The Importance of Being... Awesome!

You know, I thought when I graduated college that I would have more free time, and I wouldn't feel so busy... I was very wrong. Although I am participating in fewer activities, they are taking up more time than the many activities I was doing before. Just a few short months ago I was going to school full time, working part time, performing in a show (which I had to commute an hour to), constructing 5 full costumes for said show, and trying to squeeze in homework (trying to graduate), practicum hours, and my church calling. People would ask me all the time how I could possibly do so much, and I can honestly say it almost killed me, and I was pretty numb by graduation, but I made it! Now that school isn't in the equation, I figured that I would have time to do more for myself, but I didn't realize that having a full time job would take up more of my week than all of those other things before. I'm only working, directing a show, and fulfilling my church calling; but I think I'm just as mentally and emotionally exhausted as before. But everything will work out, just like it did before. I have hope.


Don't misunderstand me, I really love my life right now. I finally feel like an independent adult: working full time, paying for my own living, and making my own decisions completely; and I love that! I am directing my first show, which is super exciting, if not absolutely terrifying... but we just had our first meeting and our get-to-know-you rehearsal, so we're not quite into the process yet. I have been making and developing amazing friendships lately, and these friends have been a real strength to me during this difficult time in my life. When I lay out the blessings that I have and really look at them, I can see that I have no reason to complain or to be unhappy. Life is really good, despite all of the recent confusion and heartache I've experienced. I'm not alone, and I have full faith that everything will be fine.

The thing that has been filling all of my thoughts and dreams lately has been The Importance of Being Earnest. Many months ago, I found out that the direct for the the Fall slot at The Old Barn Community Theatre would be moving away, and that they were looking for someone to direct the straight play, I jumped at the opportunity. I told the Board that I would soon be graduating from Weber State with my Bachelor or Arts in Musical Theatre, and I that I would love to have the chance to direct a full production. They took me on! I began looking for a straight comedy back in March (or even earlier, I was really excited), and I kept coming back to The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. This was the first play that I read just for the sake of reading a show, back when I was in junior high or high school, and I thought it was hilarious! I didn't think much of it after that point, other than watching the Collin Firth, Rupert Everret movie version every once in a while; but when the time came to choose a show, this one really spoke to me.

Once we decided to start ironing out the details of how we were going to put on this show, my assistant director gave a brilliant suggestion: set it in the 1920s. Genius, I know. He always is. It will be a different production from other Earnests, it will be easier to find costumes and set pieces, and we have the freedom to add a few interesting things (our Algernon is learning how to play the Ukulele!). I couldn't be more excited about the concept! What makes this whole thing even more exciting was the talent that came out to auditions last week. I am happy to say that casting was extremely difficult, because everyone was good! I didn't want to loose anyone that came out... but alas, even with the parts we added to the show, there are only 12 cast members. But these 12 people have so much talent, I have no doubts that they will all work hard to make this show as wonderful as I see in my mind!

I will post the show dates, times, and location when the event is closer. I want to share this beauty with everyone!