Process

Well, Jean and I just finished our musical's first draft. A year and half of working well together, and we both feel very excited about what we've created. It's now on its way to be reviewed by a trusted colleague, who will offer feedback for minor tweaking before our first read-thru at the end of March. (Yes, the subject is still a mystery. But not for much longer!)

The process is the fun part. Creating together, having an idea that's not quite like someone else's idea, then mashing those ideas together until a third, new idea emerges that is usually better than either person's original idea was. A concrete example that the goal isn't the point, it's the journey.

Although the goal can be rewarding, too. Having this go to production will be just as exciting, I'm sure.

Anyway, tonight is (or actually, the wee hours of this morning are) a time of celebration for us! One step completed, more adventure ahead.

Spring's Almost Here!

Today was a beautiful day in Manhattan--50s, sunny, birds chirping. Copyediting work gave me a reason to sit by the window all day and enjoy the view of backyard trees and rooftops reflecting the sunshine. After last week--a pressured week of jury duty, funeral, hospital with a friend, and organizational work for the upcoming read-thru of my new musical (Jean Mornard, co-librettist), today was a welcome day of singular--rather than scattered--focus, punctuated by a little walk outside with Aria.

Today was also a nice follow-up to a truly lovely day with my friend Lawrence yesterday--we saw a choral concert in Brooklyn (Dessof Choir, conducted by James Bagwell, who brought life and reason to a program of early American music that could have otherwise been repetitive and unrewarding), a fabulous and not overly expensive Mexican dinner at a new restaurant in the East Village, followed by a very funny one-woman show nearby, and a pleasant glass of wine (with mediocre live music, but live music nevertheless) to end the evening. I've been sorely in need of a vacation, and yesterday really filled that bill. It was wonderful to spend a day with a friend.

Here's hoping you have renewing times this week, however they reach you.