.... and it is up and running.
Finally have my journal on my site. I'm all about convenience. So check it:
www.melodydavi.com
Hurrah!
Till next time, peace, love, and no more blogspot!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
New Site...
.... And it is now time to put this blog to rest. My new website is up and running, and I will now be posting all my journal entries from there. For now, until the domain name is set to my own (www.melodydavi.com), my site, including blog, can be viewed at http://web.mac.com/melodivanyc/Site/Welcome.html. Hopefully this will keep the entries coming much quicker!
Miss you all! All my love from Costa Rica! Till next time, peace, love, and Macbook!
Miss you all! All my love from Costa Rica! Till next time, peace, love, and Macbook!
Monday, March 3, 2008
Say cheese....
My Cabin! SO cozy...
LOverly ARuba
Holly and I at the Valentine's Day Disco... I know. So festive in Black!
Me and Toucan Sam in Columbia
ANd baby Sloth in Cartagena!
Drinks with Jim and Lelani at the Sofitel, Cartagena
The best Golden Arch... Lelani, Semani, Jim, and I in Antigua, Guatemala
More to come... COuntdown till Fam arrives: 3 days!
Till next time, peace, love, and board shorts...
Old school posts....
February 6- Ft Lauderdale
Oi, how today became so much less than expected. For the past ten days we have been looking forward to arriving back in the good ol’ US of A and making the great journey to my mothership, TARGET. One never realizes how dependant they become on the basic necessities of everyday life (ya know, toothpaste, facewash, Orbitz Whitening gum), until they are stranded on a floating hunk of metal for weeks on end. SO you can imagine how terribly distraught us singers were to learn that instead of jumping ship at 7 AM and power walking to our rental car, our chariot, our only means of escape, we had to wait…. And wait…. And wait… to go through immigration. By the time that was over, we pretty much had enough time for a breeze through of the nearby Walgreens and a scarfed down sandwhich at the local deli. Not exactly the dream day we had planned. But fortunately I got my basic necessities. And the box me mum and dad sent me today arrived! Mostly excited about the piano books they packed, as my cabin’s previous tenant left a keyboard in the room. Therefore, I will be able to bang away on those (plastic) ivories whenever the mood strikes. Hopefully that will pass some of the down time. If not, there is always a deck chair calling my name for nap time!
February 7- At sea
SO I have serious issues with sea days. I function completely if I know there is a port to visit, some sort of daily activity to break up the monotony. But there is only so long that I can stare out my portholes as the water rushes by before I contemplate jumping ship. Fortunately, we have created daily rituals, which, although mundane, help pass the time immensely. Today for instance: Wake up around eight (the latest I can ever sleep in on here, thanks to the aforementioned portholes), and begin by making approximately 6 cups of coffee…. Thank Jesus for my French press! Breakfast with CNN headline news, which is truly our only window in to what in the world is happening outside the ship bubble. Then its time for the deck walk. I got over the ship’s gym after about the first cruise (me and a treadmill are not BFF) and therefore have taken to power walking on deck seven, which is much more interesting since you can people watch at the same time. Power walking is followed by pilates, which is followed by me realizing I’ve only killed about three hours of my day. Tanning time begins, though on sea days, tis more like tanning in a tornado with the insane amount of wind that surrounds you. As I lay out, deck chair cushions rush past my head, but I am determined to keep this bronzy glow! Then lunch at HoCo (Horizon Court) with Jim and Lelani, two of the other singers, which we are determined to stretch out for the maximum amount of time. Trust me, it is a true task to sea how long I can stretch out my salad and whatever other mystery food I have plopped onto my plate from the buffet. By now it is three PM, and time for afternoon coffee at the Pattiserie (which includes mini cookies, my favorite ship treat!). By now it is apparent that I have become a caffeine junkie, but I suppose there could be worse vices, eh? When coffee time is over, I play on my rinky dink keyboard for about an hour, till finally it is sound check time! Tonight’s show is “Piano Man”, but its all interchangeable as these days are pretty much carbon copies of each other. Then off to my room to prep, warm-up, slap on some lashes and lippie, and I am ready to sing me some Elton John!
February 8- Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Do not eat a vegetarian burger in Jamaica. You will get sick. That’s all I have to say.
February 9- Sea Day
See above Sea Day. I swear, it never changes!
