 |
 Ever wondered what the life of a performer just starting out in the
industry is like? AussieTheatre.com is thrilled to announce that 2007 WAAPA graduate
Gemma-Ashley Kaplan has joined the team to take us on the inside journey of what life in
the world of musical theatre is really like for a performer.
Every Tuesday, we'll be having Coffee With Gemma-Ashley Kaplan
to hear about what she's been up over the past seven days. The column will be presented in
"blog" format.
We'll be there every step of the way as we follow her journey from the 2007
WAAPA Showcase through to the strenuous audition process, general performances and future
success.
Join us every Tuesday for this exciting new weekly feature!
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Tuesday, August 5
Some weeks, I notice, life just goes buy in a frazzled frenzy and I have
forgotten each moment not seconds before it has passed, that is if I have even acknowledge
it at all. This week, for reasons that I'm not exactly sure of (well perhaps some vague
ideas do come to mind) I have been reminded constantly about the value of life, the
miracle of it and the joy with which to embrace it. This all sounds al little bit sloppy,
I'm aware, but I felt the urge to share it.
I have a cousin who inspires me, and for him I just wanted to say that.
Sunday I attended the premiere of a new Australian film, called Playing For Charlie,
at ACMI in Fed Square, as part of the Melbourne Film Festival. I believe the film is
screening again tomorrow and if anybody can spare the time I highly recommend this brave
and beautiful new picture. Jared Daperis, who just happens to be my sister's boyfriend,
is, I believe, despite assumptions that I may be biased, honestly one of Australia's most
gifted young actors. This engaging and moving film, I pray will be a fast moving vehicle
for his success.
This is true RAW natural talent. Hmmm (oh, I just got jealous, I hope I have some of that,
a smidgen at least. hehe) The film itself and the message it delivers...Oh, I cant explain
it, I'm not a reviewer. I wish I was a little bit (especially in times of praise like
this), but just go and see it.
Yesterday was our first day of rehearsals for Damn Yankees and once again, The
Production Company has assembled an awesomely talented and energetic cast which is just
what this piece calls for. Terence O'Connell is directing with Musical Direction by
Vanessa Scammel and Choreography by Alana Scanlan. The cast includes David Harris, Matt
Hetherington, Anne Wood, Pia Morley, Melissa Langton and many more generally fabulous
people (even some of my Follies friends.) I am looking forward to once again, for
the third time this year working with some of our most experienced and brilliant
performers.
That is all for this week..Oh Lets drink to a smooth sailing, fun filled Damn Yankees rehearsal
process then,...An All American, entirely offensive COCA COLA!
---
Tuesday, July 29
The past week has been full of social events, being my only week off for
quite a while so I have made every effort to catch up with all the important people who
sometimes get neglected when I am in 'show mode.' The Toyota 'Music of The Night' concert
was a hoot. We enjoyed ourselves perhaps even a little too much and the audience seemed to
get right in to the Andrew Lloyd Webber spirit, despite being car dealers. The venue, Shed
14 At the Docklands, has dreamy decor and we were suitably treated, wined and dined in our
stunning dressing rooms, which looked more like five star boutique hotel bedrooms. Post
concert we headed to ever faithful SOCIETY for Thirsty Thursdays, quite the event on my
part. I have never been, in fact, I rarely go out past 10, unless it's for work. So, you
can imagine the reaction from a couple of my best girlfriends who were enjoying an
unsuspecting night with the Wicked cast! We actually had a ball, I even attempted
to have a drink. I spoke to the bar man in confidence."Listen, I haven't had a drink
in three years, I can't bare the taste of it, so can you make me something, that looks
impressive, but, well, Isn't?!" Ha. Poor guy. He spent a good eight minutes whipping
me up an immaculately presented, impressive luminous green "Fatty's apple
sour"...Truth be told... I ate the creatively carved apple quarter on the tooth pick
and after a single sip, hand balled it over to Liz. Oh, I'm just not a drinker..I think my
chocolate vice is simply so intense that it takes the place of any other potential
addictions.
Saturday night I won the Wicked lottery, mum and dad had tickets, so I
tagged along, two hours prior to the show entered the lottery for 30 dollar front row
seats, and despite a size-able crowd, I actually won!! So, there I sat. On my own. Centre
front. Wicked. It was fabulous. Having seen the show in NY a few times, it was
smaller in scale BUT being so close to the stage, it was beautiful to watch each character
go through their individual journey and be so close to see even specific ensemble members
reactions and motions within the scenes. I loved it. Everyone is giving it there all up
there and I wish them all the very best, it is going to be a massively successful season
and deservedly so.
Monday marks first rehearsal for Damn Yankees, till which time I am filling my
days practicing my new second language. I have started private Spanish lessons and I am
Loving it.
Till Tuesday,
Have a marvellous week,
Gem
xox
---
Tuesday, July 22
The week went by in a flash. A Follies Flash. The show was a
critical success and it was the experience was nothing but positive. The opening night
party in the ANZ Pavilion was packed, with stars from every walk of life making
appearances, but all with a common goal, to celebrate 10 years of The Production Company
and its triumphs.
Jeanne made a beautiful speech and I felt like a kid in a candy store when I was
called up on stage with the rest of the principal cast. I spent most of the evening
chatting to Bud, so when I heard that he had been admitted to hospital on Thursday morning
I was terribly upset, it was such a shame to lose the legend from the cast and I just hope
he is feeling 100 per cent soon. He was replaced by the immaculate Grant Smith, who saw
the show on its opening, was called at 2pm on Thursday and by the evening performance had
his lines down and gave a stellar performance as Dimitri Weismann, German accent included.
A true professional. The cast had a dual celebration on our closing show to celebrate 1, Follies
success and 2, Judi Connelli's birthday; Even the speech she made post singing was
fabulous.
I look forward to working for Production Company again, not to mention settling in
to the State Theatre for another season. It is such a glorious space, and in fact the
entire Arts Centre is just so incredibly well run and equipped, If you were going to a
long running show anywhere, it would be the ideal venue. Only on the closing performance
during the bows did I properly register the size of the theatre. The show was a sell out
and to see space of that magnitude packed with an appreciating audience is exhilarating. I
even spotted Geoffrey Rush! Who, I've since been informed loved the show.
The good news is we begin rehearsing for Damn Yankees is in less than two weeks,
so I wont have to wait long!
In the meantime, there is no rest for the Wicked; Post closing on Sunday, I was up
bright and early for a 10-6 rehearsal for an Andrew Lloyd Webber concert on Thursday
night. David Harris, Carrie Barr and Debra Byrne are singing most of the great A.L.W hits,
but the company who are putting on this Gala type dinner have also flown out John-Owen
Jones, who is a Welsh/English Music Theatre star who has played roles from The Phantom to
Val Jean on both West End stage and Broadway. This is man is THE VOICE. Truly, I watched,
jaw dropped, wide eyed as he sang through his material yesterday.
