There are several skills you acquire in high school that you'll never use again. For example, when was the last time you needed to solve an algebraic equation or spell Misisssippi? Well, when I was in high school I was a member of our show choir, Encore!. I know...you're impressed. While in show choir I procured such useless life skills as how to execute a perfect jazz square and how to get deodorant out of sequins. I never thought I'd use my jazz hands post graduation but our current show, The Complete History of America (Abridged), has proven me wrong.
I hope I'm not giving anything away here, but there are a few teeny weeny musical numbers in this play that required some light choreography. Many people are unaware that our Production Stage Manager, Paul Mills Holmes (celebrating his 35th year at Totem Pole Playhouse), occasionally serves as choreographer du jour working under the alias PABLO! You may have seen his eight counts in Roanoke, Father of the Bride, or 43 Plays for 43 Presidents. PABLO! foolishly invited Captain Kate Murphy and me to assist him on these dances. Big mistake.
The thing about inspiration is you never know when it will hit. Any artistic genius will tell you that. Inspiration happened to slap Kate and me across the face backstage during 45 Seconds from Broadway. We decided it was best to let the dance flow through us immediately, rather than wait till the show was over and find a large space with a mirror or two. NO. That's the other thing about inspiration, it is fickle. It can flit out of your brain as facilely as it flitted in- I think Fosse said that. When the dance calls we must answer. So, there we were head cocking and hip popping right in between the rows of prop tables filled with cups of tea, tuna salad, and flatware. Sure it was dangerous but that's what made it fun. The only downside was that actors kept getting in our way.
"Excuse me", they would say, "I have to make an entrance now".
Give me a break. "Can't you see magic is happening?" We thought to ourselves. We let them pass and we pressed on.
The result you can see for yourself because our brilliant steps are featured in The Complete History of America (Abridged). If the dances alone do not bring you to your feet shouting "Encore!" the guys surely will. It's funny, fast, and educational...err sort of. Most importantly, it is patriotic! So come on out to the playhouse during this month of our country's birth, I guarantee you'll have a blast!
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