February 10- Aruba
I bought a camera, I bought a camera, I bought a camera, hey hey hey hey!
A good ol’ Canon, just like the one my rents got me for Christmas two years ago which somehow ended up in the bathtub and subsequently was completely trashed. So once again I will be able to actually capture some of these experiences that I am terrible at relating through my words.
February 11- Catragena, Columbia
I never thought I would say this, but I absolutely LOVE Columbia.
February 18- At Sea
Yet another in a string of Sea Days. Starting to really appreciate the downtime and am nearly irritated when I actually have to do work. Fortunately, today was 100% downtime, and I took full advantage. Morning walk on the deck, mid day meal with the singers, including my favorite mini cookies from the Patisserie, and laying on a deck chair doing exactly nothing. I’m getting fairly good at doing nothing. But the highlight of the evening was our singers’ night out. (Well, as far out as you can go when you are stuck on a ship). The great thing about nights off here is whenever we do not have a production, someone else is bound to have a show, be it a cabaret act, a comedian, juggler, even banjo player. Last evening’s show completely takes the cake. After getting all dolled up and having a nice relaxing meal at the dining room, it was off to see Miss Joni Butler. A Grammy nominated singer, I was absolutely blown away by her presence, talent, but mostly her spirit. This girl has range for days, like Linda Eder with about three more octaves, and yet she is completely humble about it, knowing all her gifts come from God and thanking him expressly. It is just so rare and refreshing in this business to find someone with such genuine gratitude, minus the attitude. I know I have always looked up to my sister as one of said performers, and now I have another entertainer to emulate. Plus, everyone calls her my mom as she does look eerily like me a few years down the line. It’s a major compliment which I will gladly accept. All I know is that it is seeing her in action really inspired me to get my booty in gear, to keep trying to better myself as a performer and a person, and I know I’m not the only one in the audience who felt that. Really, that’s what putting on a show is all about.
Oi, how today became so much less than expected. For the past ten days we have been looking forward to arriving back in the good ol’ US of A and making the great journey to my mothership, TARGET. One never realizes how dependant they become on the basic necessities of everyday life (ya know, toothpaste, facewash, Orbitz Whitening gum), until they are stranded on a floating hunk of metal for weeks on end. SO you can imagine how terribly distraught us singers were to learn that instead of jumping ship at 7 AM and power walking to our rental car, our chariot, our only means of escape, we had to wait…. And wait…. And wait… to go through immigration. By the time that was over, we pretty much had enough time for a breeze through of the nearby Walgreens and a scarfed down sandwhich at the local deli. Not exactly the dream day we had planned. But fortunately I got my basic necessities. And the box me mum and dad sent me today arrived! Mostly excited about the piano books they packed, as my cabin’s previous tenant left a keyboard in the room. Therefore, I will be able to bang away on those (plastic) ivories whenever the mood strikes. Hopefully that will pass some of the down time. If not, there is always a deck chair calling my name for nap time!
February 7- At sea
SO I have serious issues with sea days. I function completely if I know there is a port to visit, some sort of daily activity to break up the monotony. But there is only so long that I can stare out my portholes as the water rushes by before I contemplate jumping ship. Fortunately, we have created daily rituals, which, although mundane, help pass the time immensely. Today for instance: Wake up around eight (the latest I can ever sleep in on here, thanks to the aforementioned portholes), and begin by making approximately 6 cups of coffee…. Thank Jesus for my French press! Breakfast with CNN headline news, which is truly our only window in to what in the world is happening outside the ship bubble. Then its time for the deck walk. I got over the ship’s gym after about the first cruise (me and a treadmill are not BFF) and therefore have taken to power walking on deck seven, which is much more interesting since you can people watch at the same time. Power walking is followed by pilates, which is followed by me realizing I’ve only killed about three hours of my day. Tanning time begins, though on sea days, tis more like tanning in a tornado with the insane amount of wind that surrounds you. As I lay out, deck chair cushions rush past my head, but I am determined to keep this bronzy glow! Then lunch at HoCo (Horizon Court) with Jim and Lelani, two of the other singers, which we are determined to stretch out for the maximum amount of time. Trust me, it is a true task to sea how long I can stretch out my salad and whatever other mystery food I have plopped onto my plate from the buffet. By now it is three PM, and time for afternoon coffee at the Pattiserie (which includes mini cookies, my favorite ship treat!). By now it is apparent that I have become a caffeine junkie, but I suppose there could be worse vices, eh? When coffee time is over, I play on my rinky dink keyboard for about an hour, till finally it is sound check time! Tonight’s show is “Piano Man”, but its all interchangeable as these days are pretty much carbon copies of each other. Then off to my room to prep, warm-up, slap on some lashes and lippie, and I am ready to sing me some Elton John!
