May 2007

I took the stage for the first time last night. Many thanks to Delilah and Conte de Loyo for giving me the opportunity. I was on-stage during the Act One for two songs. I drew while Delilah danced and sang "El Vito" and then while Alicia Adame danced to Ole de la Curra. What a rush! I have drawn gestures in my sketchbook during Delilah's performances in the past, but to be part of the show was exhilarating. I feel very fortunate and grateful to Delilah and Alicia for allowing me to be a part of their acts.  I did several sketches during rehearsal and backstage during the show,  then I did two during the show and displayed them at intermission.  To be honest, I had planned to do some drawings before the show and just 'fake it' during the performance. But the music, dancing and the talent of the cast created a fantastic energy that just took over. Then during the performance, being in front of the audience took it up another level and I actually created two pieces on-stage. Delilah and I have discussed the concept of art as a performance before. One thing that struck me was how much work goes into a 2 1/2 hour production. All this intensity building up through rehearsals and planning, to be released in a flash. This is compared to drawing and painting, which produces a physical result, static in time. I've been thinking about how to put more energy, mood and verve into my paintings and drawings. I'm now thinking more about that concept after this experience combining the two mediums. The first step is to put more energy, mood and verve into your life. Get on-stage. Art is a performance.