Ace Marrero

I won't forget you 2011

2011-12-31T16:14:00.001-08:00

365 days. 2011 will be a year I will never forget.

I've mentioned that I like the comedy & tragedy symbols, in fact my company mission is to continue to join the two in any work I produce. It's no surprise to me that this year has brought me some of the happiest moments and some of the saddest.

The blog received a jump start earlier this year when my dad was battling Cancer and I was needing a way to express my thoughts. I've since mixed in some other things as I felt the need to share random things.

I'm not one to set concrete goals, maybe that is why it is always hard for me to think of a New Years Resolution. It's not to say I don't have a list of things I plan to accomplish, but, I'm just not the type to really make it a hard priority. Perhaps I need to split the difference a little more, because I do know, I get distracted by interests in many things. I've just always KNOWN what I want and somehow through will, determination and fate...I find them.

There is an exception of a time I was going to be meeting with an Acting Manager, and I was jotting down the things I see myself having in 2,3,5,10 years time and actors I admire, or career paths I'd like to follow. I lost that book, but I never forgot the gist of it. I can't remember EXACT details to say I've been checking things off the list, but when they happen, I know.

Well, for some reason I was looking at something related to my acting endeavors and started to look back at 2011. I realized that this was the third year in a row where I was a lead or starred in a feature film. In 2009 I was the star in a MICRO, MICRO, MICRO budget film, HOSTILE ENCOUNTER. The film had been written specifically for me by Eric England who would go on to become one of my dear friends and collaborators (we've worked on 7 projects, 3 of which are features). That lead us to 2010 and MADISON COUNTY which I was one of 5 leads & a few short months later, a starring role in ROADSIDE for 2011, a film I'm so proud of. One that is special for many reasons, but most because everyone involved rose to a new level when working on it. It's the type of movies I would love to continue making and has tastes of some action elements that I plan to one day find more of.

Thinking abut ROADSIDE and it's importance to me and my growing career, I started to look back at 2011.

January brought be good news that Daniel, Eric and I would be going into production on our 3rd feature in less than 15 months, ROADSIDE.

I also attended The Sundance Film Festival for the first time which was INCREDIBLE & I didn't even know where to begin there. Instantly it became something I would make sure to attend every year from then out. I'm really looking forward to it this year, because I have several friends that have movies premiering there and the last two years have really helped me come grow as a filmmaker to appreciate it all that much more. It was also something that left me SUPER inspired to get back to Los Angeles and make some strides! (We'll be returning in a few weeks for 2012!)

I returned to go into pre-production for ROADSIDE and prep for a great table read of a feature by James Helsing of THE ACTRESSES.

I made sure to watch a bunch of the Oscar contending films since it was the season and had the honor of doing do at the Academy's theatre.

I'm a huge MMA enthusiast and was asked to be a correspondent for the the new website, MMASAVVY.COM where I did a few fight pick videos and analyzed some upcoming fight cards while make my predictions.

While continuing to prep ROADSIDE, I was asked to do a short film, SNAPPER, that was written and directed by a good friend and ALADDIN cast mate, Scott Damian. We shot in an awesome location and banged out over 20 pages in a day. It was a great experience and everyone was incredible to work with. I'm fascinated by prison themed movies so it was a treat for me to do this film. It's gone on to make a bunch of appearances on the festival circuit.

Click here
to view video!

March brought some fun times. We launched the official trailer for MADISON COUNTY which spread like wildfire!

I'd also been auditioning tons for pilot season, but made sure to take some time to play. I came up with a concept that would tie into my production company and the comedy/tragedy element. It was a photo shoot by Nikki Dalonzo that would show good vs evil. She named it GEMINI. I ended up using several of the images on my website. Ryan Gosling later drew some inspiration for his Esquire cover ;)

Oddly enough, the day I was shooting the Gemini shoot, I was called in last minute, straight to Producers for LAW & ORDER: LOS ANGELES. It was a scene with me and one of my favorite actors, Alfred Molina. I knew in my bones, it was mine, but ya never know. Thankfully, LOLA did too and booked me!

That ended up being a very nice treat and send off to Virginia, where I'd spend most of April filming ROADSIDE! I was very excited to be teaming up with some returning crew members and friends. My little sister also came out to work on the film! It was great to be back on set and although it would prove to be our most challenging film making endeavor, it would be an experience that would teach me a lot and change my life.

I never had been more excited to return home after filming a project. Thankfully, it wasn't for negative reasons (entirely). With drama and stress playing major factors, it didn't get in the way of getting good stuff on the screen. I couldn't wait to get back to see my girlfriend Erin and our dog Wolfy. There was also good stuff brewing for MADISON COUNTY. As soon as I arrived, our editor and friend of mine, Levi Blue, told me about a race that he thought I'd be interested in. It was the TOUGH MUDDER which would be making its debut in SoCal. A 10+mile obstacle course designed by British Special Forces to benefit then Wounded Warrior Foundation. I decided to run it in honor of my uncle who had passed away from cancer and my Dad who had been presently battling his own. This would take place in less than 30 days, near the end of May...not really the preferred time to train, but heart goes a long way.

It was also Erin's birthday month so we celebrated throughout the month as is customary ;)

June brought news that I had been booked with another ALADDIN castmate, Hilary Maiberger, on a nice gig for CARLS JR! We had a great time filming a rap video, corporate training video and then MC'ing a corporate event!

During the CARL's JR gig, actually between the first and second part (they were spaced out about 3 weeks) I got word that my Dad's cancer had returned. I ended up flying home and it was at this time that I started blogging again. Here is the first entry:
My return to blogging.

I ended up being home in NJ with my dad and family for most of the summer. I've blogged a lot about that, so I won't go into great detail, but this would be the sad part of the year I mentioned. Even with the great sorrow we encountered, there were many beautiful things to be grateful for. We went on a what would become out last family vacation and it was a great time.

It was the longest I had been around my family since moving to Los Angeles and I got to spend a very special birthday with them and Erin.

August was the toughest month. We lost my dad on August 3rd. It is still so real and fresh and everyday there are reminders of my dad. I've since been back to visit for Thanksgiving and most recently Christmas and it was tough. We all dearly miss him. Before he passed away he was able to see a rough cut of ROADSIDE. The film wasn't complete so he didn't see the end, but he was really into it and it was a great moment for me to share it with him. Towards the end of August I flew back to LA. It was a crazy time. Bittersweet. We had to prepare some things for MADISON COUNTY & we submitting it to different festivals.

I was also contacted by a friend and the Cinematographer of ROADSIDE, Dan Hertzog, to see if I had interest in helping to produce the feature, FOR BLOOD OR JUSTICE. The concept piqued my interest so I agreed to jump on board.

September hit and we got word that MADISON COUNTY was accepted into SCREAMFEST for it's World Premiere! On the other end Roadside was making great strides in the editing lab and was looking great!

This would be a crazy month and it was a lot of prep to get the film ready. We also got word it would be making its European Premiere in Barcelona!

October did not show signs of slowing down. I began working with a publicist and had been attending some press events to promote MADISON COUNTY & my other work and I was arranging stuff for our premiere. Eric also approached me about shooting a Halloween themed short called the TRICK OR TREATER. We shot this and planned to release it before the premiere a little appetizer.

This got my brain going and of course I wanted to develop this further and Erin approached me as well about another Halloween short and asked me to Produce it for her. This one was called MEET THE TWEEDS. As stressful as it would be to add another juggling ball to the mix, I loved the idea and Erin's passion!

It was time for the premiere of MADISON COUNTY & time to sit back and enjoy the work put in. I've blogged about the specific experience so I'll keep it short, but it was amazing. Here are pics from our red carpet & sold out screening!

November was incredible because we received a bunch of offers for distribution for MADISON COUNTY & as a result things are moving along nicely. More on that later. It was also the month that we were going to be filming the teaser trailer for the movie FOR BLOOD OR JUSTICE. I played a psychotic killer and the whole shoot was incredible. I can't wait to share the teaser! I also then went home to NJ for Thanksgiving and to celebrate my sisters 18th birthday!

December hit and I wanted to shoot a scene for a character I had in mind and it grew into a short that is going to be used to pitch for a new project I'm developing. Eric directed it for me and did an incredible job. It should be completed in a few days. I play detective and I'm coming for you...

Erin and I had our famed cooking/holiday party which was an absolute blast and of course I passed out like years before, with Wolfy on our couch,

figured this was going to be my last effort for 2011 & to my surprise someone had another plan. I booked a great role and two weeks of filming on the ABC show BODY OF PROOF. I worked right before Christmas break and will return in a few days. The cast is great and I am working closely with Luke Perry, who's a great vet.

Christmas was spent with my family in NJ and then visiting Erin and her family in St. Louis.
Today marks the last day of this year and I have plenty to be thankful for. Even with the heartache. I've learned a lot...a lot about love. I know that 2011 has changed me. I've experienced things that are shaping me in many areas to be the man I'm destined to be.

2011, you've made me appreciate a nice professional year, but more importantly, you've made me realize and appreciate life so much more on a personal level.

I've squeezed a lot of juice out of your orange and I say goodbye as I welcome a new year. It's now your time to rest, 2011.

To everyone who has read or may read this or any of my blogs..thank you. There is something strange about the very act of writing in this fashion. It's private, but public. It's meant for me only, but everyone too. I can't figure it out, but it's helped me and you are a part of it.

I wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR.

As always, HAVE FUN.

ACE

Ps- 2012, let me introduce myself to you. My name is Adolph "Ace" Marrero II and I will be a relentless force of nature, but I promise you'll have a good time. A few things for you to look forward to in January alone; filming for BODY OF PROOF, my second TOUGH MUDDER run (in Arizona this time) & a trip to Sundance. Get ready.

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Location:I won't forget you 2011.

Thankful.

2011-11-24T12:55:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

It is impossible to reach every person I am thankful for right now. No amount of phone calls, emails, texts, messages, tweets & blogs could reach them all. In actuality even if I did, I'm sure I'd miss a lot of people.

I'm someone that believes, "everything happens for a reason." Sometimes, that can ease my frustrations because I'll remind myself of this and just, "know" that there is a bigger plan for me. I believe in fate. I'm also someone that like's to play Monday morning quarterback, where you can look at how things COULD have, SHOULD have or WOULD have been, but it's usually to extract the lesson that is hidden, waiting to be learned. Because in my opinion, there is always a lesson to be learned. I feel people use that phrase and it has a negative vibe to it, but I don't mean it in that way. I am a student of life. I like to learn and I'm thankful to be taught.

For this, I am thankful for EVERYONE.

Even people who have not had the most positive impact in my life, I am thankful for. A lot actually! I mean this sincerely...and positively. I do my best not to get caught up in some deep desire to prove anyone wrong, it's not about that really. I am human, so I may get caught up in that from time to time. I am naturally a stubborn individual, so I tend to hold onto my beliefs or passions tight, and have no problem defending them. I'm also very competitive, so sometimes they all factor in and I'm more than ready to go to war. But really, I like to think I've learned a few lessons to know better. For the most part; I always check myself, address my ego and do my very best to be open, reasonable and available. Because after all, I enjoy that in people.

As much as I like a challenge, I like to have my cake and eat it too! Who doesn't?! LOL Really, it's a respect thing. We are all human...or even further, creatures of some kind...and we all deserve some respect.

I recently attended a screening of THE DESCENDANTS that ended with a Q&A with Shailene Woodley, Matthew Lillard & Judy Greer. The movie was Directed by Alexander Payne and starred George Clooney. I've known Alexander for a couple of years since my old long time Acting Coach, Tom Todoroff brought him into a class. They were close friends and he spoke at length and then a few of us went out to eat with him as well. Alexander Payne is a great director and after hearing him speak, he was someone I knew I wanted to work with. I can go on and on about the methods he shared, but this is not about that. As an ACTOR, I was very appreciative of his directing ways, as a person I really responded to how much RESPECT he had for the WHOLE process. It's not simply a camera, some lights and a body. A lot goes into it and it's no surprise to me why a lot of the stories he chooses to tell are slowly paced. He really gets into the psychology of his world. Well, the three Actors who attended the Q&A are at all different places in their careers. About twenty minutes in, the moderator asked each what it was like to work with Clooney. Usually when a question is asked, if the moderator is smart, they'll address one person and then ask the next, because if not, they all sit there looking at each other waiting to see who would respond. This one was being navigated smartly and they had it down. Well, when she asked the question, they all just let out a large sigh of some sort and it was almost like a brief, "where do we begin?" You could tell immediately, that it was going to be very positive. They went on to absolutely RAVE about him. It didn't go on forever, but you just got it. They said, he was exactly as you would imagine him to be in person. Now, I realize that might not be relatable to everyone, because that would imply everyone thinks he would be the coolest person ever, but I understood luckily. To me, regardless of what you think of his work, his personal life or whatever...he just looks like he would be a really cool dude! They said his charm was just as real as you see on any show or interview. He's just a good guy. Very respectable and respectful. To me, I was very happy to hear that. Because it proves, that it works. It's not just a show for him. You can be one of the most successful or powerful people and still be a good guy or gal. No one is perfect and we all make mistakes, but I really enjoy that type of dynamic.

I'm thankful for the experience of that Q&A.

I'm thankful for my mom and sister. I love them dearly. I am thankful for my Dad who continues to teach me lessons from above and who did a great job of leaving me with things that I am starting to realize more and more with each day. I'm thankful for my my girlfriend Erin who shows so much love and is an incredibly powerful and fearless woman. I'm thankful for my dog, who is the BEST EXAMPLE...of CONSTANT LOVE. He only knows how to love me or anyone else and no matter what, can bring a smile to my face. He teaches me a lot by this. Showing me that you can live simply by just giving love to all. I'm thankful to be healthy. I'm thankful to be making a living by living my dream. I'm thankful for the people I have worked with and for my team of players who come to bat willingly whenever needed. I'm thankful for pain, because it teaches me pleasure. I'm thankful for the mistakes that teach me how to do things right. Even death I'm thankful for, because it helps to celebrate the importance of life.

Grab your loved ones and if you can't, think about them.

I'm thinking about ALL OF YOU.

Love to you all & let's enjoy today, right now! Take each day as it comes, while this year approaches its end, because we'll never have them again.

Tomorrow is not promised, the past is over -- right now is all we have.

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Location:Thankful

"To Remember Me" - what I draw peace from at times.

2011-11-23T01:28:00.001-08:00

When we were going through some of my Dad's belongings, my Mom showed me this newspaper clipping my Dad had saved. We always knew his wish was to be cremated and it just made sense after reading this.

There are times when I hurt or think and I do my best to refer to this poem Dad left behind. Almost as if it was his way to help us find peace.

Recently I attended a memorial service for a son of someone I had worked with in a play. His son was my age. He remarked how difficult it was for a parent to lose a child and for my whole life I could sympathize with that idea. Having been through what I have been through though, I don't think there is ANY way that is easier at all to deal with. The memorial service really hit home and I felt so much for my friend and his loss. It made me think about my own loss greatly and reminded me of this poem. I'll have to share this.

"The day will come when my body will lie upon a white sheet neatly tucked under four corners of a mattress located in a hospital; busily occupied with the living and the dying. At a certain moment a doctor will determine that my brain has ceased to function and that, for all intents and purposes, my life has stopped.

When that happens, do not attempt to instill artificial life into my body by the use of a machine. And don't call this my deathbed. Let it be called the bed of life, and let my body be taken from it to help others lead fuller lives.

Give my sight to the man who has never seen a sunrise, a baby's face or love in the eyes of a woman.

Give my heart to a person whose own heart has caused nothing but endless days of pain.

Give my blood to the teenager who was pulled from the wreckage of his car, so that he might live to see his grandchildren play.

Give my kidneys to the one who depends on a machine to exist from week to week.

Take my bones, every muscle, every fiber and nerve in my body and find a way to make a crippled child walk.

Explore every corner of my brain.

Take my cells, if necessary, and let them grow so that, someday a speechless boy will shout at the crack of a bat and a deaf girl will hear the sound of rain agianst her window.

Burn what is left of me and scatter the ashes to the winds to help the flowers grow.

If you must bury something, let it be my faults, my weakness and all prejudice against my fellow man.

Give my sins to the devil.

Give my soul to God.

If, by chance, you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs you. If you do all I have asked, I will live forever."

--Robert N. Test

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A lot happens in 112 days

2011-11-23T01:02:00.001-08:00

My plane ride back home made it a perfect time to catch up on some much needed blogging.

It has been three months since my Dad passed away.

It's so hard to explain what these 112 days have felt like, because honestly, I've felt so much.

Leaving my Mom and sister in our new home, to leave for my home, was not easy. They didn't move into a new place, but it is obviously just different now. I was left to be the man of the house, but...from afar?

My sister was starting her senior year in high school, my mom was starting a new job, two actually as she is now also the main provider of the household.