February 8- Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Do not eat a vegetarian burger in Jamaica. You will get sick. That’s all I have to say.
February 9- Sea Day
See above Sea Day. I swear, it never changes!
February 10- Aruba
I bought a camera, I bought a camera, I bought a camera, hey hey hey hey!
A good ol’ Canon, just like the one my rents got me for Christmas two years ago which somehow ended up in the bathtub and subsequently was completely trashed. So once again I will be able to actually capture some of these experiences that I am terrible at relating through my words.
February 11- Catragena, Columbia
I never thought I would say this, but I absolutely LOVE Columbia.
February 18- At Sea
Yet another in a string of Sea Days. Starting to really appreciate the downtime and am nearly irritated when I actually have to do work. Fortunately, today was 100% downtime, and I took full advantage. Morning walk on the deck, mid day meal with the singers, including my favorite mini cookies from the Patisserie, and laying on a deck chair doing exactly nothing. I’m getting fairly good at doing nothing. But the highlight of the evening was our singers’ night out. (Well, as far out as you can go when you are stuck on a ship). The great thing about nights off here is whenever we do not have a production, someone else is bound to have a show, be it a cabaret act, a comedian, juggler, even banjo player. Last evening’s show completely takes the cake. After getting all dolled up and having a nice relaxing meal at the dining room, it was off to see Miss Joni Butler. A Grammy nominated singer, I was absolutely blown away by her presence, talent, but mostly her spirit. This girl has range for days, like Linda Eder with about three more octaves, and yet she is completely humble about it, knowing all her gifts come from God and thanking him expressly. It is just so rare and refreshing in this business to find someone with such genuine gratitude, minus the attitude. I know I have always looked up to my sister as one of said performers, and now I have another entertainer to emulate. Plus, everyone calls her my mom as she does look eerily like me a few years down the line. It’s a major compliment which I will gladly accept. All I know is that it is seeing her in action really inspired me to get my booty in gear, to keep trying to better myself as a performer and a person, and I know I’m not the only one in the audience who felt that. Really, that’s what putting on a show is all about.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
PS. Some Pics...
Creepy "Superstition" puppets...
The ISland Princess!!! My home for six months...
Seats in the Princess Theatre. Muchos lovely...
Matty and I... representing in the UK and the NY!
... stole some pics from Shmatty. I swear I'll get a camera ASAP.
Aruba, Jamaica, oooh I wanna take ya...
Another day, some more paradise. But I must say, I do not feel guilty for indulging in sme enjoyment, for our cast truly deserves it. AT LAST all of our shows are open, and this is the first day we have had completely off in ages. So it only seemes fitting that almost everyone jumped ship as soon as the Island docked in Aruba. Super Bowl Sunday, we care not of, for tis Super Beach Sunday. Let the tanning oil slathering and daquiri drinking commence. Around noon, a large group of us hopped into a cab headed for the highrise resort strip, which is right along the goregous pure white beach. Though we got scammed on the fare (60 dollars for 10 minutes? PLEASE!) it was all worth it as deck chairs were arranged and pure nirvana was discovered. I'd have to say the highlight was our fabulous beach side meal. I'm not talking any 5-star gourmet nonsense. Just the simple fact that it was not a buffet salad bar or room service (yes one does tire of room service) was enough to have me jumping for joy. And man, they sure do make some fine vegetarian quesadillas here. A few hours later and five shades darker, our fried brains decided to high tail it on back to the main road beside the pier where they are having Carnival!! Huge parade was underway, and even as I type, I can still hear the rumbling from down below, fanfare and thumping bass lines. It seems as though the whole island turned out for this event, and for good reason. I'd take this over football any day.
