Disclaimer: I hate theatre.

[Rae Kridel]

Ok, so maybe that's a little strong, but I'm really not a fan. I've always been a "film" kind of girl. The artifice of plays, especially musicals, just leave me scratching my head. Why did that character just break out in song and why are the rest of the characters not locking her up for singing to a blank wall?

That said, I was invited, along with Steve Semester and Brett Healey, by fellow Smoosier Amy Stark to see "The Producers" at Beef & Boards and since it was my last chance to have an evening out before my husband starts back to school (and wanting to meet some new Smoosiers) I decided to accept her generous invitation. My impression of Beef & Boards was that the primary audience members are either approaching or past retirement and sure, there were a lot there. But I also saw younger people, professionals in groups and couples, many more than I expected. Perhaps it was the ribald nature of the play that brought them out, but whatever the case, the audience was excited to be there.

So, back to theatre. Since I'm not a fan, it takes a lot to keep my interest and even more to impress me but B&B's production is extremely well done, and REALLY funny. More than once, I heard my laugh resounding in the theatre, a big hearty laugh I don't let loose on very often. It was oh so naughty and deliciously funny. The cast was great, the costumes must have cost a fortune but the real find for me was the introduction to Eddie Curry. Eddie's so talented, you wonder why he's here in Indianapolis and not a Broadway regular. I'm an amateur student of comedy theory and history so what really got me is his comedic timing, which is PERFECT, but roll it up in a mousy little ball with his wonderful voice, adeptness at physical humor and it's truly something to behold.

Thanks Amy, for the really damn fun evening.

[Rae Kridel]

Once The Monkey (my son) is settled in his new school situation and I get caught up on some work, I'll be ready for some coffee. Until then ...

[Amy Stark]

LOL. I love the way you write, Rae, and I was laughing right along with you! I'm sorry we didn't get a chance to talk more about your experience in film. I can talk all night about Actor's Equity Association, but I know little about SAG (Screen Actor's Guild).

It's funny that you mention Eddie's comedic timing, because (after coercing him to become a Smoosier) I helped him fill out his Smaller Indiana profile and he asked me what he should type in as his greatest strength. I told him to type in, "Comedic Timing!" I've known Eddie for 2 decades, and you picked up on it after seeing him for just 2 hours.

Eddie was disappointed that he didn't make it to the front of house before everyone left, but I will try to get him to attend some other Smaller Indiana Meetups and groups. He would be a good candidate for the Hole in the Wall restaurant group.

It was great getting to know you face to face. As soon as your husband gets into a new routine with his fall classes, we need to reschedule our time to have some coffee.