Md part tres, 2005
Sep. 12th, 2005 10:47 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
ptpgradI'm tired, my eyes are burning, my throat hurts from excessive dust and I am filthy (fixable once I am done "work" after work), you KNOW I will forget stuff, subtleties, people, events, stuff that will make me go "damn, why didn't I mention that part" later, but here goes. Weekend 3.
BACK WITH LESS
So last weekend I ended up with a voice, but after a rehearsal mid-week, the frail vocal chords I had have become shot and I am starting with a voice that is missing some of its upper register. I make a note to be extra careful with my lozenges. The Lelios and I drive in together. I play my danceable music on my walkman to put me in a happy mood. This makes me walk with great speed toward the Fortune for my soundtrack and the music really sends me. I am almost slightly panty when I get there. We came in earlier this week to check the mics and the new channel is fabulous...ringing is VERY minimal and I can be heard. We are done, and while they go to brekkies, I head to Gatehouse as I have eaten.
FLYING SOLO
I get to my stage and find that I am back to warming up alone. With some scheduling changes, no one else needs to warm up at the same time I do, so I am back to my peaceful warmup. I miss the company, but I do love having my peace and quiet. I know the security team already thinks I am weird because of all my stretching positions, but why add to that crowd. It's now 8:30 and I head to the costume house. First, I set my props, then I get changed. It's all pretty normal, except...damn. See, I did a photo shoot this week for my characters and I left stuff there. I had been warned that I had left Baby Stupina and my masks there, and my handkerchiefs...what I didn't know, is that I ALSo left my bota bag there...ya know, the one that keeps me hydrated at faire. I am already thirsty and worried it will get worse. I know it will all be a faire by 2:15, but I know I will have to find ways around. I have already gone through and realized I will have barely enough lozenges for the weekend, so I am feeling discombobulated. I warn a few actors if Stupina comes up and asks them for water and a hiding space, to please help.
BEEPY BOO
We go to morning meeting and I still think I missing things. We get our notes. We are reminded it is the last weekend for L'ensemble Cercamon (the French Canadians I embarrassed myself about last weekend) as well as Bedlam. I will be sad to see both groups go. Of course, Grant of Bedlam owes me a belated birthday present and he knows it. He promised me during the week that he would be able to deliver this weekend. We plan to meet at Pyrate camp at 5:45 when I am done for the day.
GOODBYE!
The opening gate show is running and I notice that my attendance litmus test shows that today promises to be small. I am surprised because of the great weather, even when it is Deaf Awareness weekend. Then I hear about the Navy game, the bad traffic, the Sept. 11 events, and I realize that it is very likely that this will be a smaller weekend. I am a bit bummed. Gates open, the people roll in and I begin to cheer at the crowd. The initial rush passes quickly and I head into the village early. As I get close to the opening scenario area, I notice Reginald Sharpe and begin to hide. Stupina is terrified of the sheriff. I pull out the huge white scarf I have and cover myself with it and get small. The sheriff takes this as an opportunity to sit on me..."Oh, look, I don't remember a big white boulder in the village." All the while I am screaming and crying underneath it. The King's entrance gets me free enough to run away.
SINGING IN THE DIRT
I find my favorite spot below O'Shucks and begin to sing. I get people to sing along as well as one or two who will join me. I continue to make up random songs based on people, my mood, or what I see at that moment. People laugh as they listen and I mention my Girlie Show to any one who is of a youthful age (in literal or spiritual years). The crowd enjoys watching, but seems reticent to participate themselves. I am approached by a fairy with a small trebuchet. He is shouting "flower in the hole" as he shoots daisy and chrysanthemum heads at me and lets me send some out. I see Dinty walking by and we shoot some at him till he catches one in his bucket. There was much rejoicing.
GIRLIE RAT
Time to go back and prepare for the Girlie Show. Today, it's Emrys Fleet who comes to my rescue. He is a hoot and the audience loves him as much as Stupina. They are responsive and the show ends happily. I gather props and clear the stage and the sign and remove the waterlogged...well, sweat logged... face for a moment. There is so much heat emanating from the mask and hood that I separate them to allow them to cool out and drain....yeah, I know, ick. I repack props and head out to the street.
IT'S A HAPPY DAY IN THE VILLAGE
Today, I wander up to the Purple Unicorn/Bead jewelry booth tree. I am now entertaining myself by changing up the song more. I make up songs about anything and everything that passes by my mind and by me on the street. I get a nice crowd of people around me in regular clothing. They sing with me and we laugh. They try to touch my face, I try to touch theirs...it's only fair. I have tons of pictures taken of me, whether looking at the camera or not. I see Mark, the patron who took a pic of me EONS ago (it's on the MDRF faire pics page). I say hello and he has no idea who I am. He eventually figures it out and takes some pics of me in Stupina. He is enjoying the ones that cover me in odd tree shadows, but he likes how light effects the pictures. He heads on and soon it's time for me to move on.