I got back home to LA and had to take a week to just...be. I was due to return to ALADDIN, but I wasn't ready, even after it being almost three weeks since Dad passed. Coming back was strange. There was a lot to get done, with one of my movies gaining steam, but I needed time still. I had been good about keeping to my responsibilities from afar, but I was back now and things were different. I felt differently. I held a higher regard for certain things that I'd mostly taken for granted. Who knows if that is even fair to say, because I wasn't really in a position to be, "aware" until now. I took the week and went on hikes, got a massage, be around Erin, my cat & dog and just relax. I needed it.

I started to really take notice of things that previously were bothering me and I addressed them. Personal things, but mostly professional things. For me, I'd just lost the person that was the biggest advocate of, "family time" and I was not going to let smaller, petty things continue to eat at me. I'd address them and if that meant going in a different direction, so be it. Time is precious. I'm still sorting those things out, but I feel loads better as a result.

MADISON COUNTY had been accepted to World Premiere at the famous Grauman's Chinese as part of the prestigious Screamfest Horror Film Festival and it was time to take the charge.

Last year, Eric, Erin and I attended one night and I made two promises. One to Eric, that the next year, we'd be in it for MC, and to Erin, the next year we'd be walking the carpet.

I tend to be an extremist at times. Sometimes I carefully plan and attack, but mostly, I am driven by instinct, passion and my heart.

This has gotten me into trouble, but I cherish it more times than not as it's lead to a lot of great things. I like being impulsive and doing spontaneous things, sometimes it saves you from nerves getting the best of you. The night before my 28th birthday I decided go jump from a plane. 30 days before the event, without proper training, I rallied a team of soldiers to tackle the Tough Mudder (10+ miles of obstacles designed by British Special Forces in the mountains of Big Bear). I can go on and on. This festival was going to take 20% planning and 80% instinct/passion. After all we didn't have time to wait. To be fair, I had been doing tons of work for over a year now for the film, but my next promise to my team was that we were going to sell this event out and get an encore screening.

As much as getting ready for the festival could serve as a distraction for my recent loss, it also served as a reminder, because every little achievement, every bit of news or any success was something I wanted to share with Dad.

It also was time for Football season to kick in, a sport I grew up with thanks to Dad. The last seven or eight years I really got INTO it, calling Dad on Sundays to talk about the game, or to see if he just saw a recent touch down. Now every week, when Sunday hits, it's tough. There is always some point during the day, that I instinctively almost reach for my phone to call him. A few weeks ago, one of my hardest days came on a Sunday. I was just hurting...no other way to describe it. I miss him. It was a Sunday that I was going through past texts on my phone to drop a line to friends to remind them about our upcoming premiere, when I came across an old text from Dad as I scrolled down. I literally let out a, "Ohhhh!"

Weird-- I just recently stopped receiving emails from Dad with the subject line, "How are you?" His account has been phished or something. I didn't want to report it though.

If Sundays weren't enough, September was the time I was set to begin a 9 week basketball league on Wednesdays through Disney. It's my favorite sport to play and one that I always played with Dad. I decided to change my longtime number of 15 for that of my Dad's, 53.

There was an issue EVERY week and had to use someone else's jersey for every game because mine didn't come in. Every week I'd show up with only one thing on my mind, "Is my jersey in??" It pissed me off. Still does. I need that jersey.

In between Sundays and Wednesdays, I was back getting into the swing of things. Back home, Mom was not liking the new job, Alexis was prepping to visit and apply to schools. I'd also get calls or emails from the two of them venting a little about the stress the other was causing he other lol.

I started working with a PR company to help take advantage of the big premiere and they started getting me out to events and in front of some of the horror crowds and such.

I did a some radio shows, tv shows, interviews, podcasts which was great exposure.

It was a lot of fun and even though a lot of the same questions are asked repeatedly, it helped at the time reinforce what I was here to do...constant reminders of my goals. My new focused mission. As I would share with my friends or send to my family back home, I would always think of Dad, but I started to grasp that he was already aware and watching it all unfold :)

One night I was due to hit an actors tweet up (a meetup organized and attended by twitter users). I'd failed to make any previous ones, but promised I would attend this one. It was a week before our big premiere and I thought it would be a great way to spread the word so I said I'd go. 8pm rolls around and I'm not feeling it. I don't want to leave the house. I had so much work to do and didn't want to disrupt the flow. I tweeted a few people telling them I'd be "flaking out" (so LA) and that was that. A friend then messaged me saying they were not going to go, so I even felt that much better lol. I started to work, and then it just hit...I NEED TO GO. I ended up rallying and going. I saw some friends and spoke to a few of them at length, which was very nice, but it was a few hours later and I was ready to hit the road. At the very end, as I was saying goodbye, a friend of a friend said bye and I introduced myself. We started to talk and somehow it got deep fast. I can't remember how. I think we were talking about auditions and I had explained how I recently had one that really hit close to home and we ended up talking about my Dad's passing. I think I was mentioning how I was in a position at an audition where it was just a real situation for me, one I could relate to now and how I felt IN THAT MOMENT, that I had really changed. He went on to speak about how he too had experienced similar loss and mentioned a quote or something he heard. I can't remember the exact quote but it was basically, "Not until a son loses his father, will he become the man he is intended to be." It just really brought my recent discovery full circle. More so, I realized that my chat with this new friend was the reason I was meant to SHOW UP. I left energized.

The day was quickly approaching for the premiere and now my sister and best friend, Peter were flying in. I was excited.

My mom couldn't make it because of her new job, but I was ok. I was still busting ass to get things together. I had ordered shirts, a back drop, posters, post cards, posters and came up with giveaways, raffles and everything else to get people excited about the premiere. I wanted this to be more than just watching a movie, this was to be an EXPERIENCE. I was fitted for a new suit and spared no expense-- that was for Dad. I knew he'd see to it that I looked sharp for this so I carried it through knowing that would be his wish.

I was a machine. Early estimations on ticket sales were sounding good, but I wasn't letting up. I caught wind that there was a free screening at Arclight in Hollywood for the remake of THE THING and I was read to attack. I called up Eric to see if he would help, but he was going to instead try to sneak in as a "non-filmmaker" to see the movie. I went early, grabbed my dog (nothing is an easier condo starter than my pup) and grabbed a shit ton of post cards and headed for Hollywood. I was going to be a one man street team for the night. I started at the front of the line asking people jokingly if they were horror fans or just along for the free movie. Most people were big fans of the genre so it was an easy in. I'd tell them that about our movie; how we did this for little money, how we were going to be premiering at Grauman's and people were hooked. If I needed to, I'd pitch further about there being a free movie playing right before ours, so that they could see two movies for $5 a piece. More? There would be some tshirt and poster giveaways (people LOVE free shit). More? I had more for days. The best feeling was about 15 people KNEW of the movie already and most of them already HAD tickets! I wasn't done though. I went into the parking decks and post carded all of the cars. I would not be denied.

Well the day of the event hit and it was game time. The place was PACKED. INSANELY PACKED. People were being turned away AFTER an hour delay due to stand by tickets. MADISON COUNTY...had arrived. We had huge names in the genre show up to support and WITNESS THE RISE (one of our tags)! One of which, provided us with a cool story. James Wan (the man behind the SAW franchise and director of the recent hit, INSIDIOUS) actually payed someone a good chunk of cash to have their ticket. He also was VERY complimentary to the film and took the time to send a bunch of us personal messages on a job well done.

After over an hour delay, the theatre was packed and some people were sitting in the aisles. Daniel, his girlfriend Bri and I were not going to have seats. Eric had a seat saved that he tried to give to Bri, but she wouldn't take it, so he was safe. We finally entered the theatre and walked to the front and when I turned around...I was in shock. This must be an ounce of what it feels like when you are a rock star on stage in front of a sold out arena.

500+ people were pumped (some crabby at the delay)! We were beyond sold out and ready to play our baby on the big screen for the first time for everyone, including us! We said a little speech to thank everyone for coming and then we intro'd the film. I had put together t-shirts and Posters (with my sister and Peter's help) and threw them into the audience creating even more of a frenzy and headed to our aisle seats. Our logos hit the screen first, beginning with Daniels then Eric's and then mine.

At that moment I looked up and just teared instantly. I thought of Dad, sad he wasn't here, but I was very, very happy. I knew my mom would be there if she could, my dad was watching down and I was SURROUNDED by my loved ones. Erin, my closest friends, Peter & my sister were near me. Even Erin's family flew out from St. Louis. I had so many friends show up to support including my Aladdin family, which always rolls deep! I recently heard from a friend who wanted to let some time settle before dropping me a line to tell me how much they enjoyed the film, I didn't even know they had come! Thank you to EVERYONE who made it out and who supported from afar. The movie was a hit that night & the energy in the room was incredible!

Leading up people were asking me if I was nervous and I honestly wasn't. I was prepared. I've been working hard for a while and this was my time time to enjoy. The most nervous was about two hours before the movie was due to start. We were having dinner and I wanted to hurry to get to the theatre, so I could change into my suit and do my hair lol. I was worried if get held up and not have time. It worked out.

Erin and I got to sneak a few pictures in together on the carpet. Both my promises from a year earlier had come to fruition.

The movie was done and I still had more work to do, I needed to get over to our after party venue to set up our, "press room" for the night. We didn't really end up using it, but it looked good lol

The next two days...sick. Lol. The high of what we had just experienced was not calming. Then we get the call..."Do you guys want to have an encore screening...tomorrow?"

Holy shit.

Here comes instinct and passion 100% I quickly confirmed, got on the computer and typed up a press release to announce our sold out hit, encore screening and used the momentum of the sell out to try to get as many people as possible. I pulled out the big guns and offered free tshirts to the first 50 people and free posters to the rest. We also had a Q&A planned since we didn't want to do one so late the night of the premiere. In less than 24hrs we had just under 100 people show up. I think it's a success considering it was strictly word of mouth.

The dust was settling, the festival was over and it was bittersweet. We had such a great time and now it was over. We were also a little bummed that we didn't get some kind of audience appreciation award, considering we were the only film to sell out the festival and gain an encore screening. But, on well. That's life. Screamfest was very appreciative of the job we did and we are beyond proud to be a part of their history. Thank you Rachel & the Scresmfest team!

Now time to sell this bitch. It was around this time where I started to really be affected by my dad's death. Things were settling in and it was about the two month mark and it was hitting even harder. Everything was reminding me of him. I started to think back to everything and had those brief regrets or sad thoughts of, what if?"

I had a couple of dreams about him recently too. One was he and I running in wooded terrain. We were trying to get away. All of a sudden he yells, "watch out for the scorpions!" and before you know it there was a scorpion flying at me! I woke up. Dad was a Scorpio.

I had a couple of others, nothing as intense though lol

I started to think back to something we found in Dad's briefcase a few days before I was set to fly back to LA. I felt it deserved it's own blog, so you can check it out by clicking this link: http://acemarrero.blogspot.com/2011/11/remember-me-what-i-draw-peace-from-at.html

It really helped me and continues to help me during this time.

Things are going well for the most part. MC is about to be sold to a great company & we are really excited to be working with them! We have another company selling territories over seas for the movie to bring it to an international audience. Our follow up film ROADSIDE, is going to be incredible. It's been submitted it to the big festivals so far, so we'll see what happens. This film is special to me for many reasons. It's my juiciest role to date and closest to the types of films I want to do for the rest of my life. It also is one i showed my Dad when I was home and he was really into it!! At the time we only had the first 3/4 ROUGHLY assembled, but he was hooked and wanted to see more. This one will be dedicated to him. I can't wait to see what this does when it is ready for the world!

I helped Eric shoot a halloween short which was a lot of fun and a much needed, no pressure shoot that brought back a lot of our gang from our past two features.

I then helped Erin on her film directing debut, another Halloween short. This one was shot by Daniel, who was not able to work on the first one. It's called MEET THE TWEEDS & I was solely a Producer on this, but it was such a great experience! I'm very proud of what Erin did! Her past experience with directing theatre and her technical awareness was impressive.

Erin and I also had a very nice trip to Palm Springs and are planning our Sundance trip as we speak!

I had a chance to shoot an episode of SPARAH a web series by Virgin Mobile and it was an absolute BLAST!

I'm flying home to Jersey as I type this and its going to be the first time I visit our home without Dad. I expect it to be tough, but I'm very thankful to be spending Thanksgiving with my family and WOLFY who is visiting too! In a few short weeks we'll be back again for X-Mas, this time with Erin! My sister turns 18 the day after Thanksgiving so I wanted to be here for that. How fast time flies. 112 days flew by. I can't believe it's the holiday season already. Last December my dad was having his surgery for the cancer. Crazy.

When time flies as fast as it is now, it's important to value the things that really mean the most to me. No more time for non-sense.

It's game time.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Madison County World Premiere Contest

2011-10-07T01:39:00.001-07:00

The official countdown has begun. We are less than 10 days away from the WORLD PREMIERE of MADISON COUNTY!!!

What's a fun way to help count down the days? A ticket giveaway contest! Don't worry we won't ask why you don't already have your tickets (

but really, why don't you? *wink)!

On October 17th, at about 9:30pm PT, Los Angeles fans as well as some who have traveled from all over the country, will officially WITNESS THE RISE and be welcomed into the world that is MADISON COUNTY. Damien is soon to be unleash

ed into the horror world and you can be there for it all...AND receive some cool swag as a result.

There are two ways to enter.

If you are on twitter FOLLOW @MadisonCoFilm & Tweet, "I want to attend the official #worldpremiere of @MadisonCoFilm @Screamfest so I can #WitnessTheRise!"

If you are on Facebook, LIKE the MADISON COUNTY page & post, "I want to attend the official world premiere of MADISON COUNTY at SCREAM

FEST so I can Witness The Rise!

The more times you tweet or post, the better your odds. One winner will be picked at random (and influenced by their enthusiasm) on October 14th at 3:00pm PT and it will be announced on the FACEBOOK PAGE. Deadline to ente

r is October 14th at 9:00am PT.

You will win the following:

A pair of VIP reserved tickets to the World Premiere (airfare/lodging not included)
Pictures with the cast & crew on the red carpet
An exclusive invite to the post screening party
A VIP gift bag containing various sponsored products
MADISON COUNTY merchandise

In order to claim your prize:

Winner has 24 hours to respond to any tweet or facebook message we send out to notify you.

After the winner responds to us, we will reply with the specific instructions to claim the contest prize.

If the original winner doesn’t respond within 24 hours of the announcement, a new winner will be chosen the following day.

See you at the movie!

Partial prep for the big role...

2011-10-02T02:13:00.001-07:00

American Psycho 2. "Morning Routine"

I live in the American Gardens Building on West 81st Street on the 11th floor. My name is Patrick Bateman. I'm 27 years old. I believe in taking care of myself, and a balanced diet and a rigorous exercise routine. In the morning, if my face is a little puffy, I'll put on an ice pack while doing my stomach crunches. I can do a thousand now. After I remove the ice pack I use a deep pore cleanser lotion. In the shower I use a water activated gel cleanser, then a honey almond body scrub, and on the face an exfoliating gel scrub. Then I apply an herb-mint facial masque which I leave on for 10 minutes while I prepare the rest of my routine. I always use an after shave lotion with little or no alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older. Then moisturizer, then an anti-aging eye balm followed by a final moisturizing protective lotion. There is an idea of a Patrick Bateman. Some kind of abstraction. But there is no real me. Only an entity. Something illusory. And though I can hide my cold gaze, and you can shake my hand and feel flesh gripping yours, and maybe you can even sense our lifestyles are probably comparable, I simply am not there.

Birthday & an ultimate celebration of life.

2011-08-01T00:03:00.000-07:00

With everything going on with my Dad, as my birthday was approaching it was bittersweet. In fact as much as I love the arrival of my special day, I was a little anxious at its arrival. I'm not really one that has to have the big bash or anything, but of course, I still like and enjoy the extra attention and care. In fact the biggest deal I've made was that I wanted to do something special for my golden birthday which was last year. It's when you turn the age of the day your birthday falls on. In honor of the once in a lifetime day, I jumped out of a plane. It was an incredible experience and I was introduced to something that would end up playing a big part in this years birthday. You can spot it in this video...more on that later.

I also find it very difficult to say what I want when asked for something around Christmas or my birthday. I can think of things any other time of the year, but my brain sort of locks up at the times when they matter most, lol. It comes from many things; not feeling I need anything, not wanting to put people out & I'm sure there is a part of not wanting to be disappointed in not getting perhaps the one thing I actually want.

This year, actually it was a few weeks ago when I first revisited this blog and was setting it up, they gave me an option to create a wish list that would be attached to the blog. I added a few items that I wanted and felt like a kid making his Christmas list full heartedly believing Santa was going to be reading and granting him with his wishes. It disappeared. I don't know where the hell it went, and I've never seen it since lol. I knew everything on it though as there were only like 4 things.

Fast forward and my birthday is approaching, but I'm more concerned with other things. My dad.

