Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Major Tom
The bar/restaurant where Stephen participated in the karaoke competition (in which he did not, unfortunately, advance) is named Major Tom's. And it was referenced in Dublin Carol. It was an interesting moment for me to realize I only happened by chance to know about that place, to be able to picture her description of exiting the restaurant and climbing the stairs to the street. Luckily there were plenty of other local Dublin jokes and such that I didn't follow so I didn't feel like an insider. Somehow that was a good thing for me, to remember that I am an outsider even if I can empathise or relate to the characters or the stories.
Dublin Carol
I just saw my first Conor McPherson play tonight. Dublin Carol. It was fascinating. One of my classmates has read many of his works and didn't think this one was strong. After seeing the show and discussing it on the Luas ride back, I think he may be reconsidering his previous reading of the text. It is a funny and nuanced text. There is a possibility of production teams missing the details in the script and stopping their analysis at the cliche. Or, even worse, not thinking the audience will think beyond the stereotypes. And, unfortunately, I think that is the case with the production we saw. They added a tableau bit between at the end of each scene and it was unnecessary and NOT in the script. As a playwright that must be maddening. If you want to stage my play, stage my play; if you want to stage your own project, then write and stage your own project. Because most people in the audience probably thought that was part of the script; if they see a different production, they probably will wonder why they didn't do the tableau.
Being in Ireland has been an interesting experience in the negotiation of stereotypes. In the capital city of a country with a large income from tourism, there is a significant amount of packaging and delivering an "Irish" experience for eager consumers. Considering which Irish playwrights are produced and well-known in the US, there is a consistency in the presentation of rural, happy, innocent, drunk (but well-meaning), wise (but slightly backward) Irish people. This is a generalization, obviously, but there is a trend. Brian Friel's early plays hit huge in the US, but I think they fulfilled a desire for Irish nostalgia more than a contemporary meaning that would be found by Irish audiences. This is not to say that there are not Irish folks interested in plays that fulfill the desire for nostalgia, but there were other, specific, and relevant items that probably were received differently by an audience in the US.
To bring it back to Dublin Carol, I found myself close to tears a few times because it was so difficult to watch this man unwilling to take responsibility, unwilling to acknowledge that he is hurting, unwilling to ask for help, unwilling to help himself... and there have been numerous plays and cliches about Irish who drink, but that doesn't make the reality any less real. Isn't that almost more painful? To know that this issue has been going on for years and it is STILL an issue that is relevant? And there is the cycle right in front of the audience; we're almost made complicit and I don't think many people in the audience could see that. This undertaker has a drink at the beginning of the play right after finishing a funeral; we can justify the shot of whiskey because there is reference to some difficult moment with one of the mourners. As the play progresses and the drinks become more frequent and the problems or results of previous binges become known, I wonder if anyone in the audience started to rethink that permission for his drinking, the excuses being made. I wonder how many people saw past the witticisms and the grand stories to see the estranged daughter finally take action to confront her father's drinking by standing right next to the bottle so he would have to do it right in front of her if he was going to have any more. And, in the brilliant staging, when he finally goes back to the bottle, he walks away and turns his back on her before he drinks.
The play is full of subtleties like this. And I don't know if the audience saw them. I think what a person saw and experienced depends on her/his relationship to alcohol(ism). He was into day two of a drinking binge after (presumably) years of sobriety and he wasn't even worried about making excuses in the present. But he was still making excuses for the past. And there was his daughter, not knowing things had ever been any different, not knowing he had pulled himself together for a while there. And there she was, still willing to make excuses for him.
The whole thing, the audience laughing at moments that brought tears to my eyes and an ache to my stomach, the misplaced emphasis in production design (see tableau comments), the too low stakes of the performers at different points... it all combined to make me want to weep. Because this cycle will keep going. This man who felt like a coward when he knew his dad was beating his mom still chooses to live as a coward and still justifies that choice to himself and believes what he tells himself. He only stopped when someone who understood took him in, established a routine, and modeled healthy behaviour. But we don't know that he stopped even then. And that's the hardest part for these characters (and for the audience to some extent). The doubt. The emptiness trying to be filled. The wanting. The sense of lack. So some people laugh; some people cry; and some people, hopefully, will choose to walk away and change her/his life.
Being in Ireland has been an interesting experience in the negotiation of stereotypes. In the capital city of a country with a large income from tourism, there is a significant amount of packaging and delivering an "Irish" experience for eager consumers. Considering which Irish playwrights are produced and well-known in the US, there is a consistency in the presentation of rural, happy, innocent, drunk (but well-meaning), wise (but slightly backward) Irish people. This is a generalization, obviously, but there is a trend. Brian Friel's early plays hit huge in the US, but I think they fulfilled a desire for Irish nostalgia more than a contemporary meaning that would be found by Irish audiences. This is not to say that there are not Irish folks interested in plays that fulfill the desire for nostalgia, but there were other, specific, and relevant items that probably were received differently by an audience in the US.
To bring it back to Dublin Carol, I found myself close to tears a few times because it was so difficult to watch this man unwilling to take responsibility, unwilling to acknowledge that he is hurting, unwilling to ask for help, unwilling to help himself... and there have been numerous plays and cliches about Irish who drink, but that doesn't make the reality any less real. Isn't that almost more painful? To know that this issue has been going on for years and it is STILL an issue that is relevant? And there is the cycle right in front of the audience; we're almost made complicit and I don't think many people in the audience could see that. This undertaker has a drink at the beginning of the play right after finishing a funeral; we can justify the shot of whiskey because there is reference to some difficult moment with one of the mourners. As the play progresses and the drinks become more frequent and the problems or results of previous binges become known, I wonder if anyone in the audience started to rethink that permission for his drinking, the excuses being made. I wonder how many people saw past the witticisms and the grand stories to see the estranged daughter finally take action to confront her father's drinking by standing right next to the bottle so he would have to do it right in front of her if he was going to have any more. And, in the brilliant staging, when he finally goes back to the bottle, he walks away and turns his back on her before he drinks.
The play is full of subtleties like this. And I don't know if the audience saw them. I think what a person saw and experienced depends on her/his relationship to alcohol(ism). He was into day two of a drinking binge after (presumably) years of sobriety and he wasn't even worried about making excuses in the present. But he was still making excuses for the past. And there was his daughter, not knowing things had ever been any different, not knowing he had pulled himself together for a while there. And there she was, still willing to make excuses for him.
The whole thing, the audience laughing at moments that brought tears to my eyes and an ache to my stomach, the misplaced emphasis in production design (see tableau comments), the too low stakes of the performers at different points... it all combined to make me want to weep. Because this cycle will keep going. This man who felt like a coward when he knew his dad was beating his mom still chooses to live as a coward and still justifies that choice to himself and believes what he tells himself. He only stopped when someone who understood took him in, established a routine, and modeled healthy behaviour. But we don't know that he stopped even then. And that's the hardest part for these characters (and for the audience to some extent). The doubt. The emptiness trying to be filled. The wanting. The sense of lack. So some people laugh; some people cry; and some people, hopefully, will choose to walk away and change her/his life.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Karaoke Competition
Stephen was competing in a local karaoke competition. It's multiple weeks of "heats" with two winners from each competing in a semi-final competition for the grand prize of €1500. And it's free to enter. But it costs €2 to cast a vote. Sneaky, eh? They did have a wild card judge at this competition who was going to select a third competitor who wasn't voted onto the next round. This was Heat 4 and there is are at least two more weeks of preliminary rounds.
I don't know if Stephen placed or not because I was worried about catching the last bus home. Once I get the update, I will post it.
In the mean time, I need to share the experience of the first competitor who sang a song from South Park about sucking on chocolate, salty balls. Oh yes, and he sang it well. It was hilarious. It was only improved when I noticed him behind the bar later in the night (he does work there) practicing his flair bartending. Kinda like juggling...and I loved it. =)
There was one guy who seems to perform at this bar frequently, usually doing Michael Jackson songs. He was wearing a black shirt, black trousers, and black shoes when he performed "All Night Long," but it wasn't until after the competition when he got up to sing "Man in the Mirror" that I noticed the white socks. yikes. I think the only way to get away with that fashion choice is to be doing a Michael Jackson song-and-dance.