CH-CH-CH-CH-CHANGES
I head back to the costume house to switch costuming. Mrs. Pugh is there and we do the transfer...oh crap...my belt was missing too. I hang my receiver pack from my belt. NOW how the hell am I going to be able to hang it...oh. from my corset cord. It's not the best plan, but if I have to, it's my only choice at the moment. We tie it on and hope for the best. I head to the stage getting a steak on a stake on the way. I sit and chat with patrons, go to the Dragon Inn to encourage people to attend the show, and then head backstage to set props. When we run the show, I don't have feedback, FINALLY! There is the minimal stuff you get when you walk by the speakers, but it is so much better. I sound MUCH quieter than Lelio though, and I can feel the lack of balance. The audience is mostly dead. I know we are doing the same high energy show, but they seem afraid to make a noise, to cheer. It's like they are watching a TV and assume that we are on a screen and don't need their participation. Even the people we pull up seem to lose their enthusiasm. The Bride was great, the groom was good...the best man went up and became sober. Ah well. We chalk it up to being an off day. I find out later than many others had similar experiences with their crowds. Afraid of being part of the show.
BACK AGAIN
I head back toward the front area with Baby Stupina, my belt, handkerchiefs, and my bota hidden under my arm and behind my Teatro sign. Once back at Dragon Wings, I hide the sign, bota, belt, and handkerchiefs and take Baby Stupina out for her walk. I head toward the ladies who are playing guitar and violin. They see me and stop what they are doing to play Mairi's Wedding. Baby Stupina dances her little strings off...well, not literally, luckily. I do another song or so with them and then head away to play with other patrons in the area. A little girl, who starts frightened by her ends up hugging her for the camera and because she likes the little marionette. Time is up and I must change again. I grab all my stuff, hang Baby Stupina up and head down the hill.
AND THE WINNER IS...
Nan Mannerly today. She laughed first. The group played hot card today, like Hot Potato. At least we are quiet, even if we are having too much fun. We see a friendly face toward the back of the crowd and I am informed later of a compliment he gave us. No trips, some laughs, and the day moves on. I even get the dance right. I head backstage. Today, I have a special mission. I forego the change of costume and voluntary goodbye duty and take a trip to a spot I don't often get to.
MASK UNMASKED
I was informed last weekend that a little girl who has been a fan of mine for a few years had recently made the connection that the lady who is Stupina might be an actress under the mask. Her comment to her grandfather was that she would like to meet me as I must be beautiful under the mask because Stupina is lovely. Yes, my heart cracked a little with that comment. My mission, after I slowly wander through the village chatting to patrons as I wend to the booth where she is, is to introduce myself...as Columbina. I come up and she is getting her hair put up in hairsticks. She is sad and complaining that they are too tight. I take a seat and wait for her to finish. The lady doing her hair whispers to her and she shakes her head. Her grandmother takes her hand and whispers to her reminding her of what she said. She tells her that I am This Lady is Stupina. She doesn't want to look. I change my voice to match what she is used to hearing. She turns. I ask for a hug. She shyly gives it. While hugging her, I tell her that I will love her and play with her no matter what I look like, that I am still the same person inside and my feelings for her won't change with my face. She gives me her favor. We are visited briefly by Pirate Queen Jean Cabot who also shares a great affection for this lady. I tell her it is time for me to leave, but I get a promise from her that she will sit in the dirt and sing with me again. Sounds odd coming from a woman in draping lace and velvet.
SHOWING OFF THE NEW DUDS
I head toward the pub sing. I run into ctrlaltdel and we quickly catch up. I wander through and run into L'ensemble Cercamon. We chat briefly about their experience here, whether or not they will play at Pub Sing, how NOT to hang your rose, and other culinary conversation. We are all laughing when SM-J comes by and calls them away to the stage. I wander around and find more friendly faces. I DO NOT however, see Grant before he wends his way into the pub. I am severely disturbed by this as he promised me my birthday present before pub sing, and now it's too late. I enjoy the music, avoid the overly drunk people, and close my eyes for the bells. Boom! and Emrys and I head up the back of the line, today with Jean Cabot! The day ends on a better note. I head to dinner with many friends to celebrate a dear friends birthday. We are a large group and are starting to get annoyed as over 10 tables of 2 have been put ahead of us. We tell them we don't need the same table and we can sit in groups around the same area...no, not good enough for them. We all get "off book" for the menu and when the waitress arrives, all 22 of us tell her exactly what we want to eat and drink. The service was amazing and my dinner was INCREDIBLE. I pay my bill and head out the door with the Lelios. I am in bed before 10:00 and get to sleep.