That is all for this week. I am so sleepy that I might just crawl back in to bed
for a mid morning nap. Lets have a soothing cup of chamomile tea to promote some much
needed rest.
Gem
xox
---
Tuesday, July 15
"Folks we're in to the Follies..."
I am officially feeling the little butterflies in my tummy.
I have just completed packing up my little show bag; my make up, my gown, my shoes, my
mug...I just keep thinking how wonderful it would be if it were only a longer run. I
have to keep reminding myself of what our very wise director Roger Hodgman reminded us of
on Friday. He made the very valid point that every time we think about how we wish we had
more time, we should recognise rather how fortunate we are to have had the opportunity to
actually put this piece on at all. These Sondheim 'type' shows are never financially
viable for companies to produce on a large scale. So we have the wonderful Production
Company to thank for giving us the golden opportunities to perform and see this golden
material which in not necessarily entirely commercial. Basically, its no High School
Musical. Truly I cannot speak highly enough of this amazing team. What a joy it has
been.
Sitzprobe was overwhelming, I am a self confessed member of the Facebook group; " I
love to cry at sitzprobe" and this was no exception. I was not alone. Even Jeanne
Pratt and Ken Mackenzie Forbes were welling up. 5 words. Judi Connelli. "I'm Still
Here". MIND BLOWING! Seriously, anyone in Melbourne who has not booked for this show,
I am not one for shameless self promotion and indeed I am not encouraging you to come and
see me. But do yourselves a favour and book a ticket for this show. It is going to be a
once in a lifetime experience to see a cast the likes of which I have never heard of in
any Australian theatre production.
Today we move in to the theatre for a miracle one day tech with our first
performance on Wednesday, the Dress rehearsal. Oh, it all just seems so bizarre in my mind
and I know it will just fly by so quickly. The hardest part if all to come to terms with
is that a week from now, it will all be over.
I went to see Caroline O'Connor in her show this week and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
She was hysterical and Williamson truly provided a uniquely presented light hearted, good
night of comedic theatre. It was fabulous to catch up after the show and have a drink and
she told me that one of her first roles in London was Young Sally in Follies,
which I got really excited about... (I pondered in that moment and many times since that
conversation... Does that mean I'm going to be on BROADWAY TOO?! I sure hope so...).
Speaking of Broadway, once again my sister is astonishing us with her achievements in the
Big Apple. She is down to the very final round for another Broadway show, I think if I
told everyone all the details, she would have me killed, but she is amazing and I am so
incredibly proud.
I received my highly anticipated copy of the HATPIN CD...Oooh it's MARVELLOUS. The quality
is crisp and the music is as hauntingly beautiful on a recording as it was live. I
definitely didn't enjoy listening to my songs though, but I guess that is human nature. I
am secretly amazingly excited that the inner sleeve picture is of me as Clara, actually my
favourite shot from the show. What an honour. Mum has now purchased copies for every car
so she can listen to it while she taxis around. She is the show's #1 Fan.
Opening night on wednesday night! Neil Gooding and the beautiful Katrina are flying down
from Sydney and will see the show and then stay at Hotel Kaplan, along with the rest of my
family and some close friends. Doing my first show in Melbourne is quite special as for
many of the people who couldn't fly up to Sydney for Hatpin this will be their
first chance to see me perform since prior to WAAPA and what company to be seen amongst,
at the state theatre with a fabulous role. I'm as content as a bagel at a bar mitzvah!
Lets fight this bitter melbourne chill with some honey and lemon tea...
See you on stage...
xox
Gem
---
Tuesday, July 8
I love my job.
JOHN DIEDRICH, ANNE WOOD, PHILIP GOULD, DEBRA BYRNE, MONIQUE BRYNNEL, KENNETH COLLINS,
JUDI CONNELLI, NANCYE HAYES, MELISSA LANGTON,PATTI NEWTON, BUD TINGWELL...
These are just a few of the people I go to work with EVERYDAY...
Excuse me while I faint.
I am just overwhelmed, I simply cannot get over how fortunate I am to have been given this
opportunity. An opportunity not only to share a stage with them, but to work as a
principal artist amongst such an awe inspiring cast! It is a truly a blessing...(I was so
overwhelmed that today I actually welled up in rehearsals.)
With rehearsals being so intense, I hadn't had the opportunity to spend much time with my
colleagues, or see much of what has been going on in the other rehearsal rooms during the
course of the first week. Needless to say, today as we stumbled through the first act I
was totally blown away.
Now, I don't want to, nor can I give too much away, but Nancye Hayes' 'rehearsal'
rendition of 'Broadway Baby' was enough to leave me laughing hysterically...I can only
imagine how an audience is going to respond. This woman is mind blowing, I hope she wont
mind me bragging about her online, but I would give a whole lot to be as fabulous as her.
Director, Roger Hodgman has the most incredible eye for detail and an unequaled
temperament in his ability to relate to anyone from Bud Tingwell, to myself, to our
meticulous stage management. He is a wonderful man, who is really bringing what I believe
is one of Sondheim's greatest compositions to life.
Did I mention I love my job? Sorry, enough gushing!
Tomorrow night I am off to see Caroline O' Connor as Scarlet O'Hara, I haven't
seen her since we completed recording the Hatpin Soundtrack (which I have to add,
has its anticipated release this week, I haven't heard any of it and I am PLUTZING!) I am
really excited about seeing her in action, but also having a chance to catch up.
I am driving my poor mother up the wall on my mission to "GO GREEN" and entirely
organic in the Kaplan family home, so as a tribute...Let us drink arguably the most
satisfying of all beverages...A glass of water!
Till next week,
X
Gem
---
Tuesday, July 1
My mum, better known as Superwoman made the most delicious pot of
Butternut Pumpkin goodness yesterday and after my first day of rehearsals in a freezing
rehearsal room, whilst adjusting to this city’s bitter climate, I have never enjoyed
soup more…So a cup for the week (maybe more than one).
Today the room is warmer, stage management has got the heaters working, making it much
more pleasant. I am really enjoying myself. To begin with Follies is such a
fabulous piece and after doing a read through with only the eight principals yesterday we
realised that even without all the other songs, stories and Follies, the journey for just
the four central characters is enthralling and touching
The first day of rehearsals we ‘the 4 young ones’ met out older selves. I play
Debra Byrne’s younger self and she is divine. Marvellous to watch rehearse but such
an amazingly warm woman. John Diedrich, Phillip Gould and Anne Wood play the other roles,
and their younger counterparts; Stephen Mahy, Chris Durling and Amy Lephamer.
We are all getting along fondly and having a ball. I keep having these glorious
little moments, as I watch these amazing actors at work, how blessed I am to have worked
with all these Australian icons in my first year as a professional. Truly it is more
educational than any class one can take.