But do not fret that in all this sun worshipping I am not doing anything of cultural value. Yesterday I took part in my very first tour. The location: Cartagena, Columbia (pretty sketchy, I do not deny it). The tour was a speed boat sight-seeing adventure through all the fortresses of the Island. WHich would be very cool... if they had ever been used. All I got out of it was these massive defensive posts were constructed in the 18th Century... and never actually operational as Cartagena was never attacked. At least we took some pretty pictures. And my skin got some good exfoliation from all the salt water sprayed upon me.
Two more days then I arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Another day of shopping for all the nonsensical things one would never think they possibly depended on for survival until stuck out in the middle of the ocean. Let there be Target. Let there be Whole Foods. And let there be a purchase of the oh-so-despised flip-flops. For I have come to learn that cruising and stilettos simply do not mesh.
Till next time, peace, love and Aloe Vera Gel.
But do not fret that in all this sun worshipping I am not doing anything of cultural value. Yesterday I took part in my very first tour. The location: Cartagena, Columbia (pretty sketchy, I do not deny it). The tour was a speed boat sight-seeing adventure through all the fortresses of the Island. WHich would be very cool... if they had ever been used. All I got out of it was these massive defensive posts were constructed in the 18th Century... and never actually operational as Cartagena was never attacked. At least we took some pretty pictures. And my skin got some good exfoliation from all the salt water sprayed upon me.
Two more days then I arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Another day of shopping for all the nonsensical things one would never think they possibly depended on for survival until stuck out in the middle of the ocean. Let there be Target. Let there be Whole Foods. And let there be a purchase of the oh-so-despised flip-flops. For I have come to learn that cruising and stilettos simply do not mesh.
Till next time, peace, love and Aloe Vera Gel.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Hola from Huatulco!
I am in heaven. Simply as that. Huatulco, Mexico is by far my favorite stop on the itinerary as of yet. As I type, I am sitting at the top story of an open air cafe right in the middle of the town square. Birds are chirping all around me, and not in an obnoxious, piercing way, but rather with harmonious chords more often found in Disney movies. Come to think of it, I feel almost like I am in a fantasy here, though instead of my gorgeous ballgown I spend the day in sweats and nights in bedazzled pants suits and polka dot bikinis. Other than that though, I am a true Princess aboard the Island Princess.
Maybe my giddy mood is due in large part to the fact that we are finally settled into our real cabins that we will inhabit for the duration of the cruise. Up until now, it has been a life in transit, swapping passenger staterooms every turn-around day, going bonkers every time I had to pack up and ship out. Yesterday, for the first time in what seems like ages, I was able to finally toss my empty suitcases under my bed and say "Adios" for the next five months. Panda has his rightful place on my bed, pictures have been stuck to the walls, and hot pot is set up and ready for business. The only strange part is that we STILL have not put up all of the shows. "Motor City" looms on the horizon. Five more days, that beast will be up, and then the relaxation shall begin. For now, I am in my happy place, as we have two nights in a row performing "Piano Man" my utter favorite, where I can wear feathers, bust out a high C, do some kick ballchanges, and end the night curled up in my own bed. It doesn't get any better than that!
SO till next time, peace, love, and tortillas!
Maybe my giddy mood is due in large part to the fact that we are finally settled into our real cabins that we will inhabit for the duration of the cruise. Up until now, it has been a life in transit, swapping passenger staterooms every turn-around day, going bonkers every time I had to pack up and ship out. Yesterday, for the first time in what seems like ages, I was able to finally toss my empty suitcases under my bed and say "Adios" for the next five months. Panda has his rightful place on my bed, pictures have been stuck to the walls, and hot pot is set up and ready for business. The only strange part is that we STILL have not put up all of the shows. "Motor City" looms on the horizon. Five more days, that beast will be up, and then the relaxation shall begin. For now, I am in my happy place, as we have two nights in a row performing "Piano Man" my utter favorite, where I can wear feathers, bust out a high C, do some kick ballchanges, and end the night curled up in my own bed. It doesn't get any better than that!
SO till next time, peace, love, and tortillas!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
UPDATES FROM THE ISLAND!!
January 6, 2008
Just Cruising…
Day two aboard the island princess. Haven’t yet figured out much of how things are run here, but what I do know is the ship is gorgeous and I am absolutely obsessed with it. I’ve always heard of cruise ships as floating resorts, but I have to say that this goes beyond resort in terms of luxury status. Everything impeccably clean, polished, gleaming and gold. For a person who adores the finer things in life, this is paradise.