YICKY
I wake to find my legs are still achy even though I have been stretching. My neck is really stiff too. Bleah. I am going in alone today, so I gather myself together quickly and head out to site. I am in early, just like I used to be and I have PLENTY of time to stretch. Today, my walkman is playing happy music and I find myself both stretching and dancing on the stage. I am sure I put on a bit of a show. I finish and head out to Fortune. I have tested my system and a theory and when the Lelios arrive and we compare. He is pumped much higher than me and we agree to take me up and him down for the show so I don't get vocally lost. That set, we all head to brekkies. I get my sausage, eggs, potatoes (weren't they better last year?) and a glass of oj. I eat breakfast with Bedlam and Grant PROMISES to be there to give me my pressie. It's 8:30, so I head out.
DRESSING FOR SUCCESS
I take out the props for the show. The dressing room is somewhat empty as I am changing, but the bustle starts to come in as I am heading out. I am so happy to have my bota and handkerchiefs back. I head to a meeting and to take care of a delivery...yes, romance wars have started, and no, I won't tell you what I am doing till it's done...more secretive that way. I head to the morning meeting where we all agree that the day was odd and hope for better. The weather is less humid, so there is promise. We beep, I realize I forgot some stuff and head to the costume house quickly.
BLACKBIRD FLY
I rush to the opening gate area to see Grant waiting for me, with guitar. He begins to play, and I begin to cry. This song has such special significance to me and I am afraid I will lose any eye makeup I have on before gate opens. He finishes, I give him a big hug and thank him and he travels off on his merry way. I am feeling wonderful now. Lady Kytson remarks how pretty the song was. Even SM-K likes it. The slap comes, the face goes on, and off we go. The crowd, while smaller than I would like, is larger than it was the other day. The energy is a bit better and I have hopes as the trumpets play in the morning. I know that the Sheriff will be looking for me during the morning, so I want to leave him a target. I wander in to sit and sing, but I am noticing my voice is suffering and I don't have enough lozenges. I figure I need new ways to entertain myself late today than sitting and singing. I think that I will need to go to Skivvy and have him give me a gift he made for me (read: twig, leaf, or odd weird thing from the ground) to entertain me for hours.
THE CRYING BOULDER
I see the sheriff and try to hide. I throw the large scarf over me. He sits on me and wonders why a boulder would scream "Uncle". He wanders away as I whimper. I hobble away, covered by the scarf, to start my show. I get there and don't see my reader (of course, I screwed up and didn't send him the script) so he didn't realize he was on today. I had asked the ladies to wait and luckily they could, so I was good to go. Lady Mary Kingston, who had been familiar with the book, stepped in and did a very lovely job. Middle of the way through, I see my original reader arrive. I can't really throw him in midway through, so he watches a bit and eventually moves on. Sigh, I feel bad about that.
WHAT NOT TO DO AS A PATRON
When you are invited on a stage, and your cell phone rings, don't answer it. My guy's phone rings and he takes it as reflex. I yell into the phone, sorry, he's on the stage, can you call back in five? He won't hang up, I get the audience to cheer and applaud and he finally hangs up. We keep going and I am giving him his gift when it rings again and he asks if he is done. I am so ready to say, yes, and you don't get this, but I don't want to be negative. I end up taking a bow with Lady Mary Kingston. Sigh. Not the best ending to a show. I get off stage and wipe off all the sweat from my face. I repack, clean up, and file away the props till next weekend.
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, MEET FRED!
I head out onto the street looking for a way to not scream but still be very active. I head toward Kenwood Lane and meet up with a little boy who is shy. I get "down on his level" and he begins to give me mulch...LOTS of mulch. Luckily, I catch most of it in my hands and not on my head or eyes. Dad tries to control his intent, but he doesn't have much focus. I finally end up with two pieces of mulch and ask him which one he thinks would be best to keep. He takes one. I am left with the other. I head on my way. I begin to ask people if they want to pet my mulch. Some do, most don't. I meet up with a few friends at the bottom of the hill and say a quick hello and move on. I meet another little boy who, though rather shy, with his mom's help names my mulch "Fred". I begin to say "Do you want to pet my mulch? His name is Fred" and, god love 'em, people do. Those that don't, well, I tell Fred that it's ok, they don't mean to be mean. Hee. I see Mrs. Pugh and she pets my mulch. I tell her we have 15 and I will meet her at the costume house. I continue on my path and meet a boy who hands me a stone and calls it "Bob". So Bob Stone and Fred Mulch are introduced, but a little girl takes Bob home. Fred is mine. I walk the sunbowl with Fred, introducing him along the way. I head toward the front area and again, mulch meets the world.