When people ask how my Dad is doing, it's getting tough. It's hitting. It's hard to explain for many reasons. He's very weak and basic things are becoming very difficult for him. He's strong still, maybe not in the physical sense, but even that could be argued and I would back that up on his behalf, because he has some serious things his body is putting him through and he fights with vigor. I can't and pray I never will (or anyone I know for that matter) be able to understand his position or know what he is going through. Watching is beyond scary. But I can say that my dad is not making this easy nor is he looking to. He has refused to return to the hospital and simply wants to be home. For the most part though, that puts him in the care of my mom, sister and I. No one will love or care for him more than we will right now, but we're obviously no doctors. We follow along with what we are given to treat and aid him, but it is easy to think a hospital would offer more. Thats the obvious thought though and doesnt mean it would offer him more in a positive way. Maybe being home and in the comfort of his own bed outweighs everything else for dad. I feel that's the case.

Well we are leading up to the big day and I'm getting asked what I want. It's an easy choice, one I'm sure anyone could figure out from my recent blogs. A sentimental one, a loving one. I have however been talking about a camera I wanted. The Go Pro Hero.

I first saw this camera in action at the NAB Tradeshow in April of last year. There was a huuuuuge line and after being nosey I realized why, this camera was awesome. It's used in a lot of sports and records in HD and comes in a waterproof housing so you can use it pretty much anywhere. I'm a technology dork, but moreover I like taking pictures and I LOVE recording videos. Anyone that knows me well, knows I'm quick to bust out my phone to record something and then post it somewhere. I really like to share things...experiences. I also have this thought that if I god forbid something happened to me and I lost my memory, "I'll be ok, just hit play." :) Well, I thought having that camera would expand the ways I could record and share. I also like to be able to show certain things to my family across the country. A couple of months ago, I started to think about the camera again when I signed up for the TOUGH MUDDER in California. It's a 10+mile run, with over 20 crazy obstacle courses designed by British Special Forces. I did this in honor of my late uncle and for my Dad. I thought having the camera would give me an opportunity to share with my dad everything in the race. I didn't end up getting it, but I found an alternative in a waterproof flip cam that helped me capture some great moments to send to dad!

I loved the race and quickly signed up for one in Arizona and soon another in California, but I promised this time I'd get the camera and do it right.

It ended up dropping the hint for the camera to Erin, lol although I knew it was a bit of a stretch. It's not the cheapest thing out there after all. As I was asked what I want I'd continue joking about it, but I honestly wasn't going to be expecting it or be upset about not getting it- I knew the situation. Really, this birthday was going to be special for me because it would be the first in close to 5 years with my family and now Erin was with us too. I had a lot to be thankful for and I was already cherishing the moment.

Leading up to it, dad had been having a very rough couple of days. It almost feels like I'm just repeating that constantly, but I guess that's where we are.

I could continue to write, but I put together this video (of course) that I'd like to use to share. I privately posted the video and wasn't sure if I would share, but it feels right because I feel there is so much love within it.

It was tough for me to look at the card everyone signed for me. I lost it instantly when I did, so I couldn't look at it for long or I'd be a worse mess. As I write this, I still haven't revisited the card. It was difficult and then I needed to address other things that didn't leave me the time I wanted to revisit. I will now. It meant so much to me and everything in that video made it the most special birthday ever for me. I thank everyone & love you all very much.

That was the last time dad made it out of the room, and for the most part, the last time he got out of bed. I knew he would not have it any other way.

Two days later dad woke up late night/early am with extreme pain! We were instructed to give him medication to help the pain, but it left him beyond lethargic and he was out of it. I had an overwhelming sensation and upset feeling that perhaps I would not get a chance to see him out of the this state...where I could talk to him, say hi...say I love you and hear him say it back...say bye...Dad fought hard again though & was with us and responsive as the days passed. Even in that state, he would talk to us and respond - one afternoon I said, "I love you dad" and he moved, but didn't say anything. Maybe it was selfish of me, but I innocently asked, "Do you love me dad?" he told me :)

Adolfo Marrero, my dad, passed away at 8:30pm on Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011.

It was a sad couple of days leading up, but they were also some of the most heartfelt and loving moments I've experienced with my family and during those days I learned a lot about my dad. There were tons of things to take care of, things to be concerned about, things that needed to be addressed - but dad made sure he was there for us, as he always was.

I was having a rough time during those days. Really rough. I was being tested in absolutely in every way possible.
You start to think about what if's, regrets and all sorts of other things. My mom, sister and I were with my dad all day, we'd switch off at different points, because someone had to be around since he wasn't making much noise at this point and we didn't want to risk not being there if he needed us.

I spent a lot of time with him, but a part of me felt distant in some ways and I realized why on Wednesday, I was not wanting to leg go, but I also was regretting two things. I was there to constantly tell him that I loved him and to let him know we were always there, he wasn't alone and such, but I was lost on what to say at points. Later in the evening I took a shower and came out and headed straight for the room where dad slept. It was a miracle but we were alone. At this point that was rare. I just sat down and had a heart to heart with him. I told him I loved him and eased his concerns about some things I knew he was thinking about during the last couple of weeks...that we would be ok. I promised him that. I'd be there and take care of mom and Alexis. Most of all, I let him know that it was ok for him to rest. I was told by an uncle and good friend that has experienced similar situations that in this time that would be important to my dad. I never thought anything less would happen and knew my dad knew what I told him, but maybe he needed to hear that. I also then addressed the two things that had been on my mind and apologized. Dad probably was smiling at my concern of them. I felt better. I said more things then hugged him, kissed him told him I loved him and went down to eat.

My mom and aunt were upstairs with him and called my sister and I up about an hour later. My mom, sister and were with him. Together. A family. LOVE.

My mom told me about the moment she shared with her sister, my aunt and my dad before calling us up. Beautiful.

With everything considered, we are able to laugh a lot & smile. Tears flow, but you celebrate and remember great things. I believe comedy and tragedy are the truest of unions, they are always together and this time is no different.

At my fathers memorial service we had the greatest showing in my dads honor. My dad wasn't one to make a fuss about himself, but he did ask for that service. It caught me off guard, but there was no question, it would be done. He knew, I think that his friends would want this, and they did. My dad was a star athlete in high school and played his first year of college (I did the exact same, but I think he had me beat lol) he had coaches come out from his past teams, friends that remembered my dad since 1st grade and co-workers who loved him that showed up in huge numbers. Some of the more touching moments that day were from his co-workers and they were flying in from all parts of the country to pay respect & share how great of a man he was. In fact they were some of the people that I noticed cried the most. I think my mom, sister and I learned how much my dad touched the lives of many, it became evident that day. It was a common message. It was being repeated almost with every person that came up to say hello and pay their respects. I heard lots of stories, had many laughs, shed some tears and took away even so much more about dad. So much love.

On my dad's legacy page his guestbook shares a lot of these thoughts. Adolfo Marrero Legacy Page

One story sticks out still to me. One guy talked about how my dad represented him and so many people as a stand out Latino basketball & baseball player and how even though he was the same age as my dad, he looked up to him as a big brother as many did. "Even though he was the good athlete, he was a GREAT MAN!" I was beyond touched. He continued by saying that there was also no surprise that he and my mom ended up together. The cheerleading captain and star athlete lol. I think I knew this, but forgot about my mom and cheerleading and I still keep laughing at the thought. I have a picture of my mom somewhere in her outfit I have to dig up. I know my dad loved sports and playing. He was my coach for many years and it is a part of the reason I love playing. I always met his friends, a lot of the same ones I saw Saturday and they would remark how good my dad was on the court but off as well and that I had big shoes to fill. I never felt intimidated by it. In fact my dad and I would play against each other often, but I loved it. He was my personal hero. I loved Michael Jordan, but he was no Dad. I was proud to be his son and represent his name as ADOLPH MARRERO II.

I'm now the last Marrero male. The man of the house. It's hard to think of because of what it means we've lost, but I'm proud and happy to take care of my family. I can't remember who, but someone recently remarked that it hurts when you lose someone because of all the good things they represented. I like that. This has taught me so much about my dad, my mom my sister, myself- everything.

I'll continue to honor my father and carry out the things I wanted To give to him and my family.

I love you dad. YOU make me smile. I know that you'll see all of the things that will mean so much to me as time goes on. While I can't share a hug or kiss, I'll be happy because I know you now will have the best seat in the house!

I love you.

Your son,

Adolph Marrero II

Support & strength...for death?

2011-07-20T12:44:00.001-07:00

I find myself lost.

I'm someone that can plan an attack, coordinate and execute an idea, motivate a thought to be carried out and achieved- but I find myself confused here.

Coming in I was a little unsure of what to expect. My Dad's body is telling him one thing, the doctors have said a similar thing & of course our minds want to dictate it's own story. I choose to believe and have hope.

I spoke to my uncle last night and he said something simply that really summed everything up: It all comes down to what choice my dad has made. A choice to live...or die.

I got in at 2am and my sister was fully dressed, passed out on her bed with headphones in her ears. Her computer was open, probably with a recent google search on something my dad has been feeling, she's good with that. It looks like a college dorm room scene. My mom and dad are on the bed in their room. Mom's awake, dad then wakes up. He's lost weight since I've seen him a few short days ago. My mom briefs me on whats been going on and then after spending some time in the room, we speak about dad's doctor and how we should find him a new one. One that they can trust. No other way to put it. I've mentioned in the past blogs that my dads doctor has not delivered the care we've needed. She is now the main doctor in charge. If we are not going to be open to her, why keep her? I leave to let dad rest. I walk into the other room and mom follows, talking to me some more and warning me almost at a whisper about some of the other symptoms dad was feeling.

I go to sleep thinking about everything. Will dad want to get a new doctor? When should Erin come visit? Will these cats bother me in my sleep and wake me up when they are hungry? Will I ever get to catch up on TRUE BLOOD? Is mom getting enough rest (she has to wake and make sure my dad is getting pain meds every 3hrs)? What is our attack? What choice has dad made? Questions, Questions, Questions..

I wake up at 9am after going to bed at 4:30am. Not much sleep and on top of it, it's 6am my body is feeling. It takes me a half hour to wake up. No time for that- helping dad with mom and Alexis to walk down the stairs. Walking from the room to the stairs makes him need a rest. We make it downstairs and he sits on the couch. The goal was to use the bathroom, it's been a few days. We sit on the couch. It hits. Silence. It kills me. What's going on?

I watch dad and he's having a hard time, but then I notice him on the phone sound completely different. You can't tell. This is what I've been hearing from across the country. There is a part of me that wants to call him on it jokingly and say, "Dad, I hope you are not just playing it soft with us, cause you seem good when you are talking to company or when you are on the phone!" But who am I to say? Or maybe I need to? I don't know...

It feels to me now in a few hours time I am here, that most people are accepting instead of fighting. I feel differently. I can't help it. Did I miss the memo? I know its different being here and maybe I'm not, "clued in yet"?

It's made me numb. I want to fight, but it's not my choice - I am not the one feeling what he feels. I want to support, but I don't know how to support him in THAT way yet. I don't look at it so much as being in denial, just wanting to battle on. I'm positive and this just freezes me up. I can take the action I'm ready to take, but I also know I need to be available the way that he needs me most.

We have been getting lots of visitors and a priest came by earlier & in between it all, I've had some time to LISTEN to dad, I know his position. I still haven't had a clear talk, he's needing to rest in between visitors.

I was told a few weeks ago, that anyone in my dad's position needs a support system, a strong one. I was told that people like him often make choices and follow through to keep their families happy- most of the time that leaves the patient suffering more. I believe that the choice has to come from the individual in the position, but I also know sometimes people just need that extra push. How do you...or how do I, make myself available? I want to believe. I want to support and be strong, I just feel wrong doing it for the choice of death or giving into that idea.

I want to support you dad and be here to give you strength. I told him a few weeks ago that whatever he decided he wanted to do, we were here to support as long as he just BELIEVED in it. I still want that to be available to him without feeling personally like there is more we can do and regretting that we won't get to try. In the end, I have to think about the big guy upstairs. Only HE knows the plan. He knows where my dad is & only he can make that final verdict.

It's difficult, but I have to trust and...let go. I won't fully, I know this...

I still am with hope and know a talk will help provide clarity. I just need to share my feelings with my dad.

A few weeks ago when this all surfaced again, I was in LA talking to my dad. I felt my adrenaline kicking in and passion was firing me up as I spoke to my dad about our plans. I can't remember what it was, or what it was he said, but something just walloped me. Really hit me hard, but as I was talking to him he calmed me. Maybe intentionally, maybe not, I don't even know if he knew, but in his voice there was a comfort that calmed me and I remember telling Erin, I felt like I was a kid in that moment and my dad...my hero, just eased my worries. In his way, just a few simple words that I can not remember for the life of me...but it wasn't about what was said.

Dad we need to talk again :)

Your son.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Perth Amboy,New Jersey, United States

Celebrating life, we are ready to fight!

2011-07-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

I found myself REALLY wanting to write a follow up blog to one of my last blogs: Guess Who's Back...? Cancer - you have no place here.

When I wrote it, I wasn't intending for it to be some sort of journal, however as the days passed it seemed natural that I would write an update. In fact, I am needing it. Perhaps that is the reason I've been wanting to jump back on the keyboard. I've had moments where things have been tough and I thought to myself, "I need to blog about this...share." Most of all let it out. I've definitely taken away a lot from this experience already and I hope someone else can too.

The outpour of support has been nothing short of great. A blessing. Across the country or WORLD thanks to So many people on twitter, facebook in addition to my friends, colleagues and of course my family. Constant offering of support and prayers come in daily. People have been great about asking how things are going. It's frustrating at times, I admit. Partly because as my last post indicated, answers are not always available and I find it difficult at times to tell the story over and over, because of that. I feel like I can't give answers and that just serves as a constant reminder that we're still in the dark. Either way, I do my best to answer fully and not shy away from the tough questions or answers.

In my last post, I wrote the night before the doctors were due to come in and speak to us. My Dad's oncologist has not been seen probably since my dad was first admitted into the hospital that time. It had been difficult dealing with her because she's very cold and acts as if my dad is the only one in the room. Let's just say my mom is not her biggest fan. This has caused some tension as you can imagine as well as a lack of trust where that doctor is concerned. In fact it has become a sad reality that they've questioned her intensions and often refer to her as, "just wanting to make a quick buck by suggesting chemotherapy!" I've done my best to communicate that we should not be so quick to write her off because of personal influences because I'd hope that my dad's best interest are being considered by this doc, but it's tough. That was the biggest reason I wanted to have that meeting with her that night I last blogged. I wanted to communicate to her that I was concerned that we would not seriously consider her position because of the personal feelings that have been established and that I...WE, want to just communicate that and get us ALL on the same page so we can make the correct decision. Sadly, I never had that chance as she never showed and simply sent her colleague to speak to us.

We never really got, "answers." Or...THE ANSWER. I understand that this type of thing is not something you can just throw a well calculated number at. There is no real way to gauge it accurately. That is what makes my position and everyone else's I'm sure difficult. You just don't know. Earlier in 2010 I was arranging my flight home to visit my uncle who was dying from Cancer and everyone believed that I could take a later flight (doctors included) so I arranged that. Less than 3 days later I received a call saying that I should get in ASAP. My uncle went on to fight for almost a week, however once I arrived he was already in a basic vegetative state.

THE ANSWER I guess we are all looking for is, "how much longer...?" Are we wrong to wonder? Not an easy thing to ask, but it's what is on everyone's mind. We know my Dad's cancer is one of the most deadly and has scary return if it does not go into remission. We know he had a 30% chance of it returning, it has...and with a vengeance. We know it returned to his esophagus (the original spot), his liver and believed to be in his lungs. We know that when Cancer returns, it comes back bad and spreads. We know that my dad doesn't want and will not treat with chemotherapy. He was against it from the jump, seeing what it did to others and my uncle. We know we want to fight.

"Know thy enemy."
Even with knowing the enemy in this situation, it's tough to pick a side. We have faith, have hope and we have what we know...often I find there is a thin line between belief and feeling sorry. A thin line between being ready to fight, but Having to prepare to mourn. Between knowing and not knowing. Nothing about this is easy for anyone.

They told us he had about 6-9months WITH treatment...HALF without. We decided to move forward with a more natural approach. We would attack the natural way. The body is one of the most amazing things on the planet. All of our organs combined are a powerful and incredible team. I'll share this example from FAT, SICK AND NEARLY DEAD (a GREAT documentary you should check out asap!) If you keep it simple and think about it, when you were a kid and fell and scraped your knee. You cleaned it up and left it alone. Don't pick at the scab, just let it heal. Your body takes care of it. Maybe not the most groundbreaking example, but it's basics. Your body has what it needs to heal itself and will...as long as you take care of it and allow it too. The program my dad started is called THE INCURABLES PROGRAM and is designed by Dr. Shulze, a world renown herbalist. It's basically a 30 day detoxing, juice fast. Check out his site or contact me if you want information, but its incredible. I could write a separate entry on that alone. My dad needed to do SOMETHING. We were all there to support his decision, the only thing I stressed was that WHATEVER he did, he BELIEVED in it!! TRULY BELIEVED. I feel that if my dad said he wanted to go out and eat shit, because he believed it would help him, I'd support it and would believe it would work. The mind is powerful...move the mind, the body will follow. I believe that. So he decided he wanted to do this program after reading up and researching it. Back to basics.

