Raising the Bar

I see now the bar was officially raised for my work- in any field, acting or otherwise. Suddenly, I expect it to be interesting, engaging, collaborative, and fun.  I want my cast or team to be ready- to rally around one another in moments of fear or exhaustion. I expect to be in a respectful and courteous environment. And, I want to be paid a living wage for that.  Now, I know this is not the norm esp in the arts, and especially that last one, but I think it is worth striving for. Mahamoves started out as a tell all blog about my time working on Peer Gynt at the Guthrie. Those days were unique- challenging, inspiring and sometimes defeating-- all in the best possible way. In fact, we  were recently named Best Stage Production by the local MN press! Ultimately, I wrote about Peer Gynt because I wanted you all to have that same experience- or the equivalent, whatever your field. So, this phase of Mahamoves is my small step towards making that happen. 

I've been working in theater for a while now. Sometimes failing, sometimes succeeding. Recently, I was interviewed for the prologue of a play anthology, due to my involvement with Nibras, NYAACF and other Arab-American orgs. Reading a draft, I saw clearly how I'd been a charter member of an emerging artistic and political movement. And, it got me thinking. If I could go back and do some things again how would I do them differently? A day later, kismet led me to a friend percolating on some production possibilities. We talked for ages, and I suddenly realized that I had a lot to share.  And, I have a ton more to learn. I am guessing that by examining those successes and failures I might be able to move in the direction I want instead of the one I accidentally happen into.(A recurring theme on this blog...) And maybe you will have something to add (or detract, whatever!). Maybe you will read something that might help you shape a project or make a decision. So, I will write about something that I have come up against or that has been brought to my attention. Feel free to submit questions or ideas. Hell, write your own damn blog! Or write a comment that goes on for days... I don't mind. If you like what you read feel free to sign up for my mailing list or rss feed.

My hope this becomes a rich resource for us. Those of you who know me know that I am addicted to podcasts, blogs and research on a completely ADD list of topics. I love nothing more than to pass on a link or a tidbit or a contact to get someone moving!