Stephen sang a song by Nickelback, residents of Hanna, the city in Canada where he was living before this trip abroad. Good times. He didn't look at the screen at all and did a stunning leap over the rail at the edge of the stage when he finished. I cast a vote for him and for the cute Italian boy who sang "Love Is All Around." And, of course, I am now singing the version from Love Actually.
I don't know if Stephen placed or not because I was worried about catching the last bus home. Once I get the update, I will post it.
In the mean time, I need to share the experience of the first competitor who sang a song from South Park about sucking on chocolate, salty balls. Oh yes, and he sang it well. It was hilarious. It was only improved when I noticed him behind the bar later in the night (he does work there) practicing his flair bartending. Kinda like juggling...and I loved it. =)
There was one guy who seems to perform at this bar frequently, usually doing Michael Jackson songs. He was wearing a black shirt, black trousers, and black shoes when he performed "All Night Long," but it wasn't until after the competition when he got up to sing "Man in the Mirror" that I noticed the white socks. yikes. I think the only way to get away with that fashion choice is to be doing a Michael Jackson song-and-dance.
Stephen sang a song by Nickelback, residents of Hanna, the city in Canada where he was living before this trip abroad. Good times. He didn't look at the screen at all and did a stunning leap over the rail at the edge of the stage when he finished. I cast a vote for him and for the cute Italian boy who sang "Love Is All Around." And, of course, I am now singing the version from Love Actually.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Misleading Sex Education
I was in an Australian pub for lunch with Stephen and Jenny after the movie (happy belated Australia Day!) and there is a poster in the women's toilet with misleading information. There is a cartoon of a woman looking mildly distraught and the text says something along the lines of "Think carrying a condom is awkward? Imagine having herpes."
Okay. True. A condom can protect you from herpes on a penis or along the vaginal walls. BUT IT WON'T PROTECT YOU AGAINST EXTERNAL HERPES! If a man say has a herpes sore on his testicles, that condom won't work as a barrier. Perhaps this seems obvious. Perhaps the intention was to frighten women into using a condom so as not to acquire an incurable disease.
It still bothers me.
I couldn't find the poster, but I did find a UK site with posters. Check out the female "have you been given any gifts lately?" because I do find that funny.
Okay. True. A condom can protect you from herpes on a penis or along the vaginal walls. BUT IT WON'T PROTECT YOU AGAINST EXTERNAL HERPES! If a man say has a herpes sore on his testicles, that condom won't work as a barrier. Perhaps this seems obvious. Perhaps the intention was to frighten women into using a condom so as not to acquire an incurable disease.
It still bothers me.
I couldn't find the poster, but I did find a UK site with posters. Check out the female "have you been given any gifts lately?" because I do find that funny.
Fighters Fight
I have not seen all the Rocky movies, but I did go see Rocky Balboa today with Stephen and his friend Jenny (also Canadian, but she's from Calgary). Having been a soccer player/footballer in my youth, I have a bit of the competitive aggression still inside me and films like this resonate with that drive for excellence. Sort of. I enjoyed it more than I expected and was really pleased with some of the choices in the story/relationships/filming, particularly the way Rocky's over-the-hill journey unfolds and reaches a resolution (including the encouragement to go back to boxing because "fighters fight").
There was a preview for Goal! 2: Living the Dream shown before the movie which only increased my focus on this story of commitment. (I haven't seen the first in this series, Goal!, but I imagine I will eventually check it out, especially because I got so amped watching the preview for the next one.)
The thing that I have a hard time with, particularly in the Rocky series, is the way the fighting looks so pretty and it's edited for me to be invested in something other than the awkwardness of watching two human beings pummeling one another for entertainment. Watching boxing or fighting on a street...either way, the reality is icky and uncomfortable as a spectator. For me. I know there are lots of folks out there who enjoy watching or participating in a good fight. I just haven't had enough experience with it to not feel sick inside. Jenny was saying she felt nauseous after watching Million Dollar Baby and I imagine I would have a similar reaction. Maybe it's because I'm an empathist; I react to those punches connecting. And I don't know if I want to build up the tolerance necessary for it to not bother me.
I guess I will never be a contender.
There was a preview for Goal! 2: Living the Dream shown before the movie which only increased my focus on this story of commitment. (I haven't seen the first in this series, Goal!, but I imagine I will eventually check it out, especially because I got so amped watching the preview for the next one.)
The thing that I have a hard time with, particularly in the Rocky series, is the way the fighting looks so pretty and it's edited for me to be invested in something other than the awkwardness of watching two human beings pummeling one another for entertainment. Watching boxing or fighting on a street...either way, the reality is icky and uncomfortable as a spectator. For me. I know there are lots of folks out there who enjoy watching or participating in a good fight. I just haven't had enough experience with it to not feel sick inside. Jenny was saying she felt nauseous after watching Million Dollar Baby and I imagine I would have a similar reaction. Maybe it's because I'm an empathist; I react to those punches connecting. And I don't know if I want to build up the tolerance necessary for it to not bother me.
I guess I will never be a contender.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Cork Cookbook
In the coming months, I am going to rent a car and go meet my somewhat distant relatives who live in Cork. I was thinking of getting out of Dublin this weekend and one of my thoughts was to take the train to Cork for an afternoon so I could see the city a bit before I drive down there (which is kinda scary for me...driving on the left, shifting with my left hand, driving on tiny roads).
I went to my local used bookstore when I went into town for grocery shopping and found a cookbook of recipes from restaurants in Cork, both in the city and in the county. I'm very excited about this because now I can get an idea of restaurants to visit and start building ideas for a little trip. Often, I like to make limited plans, but to always feel prepared to renegotiate as appropriate. So I can look at different restaurants and get an idea of where I might want to stop when I visit.
And I have an interesting memento from my trip that will remind me of my neighborhood, of the changing county from where my family comes, and of the wonderful food I've had in Ireland. It's not my first souvenir, but it was an unexpected find.
I went to my local used bookstore when I went into town for grocery shopping and found a cookbook of recipes from restaurants in Cork, both in the city and in the county. I'm very excited about this because now I can get an idea of restaurants to visit and start building ideas for a little trip. Often, I like to make limited plans, but to always feel prepared to renegotiate as appropriate. So I can look at different restaurants and get an idea of where I might want to stop when I visit.
And I have an interesting memento from my trip that will remind me of my neighborhood, of the changing county from where my family comes, and of the wonderful food I've had in Ireland. It's not my first souvenir, but it was an unexpected find.
Mellow day at home
I am having another mellow day at home today. I walked into town to buy some groceries and then made myself a little meal. I have been doing some research and vacation research and emailing while I enjoy a pot of tea. I decided I needed some music for my mellow mood and decided upon Hank Williams. And I feel really good about this decision for the following reasons:
1.) It's a combination of quick and slow songs, but the quick never get more frenetic than a jaunty two-step rhythm.
2.) Although it's not traditional Irish tunes (which was my other thought for today's soundtrack), it does fit with Ireland's country music heritage. (For those who don't know, country music was HUGE in Ireland in the 60s and 70s, even a bit into the 80s.)
3.) It makes me think of sharing a mellow day at home with my mom. (I downloaded her Hank Williams collection before leaving California. It's not that she listens to him all the time, but there are times when there's something pleasing about the simple melodies, slightly mournful optimism, and consistency of his songs.)
1.) It's a combination of quick and slow songs, but the quick never get more frenetic than a jaunty two-step rhythm.
2.) Although it's not traditional Irish tunes (which was my other thought for today's soundtrack), it does fit with Ireland's country music heritage. (For those who don't know, country music was HUGE in Ireland in the 60s and 70s, even a bit into the 80s.)
3.) It makes me think of sharing a mellow day at home with my mom. (I downloaded her Hank Williams collection before leaving California. It's not that she listens to him all the time, but there are times when there's something pleasing about the simple melodies, slightly mournful optimism, and consistency of his songs.)
Repeat Offender
I am in different stages of research for three different projects in addition to coursework. It sounds like a lot. And, if you include the two papers I submitted for last term that I am adapting for submission to conferences, then there are five research projects at various stages of development. This means I am requesting lots of books from the library. I discovered the danger of this when I went to the library yesterday.
