A Dramatic Weekend

Still shots from the film, "Among Friends"

Our next shoot date is January 8th. Can't wait! I had a wonderful weekend of theatre. As a Christmas gift, my friend gave me a ticket to the MET to see An American Tragedy...my first opera. The human voice is truly a marvel. I also saw Brokeback Mountain. I can't believe that it lived up to all the hype, but it did. The subtlety was so refreshing, which is a tribute to the actors and director. With Wyoming as a backdrop, the beauty of it brought tears to your eyes.

Sadly over the weekend, John Spencer died. I had the opportunity to meet him once. He was an honorary board member of Abingdon Theatre Company. Jan had the pleasure of spending some time with him on the set of The West Wing, as well as at his home. It was quite obvious that everyone adored him. After he shot a scene a couple times (he was on a cell phone and entering from out on the street, into the building, onto an elevator and then down a hall), Jan said, "John, that was so great." He replied, "Really? Do you think so?" He had about 50 people on the set watching his every move. I can't imagine the pressure. And to still be so humble (after an emmy award and millions of dollars) to ask, "If that was okay." That story really touched me. He was a wonderful actor. He will be remembered as that, but more importantly, as a genuinely kind human being. R.I.P.