FRENCH SURPRISES
I am getting toward the backstage area when I see two patrons ladies I met this morning with the "guitarist" of the L'ensemble Cercamon. I say hello and watch his face as he says "YOU'RE Stupina?" I had explained to the gentlemen last night that I do commedia (and this one even spoke a bit of Italian). It was amusing to watch him put the connection together even though the ladies had no idea. Other than I was the funny lady who sang about them in the morning. I take my leave. I head behind the scenes and realize I am now 15 minutes late for getting changed. I run down the hill to Mrs. Pugh who I saw over 1/2 hour ago. One change and a reorganization of stuff later and I am ready to head back on street.
IT'S A FESTIVAL
I grab the infamous Steak on a stake and sit by the outside bench of O'Shucks. I chat with one group of ladies who are going to see the Italian Wedding later. I laugh and compliment their taste in shows. They wander off and I meet another couple who are new to faire. As we chat (this is my lunch break after all...yeah) I tell them about the shows. Dinty wanders by and finds a mint hidden in her...Then the Renaissance Man joins in the conversational fray. I feel the space is a bit crowded, so, with lunch finished, I wander on. I head to the stage to set props. And today, there is little to NO feedback! YAYEE! I am also as loud as Lelio and the show feels a bit more balanced. The wedding party is fun and we find out after that the mother of the groom barely speaks english, but she did fine. There are many laughs and the best man simply can't remember his lines...well, line, he only has one. A good time is had by all and we pass the stage to the Squire on the Wire.
FRENCH DANCING
I take Baby Stupina out in the front area and dance with the ladies from yesterday, then I head toward the louder music. L'ensemble Cercamon is playing and Baby Stupina's feet can't stop. My arm is killing me by the end, but she gets her own little crowd on the street dancing up a storm. Their show is over, but I am getting stopped by kids and even the Frenchmen. I say my goodbyes as they are leaving early. They seem shocked and say they have two more sets. I inform them I am on stage for one of their shows, but I am walking around with Baby Stupina at the second one they list, so perhaps I will see them again, but I give a preemptive goodbye. I see that I am running a few minutes late and speed back to the costume house.
I WIN!
Today, we are playing some kind of weird game upstairs. I don't know the rules, I just know I got a flush, but I am still losing. I have an argument with my mumsie about what is the highest ranking hand in poker. Sedge agrees with me, but I says so quietly so as not to offend my mother. I win on the laugh department and the show has a few members who cant seem to stop laughing. The dance goes smoothly and we bow. We rush out and I go down the hill to pull off the jewelry, hoop and other such stuff I need for the rest of the day. I grab my little girl and off we go to dance to the tunes of Wolgemut as we wave goodbye. Stupina grabs people's attention and the fascination of a few little kids minds. It is a good day. I don't see the Frenchmen on the stage as I finish my duty. I take Baby Stupina back, slowly, and then head back to the front area. They do play a song, have a great response, and are gone. I head backstage and run into the dark haired gentleman. He and Danicia are saying their goodbyes and she tells me of the conversations they have had. I share one more European goodbye and I am off to get something to eat.
PAST TIMES WITH GOOD COMPANY
I find the chicken Teriyaki, a patron, and sit down to have a chat. Once done, I head back toward the pub. I sit down, since my feet are killing me, after seeing that Robin Hood has been "reflowered". I sit and listen and sing a bit, but my voice is a bit haggard. I experience Nipplewyck...nuff said. They are running later, as they only have time for "one more song". They play Auld Lang Syne and I hear the calls, the bells, and the cannon, all running into one another. I am a bit overwhelmed for a moment. I go to follow the court out, but our group is rather small tonight. Only about 6 of us, which isn't nearly as impressive and I am screaming with my bad throat "MAKE WAY FOR THE KING" as the one lady right in front of him doesn't move...sigh. I peel off and head down the hill to finish getting the crap off of me.
URGH
I go to change and, as I peel off my tights, I see a line of dirt from my ankles up through my mid thighs. ICK! I am running a bit slow. I have pulled my costuming to wash at home. I have a lovely purple rose from an admirer. I am tired. I make plans to have a small birthday celebration for a friend. The Pyrates happen to show up at the same restaurant. One by one, they file up to send their regrets and tearful support to the birthday boy. We are in tears we are laughing so hard. SM-J is turning colors and spitting water through her nose, or damn close. When Hemloche's mom brings him flowers, we lose it. I have to leave FAR too early, but there is still much to do tonight. I head home and soak in a hot bath. WOW, it made such a difference.
Next weekend:
Girlie Readers...
Saturday, Fletcher Moone
Sunday, Princess (Lady) Mary
I am having fun this year...lots, but more planning and creating are ahead of me.
YAYEE! See you there!