Day One was port day. Turn around for all the crew on board, and for me, the beginning of what is sure to be one of the most exciting jobs I’ve ever had. After being picked up from the Crown Plaza Hotel in Acapulco and shuttled along with another Guest Entertainer (a comedian/magician also from the states), I was given my first glimpse of the vessel which will now be known as “home” for the next six months. A massive structure, yet not so grand that the intimate feel it offers is lost. Also freakishly long and narrow, considering that it is the largest cruise to squeeze through the Panama Canal. At this point I was simply amazed that I ended up here without a hitch in my travel plans. No flight delays, no hotel mix-ups, and fast and easy entrance aboard the ship. Well, expect for the fact that upon first check-in I was given the room key for Mr. and Mrs. Cooper. Who were staying in the luxury suites. A terrible disappointment when that key was handed back, let me assure you. After settling into my own somewhat smaller room, it was off to lunch with Noelle and Ernie, two of the show teachers that I worked with back in L.A. Ernie is helping to put up the shows with our new cast, while Noelle came aboard to help me learn the ropes. Which pretty much means seeing the shows, laying out, and exploring the ports. A pretty sweet gig. After a tour of the cruise and some unpacking, it was off to the Bordeaux dining room for a delicious 5 course meal, of will I could only make room for three. I tell you though, they will have to roll me off the ship when this contract is over, I will be so completely stuffed! Following dinner and some champagne, twas off to my very first viewing in the Princess Theatre of the Welcome aboard show, a quick five minute act prior to the crew intro in which I sing a little ditty and twirl a bit. Its so hard to merely be in the audience, however, as I am already itching to be aboard. Ah well, patience is a virtue, yada yada…
Show was followed by a visit to the explorers round and then off to my bed. First night aboard ship, and let me tell you, I slept like a rock. Something about the rocking of the water just lulls you to an intense slumber.
Today, up and ready to go explore some more of the ship. Started with the gym, which has some good equipment, but more importantly, is completely surrounded by windows which overlook the entire view as the ship is passing. I usually get bored to tears on the treadmill, but having this amazing view made it almost fun. I know gym-fun, odd combo, but I loved it. Then some breakers from the horizon court. What more could a girl need then delish fresh fruit every morning? The Island docked in Huatulco, Mexico around ten, and since this whole rehearsal period is pretty laid back, Noelle and I were able to disembark and go exploring. 200 pesos later, I am now the proud owner of a straw hat… and bag! I am officially vacationing for half a year. Next on the rehearsal agenda was laying out by the pool, which we undertook with amazing skill. Hey, all cruise ship entertainers need a little color, ci? Now back in my room preparing for my first formal night (thank you Micaela for all the homecoming dresses… on loan, of course!). Going to watch Motor City, one of my favorite shows. Dear lord, please keep me from sprinting on to that stage and busting out a tune. (Can you tell I’m eager to begin?) Then its off to another five course meal (eeks!) and another peaceful night of being carried to sleep by the steady waves.
Till next time, peace, love, and sunscreen!
January 12, 2008
Over a week aboard the Island. Goodness how time flies when you’re… doing pretty much nothing. Hey, a week of self-indulgence never hurt anyone! And in a couple of days, the ship will arrive in San Juan and my three other singers will be on board. Then let the madness begin.
Yesterday was Panama Canal day, which is actually extremely listening. The whole process of going through the canal takes almost the entire day, and can be a bit. However, when the boat got to swiftly sailing in the middle of the passage, the surrounding scenery was absolutely stunning lush greenery which one would never expect to witness in the middle of January, like a slice of land cut from Jurassic Park. And to think of all the rich history behind it all. The men who lost their lives trying to create this completely manmade passage, and all of the commerce it eventually allowed… I feel like I’m living the pages of a history book.
Watched the show “Tribute” last night, which I think is so much fun. Basically, it’s a rock concert with and insane set that is constantly revolving, moving up and down and all around. But the best part is the music. A little Beatles, a little Rat Pack, some Beach Boys. Man, it is so hard to keep watching these shows and not simply pounce on the stage. I am so ready to get started, its ridiculous. Tonight will be especially interesting, as our new troupe of dancers is opening their first show… with the departing singers. We will be joining them next week, but it will be somewhat odd to watch them perform without me. I might sneak on up there and throw out some kick ball changes just to feel like part of the action!