The Production Company have such a great attitude as well, they make you feel like you are
part of a family immediately. Today Jeanne Pratt came in and I had a good chat to her, she
is fabulous and so lovely.
She has also been in NY in the last couple of months so we discussed our theatre visits
and she asked after my sister Dena, as she played Louis in Carousel with The
Production Company about five years back.
With the limited time that the shows are produced in the Company would obviously have to
have some kind of method, I was so looking forward to seeing how they managed to so
efficiently put on what I have always considered to be tight and classy musicals. What is
astounding about human nature is how well organised one can be when one has to. And I
guess the same premise goes for the Company, everything just gets done! Everyone is at
work, WORKING, which is a start and completing tasks with attention to detail and an eye
on the clock. Being the list maker I am…I’m loving it!!
I have made a slow but full recovery from my jet lag and I’m feeling very vibrant,
alive and well. Once again I adored my travels, and New York truly feel like a home away
from home now. Nevertheless there is nothing like home cooked meals, my bed, a routine and
a night on the couch doing jjgsaw puzzles with the family.
---
Wednesday, June 25
The last two weeks have flown by, I want to apologise for my column ... or
lack thereof, I really have not had much access to internet and have been running around
between NY, Philadelphia, New Jersey, dance classes, singing lessons, shows and many other
incredible adventures.
My trip was amazing. Spending time with my sister was my main intention in going to NY,
but the trip became so much more. The two of us had a ball and it only reminded me why
since my first trip to the Big Apple, I have referred to it as The Homeland...
Being in NY during Tony's season was especially fabulous, there was such a buzz
surrounding the theatre district, which is in fact where Dena's apartment is. I saw four
Broadway shows, I LOVED all of them that I saw.
The last few trips I have been disappointed whether it be by standard of talent,
sound or some other imperfection that niggled at me, but all of these shows were stunning
in their own way. I saw In The Heights, which I mentioned in my last column
(subsequently it won the TONY for Best Musical...no surprises there), Sunday In The
Park with George, LIFE CHANGING, a visual and emotional sensation, Chicago,
a classic- still shockingly crisp and amazing and Young Frankenstein (with my
daddy)...SO FUNNY!!!
My singing lessons over in NY were perhaps six of the most well spent hours of my life as
a performer...I learnt so much about myself as a singer and more over our craft than I
could ever have expected in such a short time. I was having coaching from two teachers,
totally different in their technique and outlooks on what is "in" on Broadway,
but equally beneficial.
Now I am sitting The Heritage Hotel in Auckland NZ, heading home tomorrow to begin
rehearsals for Follies entirely inspired to give my all....A little bit more in
love with Sondheim (if that's possible) and ready to WORK! Yay...
I will miss NY, but I have my fingers and toes crossed that as soon as possible I will be
back, maybe for work, maybe for permanent. Only time will tell.
---
Tuesday, June 10
The last two weeks have been SENSATIONAL to say the least. I have had such
an inspiring time as always, it has been different to my other trips though, as it has
really been more of a 'living' experience than a holiday, kind of a pretend small version
of what my life will be like when I move here. I have not made any formal decisions yet,
as I really have to wait until I have a green card and obviously if there is fantastic
work opportunities in Australia I will stay home and work.
My sister's life is amazing and motivating, she does three sometimes four dance classes a
day all with phenomenal teachers with experience the likes of which we only see in
Australia once in a blue moon. Everything is truly at your fingertips. The two of us just
have so much fun together, we find each other hysterically funny....which I am not
actually sure we are, but laughter is laughter and we do SO MUCH of it...
I did a really fantastic theatre class the other day with a Fosse veteran, the warm up is
totally choreographed so it took me a while to settle in but once I got on to it the whole
class was just amazing, this woman is just a big ball of FOSSE knowledge, I mean she
refers to the guy as BOB they were totally tight. Ha. She has done every Fosse show not to
mention choreography for West Side and more... and she was even the FRUG dancer
in Sweet Charity!
Virtually every teacher at Broadway Dance Centre and Steps has this wealth of knowledge
and experience...
Last week we went to see In the Heights, it was Dena's 3rd time and now I know
why. The Tony's are on the 15th and I'll be very surprised if this show doesn't win best
show along with the other squillion awards it has been nominated for...IT IS THE BEST
MUSICAL I have seen in a very very long time. Truly revolutionary, bridging the gap
between popular music, rap, hip hop, contemporary dance and musical theatre not to mention
an exquisitely moving and interesting story line set in Washington Heights. I doubt that
this show will ever make its way down under. BUT if you are ever in NY or know anyway
coming here, you can recommend they see it with 100% confidence they will enjoy... They
simply cannot be disappointed. The cast are sensational and the composer and writer is
actually the lead, it's mind boggling.
Oh, I just have too much to share, but seeing as I have limited time to write and this is
a theatre website I will filter... I saw Alvin AIley dance company on Saturday night in
Brooklyn. This company's outstanding reputation made me VERY excited, counting down the
days, I had booked excellent seats, and I am thrilled to inform that I was not at all
disappointed. The show was breath taking. I loved it!
I have been having some singing lessons with an incredible teacher over here and doing
really great Yoga and Pilates classes...and counteracting that all with MUCH indulgence at
various funky restaurants and silly amounts of Ice cream to get us through this scorching
heat...Today is 36 degrees Celsius!
So many more things to speak of, but running out of time so will have to wait till next
week
Lets have a cosmo...To toast the opening of Sex And The City. Loved it!
---
Tuesday, May 27
My loyal sippers, apologies for keeping you in the dark regarding, my
drinks, my work and life.
I had a big secret and I didn’t want to spoil the surprise. I’m in NEW YORK!!
In a spontaneous fit of spontaneous spontaneity I booked a ticket last Thursday and before
I knew it, it was Sunday and I was knocking on my sister's door on 55th st.
She was SO surprised, she stood in silence for about 30 seconds just staring at me and
then burst into tears over a long embrace and a whole lot of “What the hell are you
doing here?” and “What is going on!?” From the moment I arrived we have not
left each other's side and we are having an absolute ball. ‘The homeland’ is as
I remembered it, INCREDIBLE!
I will be here a month and have set up singing lessons with a couple of the best teachers
in the world, which I’m sure will be so beneficial and I will of course be going to
see LOTS of shows AND shoes. Ha. Tomorrow night I am going to see South Pacific
at the Lincoln Centre with Kellie O’Hara, I have heard wonderful things and it has
been nominated for a stack of Tonys. I have also booked tickets to In the Heights
and Alvin Ailey. There are lots of others I am planning on seeing, but none that
I will pre-book for.
So far I have joined up at my sister's gym which is so stunning and I have found an
incredible Yoga room which is in the Dream hotel, I can’t wait to try it. Despite the
fact that this city is virtually a second home to me I am still just astonished at how
everything is just bigger and better and quite delicious.
Especially the frozen yogurt!