I forgot to write down all the titles I had requested from Stacks/Santry (the basement storage and off-site storage, respectively) so when I approached the counter I was unsure of how many books were waiting for me. I said 4-5 knowing there was one that hadn't arrived a couple days before and should be in by now. (Requests made after 14:30 often don't arrive until after 13:30 the following day. You have three days to pick it up before it's returned to storage or given to the next person who requested it.) Because I had requested so many books in the past four days, there were many entries with me name in the log book thereby making it difficult to figure out which requests were pending and which had already been processed (or returned, as I only need some for general information and bibliographical info for my dissertation proposal).
The ladies behind the counter were patient, but it did take about ten minutes to sort it out. We figured out that a couple books were missing (or not in their place...grrr), but that some other books I had placed a hold on (they were checked out, but would be held for me once returned) were available. So I still walked away with four books and had to re-request two. Hopefully, I will figure out how to keep a better track of my requests. Sometimes I write down a list. I think I will need to return to this practice to minimize confusion in the future.
I am now practically on a first name basis with a couple members of the library staff. They recognize my face and/or my name. I think I will now start learning their names, too. Especially when they help me so often.
I forgot to write down all the titles I had requested from Stacks/Santry (the basement storage and off-site storage, respectively) so when I approached the counter I was unsure of how many books were waiting for me. I said 4-5 knowing there was one that hadn't arrived a couple days before and should be in by now. (Requests made after 14:30 often don't arrive until after 13:30 the following day. You have three days to pick it up before it's returned to storage or given to the next person who requested it.) Because I had requested so many books in the past four days, there were many entries with me name in the log book thereby making it difficult to figure out which requests were pending and which had already been processed (or returned, as I only need some for general information and bibliographical info for my dissertation proposal).
The ladies behind the counter were patient, but it did take about ten minutes to sort it out. We figured out that a couple books were missing (or not in their place...grrr), but that some other books I had placed a hold on (they were checked out, but would be held for me once returned) were available. So I still walked away with four books and had to re-request two. Hopefully, I will figure out how to keep a better track of my requests. Sometimes I write down a list. I think I will need to return to this practice to minimize confusion in the future.
I am now practically on a first name basis with a couple members of the library staff. They recognize my face and/or my name. I think I will now start learning their names, too. Especially when they help me so often.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
My first visit to the Pav
Next to the Rugby pitch on the Trinity campus is a bar called The Pavilion. I've heard it's quite a laugh during the summer. But it was still fun on this wintry evening. I met up with the M.Phil ladies for a few drinks. My intention was to get to a staged reading up at T36 (the venue at the Teacher's Club where I helped on Noel's show during the Dublin Fringe Festival). Unfortunately, I cut the time too short and got there a couple minutes after they'd started. oops.
It was fine, though, because I came home and got to settle in a bit before going to bed. And I had a wonderful time with the ladies and their friends/family at the Pav. I have a feeling we'll be spending some quality time over at the Pav as we approach dissertation deadlines.
It was fine, though, because I came home and got to settle in a bit before going to bed. And I had a wonderful time with the ladies and their friends/family at the Pav. I have a feeling we'll be spending some quality time over at the Pav as we approach dissertation deadlines.
And a bit of acting on the side
I have gotten to know a few undergraduates since I got to Trinity. It's kinda cool because I feel weird walking around, recognizing faces, even having a couple lectures together, and not knowing names or feeling like we can say hello to each other.
There's one student with whom I've been in conversation about theatre and changing the world and such. He's really sweet, passionate, and smart. He actually reminds me lots of Wolfgang which is an added bonus. I attended his 10-minute directing scene performance last term which was ambitious and showed promise for his abilities in casting, use of space, and commitment. He was accepted into the next level of directing coursework which means this term he has to do a twenty-minute scene. Earlier this week he asked me if I would act in it. We had a brief conversation and I was 99% sure I would do it simply because he is passionate about his work and it's fun to work with someone who has a vision. I read the script and now am awaiting further scheduling. It will make for a slightly crazier next couple weeks, but the performance will happen in the middle of the term so I can still have time to focus on my papers before taking my mid-March European excursion (details TBD).
There's one student with whom I've been in conversation about theatre and changing the world and such. He's really sweet, passionate, and smart. He actually reminds me lots of Wolfgang which is an added bonus. I attended his 10-minute directing scene performance last term which was ambitious and showed promise for his abilities in casting, use of space, and commitment. He was accepted into the next level of directing coursework which means this term he has to do a twenty-minute scene. Earlier this week he asked me if I would act in it. We had a brief conversation and I was 99% sure I would do it simply because he is passionate about his work and it's fun to work with someone who has a vision. I read the script and now am awaiting further scheduling. It will make for a slightly crazier next couple weeks, but the performance will happen in the middle of the term so I can still have time to focus on my papers before taking my mid-March European excursion (details TBD).
Drama in the Drama department
So there has been some tensions in Dublin and in the School of Drama in the last couple weeks over changes to an existing program that was leaked to The Irish Times. (They require a subscription at present to access articles so I can't link to it. Sorry.)
Having read the five or so items published in Dublin newspapers and had a couple discussions with individuals involved/affected, it seems to largely be a financial decision. The University is evidently running at quite a deficit and is in the midst of a huge restructuring. The School of Drama decided to stop admitting students to a three-year program specifically devoted to acting and for which admission is based on audition (rather than Leaving Certificate scores...i.e. merit beyond academic success). The adjustments throughout the department's offerings would be expanding one of the other undergraduate drama programs to have a specific actor-training element/option and to introduce at least one M.Phil. in acting. Unlike the three-year acting program, the M.Phil. will not be free to Irish citizens.
So there's lots of inflammatory comments and carefully phrased rhetoric flying around the town. Having served in a position as an undergraduate in administrative meetings, I imagine there are some stressed out students wrestling with the burden of responsibility despite not actually having power to do much besides report information back and forth. Of course, I don't know the details within Trinity; this is just me talking from a place of limited experience and knowledge. Hopefully folks will start listening to each other and speaking clearly. The tensions aren't good for anyone.
Having read the five or so items published in Dublin newspapers and had a couple discussions with individuals involved/affected, it seems to largely be a financial decision. The University is evidently running at quite a deficit and is in the midst of a huge restructuring. The School of Drama decided to stop admitting students to a three-year program specifically devoted to acting and for which admission is based on audition (rather than Leaving Certificate scores...i.e. merit beyond academic success). The adjustments throughout the department's offerings would be expanding one of the other undergraduate drama programs to have a specific actor-training element/option and to introduce at least one M.Phil. in acting. Unlike the three-year acting program, the M.Phil. will not be free to Irish citizens.
So there's lots of inflammatory comments and carefully phrased rhetoric flying around the town. Having served in a position as an undergraduate in administrative meetings, I imagine there are some stressed out students wrestling with the burden of responsibility despite not actually having power to do much besides report information back and forth. Of course, I don't know the details within Trinity; this is just me talking from a place of limited experience and knowledge. Hopefully folks will start listening to each other and speaking clearly. The tensions aren't good for anyone.
Genitourinary Medicine
In my preparation for a possible paper on syphilis in theatre in nineteenth century Europe, I started looking for journal articles about syphilis treatment and assessment during those years before a cure had been found. One of the journals I found was formerly entitled Genitourinary Medicine, now known as Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Journal of the American Sexually Transmitted Disease Association. There is also the International Journal of STDs and AIDS. And The British Journal of Venereal Diseases and Genitourinary Medicine. Knowledge fiend that I am, this is an exciting revelation. It would seem obvious that there would be multiple journals about STDs if there can be multiple journals about theatre, but somehow that level of specificity surprised me.
I asked my professor about doing a paper on syphilis in theatre and he laughed. A lot. He later apologized for laughing, but it was clear he was laughing more out of surprise than anything else. He said he wasn't aware of anyone else writing on the topic which isn't required of a paper for a course, but it does mean that this may be a viable presentation topic for a conference. Then I could have visuals, too! I'll bet images of late-stage syphilis would be talked about for a while in the unsuspecting theatre circles...