BACK WITH LESS
So last weekend I ended up with a voice, but after a rehearsal mid-week, the frail vocal chords I had have become shot and I am starting with a voice that is missing some of its upper register. I make a note to be extra careful with my lozenges. The Lelios and I drive in together. I play my danceable music on my walkman to put me in a happy mood. This makes me walk with great speed toward the Fortune for my soundtrack and the music really sends me. I am almost slightly panty when I get there. We came in earlier this week to check the mics and the new channel is fabulous...ringing is VERY minimal and I can be heard. We are done, and while they go to brekkies, I head to Gatehouse as I have eaten.
FLYING SOLO
I get to my stage and find that I am back to warming up alone. With some scheduling changes, no one else needs to warm up at the same time I do, so I am back to my peaceful warmup. I miss the company, but I do love having my peace and quiet. I know the security team already thinks I am weird because of all my stretching positions, but why add to that crowd. It's now 8:30 and I head to the costume house. First, I set my props, then I get changed. It's all pretty normal, except...damn. See, I did a photo shoot this week for my characters and I left stuff there. I had been warned that I had left Baby Stupina and my masks there, and my handkerchiefs...what I didn't know, is that I ALSo left my bota bag there...ya know, the one that keeps me hydrated at faire. I am already thirsty and worried it will get worse. I know it will all be a faire by 2:15, but I know I will have to find ways around. I have already gone through and realized I will have barely enough lozenges for the weekend, so I am feeling discombobulated. I warn a few actors if Stupina comes up and asks them for water and a hiding space, to please help.
BEEPY BOO
We go to morning meeting and I still think I missing things. We get our notes. We are reminded it is the last weekend for L'ensemble Cercamon (the French Canadians I embarrassed myself about last weekend) as well as Bedlam. I will be sad to see both groups go. Of course, Grant of Bedlam owes me a belated birthday present and he knows it. He promised me during the week that he would be able to deliver this weekend. We plan to meet at Pyrate camp at 5:45 when I am done for the day.
GOODBYE!
The opening gate show is running and I notice that my attendance litmus test shows that today promises to be small. I am surprised because of the great weather, even when it is Deaf Awareness weekend. Then I hear about the Navy game, the bad traffic, the Sept. 11 events, and I realize that it is very likely that this will be a smaller weekend. I am a bit bummed. Gates open, the people roll in and I begin to cheer at the crowd. The initial rush passes quickly and I head into the village early. As I get close to the opening scenario area, I notice Reginald Sharpe and begin to hide. Stupina is terrified of the sheriff. I pull out the huge white scarf I have and cover myself with it and get small. The sheriff takes this as an opportunity to sit on me..."Oh, look, I don't remember a big white boulder in the village." All the while I am screaming and crying underneath it. The King's entrance gets me free enough to run away.
SINGING IN THE DIRT
I find my favorite spot below O'Shucks and begin to sing. I get people to sing along as well as one or two who will join me. I continue to make up random songs based on people, my mood, or what I see at that moment. People laugh as they listen and I mention my Girlie Show to any one who is of a youthful age (in literal or spiritual years). The crowd enjoys watching, but seems reticent to participate themselves. I am approached by a fairy with a small trebuchet. He is shouting "flower in the hole" as he shoots daisy and chrysanthemum heads at me and lets me send some out. I see Dinty walking by and we shoot some at him till he catches one in his bucket. There was much rejoicing.
GIRLIE RAT
Time to go back and prepare for the Girlie Show. Today, it's Emrys Fleet who comes to my rescue. He is a hoot and the audience loves him as much as Stupina. They are responsive and the show ends happily. I gather props and clear the stage and the sign and remove the waterlogged...well, sweat logged... face for a moment. There is so much heat emanating from the mask and hood that I separate them to allow them to cool out and drain....yeah, I know, ick. I repack props and head out to the street.
IT'S A HAPPY DAY IN THE VILLAGE
Today, I wander up to the Purple Unicorn/Bead jewelry booth tree. I am now entertaining myself by changing up the song more. I make up songs about anything and everything that passes by my mind and by me on the street. I get a nice crowd of people around me in regular clothing. They sing with me and we laugh. They try to touch my face, I try to touch theirs...it's only fair. I have tons of pictures taken of me, whether looking at the camera or not. I see Mark, the patron who took a pic of me EONS ago (it's on the MDRF faire pics page). I say hello and he has no idea who I am. He eventually figures it out and takes some pics of me in Stupina. He is enjoying the ones that cover me in odd tree shadows, but he likes how light effects the pictures. He heads on and soon it's time for me to move on.
