoice in your homecoming.
Sandra
Thank you so much, Sandra. Maybe by writing these posts about my theater experiences, I can encourage more people to get out and see a live theatrical production – there’s nothing like it!
Glad to hear Scout is feeling better for now. Those costumes are amazing. My friend’s son who recently majored in Theater is in Memphis right now. He stars in One Man, Two Guvnors.
The costumes are incredible and they are very detailed.
I’m glad Scout was doing better when you returned…it won’t be long now before you’ll be home and she will be back where she wants to be. It is so hard to see them ill…we sure do love our dogs, don’t we? Sending good thoughts your way, Claudia…xo
We sure do, Linda.
Oh how I wish I could be there Claudia..I would rather see a play than watch a movie anytime..those of you who have never been there should definitely go..It has been too long for me now..I’m glad that Darko at least gave you the option to go home if you need to..I am anxious to read your review of “Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good”..just the title makes it sound good..Have a good day!
Darko is very understanding and the show is in very good shape. I’m grateful for his presence in my life. I’ll probably review the book either Friday or Monday – depending on what’s going on here.
I’m happy you ‘ve decided to take it one day at a time. I’m sure Darko and company will appreciate it. And, like you stated, you’d feel better too. I’ve got a mental picture of Scout pouncing…and she does look happy! Thanks for the pics…the costumes are fantastic! Here’s to another day! ;)
She was truly wired last night. Probably hungry…I’ve had to ease back on her food until her stomach settles down. She seems pretty good today.
Great news about Miss Scout. You’re right, there’ll be good days and not-so-good days in the future. For all of us. Glad Scoutie is having a good one today. And many more to come. All good thoughts for the cast of “Hamlet” too. Because of your blog, I now know not to say “good luck” so I won’t. I’ll just say here’s hoping for a “collective fracturing of all their lower extremities!” LOL.
We’re looking forward to Opening Night, Janet!
So glad for you and Scout. Life is consistent…it is always changing. The best news is you are not in a worry state over your dear Scout. Enjoy what is left of your time in Hartford and DO FINISH Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good. I’ve read all of Jan Karon’s Mitford books except this one. Some were slow moving but overall I’ve enjoyed them. Reading about Father Tim and Cynthia makes me feel I’m returning to the town I grew up in during the 1950’s. I look forward to your review. Patty Mc
I finished it and it’s wonderful, Patty.
Glad Scout is feeling better..Hope there are more good days than bad. The costumes look very ornate and elegant. Hope you and Scout had a great day..
They are gorgeous. The detail on the costumes is amazing.
So happy for you and for Scout! Thanks for the update, and for the wonderful photographs.
You’re welcome, Nancy.
Glad you get to stay until you are more comfortable. Scout is a fighter. I have one of those here. The play must be fantastic. Beautiful costumes. You have to be proud to be a part of it. Hope you will all be in one place.
We won’t all be in one place until November 7th, when I pick Don up in New Haven and bring him home. But it’s not far off!
What a treat to read about Scout feeling frisky and to see those photos.