I knew I wanted to be in show business in the seventh grade, after I began setting up chairs and running the lights for school assemblies. "Running the lights" amounted to switching a couple of circuit breakers on and off, but it was a big thrill being behind the scenes, separated from the audience by just a couple of curtains. Being backstage was the best place to be during those assemblies.
The thing no one understands about being a stage manager is that we really do need to sleep. Another thing a lot of people don't understand is the amount of paperwork involved in mounting and running a production. It can be quite overwhelming.
My worst theater job ever was one I won't name. I never know with whom I'll work in the future.
The happiest day in my life hasn't yet happened. I hope.
If I could be anyone other than myself, it would be any one of my siblings (I have three brothers and a sister). They are all wonderful people: smart, focused, generous, caring, and full of passion. They are true gifts to their families and communities.
It's not entirely true, but I sometimes tell people that I weigh only 185 pounds. I'm not sure anyone really buys that; most people just smirk and say "try again."
I am utterly terrified of being late for work. I'm also terrified, at times, of my own cooking.
I laugh uncontrollably at T. R. Pearson's novel A Short History of a Small Place; A Prairie Home Companion; Homer Simpson; and some of the acting on CSI: Miami.
The one thing I absolutely refuse to do as stage manager is jeopardize the safety of an actor or crew member.
Currently I am reading Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel García Márquez.
The first time I got drunk, I don't remember. I'm happy to say I'm too old to recall things like that.