CH-CH-CH-CH-CHANGES
I head back to the costume house to switch costuming. Mrs. Pugh is there and we do the transfer...oh crap...my belt was missing too. I hang my receiver pack from my belt. NOW how the hell am I going to be able to hang it...oh. from my corset cord. It's not the best plan, but if I have to, it's my only choice at the moment. We tie it on and hope for the best. I head to the stage getting a steak on a stake on the way. I sit and chat with patrons, go to the Dragon Inn to encourage people to attend the show, and then head backstage to set props. When we run the show, I don't have feedback, FINALLY! There is the minimal stuff you get when you walk by the speakers, but it is so much better. I sound MUCH quieter than Lelio though, and I can feel the lack of balance. The audience is mostly dead. I know we are doing the same high energy show, but they seem afraid to make a noise, to cheer. It's like they are watching a TV and assume that we are on a screen and don't need their participation. Even the people we pull up seem to lose their enthusiasm. The Bride was great, the groom was good...the best man went up and became sober. Ah well. We chalk it up to being an off day. I find out later than many others had similar experiences with their crowds. Afraid of being part of the show.
BACK AGAIN
I head back toward the front area with Baby Stupina, my belt, handkerchiefs, and my bota hidden under my arm and behind my Teatro sign. Once back at Dragon Wings, I hide the sign, bota, belt, and handkerchiefs and take Baby Stupina out for her walk. I head toward the ladies who are playing guitar and violin. They see me and stop what they are doing to play Mairi's Wedding. Baby Stupina dances her little strings off...well, not literally, luckily. I do another song or so with them and then head away to play with other patrons in the area. A little girl, who starts frightened by her ends up hugging her for the camera and because she likes the little marionette. Time is up and I must change again. I grab all my stuff, hang Baby Stupina up and head down the hill.
AND THE WINNER IS...
Nan Mannerly today. She laughed first. The group played hot card today, like Hot Potato. At least we are quiet, even if we are having too much fun. We see a friendly face toward the back of the crowd and I am informed later of a compliment he gave us. No trips, some laughs, and the day moves on. I even get the dance right. I head backstage. Today, I have a special mission. I forego the change of costume and voluntary goodbye duty and take a trip to a spot I don't often get to.
MASK UNMASKED
I was informed last weekend that a little girl who has been a fan of mine for a few years had recently made the connection that the lady who is Stupina might be an actress under the mask. Her comment to her grandfather was that she would like to meet me as I must be beautiful under the mask because Stupina is lovely. Yes, my heart cracked a little with that comment. My mission, after I slowly wander through the village chatting to patrons as I wend to the booth where she is, is to introduce myself...as Columbina. I come up and she is getting her hair put up in hairsticks. She is sad and complaining that they are too tight. I take a seat and wait for her to finish. The lady doing her hair whispers to her and she shakes her head. Her grandmother takes her hand and whispers to her reminding her of what she said. She tells her that I am This Lady is Stupina. She doesn't want to look. I change my voice to match what she is used to hearing. She turns. I ask for a hug. She shyly gives it. While hugging her, I tell her that I will love her and play with her no matter what I look like, that I am still the same person inside and my feelings for her won't change with my face. She gives me her favor. We are visited briefly by Pirate Queen Jean Cabot who also shares a great affection for this lady. I tell her it is time for me to leave, but I get a promise from her that she will sit in the dirt and sing with me again. Sounds odd coming from a woman in draping lace and velvet.
SHOWING OFF THE NEW DUDS
I head toward the pub sing. I run into ctrlaltdel and we quickly catch up. I wander through and run into L'ensemble Cercamon. We chat briefly about their experience here, whether or not they will play at Pub Sing, how NOT to hang your rose, and other culinary conversation. We are all laughing when SM-J comes by and calls them away to the stage. I wander around and find more friendly faces. I DO NOT however, see Grant before he wends his way into the pub. I am severely disturbed by this as he promised me my birthday present before pub sing, and now it's too late. I enjoy the music, avoid the overly drunk people, and close my eyes for the bells. Boom! and Emrys and I head up the back of the line, today with Jean Cabot! The day ends on a better note. I head to dinner with many friends to celebrate a dear friends birthday. We are a large group and are starting to get annoyed as over 10 tables of 2 have been put ahead of us. We tell them we don't need the same table and we can sit in groups around the same area...no, not good enough for them. We all get "off book" for the menu and when the waitress arrives, all 22 of us tell her exactly what we want to eat and drink. The service was amazing and my dinner was INCREDIBLE. I pay my bill and head out the door with the Lelios. I am in bed before 10:00 and get to sleep.
YICKY
I wake to find my legs are still achy even though I have been stretching. My neck is really stiff too. Bleah. I am going in alone today, so I gather myself together quickly and head out to site. I am in early, just like I used to be and I have PLENTY of time to stretch. Today, my walkman is playing happy music and I find myself both stretching and dancing on the stage. I am sure I put on a bit of a show. I finish and head out to Fortune. I have tested my system and a theory and when the Lelios arrive and we compare. He is pumped much higher than me and we agree to take me up and him down for the show so I don't get vocally lost. That set, we all head to brekkies. I get my sausage, eggs, potatoes (weren't they better last year?) and a glass of oj. I eat breakfast with Bedlam and Grant PROMISES to be there to give me my pressie. It's 8:30, so I head out.