It's not a drink but in this fabulous heat, it is virtually a milkshake SO I will drink
mine up AND I’ll have a few for all of you back in Aus!
Xox
Gem
---
Tuesday, May 13
The most exciting news possibly EVER to hit the family household came this
week... my sister Dena, was cast in A BROADWAY SHOW. The news was obviously thrilling for
us all and I was a walking around beaming with pride.
The week was spent with frantic phone calls to and from lawyers and so on. The
unfortunate news is that it was a carrot dangle. Everybody knows how hard it is to work in
the States, what nobody tells you is that even when you have put in all the hard yards and
finally secured a work VISA; the actors equity in the states will NOT allow you to work
there WITHOUT a green card. So, the union 'protection' for actors sadly 'protects' a
little too well. As one can imagine, the disappointment was enormous, but it is not the be
all and end all. It is only a matter of time before she will get her green card and the
fact that she has been shortlisted for many Broadway shows already and in fact landed a
role in one at the age of 19 is only testament to her talent and that in fact in nine
months or a year when she CAN work she will only be more prepared to take the theatre
world by storm and live the dream (and perhaps put in a good word for her Big SIS!!).
Tomorrow I am taking my Ma-ma (mum's mum) to see Opera Australia's production of My
Fair Lady courtesy of the wonderful Jen Peers. I am SO looking forward to seeing the
stage show, as I have actually never seen a production and have always adored the film
version. It will also be so luv-er-ly to spend one on one quality time with Ma-ma, who
only returned last week from a round the world trip and is just full of stories and
adventures. She actually became friends with Rosario Dawson who was filming a
multi-million dollar film with Will Smith opposite my uncle's L.A pad in the Hollywood
Hills.
That is it for this week, besides of course the drink of the week; In honour of my
adopted sister Deanna who is living with us at the moment while she house hunts and
rehearses Wicked, and has expressed interest in buying an estate and a Vineyard
to feed her second passion, after dance...a glass of red.
---
Tuesday, May 6
Charleston Follies liqueur. A French passion-fruit liqueur produced by
Marie Brizard. A most appropriate drink to begin this week...
My agent called yesterday with a very much earlier than expected offer for the role
I auditioned for only Sunday in the Production Company's first show for 2008, Follies.
I will be playing the role of YOUNG SALLY!!
I am so thrilled to be given the opportunity to have a such a wonderful role
alongside John Diedrich, Anne Wood, Philip Gould, Debra Byrne, Monique Brynnel, Kenneth
Collins, Judi Connelli, Nancye Hayes, Melissa Langton, Judith Roberts, Patti Newton and
Bud Tingwell.
And of course the INCREDIBLE news about The Hatpin being invited to the New York
Music Theatre Festival is just the best thing since Max Brenner....
WHAT A WEEK!!!
xoxo
Gem
---
Tuesday, April 29
 Allow me to
introduce you to the newest addition to my family...Toffee. Toffee-Apple Kaplan (here at
the Kaplan household we embrace the hyphen) hehe. Isn't she just too much?
As you can imagine, I have spent most of my week obsessing over her.
Theatrically unproductive I know, but she has just brought my entire family SO much joy.
Somehow I think she will be the exception to the Kaplan girls, I don't imagine a
performance career is on the horizon for this little girl.
Sunday night's closing of Priscilla was an explosive celebration. The show was
absolutely wonderful. I actually felt sad that I only got to see it twice. The
choreography especially is so detailed, not to mention the flawless performance of the
sensational Tony Sheldon.
Bernadette was breathtaking! AGAIN!
Saw The Painted Veil today, it was worth seeing. Beautiful imagery and a
very moving story.
I am so looking forward to the Wicked cast settling in to Melbourne this week,
alongside Opera Australia's 'Luverly' My Fair Lady gang!
On Thursday I am heading to Dayelsford to spend the day on set at the Saddle
Club and see how things are done up on the film set there and to celebrate my
sister's birthday.
Melbourne's winter is settling in very nicely and as I sip on a mug of hot Cocoa I
sense it is a fitting drink for the week to come.
Warm and Welcoming Winter Wishes,
Gem
---
Tuesday, April 22
It has been a fairly quiet week. I was flown up to Sydney for a callback
and it is Passover at the moment, so that has been all consuming. There's been Seders,
family gatherings and of course no Jewish festival passes by without incredulous amounts
of food. For those who don't know what Passover is, it's the eight days of the year when
the Jewish people remember their Exodus from Egypt... it's a big deal for us, and usually
falls around easter time.
We eat Matzah, a giant Salada looking cracker made from only flour and water.
Additionally we don't eat anything that rises, for example: bread, pasta, rice, biscuit.
This is because when Moses came to free the Jews they did not have time for their bread to
rise and as a result ate Matzah for 40 days and 40 nights.
Brad, a good friend of mine from my WAAPA class arrives tomorrow and we are going
to see Guy And Dolls together, I'm excited!! I have also got a ticket to the
closing night of Priscilla on Sunday night. So, hopefully will have a lot more
info of theatrical relevance to share next week.
Oh, I almost forgot...Lets have a cup of steaming delicious soup to welcome the winter.
Big Smiles :)
Gem
---
Tuesday, April 15
Last Wednesday I received a phone call from a dear friend who is currently
in her 3rd year at WAAPA. They are working on the mid-year musical at moment which happens
to be Oklahoma! directed by the wonderful Terence O'Connell. Now those that saw
The Production Company's version a couple of years ago will recall that he was the
director of that production too;.and he will also direct of one of the Production
Company's 10 year anniversary musicals this year.
So, what was Kate calling me about? To congratulate me. For what? I didn't know, nor did
my boyfriend, but the whole of WAAPA knew before we did that Matt and I had both been cast
in Damn Yankees! Classic. What an interesting way to find out! I am so thrilled
to be doing another musical this year. I have had a connection with this show ever since
seeing the Damn Yankees dance on the FOSSE DVD as well as having a recording of
'You Gotta Have Heart' by the Broadway Kids which I choreographed numerous dances to with
my sisters when we were younger.
This will be mine and Matt's 11th musical together, which has to be some kind of
record...a toast to that then...a real American drink, an ice cold Cherry Cola!
I saw a sensational film today called The Black Balloon with Toni Collete. I urge
you all to see this. A fantastic Australian piece.
Looking forward to another busy week,
Gem
xox
---
Tuesday, April 8
Life has been wonderful. I have started to really take my Pilates to a new
level; I am training with real drive now to become the best I can be. I absolutely love
it. Mum and I are also doing Yoga, which is just one of the most enlivening and
spiritually satisfying exercises one can do!
I saw Shane Warne The Musical on Sunday, and even though the style of this
show is not my cup of tea, Eddie Perfect is a genius! Genius I tell you. I just hope the
show does as well. He is a wiz with words, so intelligently creating really silly
laugh-out-loud comedy.