This program is intense at a first glance. You almost need to not have anything going on but this program. This made it hard for my family and I to consider my dad wanting to do...to believe my Dad would want to tackle but then again, who are we? Who are we to say this is difficult or to think he'd be turned off by it not being easy? My dad has a disease that is on a mission to destroy him, he's Been through so much mentally and physically throughout this process, that we can't relate to. Drinking juice and healthy, natural supplements with a good track record (thousands of years)- piece of cake.

I went on a walk with dad while I was home and we talked about his new program as we prepped for it. I communicated that i was nervous that he was going to be resistant to it, but he was ready to take action. I spoke to my dad and reminded him that odds were in our favor, no matter what we were being told. I said this because, we all are creatures that have defined odds. Remember we beat out close to a billion other hopefuls at that egg and WE made it through. We fought, we won. It is in our blood to beat odds. We were born as small warriors ready to take on more. Dad and I laughed a bit, but the message was clear. We are ready to fight.

I need to preface this next part a bit. It may not seem as big of a deal as it was to me, but I think it is worth sharing, for you to take away what you will. I Live in a part of NJ that is pretty well developed. We have a park close by with some wooded areas, but it's actually fairly industrial. The park we were at is even so much more surrounded by smokestacks and factories (product of our environment eh?). Well as we are driving out after our chat, a deer, in the middle of the day runs out and cross in front of us and disappears into the brief tree line before the train tracks...a deer. Again, this may not mean much unless you knew my area, but that shit is NOT common. I looked at my dad, and he probably didn't take away what i did, or maybe he did but just wouldn't let on, but that was a sign to me. I said to him, "Talk about not letting go. There's a fighter for you. That deer has been forced out, but somehow it finds a way to survive...how fitting." I smiled.

I was only in town for about two weeks and the last few days leading up to my departure was tough for me. I was run down with worry and concern as I was the one, after my dad, spearheading this treatment...I recommended it after all once it was recommended that I look into it by Erin :)

Speaking of, I couldn't write anything without saying how grateful I am for her. Thank you, I love you. throughout this whole thing her family too has been great. Her dad is a doctor in st. Louis and he's been the only one we've felt like has been honest and upfront, not to mention all of his opinions and thoughts have been spot on.

It was difficult leading up to my eventual departure back to LA. Should I stay? I had a gig I was committed to and I needed to do it, so I could take care of my living responsibilities and such, but was it worth my dad's life? I knew it was an extreme question, but this isn't pre-school. The first day of my dad's program was due to fall on the day of the HARRY POTTER premiere in NY. I promised my sister, months in advance we'd go and I needed to keep that promise. I was torn about going in and leaving my dad to start without me being there to cheer, but after days of prep we felt fine. After all, it would have to be my dad to follow this through. We would be there in every way, but he has to be the one to do it. We can't do the program for him. Ownership. We were there for the beginning of the day and it started off great, we kept tabs and my mom was there to help keep him on track if there was confusion. It went great. I also realized on the way into NY that I was a day off. My flight wasn't the next day, it was in TWO days. Great!! Another day home, funny how that works. It also helped to ease the stress i was taking on when I saw he was keeping to it just fine and especially that i would be there the next day to help more. It was a small mental victory or peace of mind. i was thankful after So many thoughts and insecurities, most of all, "Will it work?" Positivity and faith! One day at a time! Thin lines between...

In addition to everything going on, my Dad was told that because of so much missed time, his health insurance is at risk of being taken away, along with it, other benefits I'm not to clear on, but dad is concerned about his life insurance. This is probably one of the saddest things to me. My dad is very weak and is going through so much personally right now, but he wants to make sure that he doesn't lose any of these things for my families sake. A working man through and through. Supporter. Someone I learn from a lot and honor. A sick man, trying to work to keep himself from being sick or to keep our family from hurting. We tell him not to worry about any of this or think about any of this, but it's that thin line again. We have to prepare in some ways, even if just mentally, but you don't want to accept, but then you don't want to be in denial, but then that means....on and on. My life has changed. Our lives have...our house may soon be taken from us, material items too, but we only care about dad. Things will work themselves out, I know.

It's amazing how many people I've come in contact with that have been affected similarly. It's scary actually. Cancer is no joke. As I mentioned, support is endless. In fact, I've had help getting a ticket for the plane I'm currently sitting on as I write this. A good friend, who I only recently met through a showcase I did, had a similar experience very recently with his mom. He has been a great source of support and even offered to help financially with my flight. He had been offered help too. People come together. Without asking for help. It's the survival spirit in us all. Brandon, you are a great man homie & I can't thank you enough, my stage brother. I also thank EVERYONE.

The first past of this blog before the last paragraph was written days ago, but i never published it. I wasn't finished at the time. I didn't get to revisit till now, when I'm flying back to NJ. I woke up this morning with a call from home telling me I should get back ASAP. My dad has been having a rough couple of days. It started almost after I left. He had trouble swallowing and using the restroom. He also was in massive pain from the wounds that were on the side of his body from his last hospital visit. Every day has been a scary one as symptoms have progressed. His program has slowly been abandoned, because he can't really swallow and when he does it makes him vomit. Yesterday he was in so much pain and when he got up for what was supposed to be his first day of work, his right side gave out on him temporarily and he almost fell. We told my dad days ago, not to stress about going back to work, we would manage and to trust his body, because it would tell him if he was ready. I guess this was it's sign. He went into the ER after my sister grew concerned after googling and finding out that it may be signs of a stroke or heart attack. I placed a call to Erin's father and began looking at flights. He eased our concern a little saying he was certain it wasn't related to a heart attack or stroke, but that it was in fact the cancer attacking/spreading, based off of his symptoms. My dad has lost close to 20 pounds in three weeks and continues to lose weight. He is growing weak and having trouble using the bathroom. He has a bump growing near the wounds and it gives him great pain. His oncologist, once at the hospital, surprised is not there. Her colleague arrives and tells my family, that since they have denied treatment, they will not diagnose anything new and just treat the symptoms. This seems incredible to me, would they do the same to their family? You are wrong, We are only denying YOUR treatment! Maybe this is common practice. It just seems so cold from across the country perhaps. They recommend hospice. I spoke to dad yesterday and he advises me to sit tight and not make any sudden moves, "let's see how I feel tomorrow. Ok dad, i love you." He woke up today in even more pain and his leg is very swollen I'm told. I book a flight. I didn't even have a chance to unpack, I just zipper my suitcase shut.

These days I am thankful to laugh and keep positive. I am thankful for everyone even for the cancer as it is teaching us all daily. I'm thankful to be able to visit home and be with my family at this time.

(I passed this store on the way to my flight in the terminal.)

I sit here in the clouds writing, a curious position. Perhaps the big guy, just a few feet above me is reading along as I type. "Say a prayer, big guy!"

My dad wanted me to have his favorite watch when I was home. I was packing and he came up to me with tears in his eyes. I told him I didn't want him thinking like that and he said, "It's not about that, A. It's my absolute favorite watch and I want you to have it. It makes me happy and that's what it's about." I took it.

I'm wearing it now, looking at it and counting down the hours till I see Alexis, Mom and you, Dad. It's a little off because I never adjusted it from east coast time, so honestly I don't know what time it is or when I'll be back, but you'll be there that's all that matters. :)
Love you dad. Xoxo

Keep positive, healthy and have fun.
Adolph Marrero II

UFC 132 Predicitons

2011-07-01T23:55:00.001-07:00

The Jersey Kid returns with some predictions for today's UFC 132. How fitting that I'm IN The Jersey State as I write this!?

Champ Dominick Cruz vs. Urijah Faber BAD BLOOD. Two simple words that can easily describe these two combatants. I'm excited to see this fight because these two guys are small, explosive and want nothing more but to be unleashed on their opponent standing across the cage. It can be said that Faber holds a slight edge with a prior victory at a heavier weight over Cruz, but I think we're pretty well matched. Cruz has only one loss on his record and it's against the The California Kid. Urijah was in the middle of an incredible run when they last faced and since has added a few notches to the loss column, creating doubt in the eyes of a lot of people who thought he was untouchable. Cruz is pumped andready, but I still have to go with Faber. I think aside from Brown's TKO over him, he's proven he can hang in there (see Jose Aldo fight). URIJAH FABER

Wanderlei Silva vs. Chris Leben WOW. A great matchup involving two fan favorites. Anytime Wandy steps into the ring I'm interested, same for Leben. These are two warriors who have proven that they could take a beating and give one. As difficult as it is for me to pick against Wanderlei, I have to say I give Leben the slight advantage as he is the younger fighter and between the two, the one that has at least made SOME changes to his style. What I question is if Leben fights a smarter fight or one that will see him throwing caution to the wind, and going for broke as he is often happy to do. CHRIS LEBEN

Ryan Bader vs. Tito Ortiz Oh Tito. How's your, "hacked" twitter account hanging? I have always been rubbed the wrong way by Tito, but still found myself rooting for him. I liken him to a Wanderlei or a Cro-Cop in the sense that I find myself wishing he'd come out on fire and show the tenacity (Tito's favorite word) and aggression he was once known for. There is a lot on the line for these two. Tito is rumored to be fighting for his job, which isn't that far fetched, especially considering he hasn't won in 5 years and the UFC's competition is pretty much non-existent right now. Bader is trying to reestablish himself as a contender in the Light Heavyweight division after Jon Jones derailed his train of recent success. If history tells us anything, I think it's safe to say it will repeat itself and Tito will have a hard time against the younger, stronger wrestler. Whatever happens Tito, just go out in a blaze. NO EXCUSES after the fight. I'd love to see him come out and annihilate Bader, pantomime the grave digging and throw on his famed T-Shirt. It should probably say something like, "I just Mastered-Bader from the top position." RYAN BADER

Carlos Condit vs. Dong Hyun Kim "I'm a changed man." Don't know if Condit has ever proclaimed this, but he should. The Condit I witnessed in the Dan Hardy fight seemed like an entirely new fighter! He's scary. Greg Jackson suits him well. This in my opinion could very well be fight of the night. In fact, I'd bet their two purses on it. I am going to pick Condit here. He's more experienced against tougher caliber fighters and his reinvention will continue to raise his stake in the division. CARLOS CONDIT

Dennis Siver vs. Matt Wiman This fight contains to men that fly under the radar. Both of them continue to impress me in their recent outings. I don't really look at either as serious, "contenders" in the division, but they continue to work through some solid competition. A few more wins for either and you may see them close to this division's king of the mountain. I have to go with Siver here. I feel that Wiman is weakest when he is not pushing his own pace and Siver is a bulldog that will not stop coming forward. Both have been on the receiving end of flash knockouts and both have dished them out, so anything is possible. We should at the very least be ready for an exciting fight. DENNIS SIVER

Melvin Guillard vs. Shane Roller THE YOUNG ASSASSIN has to be one of the most exciting fighters in the division. He possess so much potential...PROVIDING he isn't fighting someone that could choke him out. UH OH...Roller is no stranger to guillotines and rear naked chokes.

Guillard needs to start strong, fast and aggressive. Take a page out of Benson Henderson's book when he fought Roller. Actually...that's a good fight to consider if Guillard takes the W. Joe Silva, you listening. Henderson vs Guillard. I'll pay for that, so I'll go with MELVIN GUILLARD.

Rafael dos Anjos vs. George Sotiropoulos SOTS! Always love watching Sotiropoulos (god I'm not typing that again if I can help it) fight. His fight against Joe Stevenson is still one of my favorites. He is a tireless, well-rounded worker and while I don't think he'll be a threat TREMENDOUSLY on the feet, he will take Dos Anjos convincingly. GEORGE SOTIROPOULOS (crap.)

Brian Bowles vs. Takeya Mizugaki This a a fight that could easily be on a main card. These two dudes are no joke. I have to think both of them have this in common, their best fights were against former title holder, Miguel Torres. Mizugaki lost a close decision and Bowles knocked Torres senseless. I see this going the distance and spending most of the minutes on the ground, but I think Bowles will control Takeya for the Win. BRIAN BOWLES

Aaron Simpson vs. Brad Tavares As many wins as Simpson possess, finishing opponents on the feet...I think he's going to try to control Tavares on the mat. Tavares is a great young fighter who looks better with each fight. I like the former Ultimate Fighter competitor here. BRAD TAVARES.

Anthony Njokuani vs. Andre Winner ANDRE WINNER is an interesting cat. I still haven't figured this guy out. I think he can be serious in this division, but he's not very consistent in my opinion. I think he can keep Njokuani at bay much like Edson Barboza did. I take ANDRE WINNER for the win.

Jeff Hougland vs. Donny Walker I don't know much about either fighter here and will make this pic solely on their past opponents. DONNY WALKER (because I think of Blue Label when I hear his name.)

Guess Who's Back...? Cancer - you have no place here.

2011-07-01T01:42:00.000-07:00

The title of this blog was simply to announce my return to the blogiverse, however as I went on to write this entry, I realized it had a double meaning so I added the last half.

I've been having an urge to write again and haven't really embraced it in long form. I've become a TWITTER beast and essentially, I COULD probably blog every day if I strung my tweets together, but they probably wouldn't make much sense. Then again, who knows if my blogs would either...
I started REALLY blogging back in 2008 on MYSPACE - WOW...MYSPACE! I had just been cast in the Aladdin Musical and wanted to share the experience of the audition and then decided I'd continue writing as the process went on...a journal of sorts.

I actually ended up enjoying it quite a bit and looking back (as I cringe at some of the nonsense, drama and silliness I wrote about), I'm thankful to be able to read and re-live those days. If my memory suddenly went, I feel like I'd at least have something to look back on and fuel some sort of spark of what once was...

I thought about deleting the entries that were here, but figured I'd just leave it. As much as some of the Aladdin entries are like looking at an old picture and wondering, "what the hell was I thinking?!" I decided I'd keep them here too. Again...if my memory was zapped by the Men in Back, I'd at least have this...right?

I love taking pictures and I'm known for always busting out a camera to record, so having something to read as well is only fitting. I've always been a sort of a documentarian in a small fashion...more on that later.

As I said, I've been having a strong urge to revisit this blogging world after taking a pretty decent absence. I've started writing articles and prediction pieces as an MMA Correspondent for http://www.mmasavvy.com and really have enjoyed it and have had a great response to it.

There is a lot going on in my life lately. I remember when I was blogging and jotting shit down regularly, I often felt relieved, like it was a solid release and it helped me move on from or deal with experiences, while finding humor in certain realities and it's no surprise that during one of the most important times of my life, I find myself back behind the keyboard.

My Dad has Cancer. He was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer late 2010. This was less than a year after my Uncle passed from Colon Cancer. Growing up, my uncle was the closest male influence I had aside from my Dad. Many of the things I love to do in life were things I picked up from these two great men. Playing Sports, Fishing, Music, Finding the hidden bunnies on the Playboy Magazine Covers, Professional Wrestling, Singing, love for my family...just a small fraction of their influence on me.

My Dad has always been my hero. Always will be.

It's been both a blessing and a curse to be living across the country in California while my family has been IMMEDIATELY dealing with the seriousness of the illness my father has been facing here in NJ. It's scary. I was told at times that they didn't want me to worry or be bothered by it, but of course I did. My parents would take on the world before letting me worry just so I could focus on small things. Sometimes I would embrace that. I never felt like I was in denial of anything, but not being there probably made it easer for me...then. I have no doubt it is something that will make it that much more difficult now.

I sit here in a hospital room typing on a cramped couch. Machines hum and snoring comes in waves from my roomies for the night. My sister on a makeshift reclining chair deeply sleeps, my Dad in his hospital bed. He wants nothing more than to go home and he's growing restless. We are too. I pray for patience for us all. I pray for strength and hope. His Doctors have not done much to give us answers, which is why I'm camping out here as we decided enough is enough and it was time for a chat. We didn't want to take a chance that we'd miss them Friday morning when they popped in for the meeting WE requested. A meeting my dad is entitled to and pays for, yet we were told we were out of line to ask for.

It is believed that my fathers cancer has returned to his Esophagus, but in addition, his lungs and liver are strongly believed to be under attack as well. There's not much doubt to that. We are just waiting...and WAITING...for an idea of what's to come, so that we can create and move forward with our plan of attack on this disease. It's been over a week and we have no actual results. Why? The Doctor's are quick to offer chemo treatments without much explanation, and my Dad has been told that he may be released Friday. How are they going to send him home, without giving him the breakdown of what he/we are looking at? My Dad is told he has an appointment on the 12th of July for results. That's not going to cut it folks.