I asked my professor about doing a paper on syphilis in theatre and he laughed. A lot. He later apologized for laughing, but it was clear he was laughing more out of surprise than anything else. He said he wasn't aware of anyone else writing on the topic which isn't required of a paper for a course, but it does mean that this may be a viable presentation topic for a conference. Then I could have visuals, too! I'll bet images of late-stage syphilis would be talked about for a while in the unsuspecting theatre circles...
Playboy at the Players
Mary and I just barely got tickets to a production of J.M. Synge's The Playboy of the Western World at du Players. Some of you may be thinking, "Didn't she just go see a different production?" And that is true. On 12 December 2006 I went to the preview for the Pan Pan Playboy with a cast from Beijing. One of the ways I develop a better understanding of theatre production is to see multiple productions of the same play. And, surprisingly, I had never seen a performance of the show before I came to Ireland, although I had read it a couple times.
Overall it was a good production. There were some very strong moments and some interesting choices in staging the porter house (the home that serves alcohol where the play is set). One thing that was incredibly distracting was the fact that all the women looked disheveled. Their hair ranged from Pegeen Mike's stylishly ratted hair to one of the girls from the town who had a leaf in her hair. The three girls from town all had dirt on their faces and looked, to use a US reference, like Lil' Abner characters. This wouldn't have been distracting except that the men were all clean (except Old Mahon, of course) and with well-coiffed hair. I somehow find it difficult to imagine that the women decided to rough it up on their own. The consistency made it appear to be a deliberate production choice. And I have not reconciled it yet.
I hope I get to see a third production before I go. Especially because the 100 year anniversary of the original production and the Playboy Riots occurred. (There are many who argue that it was an organized protest that was skewed in the coverage and accounts to make it seem like a random, violent, mob action.) So really, I would like to watch the Druid Theatre 2005 production that will be aired on RTE, but I would also like to see one more live stage production. After that, I may shift my emphasis to seeing a breadth of performances.
Overall it was a good production. There were some very strong moments and some interesting choices in staging the porter house (the home that serves alcohol where the play is set). One thing that was incredibly distracting was the fact that all the women looked disheveled. Their hair ranged from Pegeen Mike's stylishly ratted hair to one of the girls from the town who had a leaf in her hair. The three girls from town all had dirt on their faces and looked, to use a US reference, like Lil' Abner characters. This wouldn't have been distracting except that the men were all clean (except Old Mahon, of course) and with well-coiffed hair. I somehow find it difficult to imagine that the women decided to rough it up on their own. The consistency made it appear to be a deliberate production choice. And I have not reconciled it yet.
I hope I get to see a third production before I go. Especially because the 100 year anniversary of the original production and the Playboy Riots occurred. (There are many who argue that it was an organized protest that was skewed in the coverage and accounts to make it seem like a random, violent, mob action.) So really, I would like to watch the Druid Theatre 2005 production that will be aired on RTE, but I would also like to see one more live stage production. After that, I may shift my emphasis to seeing a breadth of performances.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Syphilis in Nineteenth Century drama
It started as a joke, but I am beginning to really like the idea of writing a paper on depictions of VD in nineteenth century plays. Ghosts by Henrik Ibsen being the most obvious, there were a number of plays dealing with the topic. I could even go further back to Shakespeare's Measure for Measure in which there is a five minute bit about the French disease.
There is much to be said for these early attempts at entertaining and educating the population about this serious health risk. Especially Ghosts which tackles the issue of congenital syphilis with a bit of morality as well. I mean, how can a playwright address VD without also addressing morality...
I need to do a bit of research to be sure it hasn't been written about extensively and then approach my professor about it. Frankly, I can't go too in-depth in only 6,000 words (approx. 20 pages). But I could pick a couple plays and compare the discussion of syphilis to the development of medical knowledge. Or even one text if it came on the cusp of some medical revelation. Fascinating... I wonder if there is a contemporary Irish play about AIDS or some other STD that I could use for comparison?
There is much to be said for these early attempts at entertaining and educating the population about this serious health risk. Especially Ghosts which tackles the issue of congenital syphilis with a bit of morality as well. I mean, how can a playwright address VD without also addressing morality...
I need to do a bit of research to be sure it hasn't been written about extensively and then approach my professor about it. Frankly, I can't go too in-depth in only 6,000 words (approx. 20 pages). But I could pick a couple plays and compare the discussion of syphilis to the development of medical knowledge. Or even one text if it came on the cusp of some medical revelation. Fascinating... I wonder if there is a contemporary Irish play about AIDS or some other STD that I could use for comparison?
Ubu Roi
In one of my courses, we are discussing theatre movements in Europe. We discussed Realism, Naturalism, and a bit of Symbolism. Next week will be a tiny bit more of Symbolism before we move into Surrealism and Dadaism. One of the texts we were asked to read was Ubu Roi by Alfred Jarry. As with many plays of these periods, this was scandalous when it opened, particularly because the opening line is, basically, "Crrraaap!" (Merdre!) Quite scandalous for the time. Even now.
The funny thing is that I keep picturing the production that a classmate directed at UCSC (hooray Blake and production team!). It's odd to reconcile the choices they made for production in 2005 in Santa Cruz with descriptions of the original production. I have questions and insights and wish I had both a copy of the production and a copy of Jim Bierman's translation with me in Dublin. For now, I must trust to my memory of both until I return to California (where I at least have a copy of Jim's translation).
I am incredibly grateful to have been exposed to Blake's vision because I have something contemporary to compare with the class discussions. It's nice that my relationship with the text is not entirely based in historical accounts. And I find myself more interested in the contemporaries of Jarry, to some extent, because I know that Jarry was influential for one of my peers. I'm still wrapping my brain around the historical and sociological influences on these plays, but part of me can see an impending resurgence of Naturalism (the individual affected by the environment) as a movement away from the entertainment for the masses (much like what happened in the late nineteenth century).
The funny thing is that I keep picturing the production that a classmate directed at UCSC (hooray Blake and production team!). It's odd to reconcile the choices they made for production in 2005 in Santa Cruz with descriptions of the original production. I have questions and insights and wish I had both a copy of the production and a copy of Jim Bierman's translation with me in Dublin. For now, I must trust to my memory of both until I return to California (where I at least have a copy of Jim's translation).
I am incredibly grateful to have been exposed to Blake's vision because I have something contemporary to compare with the class discussions. It's nice that my relationship with the text is not entirely based in historical accounts. And I find myself more interested in the contemporaries of Jarry, to some extent, because I know that Jarry was influential for one of my peers. I'm still wrapping my brain around the historical and sociological influences on these plays, but part of me can see an impending resurgence of Naturalism (the individual affected by the environment) as a movement away from the entertainment for the masses (much like what happened in the late nineteenth century).
Random, but fun, Day
I met up with a couple classmates to see The School for Scandal at the Abbey Theatre this afternoon. We read the play last term and decided it was worth attending. And it was an enjoyable production. As with most comedies of manners, the productions highlights were the set, costumes, and lighting. Some of the performances were wonderfully over-the-top in their embodiment (i.e. Benjamin Backbite, Sir Oliver Surface, Careless, Mrs. Candor) while others were underwhelming (i.e. Lady Sneerwell). Overall, however, it was a good time. And the fellow playing Joseph Surface, while bearing a striking affinity in tone, timbre, and physicality to Christopher Guest, managed to maneuver through the character transitions necessary to pull of a performance that essentially carries the show.
Afterwards, we went to The Celt for a pint. I hadn't been back to The Celt since I went out with Stephen and friends two or three months ago. Still a nice little pub. And then I met up with Mary and a friend of hers (Michael) who was in town. We ended up spending the evening with a friend of Mary's friend (Tony) and it was lovely. Tony and Michael are working on research for a film at the moment, although they finished work today and will leave town tomorrow. A short visit, but Tony and I had some good laughs over a couple pints and some coffee. I am excited to see the project when they complete it, which won't be for a couple years because they are still in development.
It was a nice evening. And I haven't been drunk in a while so that was a nice change. We laughed lots and told silly stories and really just enjoyed being present as, essentially, strangers sharing an evening in Dublin. It was particularly fun to end up at Cafe en Seine and have established enough of a rapport to make jokes with each other in the midst of Saturday night festivities.