I hardly leave my house at the moment, except for auditions and classes. My mum
bought me this amazing milk frother, and I have been enjoying hot frothy milk and honey
every day since I received it. It is delectably soothing and warming and so I pronounce it
drink of the week...
My week of intensive singing lessons has been just that. Intensely trying to learn
how to belt, I have had some sweet revelations and also some tragically frustrating
moments...I will continue in my pursuit of a belt...If only it was as easily accessible as
its heteronym friend....
Today was a very big day and I am off to dinner for my cousin's birthday so I wish
you all a well quenched week....
Much love
Gem
---
Tuesday, April 1
My Dad returned from China on Saturday with the most amazing tea set; a
gift from some colleagues in Shanghai. It is so delicate and beautiful, with Jasmine
flower tea pods that expand in boiling water to create a subtle and soothing drink of the
week.
It has been a busy week, spent mostly in the recording studio, which was just the most
fantastic experience. I expected it to be somewhat exhausting but the time just flew and I
so enjoyed every minute of the whole session. The first song, on first day of recording,
was none other than my song, 'The Hatpin.' Now, anyone who saw the show will understand
why I got up that morning at the crack of dawn, to make sure I was totally warmed up.
After all, if you make a boo boo on stage it can be forgotten. But there is only so much a
sound engineer can do if you simply don't deliver the goods on the day of recording and a
CD is FOREVER. Your cold voice could potentially be immortalised. Ha. The good news is,
due to orchestra members stuck in Sydney traffic, Caroline and I ended up recording our
duet first which is a beautiful song, but much easier on the old vocal chords so that
turned out splendidly. I haven't heard any of it back yet, so I am looking forward to that
day....
The Hatpin is over for now, and it feels strange. It's the unknown which is the most
bizarre... I have had a few auditions this week and hopefully something excellent will
come along that is as challenging and fantastic as The Hatpin was.
I am now home in Melbourne, having a singing lesson in the coming week to work on my belt,
which I think I may have discovered with my teacher last week...so, If I conquer that, I
will be a VERY happy girl. This could take years...So, don't hold your breath...
This is all for now....
Have a splendid week...
xox
G
---
Tuesday, March 25
Home Sweet Home!....Judy Garland best described it when she said
"there's no place like it".
After a whirlwind round of what I'm fairly certain was an unsuccessful High School
Musical callback I packed up my entire apartment in an hour, shot through to the
airport and made it back to my second favourite city (NY takes that title hands down).
Thursday night my mum and dad put on a massive feast in celebration of my return. No
words....Just a sound....YUM!!!!! They had also invited a few of the Saddle Club
cast members and their families. It was a lovely weekend at home, had my little sis around
which was great and although Dad flew off to China on Saturday we spent Good Friday
together.
It's quite pathetic I suppose that even though I'm Jewish, I feel as though I'm totally
entitled to tempt a certain death by chocolate over Easter....It's sick. It's not bad
enough I have serious problems resisting all year round, but on Easter (or Jewster) I just
lose the plot! If I had eaten as many actual bunnies and eggs as I did the chocolate kind
perhaps I would have a whole lot more muscle mass from the protein overload instead of the
new found fat rolls that have arrived on my tum and bum!
Last night my gorgeous boyfriend took me out to the theatre. We saw the MTC's production
of Holding The Man and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm not proud of the fact, but I am
generally an impatient audience member, very easily distracted and I guess hard to please.
Happy to report though, that despite some very particular elements that frustrated me, I
think this is a great piece of innovative, thought provoking, well constructed, hard
hitting, beautiful theatre.
Had some cousins from South Africa arrive today so had a far too brief catch up with them
as we crossed paths at the airport, and now I am on the plane back to Sydney, where I will
spend the next two days in the studio recording the Original Cast Recording of The
Hatpin. Yay!!
We are now commencing our decent in to Sydney, so I will sign off.
Oh, I almost forgot...A DRINK! Umm....Pineapple Juice! To coat my vocal cords for a big
couple of days of singing....
xoxo
Gem
---
Tuesday, March 18
Shalom Chaverim! (translation: Hello Friends)
The days just seem to fly by. The Hatpin closed on Saturday night and there were
mixed emotions - A big SMOOTHIE (drink of the week) blend of joy, pride, loss, happiness,
sadness and emptiness all overflowing my little frame. I couldn't really pinpoint the
exact feeling but as we took our final bow, mostly I just recognised that I was incredibly
blessed. How fortunate I was to have been given the opportunity to work with that
astounding cast on such a glorious piece, with a committed and brilliant crew and possibly
one the most amazing roles ever! I had great support on closing night with many friends
and members of my family flying in from Melbourne, as I mentioned last week.
Even my wonderful Mitchell Fistrovic, Greece's So You Think You Can Dance star
was there. A busy week ahead with High School Musical call backs tomorrow
morning, and then audition prep for some other things next week. I return to Melbourne on
Thursday, and I'm looking forward to getting back home. I must say the thrill of living on
my own has started to wear off, I miss having company, someone to share a cuppa with while
watching Will And Grace or Top Model.....I will none the less miss some
things about this city. Namely, the wonderful friendships I have here. My WAAPA class is
mostly here, and I will really find it strange being away from them. Also, my new friends,
The Hatpin clan. I really cannot express how much I enjoyed working with this
group. Especially, the chicks of Joy, as well called ourselves in the dressing room. We
had such a special bond. That being said I will be back next week. Ha. I know. Yes, in to
the studio to record the cast recording.
That is all for this week. I hope you all continue to enjoy this very late summer as much
as I am.
xoxo
Gem
---
Tuesday, March 11
I am loving every minute of the The Hatpin. There is not a moment
or a scene I don't enjoy playing in the piece, I imagine this is very rare and I keep
acknowledging how lucky I am to have this role. I am only sad that we have just seven
shows until we close on Saturday night. It has flown by so fast as most good things do. My
parents once again spent a large portion of the week with me, which was lovely. I was very
tired this week, so just having them around was really nice, they SPOIL me.
Yesterday was spent at a recording studio at Fox Studios doing backing vocals for
Tyran Parke's album, which might I add is going to be STUNNING! I was intending to head
straight to the Kookaburra launch straight after that, but, recording took longer than
expected so I never made it there. The rest of my weekend was spent preparing for two
auditions that I have coming up. Tomorrow I will audition for High School Musical between
my matinee and evening show and on Thursday I fly to Melbourne for just a couple of hours
to do a recall for a TV series. So, despite my severe allergy to it, if everyone else
could have a coffee for me this week that'd be great, as I think I might need a serious
caffeine hit and an excellent audition smoothie to go.
This week, my singing teacher from WAAPA, Lesley, is flying across to see the show,
which means so much to me. As is Andrew Lewis who is the head of performance at the
academy, my best friend from Melbourne and his girlfriend, my mum's best friend Helen (who
is my 2nd mother), another very dear friend from home AS WELL as my parents, granny and
lil sis returning for closing night.