Tomorrow is Aruba… cannot wait! I have heard so much about the crystal clear ocean, white sandy beaches and yummy yummy food, I’m pretty much salivating at the thought of it. Not to mention the fact that cabin fever is full on now. I have not been off this ship since Huatulco, 7 days ago. Granted I may have a fabulous tan, but these limbs are aching to frolic on the shore!
So I will keep you posted once the shows begin. For now, here’s to 3 more days of vaca!
Till next time, peace, love, and three berry daiquiris!
January 17, 2008
Day twelve aboard the Island Princess. Cannot believe I have been aboard for almost 2 weeks. Granted, the first ten days were and utter snooze cruise, consisting of drinks by the pool and lavish dinners in the eve. But now the madness all begins. Finally, my three amazing singers arrived on board in San Juan two days ago, and ever since we have been going non-stop. Costume fittings, rehearsals with the dancers, sounds eq’s, the works. Funny how just yesterday I complained for lack of activities to keep me occupied. As I type now, I am absolutely drained, bundled up in my fuzzy terry bathrobe and slippers, contemplating early retirement. Honestly, more than anything, I am so jazzed about getting this first show up and running. “Piano Man” is show numero uno, and my favorite to sing, so it will certainly get things off to a running start. Today marked our first day of dress/tech, which brought the show to a whole new level for me. A bit of pandemonium, a bit of tripping over feathers, losing earrings down my dress, coming insanely close to face planting down the stairs. You know, the usual. But when all is said and done, I have complete faith that this show will come off splendidly in the end.
If I don’t jump overboard first.
More updates to come!
Till next time, peace, love, and bedazzled ballgowns!
January 22, 2008
Two shows down, three to go! We opened “Do You Wanna Dance” last night, which is pretty much a snooze fest for us singers, as we only sing about five numbers. A little rocky, but we made it through. Right now the whole cast is pretty much on mental overload, so it is somewhat of a challenge to get through these shows as we spend the entire day rehearsing a completely different one. But we will survive I suppose! And r thank goodness we are now working our way west, which means about every other night an hour is gained. It was heavenly to be able to sleep just that extra bit.
I’d have to say the hardest part about cruising as a Guest Entertainer is out status confusion. Technically we are guest entertainers, and yet we are also part of the crew. It is a delicate balance and has caused a couple errors so far. For instance, today we finally had a couple spare hours off of rehearsals, and the singers planned to disembark and go exploring around Costa Rica (mostly for the coffee!) However, due to the fact that I was just added to the crew list, I have to obtain a flu shot and cannot get off quite yet. So I write this from the ships Atrium, a prisoner of the work place! Oi! But I have no right to complain, as there are certainly many worse places to be trapped. I fear my imprisonment will include an hour by the pool, followed by a nap, followed by perusing the art gallery. Tough life, I know!
So in two nights we open “Tribute”, which was once my favorite show due to the fabulous music. Some Rat Pack, Beatles, Beach Boys…. Oh, how it has become the bane of my existence! Rotating, rising stages and jungle gym set pieces are not my cup of tea. But at least it’s a work out. I will keep all updated on the opening experience, if I am not maimed by the set first.
Well, off to the jail cell I go.
Till next time, peace, love, and shuffle board!
Just Cruising…
Day two aboard the island princess. Haven’t yet figured out much of how things are run here, but what I do know is the ship is gorgeous and I am absolutely obsessed with it. I’ve always heard of cruise ships as floating resorts, but I have to say that this goes beyond resort in terms of luxury status. Everything impeccably clean, polished, gleaming and gold. For a person who adores the finer things in life, this is paradise.
