Waiting

When I first started dancing again after 5 years of normalcy, I stepped into Judy Rice's ballet class at Broadway Dance Center knowing that the quicker I get my technique back the quicker I'd book a job. I was seriously hesitant to be in her class because 1) she had SO much energy for 9:00 and 10:30 in the morning, 2) my long time away from ballet never mind Advanced Beginner and Intermediate levels, and 3) her classes were huge and she taught some very advanced dancers. But Judy was recommended to me for her amazing teaching ability, personal strength and selflessness as a teacher and friend.

For almost 6 months I took Judy's class Monday through Friday, no excuses. She pushed hard but I pushed harder. Which became evident when I developed serious hip pain and the doctor said I could either stop dancing or modify what I do to minimize the pain. Back in class, I cried. I was in pain but the tears were not about that. I was mourning the dream that I thought was being taken from me and I was angry at myself for not being strong enough. Judy was one of the main reasons why I continued dancing. She told me that this wasn't the end. That I was like The Hulk before he rips off his normal clothes and is strong. I only had hit a brick wall, and I kept throwing my body up against it to break it down. Judy was sure that the wall was cracking and I simply needed to push on.

Since just about November 2008, I've been waiting. At first I waited to begin my contract with Norwegian Cruise Line. I was so excited but cautious too. I knew I'd have some trouble fitting in -- I don't do well with new people. They make me nervous, uncomfortable and in general, socially awkward. Once I have gotten past that socially awkward phase, I'm just fine. But the WAITING to be so awkward and outcasted was killing me. Not to mention the fear of not being good enough or thin enough and being sent home because of it.

Fast forward to the end of January after finishing Vaudeville's final callbacks. It was all so mysterious and hush-hush. We received Congratulations letters, but not given contracts. We were asked to email a copy of our passports but again, no contracts.

For me, I waited for another reason. If offered a contract with Cirque I would need to tell NCL. And the longer Cirque waited on casting, the less time I had to give NCL a heads up.

Again fast forward to the very end of February. By this time, the buzz for Cirque had died down and I was back to my normal(ish) self. I started preparing on leaving, had seriously cut down my work hours, and basically took class and lounged around. A week and a half before I was due to leave for the Cruise, I went home to Connecticut to see my family and get a massage. It figures that just as I'd finally let go of Cirque, they call asking for more information.

The following Monday I received my contract. And called NCL asking for a shorter contract.

But OF COURSE, since the universe has found that I'm an excellent wait-er, NCL took 4.5 days to tell me I would not be leaving the NEXT day for a contract with them. Yup.

Its a month later and yes I am waiting still. This time, although the wait kills me, it feels right. I'm not so anxious. I'm not afraid I won't fit in because I know I will. During the two days of auditioning for this show, I never felt so a part of something and ultimately at home than I have in a long time. The cast (although not completely cast ---- the week of good news!) is really talented and they're real professionals. I'm bound to be one of the least senior performers out there but how could I be nervous about one of the greatest learning experiences a performer could have?

I've been patient. And I work hard; maybe too hard for my own good but my world is changing slowly. The wall is finally crumbling and I have the bruises to prove it.

Good Vibes

Good vibes. Good vibes. Apparently Cirque is making final casting decisions today for Vaudeville. I'm thinking good thoughts for a few friends of mine that I'd love to work with for the next 2 years....

Cirque du Soleil to debut new show

David Shiner at work on new stage production

By GORDON COX

David Shiner ("Fool Moon") is at work on a new Cirque du Soleil show, rumored to be trying out in Chicago later this year before it heads to Gotham for a multiple-month run at the Beacon Theater.

New stage production will reportedly be written by Laurence O'Keefe ("Legally Blonde"), although Madison Square Garden Entertainment, which owns the Beacon, would only confirm that for one of several shows being developed by Cirque, Shiner (also helmer of Cirque's "Kooza") is at work on a new offering about vaudeville. No venues or dates were announced.

MSG Entertainment already has teamed with Cirque on "Wintuk," the annual holiday outing at MSG's WaMu Theater.

This upcoming show is what my life will be about for the next 2.5 years. Surprisingly, I somehow managed to book this show less than a week before I was to leave for my gig with NCL. When Cirque called me, I didn't know how to react -- I still don't. It feels unreal and I am undeserving. Although I work hard, I am not an industry veteran. These big shows typically go to people who have paid their dues. I didn't get a chance to pay mine since NCL couldn't give me a partial contract. No Caribbean and Bermuda for me. No tropical paradise, tanning oil, and fruity cocktails. No. Those things are not in the cards for me.

Montreal, here I come.