I cannot believe that this time next week I will be packing up to head home....IT'S
BIZARRE. If you haven't seen the show yet call the SEYMOUR CENTRE and book seats for your
last chance to see the Australian Premiere of The Hatpin. If you have and you
liked it, please tell your friends.
xoxo
Gem
---
Tuesday, March 4
The week.....It came and went in a flash and it was everything and more
than I had ever expected. We have to toast to a success with a glass of champagne.
Opening night was just so incredible. A standing ovation the likes of which I have never
experienced and the wave of emotion hit like a tsunami. Ha. I was so overwhelmed,
especially when James and Peter came up on the stage after the cast had bowed. I stood
there and felt as though the world was cinematically moving in slow motion.
Needless to say the foyer afterwards was just so vibrant. I had my extended family
there as well as my amazing boyfriend and even my agent flew up. My dressing room was
overflowing with bouquets and boxes of flowers and in fact it became a joke within the
cast, they couldn't get over how many people sent me flowers...Nor could the usher who was
delivering them. Mind you, neither could I. I am so blessed to have so many people support
me through my first step into this wonderful world.
The week that followed was fantastic, I had my parents and my ma-ma here and we
stayed at Star City which was lovely...I felt as though I could really relax during the
day to ensure that I was giving absolutely everything when it came to the show at night.
The reviews have been mostly fabulous and I am so thrilled with the lovely feedback I have
received. I just hope that more and more people come and see this beautiful piece of
theatre and basically, my dream is that this is just the beginning for The Hatpin.
We are at the moment waiting to hear more about when we will be recording the CD which
should happen very soon. I am so enjoying every moment of being Clara. I am just so
fortunate...and looking back so thrilled that I decided to fly back for the audition.
Had a lovely weekend and celebrated Jodie Harris' birthday at her place with lovely
dinner with many of the Hatpin crew and some others and spent some time
with Vanessa and Eliza my very close friends from WAAPA. Vanessa actually delivered my
birthday present last night, my birthday was in November, but I can tell you this was WELL
WORTH THE WAIT. She painted me the most wonderful piece, it is all centred around
Audrey Hepburn...I cant even begin to describe this amazing painting, she is just so
talented...I Love it and it is now on display in my apartment.
I have been learning backing vocals for Tyran Parke's new album which from what I
have heard us going to be just stunning, we are recording next Monday so have been
heading in to the theatre early to rehearse that.
I have a few auditions and a call-back coming up this week, so I will be sure to
keep you updated, fingers crossed with promising results.
Anyway, best be off now, try and get some more rest (I can't seem to shake the
exhaustion), I think the emotional load of the show just really takes it out of me. I am
so looking forward to another week of shows and am just going to thrive in every moment as
we are closing in 10 days...SO if you have not seen it, call the SEYMOUR CENTRE and BOOK
NOW (closing on 15th).
---
Tuesday, February 26
As I sit watching the Oscars, I catch myself feeling sorry for all of the
people there having to sit all that time, looking amused and then still have to go to a
party after it all...then I suddenly think...SNAP OUT OF IT you ANTISOCIAL PSYCHO they are
at the Academy Awards!
Now let me start by assuring you all that if there was a traditional drink to toast
apologies, I would be buying the first, second and third rounds to apologise for all my
missed columns.
Hopefully I can make up for it now that I finally have internet, thanks to my very
handsome and wonderful father (xxoo).
Well, The Hatpin has previewed to wonderful response and even a standing ovation.
I am looking forward now to our opening night in one sleep, but my tummy has different
emotions! The last few weeks have been incredibly full on for me and of course the rest of
the Hatpin crew.
We have literally breathed, eaten, laughed and cried HATPIN...not much sleep involved. It
is despite lack of rest such an honour and a joy to be a part of it all. A new work has
such an edge about it. That feeling of never really knowing how each moment will be
received never mind the show in its entirety. It truly is such a unique piece of theatre,
unlike any I have ever seen. It's special and I love my role, now that I finally feel I
have found her and the the real truth and essence of this girl who led such an intensely
complex life. Please book tickets and come along if you haven't already. Even if you don't
enjoy brilliant writing or incredible music...this true story needs to be heard.
Last week was filled with publicity from interviews to photo shoots. My most exciting bit
of publicity was filming the Kerri-Anne show. WOW it was fabulous. The set was so
interesting and I really was just playing sponge and soaking it all up.
Other than that, I have spent a bit of time with my gorgeous class mates, went to see the
crew in Hello Again who all gave really fantastic performances. I have a little
house now in Pyrmont, it's a very modern little studio loft terrace built in what used to
be an atrium at the back of a house.
Mum and Dad flew up with my youngest sister Ariel and surprised me for the preview on
Saturday night. I was so surprised and thrilled as I was truly yearning for some home and
family time, they flew back on Sunday and will return on Wednesday along with my grandmas
and my spunky boyfriend. I am missing them all terribly. Matty actually surprised me and
flew up last Monday as an early Valentine's present on his day off, I though that was
pretty romantic.
Have only had one audition for a children's TV series which went very well, so will keep
you all updated on any developments on that front....
Will be in touch next week
L'chaim
Gem
xoxo
---
Tuesday, February 5
I love Himalayan Goji juice. It is the new health drink phenomenon and it
is SO delicious. The catch is, one is meant to limit daily intake to 30mls. Which is
virtually the same as suggesting one should only have a single piece of dark chocolate a
day as a means of maintaining a diet high in Antioxidants. Haha. Funny. With my level of
will power when it comes to chocolate it is much more likely to heighten all my figurely
measurements than anything else.
Rehearsals are well underway now, the magic of what I can see is going to be something
very special is evolving right in front of my big brown eyes. Kim Hardwick, the director,
is so clever. It is wonderful to finally be a part of this amazing profession and watch
someone create and mould and visualise this beautiful piece of writing.
The less good news is that I spent the weekend feeling rather upset and frustrated, I must
be honest my first week of rehearsal was tougher than I had initially expected. I think my
eagerness to deliver a good day's work led me to pushing and well just trying too hard. I
had a long weekend with Monday off and spent most of it stewing over why I wasn't
satisfied with my work.... I think I have managed to reach a conclusion with the help of
my boyfriend, mum, dad, cousins and of course my host, writer and amazing friend James. I
am hoping that this time next week I can report back with glowing reports of my
progress...
Till then,
Gem
x
---
Tuesday, January 29
Drink of the week…MAGIC TEA!
Only a few very special people have tried my magic tea. I hope one day I can introduce
magic tea to the world. Until then, you will have to trust me. It’s YUMMY! (and let
me assure you, very legal).
