From Voice Notes to Gig Theatre
This week's midweek newsletter slowly ponders the concept of urgency
Hey up peoples,
I do hope you're doing well this fine beginning of the month of April. I just got back from my virtual discussion group, feeling more inspired than ever. There's something about sharing ideas and stories that really lights a fire under you, doesn't it? Well, today, I've decided to do something a little different. Instead of jotting down my thoughts the old-fashioned way by typing them in to a computer, I'm going to use voice notes. Yes, you heard that right. Andy who hardly ever uses a phone for calls and hates skype and zoom meetings, actually speaking into a device, conjuring up rambling thoughts straight into existence, unformatted and unedited. Jaw dropping, I know. Don’t worry, the audio gets almost instantaneously converted into concise and accurately text and saved in a searchable database.
The first voice note I'm making is about creating a to-do list. But it's not just any to-do list; it's an important one. I have something really urgent that needs my full attention. It's the kind of thing that's not just looming on the horizon, it's coming straight at me like a jetskier barreling towards the protected swimmers section of the beach. I have to provide the final details about my upcoming show at the Ventnor Fringe for the printed programme and the website ready for when tickets go on sale later this month.
Unless you just signed up or have been ignoring your email for months then you will know that the show is called 'Boulevard Days, the same as the CD. Yes, it's a one-man show, a Play with Songs and owes something to gig theatre. For those of you scratching your heads, gig theatre blends the energy and vibe of live music gigs with the storytelling and performance of theatre. It's an unforgettable experience, and I'm buzzing with excitement to bring it to life.
Why is this so urgent? Well, the Ventnor Fringe folks need my info ASAP to start the promotional engines. It's a big deal, and I've got to ensure everything's perfect. From the playscript to scene design and promotional materials, every detail counts. It's a lot, I know. But when you're wrapped up in something, the mountain of work just feels like a series of interesting challenges. And believe me, I'm all in on this one.
Why am I sharing this process with you? Because the journey, with all its ups and downs, is another thing I believe to be worth documenting. It's not just for me, but for anyone out there who's ever had a dream and is working tirelessly to make it a reality. Whether it's putting on a show, writing a book, or starting a new band or an album, the key is in taking those first steps. And sometimes, those steps involve sorting out the urgent from the not-so-urgent in your to-do list. Wish me luck.
Final notice for a local gig:
Excited to be back here at The Sun Inn at Calbourne, Isle of Wight this Saturday to kick off the new season of live music sessions.
7pm-9pm
All for now,
Andy