Day One was port day. Turn around for all the crew on board, and for me, the beginning of what is sure to be one of the most exciting jobs I’ve ever had. After being picked up from the Crown Plaza Hotel in Acapulco and shuttled along with another Guest Entertainer (a comedian/magician also from the states), I was given my first glimpse of the vessel which will now be known as “home” for the next six months. A massive structure, yet not so grand that the intimate feel it offers is lost. Also freakishly long and narrow, considering that it is the largest cruise to squeeze through the Panama Canal. At this point I was simply amazed that I ended up here without a hitch in my travel plans. No flight delays, no hotel mix-ups, and fast and easy entrance aboard the ship. Well, expect for the fact that upon first check-in I was given the room key for Mr. and Mrs. Cooper. Who were staying in the luxury suites. A terrible disappointment when that key was handed back, let me assure you. After settling into my own somewhat smaller room, it was off to lunch with Noelle and Ernie, two of the show teachers that I worked with back in L.A. Ernie is helping to put up the shows with our new cast, while Noelle came aboard to help me learn the ropes. Which pretty much means seeing the shows, laying out, and exploring the ports. A pretty sweet gig. After a tour of the cruise and some unpacking, it was off to the Bordeaux dining room for a delicious 5 course meal, of will I could only make room for three. I tell you though, they will have to roll me off the ship when this contract is over, I will be so completely stuffed! Following dinner and some champagne, twas off to my very first viewing in the Princess Theatre of the Welcome aboard show, a quick five minute act prior to the crew intro in which I sing a little ditty and twirl a bit. Its so hard to merely be in the audience, however, as I am already itching to be aboard. Ah well, patience is a virtue, yada yada…
Show was followed by a visit to the explorers round and then off to my bed. First night aboard ship, and let me tell you, I slept like a rock. Something about the rocking of the water just lulls you to an intense slumber.
Today, up and ready to go explore some more of the ship. Started with the gym, which has some good equipment, but more importantly, is completely surrounded by windows which overlook the entire view as the ship is passing. I usually get bored to tears on the treadmill, but having this amazing view made it almost fun. I know gym-fun, odd combo, but I loved it. Then some breakers from the horizon court. What more could a girl need then delish fresh fruit every morning? The Island docked in Huatulco, Mexico around ten, and since this whole rehearsal period is pretty laid back, Noelle and I were able to disembark and go exploring. 200 pesos later, I am now the proud owner of a straw hat… and bag! I am officially vacationing for half a year. Next on the rehearsal agenda was laying out by the pool, which we undertook with amazing skill. Hey, all cruise ship entertainers need a little color, ci? Now back in my room preparing for my first formal night (thank you Micaela for all the homecoming dresses… on loan, of course!). Going to watch Motor City, one of my favorite shows. Dear lord, please keep me from sprinting on to that stage and busting out a tune. (Can you tell I’m eager to begin?) Then its off to another five course meal (eeks!) and another peaceful night of being carried to sleep by the steady waves.
Till next time, peace, love, and sunscreen!
January 12, 2008
Over a week aboard the Island. Goodness how time flies when you’re… doing pretty much nothing. Hey, a week of self-indulgence never hurt anyone! And in a couple of days, the ship will arrive in San Juan and my three other singers will be on board. Then let the madness begin.
Yesterday was Panama Canal day, which is actually extremely listening. The whole process of going through the canal takes almost the entire day, and can be a bit. However, when the boat got to swiftly sailing in the middle of the passage, the surrounding scenery was absolutely stunning lush greenery which one would never expect to witness in the middle of January, like a slice of land cut from Jurassic Park. And to think of all the rich history behind it all. The men who lost their lives trying to create this completely manmade passage, and all of the commerce it eventually allowed… I feel like I’m living the pages of a history book.
Watched the show “Tribute” last night, which I think is so much fun. Basically, it’s a rock concert with and insane set that is constantly revolving, moving up and down and all around. But the best part is the music. A little Beatles, a little Rat Pack, some Beach Boys. Man, it is so hard to keep watching these shows and not simply pounce on the stage. I am so ready to get started, its ridiculous. Tonight will be especially interesting, as our new troupe of dancers is opening their first show… with the departing singers. We will be joining them next week, but it will be somewhat odd to watch them perform without me. I might sneak on up there and throw out some kick ball changes just to feel like part of the action!
Tomorrow is Aruba… cannot wait! I have heard so much about the crystal clear ocean, white sandy beaches and yummy yummy food, I’m pretty much salivating at the thought of it. Not to mention the fact that cabin fever is full on now. I have not been off this ship since Huatulco, 7 days ago. Granted I may have a fabulous tan, but these limbs are aching to frolic on the shore!