DRESSING FOR SUCCESS
I take out the props for the show. The dressing room is somewhat empty as I am changing, but the bustle starts to come in as I am heading out. I am so happy to have my bota and handkerchiefs back. I head to a meeting and to take care of a delivery...yes, romance wars have started, and no, I won't tell you what I am doing till it's done...more secretive that way. I head to the morning meeting where we all agree that the day was odd and hope for better. The weather is less humid, so there is promise. We beep, I realize I forgot some stuff and head to the costume house quickly.
BLACKBIRD FLY
I rush to the opening gate area to see Grant waiting for me, with guitar. He begins to play, and I begin to cry. This song has such special significance to me and I am afraid I will lose any eye makeup I have on before gate opens. He finishes, I give him a big hug and thank him and he travels off on his merry way. I am feeling wonderful now. Lady Kytson remarks how pretty the song was. Even SM-K likes it. The slap comes, the face goes on, and off we go. The crowd, while smaller than I would like, is larger than it was the other day. The energy is a bit better and I have hopes as the trumpets play in the morning. I know that the Sheriff will be looking for me during the morning, so I want to leave him a target. I wander in to sit and sing, but I am noticing my voice is suffering and I don't have enough lozenges. I figure I need new ways to entertain myself late today than sitting and singing. I think that I will need to go to Skivvy and have him give me a gift he made for me (read: twig, leaf, or odd weird thing from the ground) to entertain me for hours.
THE CRYING BOULDER
I see the sheriff and try to hide. I throw the large scarf over me. He sits on me and wonders why a boulder would scream "Uncle". He wanders away as I whimper. I hobble away, covered by the scarf, to start my show. I get there and don't see my reader (of course, I screwed up and didn't send him the script) so he didn't realize he was on today. I had asked the ladies to wait and luckily they could, so I was good to go. Lady Mary Kingston, who had been familiar with the book, stepped in and did a very lovely job. Middle of the way through, I see my original reader arrive. I can't really throw him in midway through, so he watches a bit and eventually moves on. Sigh, I feel bad about that.
WHAT NOT TO DO AS A PATRON
When you are invited on a stage, and your cell phone rings, don't answer it. My guy's phone rings and he takes it as reflex. I yell into the phone, sorry, he's on the stage, can you call back in five? He won't hang up, I get the audience to cheer and applaud and he finally hangs up. We keep going and I am giving him his gift when it rings again and he asks if he is done. I am so ready to say, yes, and you don't get this, but I don't want to be negative. I end up taking a bow with Lady Mary Kingston. Sigh. Not the best ending to a show. I get off stage and wipe off all the sweat from my face. I repack, clean up, and file away the props till next weekend.
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, MEET FRED!
I head out onto the street looking for a way to not scream but still be very active. I head toward Kenwood Lane and meet up with a little boy who is shy. I get "down on his level" and he begins to give me mulch...LOTS of mulch. Luckily, I catch most of it in my hands and not on my head or eyes. Dad tries to control his intent, but he doesn't have much focus. I finally end up with two pieces of mulch and ask him which one he thinks would be best to keep. He takes one. I am left with the other. I head on my way. I begin to ask people if they want to pet my mulch. Some do, most don't. I meet up with a few friends at the bottom of the hill and say a quick hello and move on. I meet another little boy who, though rather shy, with his mom's help names my mulch "Fred". I begin to say "Do you want to pet my mulch? His name is Fred" and, god love 'em, people do. Those that don't, well, I tell Fred that it's ok, they don't mean to be mean. Hee. I see Mrs. Pugh and she pets my mulch. I tell her we have 15 and I will meet her at the costume house. I continue on my path and meet a boy who hands me a stone and calls it "Bob". So Bob Stone and Fred Mulch are introduced, but a little girl takes Bob home. Fred is mine. I walk the sunbowl with Fred, introducing him along the way. I head toward the front area and again, mulch meets the world.
FRENCH SURPRISES
I am getting toward the backstage area when I see two patrons ladies I met this morning with the "guitarist" of the L'ensemble Cercamon. I say hello and watch his face as he says "YOU'RE Stupina?" I had explained to the gentlemen last night that I do commedia (and this one even spoke a bit of Italian). It was amusing to watch him put the connection together even though the ladies had no idea. Other than I was the funny lady who sang about them in the morning. I take my leave. I head behind the scenes and realize I am now 15 minutes late for getting changed. I run down the hill to Mrs. Pugh who I saw over 1/2 hour ago. One change and a reorganization of stuff later and I am ready to head back on street.