Today was my first day of rehearsals for The Hatpin. I'm a professional! YAY! It
was so very exciting but I was also nervous for the first read. Which, hence the name, was
the very FIRST thing we did. I won't go in to details except to say that to be given the
opportunity to be in a rehearsal room with such incredibly vibrant, strong a ridiculously
talented women like I was today is INCREDIBLY humbling. Not to exclude the men, who are
equally as brilliant. Basically, I just feel so blessed and lucky and incredibly excited
to create this role amongst all these experienced and inspirational performers.
I had a moment with a freaky ballet teacher in a hot pink wig today. She yelled at me. It
was VERY FUNNY! I wish I could go in to more detail but I’m afraid someone will know
someone and it will get back to her and she was scary. Ha.
Life in Sydney is lovely, I’m living in the hills and it’s beautiful out here. I
am being very well looked after by everyone in the show. I must admit though, the move has
been a bit daunting. Mainly because I have done it on my own. Unlike when I moved to
Perth, where I had Mum and Dad come over with me, not to mention Matt.
Lots more to tell, but I am so tired after my first day. I can’t even think straight.
I must go now and continue my Love My Way marathon….
So, more stories next week and until then….
Abracdabra…MAGIC TEA and goodnight.
---
Tuesday, January 22
Spent a week pampering myself at day spas this week…. I know.
It’s a tough life. They provided me with a more mobile body, a relaxed mind and a
quenched thirst; Thanks to premium blends of herbal teas. So, ‘Polly put the kettle
on’…It’s TEA TIME.
My best friend Julien returned from three weeks playing with the Melbourne Philharmonic
Orchestra on tour of China this week. He had the most wonderful stories to tell. I was in
Shanghai last year for three weeks while my sisters were performing in The Lion King
there and I had the most amazing time. His photos conjured up some of those fantastic
memories. He actually brought me home a stunning tin of the finest emperor blend of
Chinese Green tea, so it really was a week of tea drinking…
By the way, the detox NEVER happened.
Spent the last couple of days in Daylesford, where Ariel is filming the Saddle Club.
For those who don’t know of Daylesford, it is known as “Spa Country”. It
was my middle sister Dena’s birthday. So Mum, Dena’s boyfriend and myself took
her on a surprise day trip on Sunday.
We had a girlie day at the spa and then the lovers checked in to a gorgeous bed and
breakfast run by an even more gorgeous gay couple. It is called Balconies. They actually
started telling me about how they had gone to see Priscilla in Melbourne and how
fabulous it was, so when I revealed that my boyfriend was going to be in it they were so
excited. It is Matt’s opening night tonight and I have butterflies for him. I have
also organised two surprises for him, which I think he will love. More on that next week.
It has worked out quite conveniently actually, because I will get to see the show on
Wednesday before I move to Sydney on Friday. I cannot wait to see him up there; Pioneering
the WAAPA graduating class of 07 in to the Professional Industry.
Have a beautiful week…
Gem
---
Tuesday, January 15
I’m going on Detox this week (Stop laughing Eliza!). Starting today
actually. The silly season has left me feeling the digestive damage and I will now attempt
to cancel out the indiscriminate amounts of chocolate I have consumed. Time to revitalise
and what better to do that with than a frosted glass of icy water with a slice of lemon!
Saw a really fun flick last night. 27 Dresses. I have never watched Grey's
Anatomy, mainly due to my hours at WAAPA. It didn’t leave much time for TV
series addictions and because I LOVE TV, I couldn’t allow myself to get sucked in.
Which would result in my work being sacrificed. Anyway, tangent, tangent. Katherine Heigl
is AMAZING! I truly believe comedy in its subtlety is the most difficult genre to conquer
as an actor and she seemed to do it with a real natural ease.
Enough reviewing, I don’t actually recall that being in the brief for this column.
Perhaps I can get a promotion to reviews next year. HA!
Last Thursday I attended the opening night of SHOUT! I had a ball. Caught up with
some friends and colleagues I haven’t seen in up to four years in some cases. It was
really refreshing. I was wearing my new FABULOUS heels (a gift from my gorgeous sister) so
I couldn’t stay very late for fear of what was fast becoming necessary cortisone
injections to relieve the pain in my feet (I am not accustomed to the world of
‘stilettos’ and generally just embrace my tiny stature).
My boyfriend Matt has been working his little drag queen bootie off from 10 till 6 every
day this week on Priscilla with only a week till his first performance. So, we
have been trying to squeeze in some time together before my move to Sydney in exactly 10
days…
That’s all for this week…
Live and Drink it up!
Gem
xox
---
Tuesday, January 8
Baileys….Mmmm….Creamy, Relaxing, Indulgent.
Definitely my choice of drink for the summer holidays.
Had a Fantastic week away at a stunning resort in Torquay. Victoria’s weather has
been absolutely wonderful between the beach, the sun and so so so much food. Not much to
report on the performance front unfortunately, or fortunately, it really has been lovely
to have a REAL holiday.
Today marked the unofficial first day of my working year. I have begun researching and
getting ready for my move to Sydney.
The person I am closest to in the whole world (excluding my gorgeous family of course)
landed himself a role in Priscilla on Saturday afternoon, so we have spent the
last couple of days celebrating his first professional gig as a Drag Queen!!
I saw Enchanted over the weekend….This was by far the most fun I have had
watching a film since Borat. I must admit though, I feel totally robbed of the
role of Giselle, and only INSANELY JEALOUS! But I give credit where credit is due and Amy
Adams was truly fantastic. For those who don’t know me, my dream is to be a Disney
princess, Princess Jasmine to be precise. So, a film where the animation actually comes to
life, is just the ‘Ultimate'.
Looking forward to another week of a little more work than play perhaps. But still
enjoying this beautiful summer we are having. Looking forward to attending the opening
night of Shout! on Thursday, so will let you know how it goes….
Shalom and Cheers
Gem x
---
Thursday, December 20
Seeing as though this is my last column for 2007, let us toast to the New
Year, with a class a glass of champagne.
Not all that much to report this week…Things are starting to quieten down in
readiness for my favourite time of year. Yes, I am Jewish but 99% of my friends
aren’t so I do get to celebrate Christmas.
Unfortunately, people feel almost guilty about involving the little Jew, so the downside
is, there is a whole lot of giving and not a whole lot of getting when it comes to
presents. HA! But that of course is really not what it is all about at all. Special time
with family and friends, warm wishes and X-mas pudding make it all worth while.
I had a few meetings with casting agents this week, just basic general go see’s and
chats. It turned out to be a great time of year to do that because they are fairly quiet,
and I could spend a good deal of time getting to know them and picking their brains.
Yesterday, I took a trip to Dayelsford to visit my little sister on the set of The
Saddle Club. It was such a wonderfully humbling experience, To see the enormity of
what goes on was astounding. I had lunch on set and of course I knew that on paper it took
a lot of people to make these things happen. But watching these caterers seamlessly serve
approx 80 people just blew my mind. They do that three times a day for eight months!! It
is just sensational. Everyone on the set was so hospitable and made me feel most welcome.