So I will keep you posted once the shows begin. For now, here’s to 3 more days of vaca!
Till next time, peace, love, and three berry daiquiris!
January 17, 2008
Day twelve aboard the Island Princess. Cannot believe I have been aboard for almost 2 weeks. Granted, the first ten days were and utter snooze cruise, consisting of drinks by the pool and lavish dinners in the eve. But now the madness all begins. Finally, my three amazing singers arrived on board in San Juan two days ago, and ever since we have been going non-stop. Costume fittings, rehearsals with the dancers, sounds eq’s, the works. Funny how just yesterday I complained for lack of activities to keep me occupied. As I type now, I am absolutely drained, bundled up in my fuzzy terry bathrobe and slippers, contemplating early retirement. Honestly, more than anything, I am so jazzed about getting this first show up and running. “Piano Man” is show numero uno, and my favorite to sing, so it will certainly get things off to a running start. Today marked our first day of dress/tech, which brought the show to a whole new level for me. A bit of pandemonium, a bit of tripping over feathers, losing earrings down my dress, coming insanely close to face planting down the stairs. You know, the usual. But when all is said and done, I have complete faith that this show will come off splendidly in the end.
If I don’t jump overboard first.
More updates to come!
Till next time, peace, love, and bedazzled ballgowns!
January 22, 2008
Two shows down, three to go! We opened “Do You Wanna Dance” last night, which is pretty much a snooze fest for us singers, as we only sing about five numbers. A little rocky, but we made it through. Right now the whole cast is pretty much on mental overload, so it is somewhat of a challenge to get through these shows as we spend the entire day rehearsing a completely different one. But we will survive I suppose! And r thank goodness we are now working our way west, which means about every other night an hour is gained. It was heavenly to be able to sleep just that extra bit.
I’d have to say the hardest part about cruising as a Guest Entertainer is out status confusion. Technically we are guest entertainers, and yet we are also part of the crew. It is a delicate balance and has caused a couple errors so far. For instance, today we finally had a couple spare hours off of rehearsals, and the singers planned to disembark and go exploring around Costa Rica (mostly for the coffee!) However, due to the fact that I was just added to the crew list, I have to obtain a flu shot and cannot get off quite yet. So I write this from the ships Atrium, a prisoner of the work place! Oi! But I have no right to complain, as there are certainly many worse places to be trapped. I fear my imprisonment will include an hour by the pool, followed by a nap, followed by perusing the art gallery. Tough life, I know!
So in two nights we open “Tribute”, which was once my favorite show due to the fabulous music. Some Rat Pack, Beatles, Beach Boys…. Oh, how it has become the bane of my existence! Rotating, rising stages and jungle gym set pieces are not my cup of tea. But at least it’s a work out. I will keep all updated on the opening experience, if I am not maimed by the set first.
Well, off to the jail cell I go.
Till next time, peace, love, and shuffle board!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Leaving on a jet plane... again...
(PANDY ON THE PLANE. A TRUE WORLD TRAVELER)
...my body is so confused. As I type, I am sitting in an airport in Houston, downing a hot chocolate (still no coffee for me!) reeling from about a month of body clock confusion. From New York to Sacramento to LA to Sacramento (K, so those are the same time zone) to New York to Sacramento to Houston... the latter two flights being within the past 24 hours... I don't know whether to chug a red bull or a glass of red wine. My head hurts...
BUT it is all worth it because I am now officially en route to the Island princess. As of noon (in whatever time zone I'm headed) I shall be in Acapulco! Once there, it is a night a the Crowne Resort and then time to walk that gangplank (ships do have those, right? I'm truly a novice sailor!) It feels as though I have been waiting for an eternity for this day to arrive. The gap between rehearsals and now became at times almost too much to bear. Especially when praying for death while becoming an icicle in the New York frost, then nearly blown away in the torrents of a Sacramento Storm.
So I don't really know what the next 6 months will hold for me. I can only imagine what it is like to live on a boat, albeit a very, very large boat. So I guess I can only say here's to whatever future lies in wait for me. As I sing and dance my way across the Panama Canal, round the Mexican Riviera, through Alaskan glaciers... well, let's just pray I don't fall overboard!
Till next time, peace, love, and a suntan baby!
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