IT'S A FESTIVAL
I grab the infamous Steak on a stake and sit by the outside bench of O'Shucks. I chat with one group of ladies who are going to see the Italian Wedding later. I laugh and compliment their taste in shows. They wander off and I meet another couple who are new to faire. As we chat (this is my lunch break after all...yeah) I tell them about the shows. Dinty wanders by and finds a mint hidden in her...Then the Renaissance Man joins in the conversational fray. I feel the space is a bit crowded, so, with lunch finished, I wander on. I head to the stage to set props. And today, there is little to NO feedback! YAYEE! I am also as loud as Lelio and the show feels a bit more balanced. The wedding party is fun and we find out after that the mother of the groom barely speaks english, but she did fine. There are many laughs and the best man simply can't remember his lines...well, line, he only has one. A good time is had by all and we pass the stage to the Squire on the Wire.
FRENCH DANCING
I take Baby Stupina out in the front area and dance with the ladies from yesterday, then I head toward the louder music. L'ensemble Cercamon is playing and Baby Stupina's feet can't stop. My arm is killing me by the end, but she gets her own little crowd on the street dancing up a storm. Their show is over, but I am getting stopped by kids and even the Frenchmen. I say my goodbyes as they are leaving early. They seem shocked and say they have two more sets. I inform them I am on stage for one of their shows, but I am walking around with Baby Stupina at the second one they list, so perhaps I will see them again, but I give a preemptive goodbye. I see that I am running a few minutes late and speed back to the costume house.
I WIN!
Today, we are playing some kind of weird game upstairs. I don't know the rules, I just know I got a flush, but I am still losing. I have an argument with my mumsie about what is the highest ranking hand in poker. Sedge agrees with me, but I says so quietly so as not to offend my mother. I win on the laugh department and the show has a few members who cant seem to stop laughing. The dance goes smoothly and we bow. We rush out and I go down the hill to pull off the jewelry, hoop and other such stuff I need for the rest of the day. I grab my little girl and off we go to dance to the tunes of Wolgemut as we wave goodbye. Stupina grabs people's attention and the fascination of a few little kids minds. It is a good day. I don't see the Frenchmen on the stage as I finish my duty. I take Baby Stupina back, slowly, and then head back to the front area. They do play a song, have a great response, and are gone. I head backstage and run into the dark haired gentleman. He and Danicia are saying their goodbyes and she tells me of the conversations they have had. I share one more European goodbye and I am off to get something to eat.
PAST TIMES WITH GOOD COMPANY
I find the chicken Teriyaki, a patron, and sit down to have a chat. Once done, I head back toward the pub. I sit down, since my feet are killing me, after seeing that Robin Hood has been "reflowered". I sit and listen and sing a bit, but my voice is a bit haggard. I experience Nipplewyck...nuff said. They are running later, as they only have time for "one more song". They play Auld Lang Syne and I hear the calls, the bells, and the cannon, all running into one another. I am a bit overwhelmed for a moment. I go to follow the court out, but our group is rather small tonight. Only about 6 of us, which isn't nearly as impressive and I am screaming with my bad throat "MAKE WAY FOR THE KING" as the one lady right in front of him doesn't move...sigh. I peel off and head down the hill to finish getting the crap off of me.
URGH
I go to change and, as I peel off my tights, I see a line of dirt from my ankles up through my mid thighs. ICK! I am running a bit slow. I have pulled my costuming to wash at home. I have a lovely purple rose from an admirer. I am tired. I make plans to have a small birthday celebration for a friend. The Pyrates happen to show up at the same restaurant. One by one, they file up to send their regrets and tearful support to the birthday boy. We are in tears we are laughing so hard. SM-J is turning colors and spitting water through her nose, or damn close. When Hemloche's mom brings him flowers, we lose it. I have to leave FAR too early, but there is still much to do tonight. I head home and soak in a hot bath. WOW, it made such a difference.
Next weekend:
Girlie Readers...
Saturday, Fletcher Moone
Sunday, Princess (Lady) Mary
I am having fun this year...lots, but more planning and creating are ahead of me.
YAYEE! See you there!
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no subject
Date: 2005-09-13 03:34 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2005-09-13 04:49 am (UTC)Thank you.
((( hug ))) Thank you so much!
throat emergency
Date: 2005-09-13 12:28 pm (UTC)Re: throat emergency
Date: 2005-09-13 12:34 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2005-09-13 01:46 pm (UTC)I missed this, so it's just a guess, but -- Blackbird? Not the Paul McCartney song? If so, you and I need to talk.
Also, it occurred to me that I really put my foot in it Sunday night as we were walking off-site, and I hope you weren't offended by how stupid I was. I didn't mean to be crass.
no subject
Date: 2005-09-13 01:58 pm (UTC)And no, not at all. It's that honesty preference thing. It allows me to make sure not to make any one I care about uncomfortable or can at least be warned. And I am not fond of that group anymore either, so all is well.
Sigh, one must live with the reputation of the bad choices we have made in the past. Ah well. ;-)