The horse trainers even allowed me to spend some time getting to know a couple of the many
show horses who live out in the estate. It was absolutely amazing. Being there only
further sparked the little fire inside me burning to tackle film and TV.
Received my script for The Hatpin yesterday. VERY EXCITING! Now, I can begin to
prepare so that when I get into the rehearsal room with Caroline O’Connor I
don’t completely freeze!! Ha.
I wish you my fellow beverage lovers a Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy New Year.
Til we drink again
Xoox
Gem
---
Thursday, December 13
Limoncelo is a most divine Italian liqueur, which I was introduced to last
night. Now, for those who know me, pick your jaws up off the floor…. Yes, I did drink
alcohol but I couldn’t actually taste anything that pungent. Rather, a deliciously
tangy lemon sorbet flavour, in a gorgeous port glass at the absolutely delightful Café E
Cuccina in South Yarra. So, one of those this week please….
Not a particularly eventful week.... thus its appeal. A week to relax.
My body seems to have turned to lead. It’s that whole thing of when you finally
relax. No complaints though; Watching TV, cooking shows and re runs of the actors studio
(which I might add are the most valuable lessons a young actor could wish for), sleeping
in and eating delicious home cooked meals. These are things I have been itching to have
the time to do for three years.
Katie Noonan in concert at Manchester Lane was just heavenly. A whole crowd of my WAAPA
friends along with my family attended and we all left totally awestruck.
I have seen some brilliant and other not so amazing films this week. But I will
recommend everyone see the film Evening. It is out on DVD starring Clare Danes,
Meryl Streep, Vanessa Redgrave and Glenn Close.
Got my family tickets to ‘Spam-a-lot’ last night. They absolutely loved it. As
did I. Jason Langley was our favourite, just hilarious!!
That being said we are Jewish. So a little bias perhaps, but let's hope the lyrics he so
poignantly delivered echoes true, for the sake of my future in this
industry….”You wont succeed on Broadway if you don’t have any Jews”
Till we drink again,
Gem
---
Thursday, December 6
This week I will order a freshly prepared homemade lemonade to celebrate
being in my own home….Finally!
What I’ve realised is that a week goes by really quickly when you have a regular
date….Where does the time go I ask you?… Lets debrief…
The weekend was wonderful. Beginning with Friday evening, our official ‘closing
night,’ the last time our class would perform as a group. The event was held at the
absolutely stunning Sydney Antique Centre in Surry Hills and was a concert titled
“Antics and Antiques” to raise funds for the Opera and Arts support group. This
group is an amazing friend to performers like us, offering funds to poor artists, so
really ALL artists. Featured on the night were many of Sydney’s wonderful cabaret
stars. The finale of the show, and our swan song was ‘Come Down From Your Tree'. We
all got a bit emotional saying our goodbyes. I do believe though, that we are truly ready
to embark on our own journeys now, and I know we will always remember the amazing
connection we have as a group, and the impact we have had on each others life.
Flew back to Melbourne on Saturday where I was greeted by both my sisters….Dena (18)
who has been living in New York studying at the famous Alvin Ailey Dance Academy for the
last 6 months and Ariel (13,) who was home for the weekend too (she lives during the week
in Daylesford where she is filming the new series of the Saddle Club). It was so
special to finally have my whole family at home. It has been a year since we were all
under the same roof.
The week that followed has been so fantastic, chilling out with family, friends and
enjoying just being at home. I am playing host to
three of my fellow grads who are originally Perth based and having some quality time with
them.
Tomorrow night, after being inspired last week at Light the Night, I have made a big group
booking to go and see Katie Noonan, she is performing at one of my favourite Melbourne
live music venues Manchester Lane….So, I’ll let you know how it was at our next
meeting a week from this very day.
Happy drinking,
xox
Gem
---
Thursday, November 29
Let me start by saying, I don't really drink coffee...SO, feel free to
enjoy your choice of beverage, but I will alter my drink of choice from week to
week....This week it is without doubt a much needed POWERADE with Gemma-Ashley... I'm
hoping every week this year can be as exciting as the last, so that I will never have to
search for material to keep this interesting.
Melbourne was wonderful, it was so grounding to be back at home. My incredible parents,
and grandmothers adopted virtually my entire class and the week was basically one big
sleep over. The highlight of which was November 14th the day of the three year awaited
Showcase....But also my 22nd Birthday. We woke up early and I had pre-warned my family and
all my house guests and class mates that I didn't want to have birthday celebrations till
the whole Showcase ordeal was over. After all, we had endured three years of intense
training, sweat, laughter and tears for this day. The show was a success. The two
performances very different, the first for family and friends and the second for the
industry professionals; namely agents and casting agents. After the performances there
were nibblies and drinks in the foyer with potential agents and employers. I was pretty
eager to get home for my PARTY!!! Mum and the rest of my amazing family had prepared a
five course, sit down dinner for my entire class and all the staff on tour as well as my
family and my two closest friends from home. She had also invited Caleb's (one of the
other guys in my class) entire family, as we share a birthday. The night was very special.
The days that followed were spent going from casting agents, to theatre companies, with go
sees and meetings with various people. Also, lurking beneath it all was the tension of
waiting for agent offers. Saturday we made our way to Sydney...
Getting around this city has proved to be a challenge, nevertheless I have had a ball. We
performed as a class at the STC cabaret night amongst a really impressive line up of
talent, which was a real honour. I also got to meet many of my fellow cast mates of The
Hatpin and heard some material from the show, sung by Melle Stewart who will play
Amber in the show. It truly took my breath away, as I hadn't heard any of the music from
the show besides the song I had to sing for my audition. I even had drinks with the
writer; the incredible James Millar who has been like a mentor to me over this very
stressful time. The same Showcase proceedings happened on Wednesday, followed by drinks at
Liz's (classmate) place. Friday and Saturday night we performed our cabaret show 18
Bites of the Big Apple. The show was so much fun and we received an amazing response.
I sang 'A summer In Ohio' from The Last Five Years. My parents flew over to see
it and I had such a wonderful time with them....I was spoiled rotten! Monday night was the
very special Light the Night. I was lucky enough to sing twice; once with my
class and then again with the cast of The Hatpin. It was a really inspirational
night to honour the life of an incredibly brave young man. It was a sell out!!! The
highlight of the night for me was a performance by Katie Noonan.
The last few days have been spent frantically running from casting to meeting to dinners
and it has really been an exhausting but wonderful week in my life......I'm heading back
to Melbourne on Saturday and I'll be greeted by both my younger sisters who have also both
been away and working; one in New York, the other in Daylesford. This will be the first
time my whole immediate family has been at home together for about a year....So I am
thrilled....
looking forward to catching up for another drink next week!
Gem
xox
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