My mother...my mother is probably stirring restlessly at home as I type this, before she heads back to the hospital to be here with us. She's had a rough couple of years and I worry for her. She's a strong woman, it amazes me what she is able to do through this all. She IS human though and for at least 4 years Cancer has been a part of her immediate life as she helped to care for my Uncle since he was diagnosed and now for my Dad. My sister...I can't imagine how it must be for her either. She is now entering her Senior year in high school after a difficult year, the most important of her pre-college years.

My Dad. The man I've idolized since I was a kid. Since I was a kid, my father has worked in a steel plant of some sort. This is probably a LARGE reason he has his Cancer. I recently worked on a film where we shot all overnights, like vampires, for a month. Mid-Way through when I was getting tired physically and mentally, I thought of my dad. He worked over night shifts for most of my life. Adding to that, he had to rotate from overnights to normal hours every other week or so. It took me a week to get my body in sync after filming for a month that way, my Dad did this for YEARS on and off, on and off...this was how he provided for us. I never appreciated it fully till this past April.

He was a star athlete in high school and was recruited to play baseball at some top colleges, but it never fully worked out. My dad could have been pro. Should have been. He wasn't. I would always run into coaches on teams I was playing against or people who knew my dad and they always marveled at how skilled he was. It never once pressured me to live up to it, like I said, he is my hero. It just made me that much more proud.

Since I was a kid, he coached me in various sports and drilled the importance of practice. He never overstepped those boundaries though and just pushed hard enough for me to learn, but left it up to me to really take it on. My dad once went to school for massage therapy and he loved it. He sadly, never really got into it professionally in the way he had hoped to, but I could tell he had a passion for it. I also knew since I was a kid, that aside from being a professional athlete, my dad wanted to be a gym teacher. I actually felt like that was probably what he had wanted most.

When I said I didn't really appreciate my dad's crazy schedule as a kid, I still did take something away from it. It was not a job he loved. My dad is the man most responsible for me wanting to go after my chosen career path. I made the decision at a VERY young age that I would never get stuck doing a job I didn't like for the rest of my life. It was simple. I began to see how I was surrounded by people in those types of jobs. I remember once asking my dad, "Why don't you just become a gym teacher like you want to?" I can't remember the answer exactly, but I understood that he felt it was too late. That stuck with me...

At a very young age I knew I wanted to be famous. A movie star. I was a class clown through and through and always found myself on some sort of stage. I never really stepped foot onto a real one until college, but sports always provided me with that outlet I think. I was an electrician graduating high school and almost went into the military. That was the closest I probably ever was to not doing what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, but it was my parents who knew I wanted to one day act and brought it up as an alternative. After I got their support, I realized my path to happiness was never going to be compromised again- there was no looking back. I've always had a strong will to see it all through and never doubted I would. I had the support from my family and friends and I had the promise to myself to keep. A promise to, HAVE FUN and do something I LOVE. Another part of that promise is that I would one day be able to tell my parents that they no longer had to work because I could care for them in the way they cared for my sister and I...and that I did it ALL with a smile on my face because I loved my job. I've cried recently at the thought of what may come from our current situation. So many things have run through my head and I'm not one to judge my success or put a time limit on anything because I know there's no schedule needed for fate...I find myself recently being challenged with that.

In times like this you find yourself thinking of every possible scenario. Sometimes it's morbid. Is it protection? Is it being prepared? Is it fear? I don't know...but my mind races. Within the scary thoughts lie all of the the insecurities as well. Will Dad see my kids or my sisters kids? Will he join me on the red carpet or attend an award show? Why didn't I push myself more at times? Could I have been there already? Dad loves to sing, will I ever get to do that song with him? Will I be able to ever challenge him again on the court, he's the best lefty I've played against. Will I be able to take him on his dream vacation or buy him his dream home or car?...He has always wanted an old school Hummer, or better yet, his favorite car he owned, an old school yellow beetle. Will he ever be able to just...enjoy his life? I cry. I know I'm somewhat foolish. Dad's no victim and hasn't complained in that way.

One day at a time. Today, let's get him answers and get him home. It's never too late to work on that Gym Teacher thing, Dad.

Proudly,

Adolph Marrero II

General Hospital - Two Episodes Up

2009-08-14T19:40:00.001-07:00

So filming went well! It was a busy scene so we blocked it and ran it a few times to get all of the entrances and stuff down.

I made sure this time, they were not going to be able to cut me out lol

They kept all of my stuff. Fun times!

Two Videos Below - Enjoy

1st Episode - click here

2nd Episode - click here

Back to GENERAL HOSPITAL

2009-05-14T22:51:00.000-07:00

Last June I went in to audition and booked a day of work on the spot for General Hospital.

Well, in April they brought me in for two days to work with all their show Directors while they ran tech for their switch to HD cameras in the studio. It was a great experience and was nice to be back.

Today, I got the official word that they are bringing me back to play a reporter for two shows! I'll be working later this month and will be sure to kill it so they have no choice but to have me back, yet again.

I think back to my college days and how they always told us, "It's great to get the first job, but you ultimately want to be hired again!" I'm fortunate to have had that happen multiple times in addition to having my past work~get me work. That little snowball I set down the hill is starting to grow and pick up speed~

~SPREAD IT~

Ace

Costa Rica!

2009-05-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

After a little over a week of research and countless calls and emails. I'm officially booked for Costa Rica in July!

It started out as a trip for Erin and I, then grew to a party of four which I couldn't be happier about because we'll have some great travel buddies to party with. One of my college buddies, Andrew who is the GO-TO vacation guy, he always comes out to join us and then agood friend of mine, E-kan.

The trip ended up being very cheap and from what I hear from a bunch of people, the US dollar is REALLY strong there. Full steak dinners for $8 and a beer for .80 cents! LOL

All that is left to book are our daily trips. So far I'm interested in riding ATV's through the jungle, white water rafting, ziplines, a trip to the Arenal Volcano & of course a stop in the Resort Town of Manuel Antonio. Oh and of course no trip to Costa Rica is complete without jumping on that board to surf.

E-kan and I already have some time set up to surf out here so we don't look like complete fools when we hit the black sand beach in Playa Hermosa.

It's going to be a great couple of weeks. My best friend and his girlfriend will be visiting in June, then our trip~then my birthday ;)

~PURA VIDA~

Ace

New Website!

2009-05-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

I felt it was time to offer my site a bit of a facelift. It's been about a year and there's only been updates - but I'm ready to spice up my design.

Still in Agrabah, Gran Torino and Mickey Rourke!

2009-01-12T00:13:00.000-08:00

So, I had a few people ask me about updates concerning Aladdin in my last blog and didn't realize that I had been updating facebook, but not myspace.

So, when I last wrote I was a little unsure of what my future would be at Disney due to the cutback. I had so many people telling me that I would be fine, but it was still a little tense until I received the official word from the mouse. We came in together as the two new Aladdin's and we have grown really close throughout this whole process, so it sucks to have him take off so early, but he'll be happier on the other coast! He's a very talented kid and it's only the beginning for you dude!

Wednesday, word started to trickle in from various cast members about what they were being offered or NOT offered for the new contract and everyone was still pretty clueless as to what was going on. There was no indication of who was getting called first, or what they were looking to move forward with and I was getting a little nervous. One of our Aladdin's was offered full time as well, but he would only have one day as Aladdin, which was going to be a cut from the last month we've been running.

I did have an audition that morning and the girl who was playing my wife, ended up knowing some of the same people I work with at the fruit stand LOL The audition was pretty straight forward and I took some liberties towards the end to improv a little, but it worked and I felt like I was on my way to booking my first commercial of 2009. I actually got a call late Friday from my agent telling me that I had a callback for Monday, which I had to do some shifting around to make, since I am scheduled to perform at Disney on Monday.

Later that day, I got a call and had another audition lined up for the next day, this time a PARK RANGER WTF!?

Thursday, I woke up and ran to ROSS to buy some green dockers a short sleeved beige button up and a hat for my Park Ranger outfit. So reading the script for my commercial, there were clearly two other roles, that I was MUCH better suited for, but so it goes, my agent thought otherwise lol I decided I would just buy the shit and return it once I was done but I had to buy the hat at Ursulas and all sales are final there. Well, I get to the audition with my outfit in my bag and I see all of the other guys in just plain dress pants and I'll admit, I was a little embarrassed to go change, but I thought back to the Aladdin audition and said, F it...I came out in my gear (minus the hat) and people looked my way...I had to bite my lip not to laugh. I got called in and asked if they wanted me to slate with or without the hat, which eased the tension a bit as they laughed...they then joked and asked where their hats were and said they wanted to remind me that this wasn't the stripper park ranger. After I said, that they weren't paying me enough for that, we went on our way and did the scene LOL I have a feeling that I might be a LITTLE wrong for the gig...but we'll see...

I went home after and cleaned a bit and still hadn't received any calls about Aladdin and it was about 4pm. I went out into the living room to grab my phone and realized it was still on silent from the audition and I had in fact missed two calls from Disney! AGH! Moment of truth. I called them back and I was informed pretty early on that I not only was I still in the show LOL, but I had ALL of my days and I had actually been given a better day. I was contracted initially to work Sunday and Monday and now I would be performing both Saturday and Sunday, which of course are busy days for the park. I was definitely excited to hear this along with them telling me they were really pleased with my work thus far and how they are wanting to keep giving me more opportunities as they come.

I felt pretty good about the news, but knew others hadn't been so lucky. I got news from a friend of mine and co-noob to the cast that he was not being offered any days with the new contract unfortunately, which was sad to hear. I wasn't surprised entirely, but it is still sad to hear. A few other friends were dropped down in their amount of days or were dropped to call ins. Tough times people...even @ the Happiest Place on Earth.

Friday I got up and went for a swim with Erin in Culver City. She is preparing for another triathlon and I thought it would be fun to join her. UGH! So tough...I did about 3 laps and my shoulders were shot...I had to do the next two laps with the little float to give my arms a rest while I jusy paddled with my feet, which was also a bitch! I then did another lap and then sprinted all the way back....f'n tough...there were 70 year old's passing me in the f'ng water! LOL

Later that night I joined Ekan and his friend Wylie and they introduced me to the dish Pho, which was simple, but a great dish! We went back to his friend's place and hung out and played with our iPhones LMAO!

Saturday I worked at apple for most of the day and then went to Barnaby's 25th Birthday Bash at Busby's which was great fun. Got to see a lot of friends and witness Barnaby completely trashed! LOL Erin and I then cruised over to David's party and thanks to our new Salsa moves, we tore up the floor for a bit, which had to be the highlight of my night!

Ran into a friend and we talked some business about a movie of his I was supposed to be in. Never worked out but other things are in the works!

Today was back at Aladdin where I was sneaking in to catch updates on my Giant's game - BOO! Oh well, I can't complain too much, Philly is on a similar road that we were on last year. Congrats E-kan, I'll be pulling for Arizona next week and I'm glad to see my second team the Steelers are still in the hunt! Let's get a wide receiver who is not a headcase now!

The first show was egh...LOL We had to run one of our contingencies and continued the streak of something going south each week we've been open. I thought nothing could top the walk of shame, boy was I wrong! It's kind of complicated to type out and explain so if you care for more details I can provide them in person...let's just say something malfunctioned and Janelle and I had to do a mad dash up a few flights of stairs, barely making it onstage in time and then we had to "sing" the rest of WHOLE NEW WORLD...I felt about 2 inches tall...

The second show was GREAT! The crowd was into it and although my arm looked terrible from a collision in the first show, I managed to not hurt my left thumb- only my right thumb...exact same injury, just not as sever...fuck! My arm also looks like I feel off a motorcycle lol...not that bad where blood is pouring and my bones are showing, but bad enough. I was asked after the show if I had friends in the audience again, because there were a bunch of girls flipping their shit in the audience...but no such luck...LOL

I was off the third show and the last show I did my other role and it was also great fun as usual and then it was a mad dash home to catch the golden globes!

Let me just say that I am so happy for a few people-
fellow Jersey Boy, Bruce Springstein for writing the song for the Wrestler and WINNING!
Colin Farrell for a truly incredible performance in one of my top three favorite movies of the year, IN BRUGES. I have always liked his movies, but something about him rubbed me the wrong way...maybe it was because a few years ago people said I looked like him and I was jealous/competitive lol but this movie was great and his range in it was impressive. I hope he continues to have great success during the next few years!
LASTLY- Mickey Rourke! I wrote about him a few blogs ago and I yelled so loud when they announced him as the winner tonight! I hope he takes the other big cheese as well! GO SEE IT! A lot of people who have seen Batman have commented that you don't see Heath at all, you just see the Joker...While that is one of my favorite performances...the Wrestler supports Mickey Rourke doing the same thing!

I'm looking forward to watching Slumdog, Ben Button and Milk as I finish watching Gran Torino.

I could blog about that movie by itself, but not right now...I'm getting tired. I will just say that I am blown away at how unreal this movie is to me. I'm not saying that people like that don't exist in this world, don't get me wrong. I just feel that in this movie, no one acknowledges how WRONG Clint's character is in this movie. It is supposed to be funny in some way because of the way some of the jokes play out, but it is just plain ridiculous. I just don't believe ANYTHING in the movie ASIDE from the Hmong cast members and the gang bangers...it's really ridiculous IMO. I don't want to hear SHIT from here on out about Christian Bale's voice in Batman without you watching Clint in this. I am laughing so hard at all the inappropriate stuff this guy says and does and it is just silly.

Bad Movie - GREAT ENTERTAINMENT FOR ME.

A song for the day - You Can’t Brush Me Off

2009-01-07T02:28:00.000-08:00

Pieces below from the song, "You Can't Brush Me Off"

What is this all about?
You've got me wrong, no doubt
I give you all my time
Believe me, I'm
Not looking for some way out
You'll never leave me flat
I'm not a "last year's hat"
That you can cast aside
I've got my pride
And I won't stand for that

You can't brush me off
As you would a speck of powder, you may try
But you can't brush me off

You can drop a hint but I won't take it
You can tell me bad news
I intend to refuse
To go
No
You can't give me back
As you would a leaded quarter, you may try
But you can't brush me off

Happy New Year! Or is it? Aladdin is in danger...really!

2009-01-06T22:57:00.000-08:00

First off Happy New Year!

I hope everyone reading is doing well and had a blast welcoming it in.

I ended up keeping it pretty low key. Erin and I ended up going to Lisa and Alex's place and hung out with them and another couple. We watched (I fell asleep) Wanted after the ball dropped. The highlight was drinking Absinthe for the first time. At first, I was like, "This isn't bad." Then after a few very small sips, I had a hard time finishing the stuff. Not a big fan of licorice or anything that tastes like it. I did not see any green monsters and by the end of the night, I couldn't tell if I was buzzed from that or the many glasses of Champagne.

Actually come to think of it, the Absinthe wasn't the highlight, the best moment had to be our short walk back to our apartment and me a little buzzed spotting a white form in the distance. I had a feeling it was a couch and I made Erin come with me to check it out. We got close and I saw it was a nice love seat leather couch that was in GREAT shape and would go great in our place. Erin was not in the mood to carry it back and I had to work hard to get her to change her clothes and come back with me to grab it at 3am LOL It was freezing and the couch was a little wet from the moisture in the air, but we got it all the way up and now it sits nicely in our place!

Thursday, I was able to pick up a shift at Apple and I totally forgot about time and a half which will be nice!

Friday, I ended up getting called in to work which was definitely needed. I also hung out with Hilary Swank at Apple.

Saturday, I worked and then took Erin to some Salsa Lessons over at Monsoons. It was such a great time. I really was picking up fast and loving it. We are brushing up on our moves for our trip to either Barcelona or Buenos Aires...obviously we'll have to modify some moves depending on where we end up. But it will fit in nicely with my Spanish Lessons...who knows maybe this year I'll end up on one of those Spanish Soaps my Grandma watches lol

I couldn't be more excited to head back to Disney on Sunday and had the last two shows as Aladdin. It was so nice to see everyone and it felt like I had been gone a while! I had great shows and a couple of fun spots during that made for some laughs.

Monday I was back at Disney for the day and then it was off to visit our puppy at our trainers house. I haven't seen him in like two weeks and I was so excited. I felt bad because Erin couldn't join me, but took some pictures to hold her off. It was bittersweet. I was so happy to see him and to see that he remembered and was excited to see me, but I hated leaving him again. Hope he is well. Only another week or so.

Today ended up being QUITE a day! It started off with me needing to get some stuff settled with my security deposit refund. My old apartment complex took too long to get me my check and I'm going to need to fight to get my full refund now because of the 21 day law in California. I also needed to call up Jury Duty Service number to figure out if my registration was complete due to getting cut off by shitty cell service...I got no where with either but was distracted a bit by some unsettling news on the Disney - Aladdin front.