Afterwards, we went to The Celt for a pint. I hadn't been back to The Celt since I went out with Stephen and friends two or three months ago. Still a nice little pub. And then I met up with Mary and a friend of hers (Michael) who was in town. We ended up spending the evening with a friend of Mary's friend (Tony) and it was lovely. Tony and Michael are working on research for a film at the moment, although they finished work today and will leave town tomorrow. A short visit, but Tony and I had some good laughs over a couple pints and some coffee. I am excited to see the project when they complete it, which won't be for a couple years because they are still in development.
It was a nice evening. And I haven't been drunk in a while so that was a nice change. We laughed lots and told silly stories and really just enjoyed being present as, essentially, strangers sharing an evening in Dublin. It was particularly fun to end up at Cafe en Seine and have established enough of a rapport to make jokes with each other in the midst of Saturday night festivities.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Cereal for dinner
There is something really gratifying about cereal for dinner when I went to a bit of effort to make lunch. But it makes sense that a large and filling lunch be followed (hours later, obviously) with a lighter meal of honey puffed rice cereal. And that's my plan.
Chastised on the Street
Mary and I were walking the other night, discussing the merits of bath time and I invoked an Eddie Izzard reference ("splashy-splashy, sexy-sexy") only to find myself facing a grimacing older fellow who was muttering at us. As we passed him, we realized he was muttering about us being filthy sappers and other such things. He was obviously drunk but he was clearly bothered by our conversation, although I am not sure what he heard because I wasn't aware of him until immediately after the Eddie Izzard reference.
Mary and I laughed until we got to her apartment mostly because we couldn't figure out what was so upsetting for him. I've had many more vivid conversations on the street without getting remotely as interesting (or angry) a reaction out of passers-by.
Mary and I laughed until we got to her apartment mostly because we couldn't figure out what was so upsetting for him. I've had many more vivid conversations on the street without getting remotely as interesting (or angry) a reaction out of passers-by.
Waiting for Two Third Books by Clive Barker
As some of you know, my favorite author is Clive Barker. My favorite person Phil introduced me to his writing in 2001 and in less than two years I had read every short story and book Mr. Barker had written. I have since read his plays and his biography. I haven't seen all his movies, but some of them were not as successful in transitioning from page to celluloid.
He wrote an amazing book entitled The Great and Secret Show (1989) which was followed by Everville (1994), announced as the second book in the trilogy of the Art. There has been no third book. Yet.
Some of his latest work is on the world of Abarat. This whole project started with more than 300 oil paintings Mr. Barker created. Disney purchased the whole thing: books, movie(s), and theme park area. There have been two books released with more intended to be released four in total?). The first two were released in 2002 and 2004, respectively. There was a short movie made in 2004, but no word on IMdB about the film. I also cannot find any word on when the third book of the Abarat will be released.
At the end of an interview in 2003, Mr. Barker mentions wanting to get to the third book of the Art and that gives me hope. The plan, according to this interview, was to finish final edits on the second book of the Abarat, then complete an anthology of Hellraiser stories (including a new and final entry into the series), and then move onto the other big projects (one of which is the third book of the Art, the other is another Galilee project).
All this Clive Barker talk has made me wish I brought some of my library over to Ireland with me. I think I will have to do a little used book store hunting in the near future to satisfy this craving, especially because it doesn't look like any new books are coming out in the near future. It might be time for some late-90s Barker...Sacrament? Or Galilee? Guess it will depend on what I can find. You can be sure I will post an update on this topic.
He wrote an amazing book entitled The Great and Secret Show (1989) which was followed by Everville (1994), announced as the second book in the trilogy of the Art. There has been no third book. Yet.
Some of his latest work is on the world of Abarat. This whole project started with more than 300 oil paintings Mr. Barker created. Disney purchased the whole thing: books, movie(s), and theme park area. There have been two books released with more intended to be released four in total?). The first two were released in 2002 and 2004, respectively. There was a short movie made in 2004, but no word on IMdB about the film. I also cannot find any word on when the third book of the Abarat will be released.
At the end of an interview in 2003, Mr. Barker mentions wanting to get to the third book of the Art and that gives me hope. The plan, according to this interview, was to finish final edits on the second book of the Abarat, then complete an anthology of Hellraiser stories (including a new and final entry into the series), and then move onto the other big projects (one of which is the third book of the Art, the other is another Galilee project).
All this Clive Barker talk has made me wish I brought some of my library over to Ireland with me. I think I will have to do a little used book store hunting in the near future to satisfy this craving, especially because it doesn't look like any new books are coming out in the near future. It might be time for some late-90s Barker...Sacrament? Or Galilee? Guess it will depend on what I can find. You can be sure I will post an update on this topic.
Aim for making bread and still reach a tea pot
I have had this conversation with a few friends, about how I aspire to a life that accommodates making bread, particularly sourdough. Anyone who knows about making fresh sourdough understands that this is part of a lifestyle because it requires time, effort, and focus. The sourdough started must be fed, maintained, and used; the actual bread-making requires periods of rising, of kneading, and of baking. To me, evolving in my life to the point at which making bread is something I am ready to do is a sign that I have learned to manage my time, to make time for things that enjoy me, that I am comfortable enough with myself to enter into the varied and challenging relationship that comes with making bread.
I recently discovered there is something between where I've been and that bread maker lifestyle: a tea pot. I finally purchased a tea pot when I returned to Dublin and have since discovered the joy of the time it takes to consume a pot of tea. I don't usually fill the entire pot as it is rather large for one person, but I will often drink more than 1L of tea in a sitting. There is a wonderful feeling inside of me to sit under the warm light in my living room with a book , a blanket, and my tea. And I commit to the time of brewing a pot when I do it; if I don't have time for a leisurely pot of tea, I will brew a cup and get on with my day.
This reminds me of my friend Ben's explanation of why he loves baseball: because it doesn't have a time limit. A similar pleasure can be found in agreeing to attend a game that will last for the afternoon or evening as can be found, for me, in deciding to sit and enjoy a pot of tea.
So I am not quite ready for the bread-making life, but I am definitely enjoying the tea-drinking life.
I recently discovered there is something between where I've been and that bread maker lifestyle: a tea pot. I finally purchased a tea pot when I returned to Dublin and have since discovered the joy of the time it takes to consume a pot of tea. I don't usually fill the entire pot as it is rather large for one person, but I will often drink more than 1L of tea in a sitting. There is a wonderful feeling inside of me to sit under the warm light in my living room with a book , a blanket, and my tea. And I commit to the time of brewing a pot when I do it; if I don't have time for a leisurely pot of tea, I will brew a cup and get on with my day.
This reminds me of my friend Ben's explanation of why he loves baseball: because it doesn't have a time limit. A similar pleasure can be found in agreeing to attend a game that will last for the afternoon or evening as can be found, for me, in deciding to sit and enjoy a pot of tea.
So I am not quite ready for the bread-making life, but I am definitely enjoying the tea-drinking life.
Is it the doldrums or relaxation?
I suppose it is not a good thing when I get used to a level of activity that makes me wonder if three at-home days in two weeks means I am moving towards the doldrums.
There is something about being back in Dublin after Christmas that is different. Probably a combination of lots of things, I find myself not wanting to push too hard in any direction. That's not to say that I am missing deadlines or avoiding exerting any effort. I just don't feel it necessary to push myself at the moment while working to develop a sane and sustainable existence. Trying to organize my apartment, establish routines for cooking and cleaning, sleep for at least eight hours (unless I have a reason to do otherwise), complete my reading for classes a few days before class so I have time for reflection or additional research...
It seems so simple and harmless, even helpful, to make space and time in my life to live in my flat. I suppose a history of depression has something to do with a critical analysis of slowing down or taking a break. And that's healthy to some extent. I won't look too closely, though, because that is definitely crazy-making behavior. For now, this afternoon, I feel good about staying home, doing laundry, making lunch, and researching online.
