I began to explore this idea after seeing the show "Next to Normal" on Broadway a few years ago. I had a rough idea of what the show was about, but I had no idea what I was really getting into. Needless to say, I felt like I had been hit by a truck after seeing it, but it started me on a journey that allowed me to explore my own bipolar disorder in new and fresh way. Here's a short clip to give you an idea of the show..
**Side note - If you haven't seen this show, do yourself a favor and see it whenever and wherever you can. It is the most honest, raw, authentic and accurate portrayals of mental health issues that I have ever seen. Check it out!
Seeing someone explore these issues so boldly and courageously encouraged me to start sharing my own story more openly. All this and the encouragement of many important people in my life right now finally led me to begin creating my own cabaret act that delves deeply into my own life with bipolar. I am currently taking a cabaret class at TheatreLab in DC and our first class affirmed for me that this is a style of communication that allows me to express myself freely about some important struggles and challenges I have faced in my life.
So, the bottom line is that I have submitted the application and come February we will all find out if they have accepted my act. I might be sitting on pins and needles until then!!
In the meantime - my cabaret class will be putting on a Cabaret Showcase on Sunday, October 21st at the TheatreLab in DC. It is going to be a great show and it will include a 10 minute set by yours truly that will hopefully serve as the seed for my Fringe Festival Cabaret Show. I would love to see you all there - it will be a free night of lovely entertainment! More details to come on this soon, but please...
SAVE THE DATE!
Sunday Evening, October 21st at TheatreLab in Chinatown.
Hope to see you all there!