At About 11:15am I received a text from a friend notifying me that there was a company meeting after the last show of the day - also there was a rumor floating around that the show would go from 5 days a week to 3! This would suck for me, because I was figuring that if that were to happen that the remaining days would be Fri, Sat and Sun and I would lose my Monday shift. I called up the Union Rep to ask what would happen if this little rumor turned out to be true and he said that I would have get my guaranteed hours, but that a clause in my contract could give them the ability to release me! SHIT!

At about 2:30pm I heard from my friend that there was a new rumor circulating that the park may be closing Mondays and Tuesdays which would still affect me the same way listed above. The last contract, the show was dark on Mondays and Tuesdays so I was wondering if they would go back to that schedule.

At about 4:30pm I heard that the show was going to go down to 4 days a week, it was pretty much confirmed, but they still were waiting to have the meeting.

At about 6:00pm I received a call from the casting department, officially notifying me that the show was indeed going down to 4 days and before I could ask about my guaranteed hours, it was communicated that there would be a new contract set up and it would begin in two weeks with those who were going to be offered their roles in the show...........

now, it's a complicated, shitty situation for everyone involved. There are many possibilities that I could think of concerning my position with this company, but after a while...I just had to force myself to let it go. My ego started to get the better of me and my insecurities started to creep in and feed my imagination, but when it comes down to it - life will happen and I'll be fine.

I started this blog when my journey began with Aladdin and I always wrote about the great times I had and how I have been busting my ass. It has taught me a lot about life and more importantly about myself. About 4 weeks ago I thought back to my callback and how I decided to dress in a vest and my baggy linen pants and I said to hell with what people would think. I laugh at it now, but at the time, I was going for broke because I figured that my callback could have been the last time I got to sing those songs for an audience...it worked out for me though. Well, hearing about how certain things were closing at the park, I thought back to my callback and told myself that I was going to treat every time on stage as if it were going to be my last, because I wasn't sure what the next day would bring. I gave it my all during the auditions all the way through rehearsals and I kept that fire going through my performances. I blogged about my experience with the show when I was sick and while I could have possibly called out, I fought through because I knew I could. I wanted that challenge and while I paid in full after, I conquered and wouldn't throw in the towel. I won't now. I take comfort in knowing I gave everything...everything for the moment that is...I grow everyday and look forward to finding new ways to change, challenge myself, challenge others and be creative with the show and grow within it and hopefully have it grow as a result. I hope I have the chance to continue on and I want to be a part of this show that is no doubt changing my life each day I take the stage. I want to continue to have a place at the Happiest Place on Earth. I want to come in each week and see the smiling faces and crazy people that I have grown close to. I hate the thought of having that taken away from me so soon, especially when I haven't had the chance to prank everyone (in fact they have gotten me a couple of times). I am pissed that I may not have a chance to have my family and friends see me in something that I am REALLY proud of...a living dream...

At least I can say:
I didn't phone anything in and tell myself that I would just fix it next time - If it wasn't working at the time, I changed it in the moment. I didn't hold back and fall into the trap of being a performer ONLY under lights, I worked hard every step of the way and challenged myself, accepted challenges from others and worked hard towards taking it to new levels. I know that no matter what I hear in my phone call tomorrow, I will be excited and looking forward to my next new challenge! I have calmed down to the point where I am happy and can go to sleep knowing that because I gave it my all - I will have no regrets of an adventure short lived.

One day at a time...

Shortly after hearing all of this today, I got called in for a great audition in the morning...

TiLL NeXt TiMe...

Ace

Theatre mishaps, Holidays and love

2008-12-30T22:46:00.000-08:00

Here is the second go around with this blog.

I was nearly done with it a few days ago and then my browser shut down unexpectedly and all was lost...

It has been a while since my last blog and I will do my best to recap as much as possible.

So after I came down with the terrible 24hr bug on the Opening Day of Aladdin, I was able to rest all of Saturday on my day off. I felt loads better, but was still nervous about coming in on Sunday.

I woke up feeling much better and took extra time to hydrate and warm up in the morning. My throat was feeling a little rough, but I felt confident that I could go at about 90% physically. I got to the theatre and saw that I was going to be doing the last two shows of the day as Aladdin and the first two as my other role which was both good and bad. It was going to be nice to have the first two shows to really let my body get warmed up and since I tend to feel the sickest early in the morning and later at night, I figured I'd be in good shape to perform my shows. The downside was that when I do the last two shows, I have a hard time eating lunch on our break between shows 2/3 because I don't like coming back on a full stomach to go full out in the show. I was a bit concerned with NOT eating, because I still physically felt pretty weak. I ended up pulling through and ate just the right amount for lunch and closed my eyes to rest a bit. Next thing I knew, I was told that we had 25 minutes left till show and I was nowhere near ready, not to mention I had just come out of a deep sleep! I ran up and down the stairs a few times and did some sit-ups and pushups while warming up vocally and headed to the dressing room to throw on the costume. Because of my cold, I was freezing so I kept moving to stay warm until we received the, "Places!" call. I ran upstairs and then ran up the second set of stairs o my starting place and felt pretty good, the sleep had done had done wonders. I felt great for the show and popped some emergen-c and dayquil before the next show and felt even better for the last show. Before the first show, I will admit I started to get nervous because I was hoping that I would not get sick during the show like I did two days earlier. Once we started and the first number was done, I knew I'd be fine.

Monday was a fun day at the theatre. I had Katie, Laura and Kevin coming to see the show but found out that I was not going to be doing Aladdin that day so they were going to see me do all of the stunts, which they were fine with...who are you kidding, they got park-hoppers for free, of course they were fine! In the past the show did not perform on Mondays and this would be the first time it was not dark. The first show was on it's way and as my first stunt was in motion, I realized something was off. I could just tell the timing was off with where I was positioned and where the music normally is at that point. Sure enough, the time came when I was to fly across the stage and nothing happened. I instantly thought of the contingency- but quickly realized I had not been briefed on this situation! How could that slip through the cracks, they are sooooo thorough?!?! I had the common sense to stay put because I was still harnessed and attached to cables and could not just cover and run off stage. I figured that they would just be stopping the show and I would be experiencing my first--and then I was OFF! All of a sudden I was being flung across the stage, thankfully I wasn't hit by one of the swords that are usually slicing through the spot where I am not standing in. Right away, the techs and assistant stage manager are asking if I am OK after I land and I was alive, so I said yes. I was waiting for someone to tell me that I had jumped or anticipated the cue but no one said anything. As the rush calmed down, I started to feel a little pain in my lower back, no doubt coming from my sudden departure from stage. Turned out that the cue was running slightly behind and due to all of the cues in the show and each number, they couldn't bring it to current time without stopping the show since some of the cues are timed to the music...I survived and had a great rush to start my day, what more could I ask for?

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are kind of fuzzy right now. I know it was a mixture of work at Apple, unpacking, cleaning and decorating the apartment and nursing the poor dog who was recovering from his surgery. I think I also fit in some Christmas shopping too.

Friday, I was headed to Disney for some shopping and to give a good show cheer to Emily who was going to finally be going in as Jasmine in the show. She was booked to do the first three shows of the day, which was I'm sure exciting for her. I stopped in and said hello and then took off for the day. Shortly after leaving, I got a text from Carl saying that they had to stop the first show....TWICE...AND they almost had Dylan, one of our Genies, fall down a trap! Mind you, our show is only 40 minutes long and when they stop a show, they have to clear everyone in attendance from the 2,000+ theatre...so they did this once, then shortly after had to do it again. The second show of the day also was cancelled to fix whatever was the issue from the first show. The third show finally was fine and Emily was able to get through her show. Poor girl.

Saturday was work again at apple and I rocked my great elf ears, which everyone loved. We also watched The Wrestler that night, which was AMAZING. I grew up a wrestling fan and know that shit inside and out and it was all fresh for me. I felt like I was watching a documentary and even Erin and Casey enjoyed it, who are not quite into the world of Sports Entertainment. I've been a fan of Mickey Rourke ever since reading a touching article about him while I was in College. They mentioned his meteoric career and his quick downfall that left him shunned from the business and how he was working on his comeback. He went on to do, "Once Upon a Time in Mexico", "Spun" and, "Sin City" which begun to create a buzz around the man once hailed as the, "New Brando". I couldn't have been more in awe of a performance. It was edgy, raw, specific and unlike ANYTHING you have ever seen! Regardless of his past problems and troubles in the entertainment business, I can't see them denying him a nomination for an Oscar and although I haven't seen, "Milk" yet, I'm thinking he will take the crown.

Sunday was back at Aladdin and I was doing the last two shows again but we were told right away that we would have to use some of the contingencies due to some of the effects being out of order. LOL It doesn't make for the best show, but we have to move forward and that's the way it goes, better than no show I guess. That wasn't enough, the theatre gods were not through poking fun and when I get shackled near the end, the shackle broke right off, which was a bit awkward considering it is my main obstacle in the scene! But wait, the second show they said it was fixed and when they get put on me I usually move my wrists and thrash them to break out and this time it worked! I broke open the shackle so now one was just dangling there and thank god Monte who was playing one of the guards, saw and just grabbed me which lead Marc to do the same. Regardless of that, people enjoyed the show and apparently, I was proposed to during my first show when I was riding through the audience on the Elephant. I didn't hear it at the time, but I think they might have come back to the last show, because this set of girls kept screaming at me like I was a Backstreet boy. They had competition though and might have lost the cheering battle to Erin and Katie who came to the last show too. I must have been asked, "Do you know the two blondes in the front row?" at least 7 times from different cast members. They sat dead center and were screaming and laughing the whole time like giddy school girls LOL I waved to them during the curtain call and they lost it, probably because I can look pretty silly up there at the end dancing to the choreography LOL After the show we three went out to eat at Downtown Disney and had the BEST tram ride back to the car...and when I say BEST I mean ABSOLUTE worst LOL It was FREEZING and the conductor was singing every christmas tune under the sun, but replaced all the words to fit a disney theme! LOL Katie loved it!

Monday was a treat with Casey and her boyfriend coming in to see the show. I had told them beforehand that I was probably not going to be performing as Aladdin that day, but they still braved the weather and came out as it poured down in Anaheim. Good thing they did, because they ended up having me do the first two shows of the day as Aladdin so they were able to catch the first show...boy what a first show it was! Everything was going great until the quick change leading into the Prince Ali number. For some reason, I didn't make it. Everything felt like it was going smoothly and right on time and then all of a sudden I hear, "The Elephant is cut, he is going to have to walk!" I wasn't ready in time to get into position so it was time for the dreaded...WALK OF SHAME. If you've been anywhere on this planet, you've probably seen Aladdin at least once and know can probably remember the big number when he comes in on an elephant in a parade to propose to Jasmine. If you don't remember, we have a nice sound cue of an elephant loud as shit to remind you, so imagine the surprise when the music hits and out comes...the dancers and Aladdin walking through the crowd..OH! without the big Prince ALi turban, just his nappy, sweaty hair LOL Welcome to the walk of shame. So I hammed it up and shook hands, kissed babies, stopped for pictures and did everything I could to draw the focus and not get lost in the shuffle. It actually wouldn't have been that bad, had I had my turban. That was what I was most embarrassed about. Fast forward about 15 minutes towards the end of the show and we are back to the famous shackle part of the show...well this time once I got the shackles on and was thrown to the floor, I nearly broke my thumb. In fact, I was sure I did because of the excruciating pain I was in right away. I landed flat on my thumb and it bent all the way back. Thank god by that point I am huffing and puffing and sweat is pouring down my face, because I was able to just blend it all in together, but I thought I was done for! I just reached down and gave a little yank and felt something pop and waited it out. I of course had a meet and greet following and wanted to see my friends so I went down for a little, but by that point I knew it wasn't broken because I was able to move it a lot and the pain had gone down significantly. I finished, went down to the athletic trainer where he confirmed that it was not broken and then he wrapped it beautifully for the next show, but I was not able to move it the same which I was a little nervous about especially considering I did not make my quick change fast enough the last show. However, it worked out and actually ended up being my best performance to date!

I had some gifts to pick up after and shopped before coming back to pack, clean and exchange gifts with Erin. I got everything done that I needed to and thank god, because at one point I was dead tired and wanted to just wake up an hour earlier to finish and I'm glad I fought through it because I over slept a little and nearly missed the cut off time at the airport to check my bags!

So Tuesday was the flight back to the family in NJ which I was really excited about. I realized that I hadn't been back since the same time last year which was kind of sad and scary considering how fast I felt the year went by. It was great to see them and it was freezing back east! We ate pizza from the famous Scorntino's and rested at home...in sweaters and sweat pants...and a hat and scarf lol I was a little sad at night talking to Erin because that morning she also dropped off Wolfy to the trainer's house and he would be there for the next 3 weeks :(

Wednesday I picked up a few things from Walmart and then the rest of the family was coming to my house to hang out. It was great to see everyone and we ended up bugging out with Karaoke till like 1:30am lol everyone was all horse from singing, but we had a blast. Of course they wanted me to sing Whole New World, which I'm not going to lie, I did want to sing it too but it was the Peabo version which is a little whack and way to high for me. It was a true Karaoke moment LOL but was fun because I sang it with Alexis (my little sister). SPeaking of....she is sooo TALL! and smart! I also talked to the trainer earlier that day and she helped put my mind at ease when she told me how good Wolfy was and how he was getting along fine. I can understand how my parents probably felt at times.

Christmas Day we opened gifts and I was still waiting for a package to arrive that had one last gift for my parents, sister and Peter. We then went to eat at my grandma's and then hit up my aunts house for the remainder of the night. I was able to see all my aunt's and uncle this trip which isn't always the case, so it was great for me!

The day after Christmas I went to Peter's house to stay for the night and we pure bugged out. I brought my Red Pajama One Piece and my elf hat and before we sat down to play Rockband, we decided to hit up the liquor store. I decided I would go in full costume and Peter was beyond embarrassed but still allowed us to talk him into filming the whole thing. We pulled up and I was walking to the store and could see about 8 or 9 people standing near the door and I walked in and shouted, "Merry Christmas!" Mind you, we were at a place not far from a shady part of Trenton but I obviously didn't care...I left that to Peter who was saying that I was probably going to get shot by some Bloods or something. I told him that they would clearly see and understand that I was celebrating and bringing Christmas to everyone. We got some good footage and there were some people that were staring and it was priceless. Later that night, I was showing Peter how to import his video into iMovie and I quickly cut something together and added a song within 30 seconds to give him an example and it ended up being a happy accident because we were dying! We then added another little piece...and then another and then two hours later, we had a little short of our adventure and more that we uploaded on youtube. Of course a lot of people did not get the video, but everyone in it and involved loved it. Plus, if you know me well, you'd understand ;)

Saturday, I came back home and watched Valkerie with my family and Phil, my sisters bud. I enjoyed the film although I did doze off a few times in the middle. No disrespect to the movie, it's normal for me unfortunately. I think I'm constantly on the go, so when I sit down in a dark place in a comfortable chair, my body goes into sleep mode. Not always! But often enough. Everyone always jokes about it with me and says that I'll do it at my own premieres. I then picked up some groceries for the meal I was planning to cook for my family. They loved it and I ended up feeding 7 when Peter and Brooke came by. It felt nice to cook at home! Then it was off to see the UFC fight, which I could honestly dedicate a whole blog to. I won't and I'll just say that I'm happy for Frank Mir, worried for Wanderlei and indifferent towards Rashad and Forrest. I wanted Forrest to win, because I like his attitude and I wanted to see him defend, but wasn't disappointed with Rashad beating him. In fact for a while I was always defending Rashad because I thought he had great potential, but recently, I've grown to dislike his antics a bit.

Sunday was football and I sat down with my Dad to watch the Giant game and Peter came by too. It wasn't a game that mattered for us, but of course you always want to win. We were not looking so hot, and then came back and were winning the game. They obviously were not concerned and took out some of the starters to rest them and although the secondaries kept it up, a missed field goal ultimately ended up costing us the game. No matter, we did not need the win and there were other teams like the Patriots, who got screwed LOL I probably would have gotten yelled at by most NJ folks if they heard the way I was laughing and cheering for the Dolphins in the end, but oh well...I then went through boxes that my parents had stored away to make room for them. When I came home from college I never finished unpacking some boxes because of lack of space so my Dad had 5 big boxes sitting in his shed still. He also had 5 big boxes waiting to be shipped out to LA, but again I had no space originally. I decided to go through them because I obviously didn't need them for the past two years. I was able to get it down to 4 small boxes and one big box. They'll be joining me in LA soon :( LOL

Today I ran some errands and packed before it was time to head out to the airport. I had a great stay and loved seeing my parents. I found out that they are hoping to visit in March, which will be nice! I'm excited for them to visit LA and can't wait for them to meet my dog and see me in Aladdin. I am actually writing this while I am on the plane and will be touching down in nice weather in about 2 1/2 hours. I'm so excited to see Erin and be back, but I'm also missing the dog as is she from what I hear.