There is something about being back in Dublin after Christmas that is different. Probably a combination of lots of things, I find myself not wanting to push too hard in any direction. That's not to say that I am missing deadlines or avoiding exerting any effort. I just don't feel it necessary to push myself at the moment while working to develop a sane and sustainable existence. Trying to organize my apartment, establish routines for cooking and cleaning, sleep for at least eight hours (unless I have a reason to do otherwise), complete my reading for classes a few days before class so I have time for reflection or additional research...
It seems so simple and harmless, even helpful, to make space and time in my life to live in my flat. I suppose a history of depression has something to do with a critical analysis of slowing down or taking a break. And that's healthy to some extent. I won't look too closely, though, because that is definitely crazy-making behavior. For now, this afternoon, I feel good about staying home, doing laundry, making lunch, and researching online.
Reflections on the landscape
In one of my classes recently we were discussing the flatlands in the middle of Ireland and the unique experience that is being out there. I have not been outside of Dublin yet and have not experienced this. But I think I shall, hopefully while it's still winter so I can get a good bit of foggy, dampness (which will be there later in the year, but there's something about winter, y'know?).
I was looking out the window of my flat today, contemplating the view and what it is I enjoy about looking across the rooftops. And I realized that I am not used to seeing everything at the same altitude. In the San Francisco area, the topography is varied and I don't often get to see the same level of sky for miles in any direction, unless I am looking at the ocean. It's funny to think that the flatness of the city is a novelty for me.
I was looking out the window of my flat today, contemplating the view and what it is I enjoy about looking across the rooftops. And I realized that I am not used to seeing everything at the same altitude. In the San Francisco area, the topography is varied and I don't often get to see the same level of sky for miles in any direction, unless I am looking at the ocean. It's funny to think that the flatness of the city is a novelty for me.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Casomai
This may become one of my favorite films. Gabry shared it with me one afternoon/evening in Milan, although she has mentioned wanting to watch it with me before this. The film is about a couple getting married and how they build their life together (including families, friends, work, etc.).
The title, Casomai, roughly translates to 'just in case'. I recommend not reading anything else about the film and just watching it as there are some interesting elements of the film that could be compromised by careless commentary.
If you want another good film (to make a little festival of sorts), check out Mama, There's a Man in Your Bed. It can be difficult to find, but it is well worth the effort.
The title, Casomai, roughly translates to 'just in case'. I recommend not reading anything else about the film and just watching it as there are some interesting elements of the film that could be compromised by careless commentary.
If you want another good film (to make a little festival of sorts), check out Mama, There's a Man in Your Bed. It can be difficult to find, but it is well worth the effort.
Historic Milan and the influence of beauty
Gabry and I had wonderful conversations as we made our way through Historic Milan. She showed me her schools and the places she most enjoys, always pointing out interesting architecture and places she would visit as a student. We began discussing differences between Dublin and Milan because the atmospheres are entirely different. We ended up discussing something Alaric and I discussed frequently which is the affect of beauty on daily life.
In Historic Milan there are the groomed public parks, the deliberate and lasting beauty of the buildings, the detail in the architecture and accents... there is an accumulation of influence that creates a sense of stability, of elegance, of memory. And in the historic parts of Dublin (i.e. the Georgian area near Merrion Square and St. Stephen's Green or the Victorian homes in Rathmines and Rathgar) there are some similarities, though not nearly as old nor with as lasting an influence on the people.
We discussed fashion, how in Milan there is beauty everywhere that a person cannot compete with, but may try to emulate (clean lines, accents/details rather than bright colors or angles, etc.). We discussed how Dublin is in the midst of significant change, that as the landscape of the city is changing, the identity of the population therein is changing. It seems the more visually oppressive/aggressive the buildings, shops, etc. are, the more the fashion and the attitudes reflect it. The more people try to tune out their surroundings, the more they can tune out other people.
I don't mean to say that this doesn't happen in Milan, but the energy and quality of interactions on the street are different in Historic Milan than in the shopping center or other more rapidly changing parts of the city. I have been thinking about where I like to live and where I feel most comfortable and continue to find myself like neighborhoods in which there is a consistency in the architecture and lots of trees nearby. I think that's what I love about the outer Sunset district in San Francisco; yes, the garage is often the most prominent part of the home's facade, but the homes were all done by the same company and have a similar look. The buildings are not the most elaborate and exciting, but they create a backdrop against which people's lives can become the focus.
In Historic Milan there are the groomed public parks, the deliberate and lasting beauty of the buildings, the detail in the architecture and accents... there is an accumulation of influence that creates a sense of stability, of elegance, of memory. And in the historic parts of Dublin (i.e. the Georgian area near Merrion Square and St. Stephen's Green or the Victorian homes in Rathmines and Rathgar) there are some similarities, though not nearly as old nor with as lasting an influence on the people.
We discussed fashion, how in Milan there is beauty everywhere that a person cannot compete with, but may try to emulate (clean lines, accents/details rather than bright colors or angles, etc.). We discussed how Dublin is in the midst of significant change, that as the landscape of the city is changing, the identity of the population therein is changing. It seems the more visually oppressive/aggressive the buildings, shops, etc. are, the more the fashion and the attitudes reflect it. The more people try to tune out their surroundings, the more they can tune out other people.
I don't mean to say that this doesn't happen in Milan, but the energy and quality of interactions on the street are different in Historic Milan than in the shopping center or other more rapidly changing parts of the city. I have been thinking about where I like to live and where I feel most comfortable and continue to find myself like neighborhoods in which there is a consistency in the architecture and lots of trees nearby. I think that's what I love about the outer Sunset district in San Francisco; yes, the garage is often the most prominent part of the home's facade, but the homes were all done by the same company and have a similar look. The buildings are not the most elaborate and exciting, but they create a backdrop against which people's lives can become the focus.
The Statue of Verdi in Milan
One afternoon when Gabry's mother was driving us through Milan, we passed the statue of Verdi and I was so wonderfully impressed. It is a striking statue mostly because it is in the middle of a roundabout and there are trees all around so, upon entering the roundabout, it's as if entering a clearing in the middle of the city and there he stands: endlessly at ease in his surroundings.
In my attempts to find the statue for you to see, I discovered that the entries into Wikipedia (which I realize is not the most dependable source for information) are strikingly different in different languages. The English language entry shows a statue which I find much less interesting, especially because Verdi was not originally from Milan and, while he achieved great success at La Scala with his operas, being seated as an older man celebrates him as an institution rather than the standing figure of a younger man who seems to have recently come into his own. (As an act of defiance I will not change the title of this entry because I firmly believe that the standing statue is THE statue to see if you visit.)
In my attempts to find the statue for you to see, I discovered that the entries into Wikipedia (which I realize is not the most dependable source for information) are strikingly different in different languages. The English language entry shows a statue which I find much less interesting, especially because Verdi was not originally from Milan and, while he achieved great success at La Scala with his operas, being seated as an older man celebrates him as an institution rather than the standing figure of a younger man who seems to have recently come into his own. (As an act of defiance I will not change the title of this entry because I firmly believe that the standing statue is THE statue to see if you visit.)
A work in progress
I have submitted (Thanks Chad!) two of my four assessments prior to the dissertation. I am in the second week of my second term of classes. I feel this is an appropriate time for a bit of reflection on the program, on my process, and on my goals.
My first essay for the M.Phil. was my paper on Tom Murphy which I have mentioned previously in my blogging. I started research at the beginning of November, although I had already read a few resources that helped shape my research by that point. In the two assessments I have completed (the Tom Murphy essay and my presentation on John Patrick Shanley's Doubt--see previous posts 1, 2, 3), I found that I wrestled with similar issues: I love gathering information, but I dislike the definitive product of a paper. I am more interested in the process of learning than in the disseminating my knowledge or opinions. And it shows in both pieces that I was not committed or confident in what I wrote which is unfortunate because I know A LOT about both things. I think the Doubt presentation and paper were more successful because I did at least five different versions before I developed the one I used. With the Tom Murphy essay, I am still figuring out what I really wanted to say and how I should've said it.
This creative aspect of structuring my ideas is important to me and I understand that I will not be happy in a career in which I have constant deadlines for written material unless I keep working at this and develop my ability to do it more successfully. Hopefully I will develop my own voice (which I am also not good at doing in my papers) and start incorporating the confidence I have in conversation into my written work.
