Tonight we had our second performance and true to form, it felt like a second performance.

In theatre, it's pretty typical that the show that follows the opening night is just a bit slower and lacking in energy. On opening night, the performers and crew are typically a bit nervous and are on their toes the whole time. Once they've gotten through that show, it's not unusual for everyone to feel a bit more relaxed. The energy and pace slow down a bit and the show doesn't have the same excited feel. The audience, having nothing to compare it to, probably wouldn't notice but the change in energy is palpable for anyone intimately involved with the show.

Personally, I felt the dip in energy from the start and was aware of it through my first couple scenes. I had some time off-stage after that and it started to really bug me. I mean, not only was this the second performance but it was also the entire middle of our run (having only three performances). I resolved to pick-up the pace and focus and as a result, the latter two-thirds of the show felt better.

The other part of a "second show" is that things tend to go wrong. Because people are more relaxed, they sometimes miss cues and entrances. We didn't have that problem thankfully. We did have one minor prop problem in that a martini glass, that "Lil' Bit" and I used in a restaurant scene, came apart midway through the scene. The stem just broke so I held it for 5-10 minutes and carefully handed it off to the actor playing the waiter. Not a big deal but it was a bit of a surprise -- part of the reason that live theatre is so much fun.

You'll have to post some of your favorite pics when you have the proofs. I'd love to see them.

I think that is a wonderful asset to have a photographer who is also an actress to take your photos. Someone who knows the business will definately be best suited to help you get the picture you not only want but will get you work.

I have to say that I am so glad that I'm not the only actor who can't audition worth beans in front of people I know. It really makes me breathe a huge sigh of relief. Feels good. Thanks. ;o)