I'm glad I finished this thing. I was close to letting it go, since I didn't want to type it all over again, but here it is.

Now it is time to think out a resolution for what will no doubt be my best year yet!

TiLL NeXt TiMe!

Ace

Great Opening Day, Offical Cast Member and Sick Beyond Belief

2008-12-14T01:36:00.000-08:00

So yesterday was the big day! It was the day that I was going to be put into the show as Aladdin and it happened to be the Opening Day after a few months of being dark.

I woke up and felt some dryness in my throat, but didn't think much of it because it has been this way the past week or so and I figured it was just the new heat system in the apartment. Erin felt under the weather and I was encouraging her not to accept being sick and she would be fine...LOL

Well I dropped Wolfy off to the Vet for his surgery, no kids for the Wolfster. It was sad watching him walk back into the room, but I knew it was for the better and he would be healthier pup because of it.

I came back to the apartment and was waiting for E-kan and Tyler to find parking so we could head off to Disney. They were going to be joining Erin at the show and of course taking advantage of the Park Hopper Passes for the day.

We got there and I felt pretty good, I did my usual Vocal Warmups on the Drive and felt ready for the big day. After signing them in, I headed to the theatre and got ready to watch the first show of the day with the rest of the Audience. I was actually sitting there really tense and nervous for the performers on stage and that I started to get restless knowing that I would be going in next...I just wanted to get up there already! But the 1st show went great and it was awesome to see it with 1,800 other people. It brought back that feeling of watching a show on Broadway. The show ended and I headed backstage to get ready.

I got dressed had my wig put on and then ran around and up and down some stairs in my shoes to warm up in preparation. I heard the, "Places" call and headed to my position and just could not believe how many people were in the theatre. This by far, is the largest show I have been in and aside from the quick Fear Factor show at Universal, I have never been in front of this many people. The vibe was crazy and a few nerves crept up. However, once the show started and I made my mad dash down the stairs to hell for my entrance, everything went out of the window and it was game time. The show went great and it was so nice to have an audience out there. I made some adjustments and was really surprised at how different it was to be out there on the Elephant with everyone watching and waving at me as I made my way around the audience. Kids were so cute waving and people with their cameras were really into it. It was tricky, because I was wanting to wave to everyone but of course that wasn't possible. I also managed to cut myself in the show and was bleeding towards the end, but it wasn't anything severe and it stopped after a few minutes. Blood, Sweat and Tears for this role of the Street rat. All in all, it was an awesome welcome to the show!

I met up with Erin, E-kan, Tyler and Nina after, and they had really nice things to say about the whole show and it was a great moment for me. They also took some great pictures and I will be posting them soon, so keep your eyes open. As I was talking to them a chill came over me and I was starting to feel some soreness in my throat. I couldn't shake the chill so instead of eating I took a hot shower to see if it would bring my body temp back up. Mind you, I ate a little bowl of oatmeal earlier in the day and then some almonds between the show, but I didn't want to eat lunch because of how fast paced this show is and I didn't' want to cramp up or feel lethargic. After the shower, I felt a little better, but still was cold and my throat was a little better after gargling salt water and drinking a bunch of water during the break. I was starting to get a little worried because I couldn't feel warm and my body felt a little weak. I did a couple of jogs up and down he stairs and then some push ups and prayed that my body would hold up. The show started and I was off and my adrenaline kicked in and I had a blast again. Everything felt fine and the audience was really into the show so of course that energy was feeding me. I got to do it with some different people from the first run which is always fun, because it keeps it different and fresh. Toward the very end of the show, I was on the ground and stood up and I felt a bit Lightheaded, but I knew I only had a few minutes left and it was probably my body telling me I had to eat. Well the show finished and I headed downstairs and was greeted by our Director Marya, who told me I was officially approved to play Aladdin LOL and then I took a shower. After that I headed into the greenroom and grabbed a krispy kreme and then ate some cottage cheese and my chills just hit hardcore, not only that, but my throat was on fire. I think the buzz from being in show mode wore off and I was just a mess. I knew I had to go watch the last show and wanted to support the last cast, so I made my way out but as I sat there in a resting position, my body just began to shut down little by little and I officially felt like crap and was also REALLY Achy! I knew I wanted to take part in the tradition we were going to be having later on in the night which was a bowling championship to see who would take the crown for the Hyperion Theatre Bowling Award (or something like that) but I wasn't sure if I was going to make it. After meeting up with E-kan later who was stoked at the idea of meeting the cast, I pulled it together and decided to head over but I was not feeling good. I stopped along the way and bought some fresh OJ and a couple packs of Emergen-C and it definitely helped, I wasn't feeling as weak as I was earlier, but I knew it was time to eat. We headed to Johnny Rockets after being notified from the cast at the bowling alley that they had been waiting over an hour for food. I ordered food, ate two fries and I was not feeling well. I felt like I was going to throw up if I ate anymore. After that we headed back down to the bowling alley and everyone was leaving because of the terrible service (I mean it IS a bowling alley) so the championship is being postponed, which I am fine with! It was time to head home.

I got a text from Erin on the way home saying that Wolfy was in pain and looked really weak after his surgery and I knew she felt bad. I got home and she was really upset and felt like he was mad at her and she was feeling like she did the wrong thing, but after a little talk she was fine...not me. My body was just ready for bed so I listened after popping the last emergen-c, some Tylenol and Tussin (Yes the fake stuff).

Thankfully I woke up today and my throat was feeling much better, which was my biggest concern considering I have shows tomorrow and Monday. I knew I would be able to rest today and the worst that I am dealing with, is extreme soreness all over. My head feels a little tight with pressure and my nose is a little clogged, but I feel much better. Erin made a run for me and picked up some gatorade, throat coat, dayquil to accompany the chicken soup she made for me and Wolfy and I are just resting as I watched Aladdin. I'm glad I did too, because it reminded me of a few things and has given me some ideas for the show now.

I had a great day all in all yesterday and had a lot of the veteran cast members coming up to me and saying some great things and I am just so glad to be a part of this show. I'm thankful for everyone's generosity in the show too, there was never a shortage of advice or answering of questions from the previous cast members, in fact some of best help was offered from the other Aladdin's. I look forward to rest of this run and I'm getting to know some great people. I hope a lot of my friends can come out to see the show as well!

Hopefully, I'll be in good shape for tomorrow. I will have to make sure I eat properly and am well fueled, because I'll be doing 4 shows tomorrow, splitting Aladdin of course with Sam. I'm looking forward to a nice hot bath in a few and then maybe unpacking a few boxes before settling down for the night and watching the Ultimate Fighter Finale on Spike! Poor Wolfy is hanging in there and also looks to be feeling better, but still is just not moving much and I have to keep an eye on him to make sure he doesn't continue to lick the sutures.

TiLL NeXt TiMe!

Removed from the show, Eviction plus a Farewell and Congrats!

2008-12-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

It's about time I post a new blog. It's been a crazy week with the show opening tomorrow. We've been having tons of runs and I've been so tired after each rehearsal that I just want to crash when I get home.

So during last week I was informed that we were going to have to pay to have our rugs replaced due to some stains, which I feel is BS anyways, because every apartment I looked at had new rugs and it seemed like most of the places replaced their rugs after two years. We've been there 1 year and 9 months about and it pisses me off knowing, that our apartment complex was probably going to replace it anyways...not to mention that the shitty place uses nothing but the cheapest materials in their apartments, so the rugs were crap to begin with...but, so it goes...along with our deposit. Better things to look forward to though right?

So Saturday was the official move day into the new apartment. My original plan was to have moved most of the stuff out and over throughout the week so that I had very little come Saturday. I actually moved a LOT of stuff during the week, but still had so much to go. It always seems like it is going to be much less than what it actually is. Let's just say that the original plan was to rent a truck and have my friend E-kan help me move some basic items. It actually ended up being, E-kan, Tyler, Erin, Javed, Nina, Erin and I and we barely got done in time! LOL THANK GOD for friends and I'm so lucky that everyone came through. Javed and Nina were nice enough to drive all the way from Cosa Mesa and I wasn't even expecting them to come, but after some miss communication, they called and said they were close and I was so happy to hear we were getting more help. Then Tyler called and asked if we still needed help, which we did. I honestly, don't know what I would have done, if I didn't have each and every one of them there. Erin and I are so thankful. I cleaned out the old place, said my goodbye and left the hood.

Sunday was supposed to be my day to relax and just watch football. NY had a tough weekend, not that I really care about those dudes in Green, but it must have just been in the air. My G-men, played like crap and lost a game that they shouldn't have. E-kan and I are tied 1-1 and I have a feeling we will meet again. It's not like the Giants really need to win, they can rest their players, but who want's to have a losing momentum going into the end of the season, especially with Division Games coming up. After watching the loss, I started to unpack a bit as the Steelers Game came on, thank god they pulled it through! Then it was off to finish clearing out and cleaning Erin's old place.

Monday was the first official day in our apartment and it was back to what would be the first of many busy days at Disney. We started working in costumes which was fun, but I was still pretty nervous about not having my shoes yet. I was the only person not to have my shoes and I was starting to worry because of the confusion in the past. I am normally a size 10 1/2 or 11 depending on the shoe. In the beginning they came in and had me put on a size 10 1/2 which was too small. The shoes we wear have been named Air-Aladdin's and they need to be custom made for each performer so when they came back to me a few weeks later, the shoe was a 10 1/2 again. They swore they made them a size bigger, but I know that I would have remembered if they originally bought me a size that I don't even wear...but whatever. There is a lot to be done and I could have easily thought wrong... Anyways, I asked if there were any shoes from an old performer in a size 11 to see if they fit, before having them make a whole new set, but they said no. We ran the shows, and I did them in my sneakers but it went great.

Tuesday, no shoes- good shows, but no shoes still. At this point, the choreographer, director and some of the stage managers were asking where my shoes were and were beginning to get worried. So was I, because it was made clear that if the shoes were not going to be around for me to rehearse in, then I was probably going to be held from performing, until I had time to work in them :( I was also told that there was a size 11 pair of boots in their possession from an old performer, which I was originally told that they didn't have. They fit! So they took them in and had the Air-Aladdin's made to match the boot size. Hopefully I would get them by Thursday.
I also received a call from my land Lady and she was saying that the guy downstairs was complaining about my dog barking. She pretty much told me that he needed to stop, or we needed to find a new place to live. I was not happy. This guy downstairs works from home and I'm not saying my dog doesn't bark, he has separation anxiety, but he is a puppy in training at the same time. Barking is not something that is going to stop overnight, so It just bothered me and felt like I as backed into a tough spot. I called a few dog trainers on the way home and Erin and I decided that we were going to need to get serious and get Wolfy fixed and get him into some legit training.

Wednesday, I was a little out of it in the beginning of the day due to the worry of a barking puppy and a sensitive guy who works from home LOL I called my landlady to explain what was going on and it was a great talk, she understood that it would take time to get the dog to stop barking. I had the pair of stretched Air-Aladdin's delivered to me and I used them in the first run of the day which made me feel like I was a half a step behind because they felt so heavy. Thank god, I had another show and another full day to work in them. The second show went well and I was getting really excited for Friday and an Audience.

Today I was kind of hoping to have an easy day at rehearsal. I've been really tired physically and vocally and I just wanted to have a day to rest before Friday. I came in and sure enough, I only was in the first of three shows and it was as the chorus role, SAVED! They also were going to be recording the 2/3 shows and they had most of the veteran cast scheduled to perform in it. So, we are stretching and warming up and Tracy the choreographer came up to me and told me that I was being added to do the last show as Aladdin. So much for rest! But I was actually happy, I always like to perform the day before the opening, even though it seems like those shows can sometimes be a bit off...this was no different lol There were a lot of good things in the show, but a few technical things were off that haven't been before, but I also had a few new discoveries and I was able to make a couple of new choices that felt pretty good...all in all, I just am ready for an audience. It was kind of sad towards the end, because the 19 of us who came in to learn the show 7 weeks ago are scheduled for different days or are call ins and it would be the last day that we would all be together. I sat in the audience after I showered as we received notes and after getting a few notes from Todd, our Vocal Consultant I sat back in my chair and had to take a couple of deep breaths as I began to tear up a bit. He had some nice things to say and said that he hopes I am enjoying it and I couldn't help but smile. I think that was the thing that made me tear up a bit. Our stage manager said, "After today there is no new cast or veteran cast...it is now the ALADDIN CAST!" It didn't help my case, it just made me think about how badly I have wanted to play this part and be in this show and in less than 24 hours, it would be happening. All those times of singing the songs in my room as I jump around and act a fool, all the times someone said that I looked like Aladdin and it made me smile, all those dreams from my childhood of wanting to play this part in a movie and I was going to get the next best thing, if not THE best because of it being a live performance. As cheesy as it may seem, I feel like I am in a Disney commercial talking about the magic of the park LOL But I don't care, I'm going to enjoy every minute of this and be spoiled while I can and just play. I have felt happier these past few months and I've learned a lot. I've brought a lot of that joy I have been experiencing with this show to other places in my life and I know I want nothing less than that from now on. I hope to see and stay in touch with everyone from my group and I'm sad to not be seeing you all regularly. I'll be missing not being able to joke or prank you all, but you better watch out, because when I do see you, it will be on. I can't wait for my friends to see the show and I look forward to the day that my parents and sister come out to LA and see one of the performances of a show that has meant a lot to me for many years.

I also am a little sad at the thought of this blog ending. I started it as a way to keep people informed of my experience and to also keep the thoughts fresh for myself. I started to take different life as I began to journal a little bit. I just don't know how it will be without having rehearsal everyday to write about. Life goes on and new experiences will be had no doubt, so maybe I will continue to write. When it comes down to it, I've enjoyed writing these little things. Not sure if I'm ready to let go just yet ;)

Tomorrow I'll be performing the two middle shows- one at 1:55pm and the other at 4:20pm. Wish me good shows and send me luck at the cast party as I do my best to dethrone the current Hyperion Bowling Champ at the 300 Bowling alley!

Later!

Thank you for reading

FREE TIX to DISNEY, No Internet & Falling Onstage

2008-12-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

So, this is my first blog since last Sunday.

As I mentioned, I am in the process of moving and had no internet at my old place, so it was just basic email on my phone for the most part. We got the keys for our new place on Monday and of course we decided to stay the night since our bed was already there. We had water, electricity and we THOUGHT heat, but we found out later that the pilot had been turned out when the place was painted. We brought over sheets and A blanket. LOL It was cold! We froze that night, but it was still nice to wake up in a nice new place on a nice new bed. Back to basics. Wolfy seems to love this place, maybe because it gives him a lot of room to run around and cause trouble. At this point, the heat, cable and internet are on, and I moved most of my clothes and everything from my kitchen/bathroom. All that is left is my room shite that I will be moving Saturday morning with the help of E-kan and Javed from my Aladdin Cast. I've had a rough week with rehearsals every day only to come home and pack and move boxes to the new place. I wanted to move a little bit every day, but I paid for it with a sore back and tired days at rehearsal. I think it will be easy tomorrow, but who knows, it always looks like so much less work than it actually is! Either way you slice it, I have to be done with the truck by 1pm and I'm hoping to have all of my shit done by then.

I get really anal with wanting to have my stuff unpacked right away and settled in so I can finally feel like I have completely moved ya know? However, I already told myself, that I am just going to get it here and then wait until after rehearsals end before I really attack unpacking.

I'm excited to have people over for parties, or FINALLY host a UFC Fight on Pay Per View or have people over for football

GO GIANTS - 11-1 BABY! Big game this weekend. One of our rivals who we beat just a few short weeks ago, E-kan and I will be at it again LOL

So in the Aladdin world, things are going great! This was our last full week of rehearsals as we open next FRIDAY!!! I'm so excited! I've had a really great time with this show, which I'm sure I say a lot, but it really has been an amazing experience. I will definitely miss the cast that I came in with. There are 19 of us and some are scheduled for different days, while others are on an on call basis. We've had a great time, and it's the first show in a while that I got close to everyone and we all got along LOL for the most part ;)

I wasn't supposed to be in on Monday because of my St. Louis trip, but since we came back early, I called ahead and they told me to come in, which I was excited about because I really was itching to get back. I really am spoiled with this show. I missed two days and it felt like forever LOL I know how Carl felt now when he was hurt. But I heard they did runs, which I was upset I missed but we started in and finished working certain scenes in the space. You'd be surprised at how long a 3 minute song takes to stage, but when you have people learning multiple roles in a show, you have to keep going back to switch everything around so everyone learns their stuff. I'm really impressed with the talent in this show and their ability to handle all their different roles. I get confused with mine by itself LOL

I really can't remember too much from the week of rehearsal, most of my thoughts were involving moving and thinking about preparations for that. It was spirit week and there were themes for every day.

Monday was Camouflage day, which I wore my full desert fatigues and was only outdone by Ray who had the black boots. I had the same pair, but didn't take it all the way.