I am considering working on a rewrite so I can submit to a conference that will be happening in Dublin in the summer, but I would need to submit an abstract by Friday. We'll see. Homework first, then career building.
My first essay for the M.Phil. was my paper on Tom Murphy which I have mentioned previously in my blogging. I started research at the beginning of November, although I had already read a few resources that helped shape my research by that point. In the two assessments I have completed (the Tom Murphy essay and my presentation on John Patrick Shanley's Doubt--see previous posts 1, 2, 3), I found that I wrestled with similar issues: I love gathering information, but I dislike the definitive product of a paper. I am more interested in the process of learning than in the disseminating my knowledge or opinions. And it shows in both pieces that I was not committed or confident in what I wrote which is unfortunate because I know A LOT about both things. I think the Doubt presentation and paper were more successful because I did at least five different versions before I developed the one I used. With the Tom Murphy essay, I am still figuring out what I really wanted to say and how I should've said it.
This creative aspect of structuring my ideas is important to me and I understand that I will not be happy in a career in which I have constant deadlines for written material unless I keep working at this and develop my ability to do it more successfully. Hopefully I will develop my own voice (which I am also not good at doing in my papers) and start incorporating the confidence I have in conversation into my written work.
I am considering working on a rewrite so I can submit to a conference that will be happening in Dublin in the summer, but I would need to submit an abstract by Friday. We'll see. Homework first, then career building.
Even Better than 'The Last Supper'
Okay, I can't actually say with any credibility that the frescoes I saw was better than 'The Last Supper' because the viewing times for that particular fresco had been booked out three weeks in advance. But Gabry took me to see her favorite chapel and it was breathtakingly beautiful. The entire interior was one huge fresco.
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is Benedictine convent with a public sanctuary and a convent hall. The most striking fresco was in the convent hall on the ceiling above where the altar would've been. It was the most deep and beautiful blue with gold stars. I could've sat for hours especially if there had been hymns sung in Latin and incense...I could imagine how moving and transformative an experience could be had in such magnificent surroundings.
All along the walls are enclaves (chapels) dedicated to different saints or events. For example, Chapel of St. Stephen, Chapel of the Resurrection, Chapel of Noah's Ark, Chapel of St. John the Baptist.
The amount of detail is almost overwhelming because there seemed to be paint on every available space. Gabry and I discussed how many decades of labor were remembered in this building.
I didn't have my camera, but I found this online. I hope you enjoy it!
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is Benedictine convent with a public sanctuary and a convent hall. The most striking fresco was in the convent hall on the ceiling above where the altar would've been. It was the most deep and beautiful blue with gold stars. I could've sat for hours especially if there had been hymns sung in Latin and incense...I could imagine how moving and transformative an experience could be had in such magnificent surroundings.
All along the walls are enclaves (chapels) dedicated to different saints or events. For example, Chapel of St. Stephen, Chapel of the Resurrection, Chapel of Noah's Ark, Chapel of St. John the Baptist.
The amount of detail is almost overwhelming because there seemed to be paint on every available space. Gabry and I discussed how many decades of labor were remembered in this building.
I didn't have my camera, but I found this online. I hope you enjoy it!
back from Milan
Sorry for another gap in posts, but I was finishing my papers last week and then visited Gabry in Milan over the weekend. But I have been thinking of you, dear readers, whoever you are (although I know most of you are family and friends and I thought of you in specific) and thinking of different things I will post.
Some of you may be wondering if I am feeling very worldly now. The truth is that I feel I don't know enough statistics/info about the USA to lead important conversations. Like I can't remember how many people died in the World Trade Center attack or how many democrats got voted into the Congress or what the new regulations are on steroid use in the MLB... So I think I will work on that before I travel again. To be fair, though, I have been caught under informed other times since I have been in Dublin, but it hadn't happened in a while so I had forgotten about being prepared to be a representative of my country.
Gabry's mother (who is a really interesting woman for a number of reasons one of which is her ability to read people and predict some things that will happen) said something along the lines of me being the most American of all the Americans that she has met, that I seem to really be from America and feel that is my home. I don't know if I would've come across that clearly before this time living in Ireland, but I am starting to think I have known that for a few years. I am definitely a San Francisco-area native and that's where I belong. All the rest of the world I have seen so far (in the US or elsewhere) has it's own thing going on and it's nice to visit, but my first choice is still San Francisco for building a home/life/future.
Some of you may be wondering if I am feeling very worldly now. The truth is that I feel I don't know enough statistics/info about the USA to lead important conversations. Like I can't remember how many people died in the World Trade Center attack or how many democrats got voted into the Congress or what the new regulations are on steroid use in the MLB... So I think I will work on that before I travel again. To be fair, though, I have been caught under informed other times since I have been in Dublin, but it hadn't happened in a while so I had forgotten about being prepared to be a representative of my country.
Gabry's mother (who is a really interesting woman for a number of reasons one of which is her ability to read people and predict some things that will happen) said something along the lines of me being the most American of all the Americans that she has met, that I seem to really be from America and feel that is my home. I don't know if I would've come across that clearly before this time living in Ireland, but I am starting to think I have known that for a few years. I am definitely a San Francisco-area native and that's where I belong. All the rest of the world I have seen so far (in the US or elsewhere) has it's own thing going on and it's nice to visit, but my first choice is still San Francisco for building a home/life/future.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
May the wind be always at your back
Today is one of those days I am reminded of the Irish Blessing in which the speaker hopes 'the wind may always be at your back.' The truth is that there are unbelievably strong winds sometimes here in Ireland. Sometimes I wear my iPod earpieces less because I want to listen to music and more because I don't want to get an earache from the wind.
And I know Dublin is nothing compared to other parts of the country. I know two different people who experienced being held up by the wind on the west coast. I could try that here, but the wind is less sustained and more gusty. I think I would rather just stay out of it as much as possible at the moment.
And I know Dublin is nothing compared to other parts of the country. I know two different people who experienced being held up by the wind on the west coast. I could try that here, but the wind is less sustained and more gusty. I think I would rather just stay out of it as much as possible at the moment.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Perspective Shifts
I know I posted before about the film Ordinary Decent Criminal, but I cannot remember if I posted a follow-up after doing my research for one of my papers. I think I mentioned that Gerard Stembridge spoke in my CITIC course because he directed the recent Abbey Theatre production of John Patrick Shanley's Doubt. As he was talking about his career thus far, he mentioned writing the screeplay for the aforementioned film and that he distanced himself from the project; he did not feel as successful about that writing-to-film process as with Nora.
In my research on gangsterism in Ireland, particularly in Dublin, I was able to get the production publications from Druid Theatre (Thanks Carmel!). The program for their 1995 production of Tom Murphy's The Blue Macushla included a piece written by Veronica Guerin, a journalist with Sunday Independent who was later murdered for her coverage of gang activity in Ireland. (Her story has been made into two films, one of them in 2003 starring Cate Blanchett. Though not always 100% accurate, there is an entry on Wikipedia.)
The reason I bring this up (and I apologise if I already posted this, but I am too tired to search through my previous posts to see if I posted this) is that the characters in Ordinary Decent Criminal are based on some of the same individuals responsible for Veronica Guerin's death. The film is quite light-hearted and the crimes committed do not involve drugs, racketeering, or prostitution. Without going too far into idle speculation, I could imagine the writer being unhappy with the final product if it became too funny and obscured other elements in the script.
I have had multiple paradigm shifts since moving to Dublin and working in this program; it's empowering and humbling as a person, but vital as a burgeoning teacher and academic, to remember how quickly (and often) my perspective deserves reevaluation.
In my research on gangsterism in Ireland, particularly in Dublin, I was able to get the production publications from Druid Theatre (Thanks Carmel!). The program for their 1995 production of Tom Murphy's The Blue Macushla included a piece written by Veronica Guerin, a journalist with Sunday Independent who was later murdered for her coverage of gang activity in Ireland. (Her story has been made into two films, one of them in 2003 starring Cate Blanchett. Though not always 100% accurate, there is an entry on Wikipedia.)
