Bye Bye Performink in Print

Sad day, the June 19th issue of Performink will be its last one in print. They're going the way of lots of newspapers and appearing only online. I got my letter in the mail today announcing the change and the updating of their website. A fancier website will be great, but I'll miss being able to cut out the audition notices and tape them in my planner...

Just Cast!

I usually like to wait until the contact is signed before I announce my upcoming shows, but I couldn't resist. I was just cast as Lee, Jackie Onasis/Kennedy's sister in "Jackie, An American Life." It's running weekends in September. Visit the Theatre Hikes website for more info!

Dance Injuries...

I was google-ing dance injuries while icing my ankles and found this great article from NYU. Read the full text here.

Top Ten Prevention tips for dancers

1. Proper training and teaching are essential to allow dancers of all ages to develop their skills without injury.
2. Take adequate rest to allow the body to heal itself from daily wear and tear
3. Maintain energy levels by eating and drinking adequately.
4. Conditioning and strengthening of the leg muscles that support the arch are crucial.
5. Try to avoid dancing on hard or uneven surfaces, which could cause injury.
6. Take care of your shoes!
7. Dancers should adopt new training schedules slowly.
8. Although not always possible when dancing, but more so off stage or out of class, wear supportive footwear, and if you need to wear orthotics, wear them as often as possible.
9. If dancers perform excessive pointe or demi-pointe work one day, they should focus on other types of work during the next workout.
10. Early recognition of symptoms is important. Stop activity if pain or swelling occurs. If the pain persists after a few days rest, consult a sports-medicine physician

First "Cloclo" Rehearsal

Tonight I had my first rehearsal for the operetta Cloclo. I love first rehearsals because they're so full of excitement and nerves. It's always fun finding out who is in the cast and learning, yet again, that the theatre universe is super small. I went to school with one of gentlemen in the ensemble, and I am covering for a girl that knew some of my husband's friends. Small world.

The show should be great! The production staff is comprised of several staff members from The Lyric Opera and the director has some great ideas. We heard the concept presentation, saw the set designs, and sang through the majority of the show!

Check out the Chicago Folks Operetta website for more information. Keep your eyes peeled for our bios, which should pop up with our posted headshots, under "Ensemble," in a few days.

Welcome to my blog!

Hello! Thank you for visiting my blog. It's my hope to keep everyone informed on my upcoming shows, gigs, and musings on being a musical theatre actress in Chicago. Feel free to wait in wings, while I get everything up and running!

Break a leg!
~Kirsten