Rehearsal Day 1, June 23rd

Today's rehearsal was truly awesome. It began with an informal meet-and-greet and the excitement was so present in the air. We finally sat down after introducing ourselves to each other and listened to Stuart Oken (American Music Theatre Project artistic director) and Sheryl Kaller (director) both say a few words about the project. Love for this material was present in both of their speeches. It was apparent from the get-go that this show had a heart like no show I have ever experienced. Sheryl then gave us the gift of Amanda McBroom (lyrics) singing her song, "The Rose." It left many of us in tears. It was no less than magical. Then we had design presentations from the set and costume designers. We were flabbergasted with the intricate designs, pages of research and smart choices they presented us with. The designs look stunning. I took a few pictures of the costume renderings (pictured at the end of this post). We all cannot wait to actually wear them. Then a read-/sing-through followed; the show with its re-writes is terrific. It was great to finally say the words and sing the songs out loud and tell the story of Dangerous Beauty with all parties involved. There was a sense of "we are doing something great." It was the perfect first rehearsal.

The night closed with an intimate discussion between Peter Oyloe (Maffio), Jenny Powers (Veronica) myself (Marco), Sheryl, Jeannie Dominy (book and verse) and Doug Peck (music director). Together as creative artists, we talked about our characters arcs, scenes that worked, backstories that needed defining and we brought up issues we all felt needed addressing. Together as a team, we will fix them. It is a collaborative process like no other and I left rehearsal today feeling so fortunate for this is a real piece of art and how lucky we all are to create in this environment.

I look forward to what tomorrow holds. - Jason Heymann










(photos: Dangerous Beauty costume renderings and behind-the-scenes at first rehearsal)