The reason I bring this up (and I apologise if I already posted this, but I am too tired to search through my previous posts to see if I posted this) is that the characters in Ordinary Decent Criminal are based on some of the same individuals responsible for Veronica Guerin's death. The film is quite light-hearted and the crimes committed do not involve drugs, racketeering, or prostitution. Without going too far into idle speculation, I could imagine the writer being unhappy with the final product if it became too funny and obscured other elements in the script.
I have had multiple paradigm shifts since moving to Dublin and working in this program; it's empowering and humbling as a person, but vital as a burgeoning teacher and academic, to remember how quickly (and often) my perspective deserves reevaluation.
Back to School
I've gotten a few questions about my program so here's an update on my scholastic endeavor(s).
I had three courses last term:
1. Theatre and Ireland
2. Contemporary Irish Theatre in Context (CITIC)
3. Strategies of Analysis
This term, all three of these continue and there is the addition of a fourth course: Movements in European Theatre (or something of a similar name).
The classes are pretty much what the titles indicate although you may have noticed that the titles are vague in their specificity. This is part of what is so fun about postgraduate work: a nod to a field of study (or multiple fields as the case may be) and the understanding that I as student will explore further as necessary. This is at once exciting and aggravating. Exciting because I am responsible for information as it is interesting to me; aggravating because no one actually explained this shift in consciousness/process. There's still reading for each course, the occasional lecture (depending on instructor and topic), and an assessment at the end of the term. (The assessment for CITIC is a 15-minute presentation with a 3,000 word paper which is basically the presentation text. The other three courses each require a 6,000 word paper.)
My courses finish this term and the third term is for working on my dissertation which is due at the end of August and will be 12-15,000 words.
I've been to three of my four courses so far. The fun part about this week is that our first paper is due by Friday; we get to finish articulating something from last term while we start taking in new information for this term. There are many manic students at the moment.
I had three courses last term:
1. Theatre and Ireland
2. Contemporary Irish Theatre in Context (CITIC)
3. Strategies of Analysis
This term, all three of these continue and there is the addition of a fourth course: Movements in European Theatre (or something of a similar name).
The classes are pretty much what the titles indicate although you may have noticed that the titles are vague in their specificity. This is part of what is so fun about postgraduate work: a nod to a field of study (or multiple fields as the case may be) and the understanding that I as student will explore further as necessary. This is at once exciting and aggravating. Exciting because I am responsible for information as it is interesting to me; aggravating because no one actually explained this shift in consciousness/process. There's still reading for each course, the occasional lecture (depending on instructor and topic), and an assessment at the end of the term. (The assessment for CITIC is a 15-minute presentation with a 3,000 word paper which is basically the presentation text. The other three courses each require a 6,000 word paper.)
My courses finish this term and the third term is for working on my dissertation which is due at the end of August and will be 12-15,000 words.
I've been to three of my four courses so far. The fun part about this week is that our first paper is due by Friday; we get to finish articulating something from last term while we start taking in new information for this term. There are many manic students at the moment.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Aaah, reading!
During my visit home, my man rekindled my appreciation for reading for pleasure. During my previous term, I didn't do much casual, non-academically related reading. (Thank you Stephen for lending me the Nick Hornsby books!!!) Mike let me borrow The Long Walk by Stephen King (written under a pseudonym). While he's no Clive Barker, I enjoyed it quite a lot and will probably read more of his early writing. I also enjoyed sitting on the couch reading it while he did other stuff. There's something really great about being comfortable enough with a person that you can be in the same room without having to entertain each other or be jealous that the other person is mentally in an entirely different place.
In coping with my transition back to life in Dublin, I decided to make a little space for myself and read Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. To be fair, I started it right after the other book, but I set it aside. It's not the most well-written book I've ever read, but it was a nice adventure for the day. I curled myself up with a hot water bottle, a cup of tea, and an Irish wool blanket (a birthday gift from Gabry) for some quality, cozy, relaxation time.
I am much more prepared mentally and physically for this term and am currently having a productive day (despite my brief detour to the cartoon site and my blog).
In coping with my transition back to life in Dublin, I decided to make a little space for myself and read Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. To be fair, I started it right after the other book, but I set it aside. It's not the most well-written book I've ever read, but it was a nice adventure for the day. I curled myself up with a hot water bottle, a cup of tea, and an Irish wool blanket (a birthday gift from Gabry) for some quality, cozy, relaxation time.
I am much more prepared mentally and physically for this term and am currently having a productive day (despite my brief detour to the cartoon site and my blog).
Online Diversion
My friend Suzi recently sent me the link to a cartoon website and I have since been giggling profusely. It's not for the easily insulted or offended. But for those who like a good laugh about slightly off-color things, do check it out. I have had to force myself away from the computer a couple of times now. It's hours of diversion!
Friday, January 05, 2007
Getting Settled in Dublin
My first night back in Dublin was mostly reflecting on having been gone. I downloaded the Lord Loves a Working Man album from iTunes and sent emails telling folks that I got home safely. I got to see a live Lord Loves show while I was home. As always, it was a good show. Some of the musicians were different, but the sound is still the same. Listening to the album (which was recorded in 2005), I realised that I know some of their songs that aren't on the album. For some reason that makes me really happy. Okay, I know why that makes me really happy:
1.) I have been to enough Lord Loves shows to remember the songs.
2.) They have been together long enough to have a repertoire of songs beyond their first album.
3.) This band is still rocking folks and getting them on their feet.
I am still a little wonky in the head, but that's probably a combination of jet lag and leaving behind my loved ones and loved places. Tonight will be apartment cleaning and unpacking and getting used to being in this apartment. I think the being alone is part of what is so difficult about this transition back. I spent almost every moment of my trip with someone else. Now I am alone with my thoughts, my memories, and my plans. Enter the music. If I listen to music that reminds me of home or of loved ones or of not being alone, maybe I won't feel so lonely.
Mary will be back in a couple days and then I will go to Italy to visit Gabry. I think I will indulge in the melancholy for another night and then try to wake up tomorrow with a renewed vigor and focus on my goals. I am here to study and prepare myself for a career in theatre and academia. It's rough, though, when I just immersed myself in the people, places, and memories that mean the most to me.
1.) I have been to enough Lord Loves shows to remember the songs.
2.) They have been together long enough to have a repertoire of songs beyond their first album.
3.) This band is still rocking folks and getting them on their feet.
I am still a little wonky in the head, but that's probably a combination of jet lag and leaving behind my loved ones and loved places. Tonight will be apartment cleaning and unpacking and getting used to being in this apartment. I think the being alone is part of what is so difficult about this transition back. I spent almost every moment of my trip with someone else. Now I am alone with my thoughts, my memories, and my plans. Enter the music. If I listen to music that reminds me of home or of loved ones or of not being alone, maybe I won't feel so lonely.
Mary will be back in a couple days and then I will go to Italy to visit Gabry. I think I will indulge in the melancholy for another night and then try to wake up tomorrow with a renewed vigor and focus on my goals. I am here to study and prepare myself for a career in theatre and academia. It's rough, though, when I just immersed myself in the people, places, and memories that mean the most to me.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Happy New Year!
I apologize for the absence of new posts. I went back to California for a couple weeks. I've been doing lots of re-evaluation and reflection (when don't I, right?) and spent most of my time with my family and with my man in an attempt to center myself before returning to my studies. I'll probably recap some of the highlights of the trip in the coming weeks.
The trip was brief, but it was just what I needed, even if it was difficult at times emotionally. Many thanks to all who accommodated my haphazard schedule. Apologies to all with whom I didn't get to spend enough (or any) time; I hope you understand I needed to take care of myself. I will be back in California in September and we can start planning face-time then.
I hope everyone is preparing themselves for a New Year. I haven't made any resolutions of concrete things, but I have renewed my commitment to myself: I want to minimize the obstacles and focus on creation, growth, and trust.
The trip was brief, but it was just what I needed, even if it was difficult at times emotionally. Many thanks to all who accommodated my haphazard schedule. Apologies to all with whom I didn't get to spend enough (or any) time; I hope you understand I needed to take care of myself. I will be back in California in September and we can start planning face-time then.
I hope everyone is preparing themselves for a New Year. I haven't made any resolutions of concrete things, but I have renewed my commitment to myself: I want to minimize the obstacles and focus on creation, growth, and trust.
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