And now, here we are; about to embark on another new year. I remember, when I was little, time seemed to move so much slower. The days leading up to Christmas were endless and there was always enough daylight to be outside.
Not so much anymore. Days go by faster than it takes to put product in my hair, trying to get outside for a run is as difficult as parking in Boston, and the holidays come and go with only remnants of hangovers from red wine (or your own personal preference).
This, more than anything, has been my first true glimpse of adulthood. Bills, rent, health insurance, and realizing that teeth whitening is actually a lot more expensive when it's coming out of your own pocket... I promised on that New Year's Eve that I would do everything in my power to make being twenty-five one of the most memorable years, if not THE most. I sit here with my hot chocolate and customary one marshmallow (I always start with two but I end up eating one while the water boils) and have so many emotions regarding 2012.
Some highlights:
Returning to London: The time I was able to spend exploring RADA and, most importantly, wandering the streets of one of the most beautiful places on this earth (yes, I like grey and cold) was life-changing. I finally taught myself the difference between being lonely and alone. Neither have to prevent you from living the life you want. And above all, I was able to see some of the kindest people who have come into my life.
Directing and Choreographing at Clark University: Words will never describe the experience I had for two semesters while being back in Worcester, MA. Both FOOTLOOSE and SPRING AWAKENING opened my eyes to the importance of storytelling truthfully and to appreciate those years in college when you are able to do anything you set you mind to. Both productions granted me opportunities to work with groups of incredible people. Not only talented, but caring, compassionate, and sensitive towards their future and their world. If they are the next generation to lead this country, we will be more than fine.
Returning to Saint Michael's Playhouse: Which is basically like going back home. This time, I was able to bring the whole family with me. There is nothing like being able to hire talented people who also happen to be your closest friends. Children's theatre is an art in and of itself. The timing, the attention spans, the ability to share a story to a audience that is much smarter than you would imagine but have very tiny bladders and in inability to sit still (can you blame them?); this experience reaffirmed my greatest question before starting a production: WHO IS YOUR AUDIENCE? It forms a lot of answers that are so crucial to how you will tell your story.
Aside form work, I was also able to revisit Burlington, VT and appreciate one of the most beautiful summers I have ever had. And I was able to spend time down at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts with a group of very talented youngsters.
And, as I said, those are just a few highlights. During 2012 I was able to direct/choreograph 7 shows, perform in 4, music direct 1, write, direct and produce my very first play, and continue spending every day trying to figure out the course my life must take to growing as an artist.
And now, here comes 2013! I'm moving back to NYC after 6 months out of town working. If I said I wasn't scared, I'd be lying. New York City can bring out the best of a person but it can also be the most unforgiving city as well; as most beautiful things are. I am looking forward to finally settling down to enjoy everything the city has to offer and hopefully the city will do the same for me.
As always, we have so many moments to look back and reflect upon. A re-elected president (!!!), the almost constant news of disasters that tear communities apart, and, just recently, the slaughtering of the most innocent humans on this earth.
How in all of this darkness can we even begin to find a shred of light and hope? How can we continue to follow our dreams when it almost feels so utterly selfish when there is so much help that is needed in this world? The answer, on the contrary, is very simple...
Our eyes must be open. Our ears must be listening. And our hearts must be prepared. The ignorance and self-entitled tendencies that plague our world must come to an end. It is time for action, open communication, and a universal respect that holds each individual on this earth to the highest standard.
That is something I have learned this year. The power to act upon anything; that is ours. The power to say YES rather than turning one's back.
I've always been afraid of growing up; the little Peter Pan inside of me. Now, I fear growing old. Only because I wish to use every ounce of my energy to do my part in this world to ensure the future, though not including me, will be bright for those to come.
Take the time to truly reflect this holiday season. Let's make 2013 the year the world decided to change.
My first resolution is to come back to my blog and writing. I hope you'll join me throughout the new year.
xx
Josh
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