Tuesday was sports day and everyone was coming up to me asking if I was going to dress like a UFC fighter LOL I figured I'd wear my Giants gear in support instead.

Wednesday was Pajama day which I am bummed about till this day because I totally missed out and forgot to wear my famed one piece red pajama outfit with buttons in front AND back. I just forgot about it with the confusion of being at the new place. I did find time together to play a prank on one of the cast members that night. They were all headed to a bar to sing and I texted Kumi saying that I had been watching her from across the room. She didn't respond till 3 hours later when I was in bed...

Thursday was Superhero day and I was wiped this day and just threw on my Superman T-shirt which worked well for the scene in the show when I float into Jasmine's window on the carpet. I didn't even think about it, but some people said it looked really cool. That was the day also that I first ran the WHOLE NEW WORLD number with all the effects and when you see the show, you'll know what I mean. It looks really cool, but it is a little scary up there because of all the smoke they use in the scene. We also started decorating our Ornaments for the Christmas Tree in the green room. Let's just say that some people went overboard and couldn't stop making these things, not going to mention any names or anything but let's just say that there are two roommates who could not stop. On my ride to work though, the girl I texted the night before, got the Ace treatment and I texted her back on my drive and she couldn't figure out if it was a joke or not. It went on for a while, but hidden in one of the messages was a cryptic code saying that it was me...too bad she didn't catch it. I went on to say that my name was HANK, which some of you have met LOL During our warmups, she sat in the audience texting and watching to see who reached for the phone, but I was ONE JUMP AHEAD ;) and snuck them in fast. Finally she asked who was from JErsey and it didn't leave very many options, I was discovered. But I had her going good and she has vowed to seek revenge...we shall see. She said that when people mentioned it was probably me, she couldn't believe it as she didn't think I was capable of it, but she obviously didn't know me well.

Today was just costume day and I busted out the Pirate costume and I wasn't alone. Javed wore a full out Jack Sparrow Costume and Ray was SUPPOSED to be Capt. Morgan but couldn't get it together. We also continued with the ornaments and the two roommates continued. One of them, who I actually performed with as Jasmine, was getting really into it and was throwing everything into these ornaments. They were colorful and busy, lets just say that. We did 3 runs of the show all the way through with full effects and I did was scheduled to do the first one. I felt great and warmed up and then all of a sudden, I was just feeling BLAH...I don't know what came over me, but I just felt lethargic and out of it. We then went up onstage to practice a flip I have to do with the Alexa who was playing the carpet and we kept messing it up. It was alittle frustrating and one of those things you didn't want to be worried about in a show because that is when mistakes happen. I shook it off and had about 15 mintues to get back into my groove and started to do some push ups and anything physical to see if it would help, but only a little. It was time for places and I figured that I would make a couple of mad dashes down the stairs to hell I call it which helped get the blood flowing when I saw Mark 'Poison' Oka in his position for top of show. I said hello and we chatted a little and he had some real kind things to say about my work and before I knew it, they had called places and I ready to rock and I felt ready to kick ass. I like compliments as much as the next person, but it wasn't so much that...I just really respect Mark a lot and I remember he was the first person I talked to at Orientation. He has worked everywhere and has done some huge Broadway shows and I just was always inspired thinking about how he carried himself and how you could tell how much he loves what he does. I remember in Orientation we were supposed to share an interesting fact and he shared that he is still a dancer at age 50. It was simple, but it really hit home for me. He's a great guy and I really admire him a lot. I feel like he is one of the reasons that I've really pushed MYSELF hard in this and I've learned a new level of commitment that I don't think I could have achieved without being around such DEDICATED, TALENTED and CARING people that really go all out in their work. It's part of the reason I love working with Dancers, because in my opinion, they bust their ass and deal with pain and work at such intense levels and they just keep moving forward. I just wish I can perform with all these people all the time.

Anyways, our show went great and I felt the same about my run in it. I tripped in the FRIEND LIKE ME number over my BAGGY ASS ALADDIN Pants, but didn't fall thank god...I actually saved that part for after the show when I was running off stage with Jasmine and I got caught again and totally went down HARD! Thank god I had on knee pads...i'm a little sore though from it LOL.

We finished the day in the house with the Director and Choreographer and she gave us details about our specific performances. Now I already knew I was performing Sundays and Mondays, I just didn't know what I was performing for what shows...well I was informed that I was actually being brought in for the OPENING DAY next FRIDAY! We all get put in days which are basically the days they put us into the show and then give us final approval to do the parts. Yes, we already have the part, but it is some weird thing they do that none of us really understood to be honest. We all just got tense when they announced it because it felt like an audition again. Granted we have been doing this show for 6 weeks and I'm pretty certain that they have a good idea of what we are capable of, but who knows lol Regardless, everyone has to go through it and I'm not really worried about it at all. I'm just excited that I will be there to perform as Aladdin on the opening day!!! So if you are free, I think I will be doing the last two shows. I can get you into the parks (Disneyland and California Adventure) for free, if you come to the show of course! Let me know!

Anyways, it's time to wrap up. Gotta see if I can stay awake long enough to get through last weeks Dexter and 2 Ultimate Fighter Eps..

TiLL NeXt TiME

St. Louis Trip, Thanksgiving, Airport Troubles and a Crazy Strip Club Experience

2008-12-01T06:16:00.000-08:00

I've noticed that my blogs started as a way to keep people informed of the Aladdin gig but have turned into more journaling each time. Oh well, I actually look forward to writing regardless of if anyone is reading or not. I know it is probably good to have some sort of record to help trigger certain memories that may not come easy with my old age ;)

So Erin, Barnaby, Katie and I were heading to St. Louis for Thanksgiving. I've been tons of times during my time at Stephen's and this would be Barnaby's first trip to St. Louis…let alone his first trip out of L.A. aside from Vegas. We talked about all sorts of things to do while we were there and Barnaby was most excited and interested in checking the city that is notorious for having some of the best strip clubs…more on that later!

So it's Monday night and we are staying over Katie's apartment so we can just roll straight to the airport in the morning. Everyone is already there, they were just waiting for Erin, Wolfy and I. Wolfy was going to be staying there while we were away. We get there, and he instantly runs to Stanley and they begin their frolicking and picked up right where their affair last left them. NON-STOP! Erin and I were beat so we set up our little sleeping area on the floor and started to watch the latest episode of Dexter before we passed out.

Tuesday morning hit and it's freezing and of course we had hardly slept before the alarm sounded. But the excitement of leaving town carried us as groggy as we were. We get to the airport, grab our tickets and head to the security checkpoint. Erin and Barnaby were stopped to see if there bags would fit in the overhead storage area of the plane. I'll never understand why they pay such close attention and make you stick your bag in this tiny spot, but when you get in the plane, the area is much larger. They started to give Erin a hard time so she had to remove some stuff, put it in her purse, and then put it right back in once she got through…ridiculous. After putting all my clothes back I notice I'm still waiting for Erin and Barnaby to get through. I look over and they have Barnaby stopped at the end and they are removing shit from his bag. I couldn't help but laugh because of how funny the image was. There were a bunch of canned items that Barnaby was going to bring for his meal on Thanksgiving. We each were going to prepare something for the feast and he apparently forgot that we were going to get the groceries once we were in STL, so he packed a bag full of plantains, a bunch of canned evaporated milk and god knows what else LOL. They let him keep the bananas, but not before they gave him a scare and almost took his burned DVD's with the pile of cans, lotion and whatever else they confiscated from him.

The flight was alright and at least they gave us free soft drinks and a packet of pretzels. We landed and were informed that we were going to be having dinner at Erin's Grandparent's house later that evening. When we got back to Erin's house, we were all starved so we pigged out on various items before we left for dinner at the Grandparents'. We pulled up and were greeted by Ray and Jane and a smell of a nice cooked meal. We each were poured a glass of wine as we gave Barnaby a tour of the place, mainly the cool basement they have. After chatting a bit downstairs, we made our way to the dining room for dinner. Barnaby made a touching toast, thanking Erin and Katie for inviting him to St. Louis and he also stated in his own words that he wanted us all to have a good time this trip regardless of what we may have all gone through in the past. It was simple, but effective and really put into perspective for me how it is sometimes easier to let little things get in the way of the bigger picture.

On a side note, there have been times of ups and downs, back and forth for me and B in our apartment, but I'll always cherish the year plus we spent as roomies in the hood and will no doubt miss seeing him all the time and his white friend Doug. I feel that for me, it was great to have him around and be a constant connection to something I could only describe as an East Coast Vibe. Of course, it was more than that and as we've only known each other for about 3 years now, I know there are still many more things to learn about Barnaby and it will come with time as this will be a lasting friendship. I'm sorry for being a fool and for any immature way I chose to handle things and I look forward to making moves with you in the future Barnaby. Thanks for putting up with my shit and for reminding me of Platano's and for just being yourself. You taught me a lot and I admire how you speak your mind, do what want and hold your friends dear.

Back to dinner, we ate, had some FUNNY chats and discovered that Barnaby was plastered from the wine. We were heading out because we were going to be meeting up with some of Erin's friends later and as we were leaving Barnaby missed a step coming out of the house and almost broke his foot! LOL it was too funny, that and Katie was driving on the neighbors lawn as we were exiting because she couldn't see the driveway at night.

We dropped Katie back home and realized that the Ice Skating rink we were going to go to was close that night so we had to make other plans which involved hitting up a pub. I forgot how cheap everything is when you are not in NY or LA. Barnaby, Erin and I had a round of Captain and Cokes and paid less than 12 total, not to mention, the bartender brought over two more for us on the house! Well Erin's friends came by and I met Courtney and Shannon and they told us that we were going to party classy that night and the next night was going to be trashy. We ended up cruising downtown near the St. Louis Arch and it was kind of dead. We also found out that the next day's hockey game we were supposed to be going to was actually in Colorado, NOT St. Louis. Apparently Dale, Erin's Dad, was misinformed by his broker but thankfully he had not yet paid for the tickets. Anyways, we ended up cruising to this new Casino called Lumier and I hit up the Blackjack Table for about 45 minutes before walking away $1 up. LOL at least I didn't lose the $40 I put down. We called it a night after that and decided to head home since we were no doubt going to have a long day on Wednesday starting with a Mani/Pedi ;) LOL I was excited to pass out in the guest room because the beds are perfect in there and I always sleep like a king. Apparently, so did Barnaby, because he kept talking about the beds the whole time LOL.

So we headed in to the nail salon and did the deed. Barnaby and I both had them paint our toes for kicks and I bought a bag of Gus' Famous Pretzels. I think Erin was a little disappointed to hear I wasn't blown away by this St. Louis gem. We then hit up the World Market to get some items for our dishes and I was quite impressed. In the middle of St. Louis they had items I can't find in L.A. Barnaby and I found bottles of Malta and were in heaven. It was then off to one of my favorite places on earth, St. Louis City Museum. Worth a trip to St. Louis ALONE! If you have been, let me know below what you think of this place and if you haven't been, it is a place you should visit. Let's just say it is an adult playground. They serve liquor and it is not uncommon to see business men dressed in their best crawling through tunnels or bouncing around in the oversized McDonald's like playpen. They say you need to allow 3-4 hours to see everything and it is true- SO MUCH FUN and Barnaby loved it as well! After that we headed back to shower and change for dinner at Bar Louie's which had $5 buckets of beer. This was where we got our buzz for the night, we kept ordering these things and we were set for the night. The next stop was going to be the "Ghetto" part of town and the club that we surely were going to get shot at in called MP O'Reilley's. When we pulled up, I'll admit it was a little considering the part of town and the two cop cars parked outside, but when we got inside Barnaby and I couldn't help but laugh at how "Ghetto" this place actually was. Leave it to a couple of former Catholic School Girls to talk up this place and complain about how dangerous it was. It was fine, nothing at all Ghetto compared to what we were used to. There were a few odd characters, but nothing worth wearing a vest for. I don't know maybe we were lucky that night. The real fun was going to be had after this spot, because we were on our way to the Roxy's strip club. I'm not a guy that really cares about strip club's, it's not my thing, but it is fun when you are with a group and one of your members has been looking forward to it for a while. This deserves a blog of it's own and indeed and will get one. If you wish to read it, follow the prompts in the other blog. Ask to be on the preferred list. Otherwise, after our adventure inside Roxy's, we were walking to the car and Shannon's boyfriend told us the place across the street was actually, "Worse" and Barnaby wanted to go in there after hearing that LOL

We headed home though and could not stop talking about what just happened. We got home, and Barnaby, Katie and Stacy passed out downstairs and I hit the bed at 3:00am. I set my alarm for 6 to wake up and begin soaking some rice for one of my dishes that I would be preparing for T-day.

I woke up and realized that I never picked up the ground beef for one of my dishes so I had to cruise to a Super Walmart in Fenton. God I miss Walmart! LOL I got back and begun cooking with Barnaby as my right hand man. Everything I made turned out OK…one was a little overcooked and the other needed more cooking. Not bad for a first attempt…still edible LOL There was soooo much foood and all of it was great, we were all at least 5 lbs heavier.

We then went to watch the new James Bond movie, which I really liked. I've heard some people complain about it because it is more a film and not a James Bond flick, but I really liked it. There were a few parts that were not clear to me, but all in all, I like what it did to establish his character more and I really dig Daniel Craig as Bond! After that we headed back home for round two of T-day dinner and a flick on pay per view. We ended up buying Dark Floors, which was ABSOLUTELY horrible. A really bad, terribly acted horror film…ugh…we turned it off about ¾ of the way through it was so bad. We then watched A GUIDE TO RECOGNIZING YOUR SAINTS which was really good. It reminded me a lot of growing up and the only problem I had in it was Robert Downey Jr. I think he is a great actor and feel he is on a tear the past few years, but I felt that the older version of the character he was playing was not consistent with the character Shai Labeouf played. He seemed too polished and didn't have the urban, NY feel that was felt throughout the rest of the film..

Friday came and it was time to head out, Erin and I spent some time looking around the house at things we wanted to bring back for our new place and then we had some Imo's Pizza, which was pretty good. It felt like the dough wasn't cooked all the way, but maybe that is how it was supposed to be, I don't know..We said our goodbyes at the airport and headed to the security checkpoint, where once again, they stopped Barnaby and removed several items from him LOL We finally got on the plane and were pissed that because of "cut backs in money" they were now charging us two bucks for a friggin soft drink, not even the whole can of soda or bottle of water, just a glass. Not only that, they stopped in flight movies, because IM sure that costs a lot too. To make things better, about an hour into our 3+ hr flight, there was a malfunction with the smoke detector in the bathroom and it meant that the rest of the flight there would be an annoying alarm that sounded at random times. It really pissed me off, because they are "cutting back costs", but we still paid the same overpriced amount for our tickets, not to mention, gas is much cheaper now. I hate airlines…so shady.

Anyway, we made it to Arizona, grabbed dinner and a beer and then headed back on our next flight into LA.

Saturday, was pretty mellow, I took Wolfy to the dog park that is close to our new place and then Erin and I went on a date to watch Boy in the Striped Pajamas. Great Movie…the theatre was silent when it ended, in fact Erin and I took about 7 minutes before anyone said anything.

Sunday, I headed to a bar on Main St. Santa Monica to watch the Giants game with a bunch of other Giants fans. 11-0 baby! Plaxico Burress is an ASS. I then took the Wolf to the dog park so he could get his weekend hump in and then I came home and packed everything in the kitchen and got it ready to be cleaned. 1 room down, 2 to go!

I had a great time in St. Louis, could have stayed another day, but I'm happy to get back and get everything squared away with my new apartment. I also missed not being in rehearsal and can't wait to get back tomorrow. We are nearing the stretch and will be opening the show within two weeks! I can't wait to move!

Hippies, Aloha, Christmas Music & St. Louis Trip!

2008-11-24T04:53:00.000-08:00

Thursday was Hippie Day at rehearsal. I was personally getting a little burned out over the themes and just slapped a peace sign on a plain white t-shirt and wrote FREE HUGS above it LOL I think everyone is starting to get a little tired with all the themes and stuff. It is great for spirit...just might need a break. Especially considering that the production crew has set up a spirit week involving games, themes and more...lol We ran the big show stopper FRIEND LIKE ME which was fun. We worked through the part where I go into the Cave of Wonders and then all of the scene leading into the big number. It's a monster...not so much for me, I just sit and watch most of it literally but for the dancers...uhg! There are some steps they have to climb fast that are steep as shit! I was told that if one person falls or trips towards the top, it will be a large domino effect.

Friday more of the same with FRIEND LIKE ME. The thing is that there are several cast members learning multiple roles so we have to keep doing it over and over to let them work into their spots. I got to do some more harness work which is difficult as shite for the beginning of this scene. It hurts, I'm high up and I dangle for a bit...It looks so much easier than it is, believe me. Aloha Friday was a good hit considering how many Hawaiians we have in the cast. One of the Aladdin's, Eddie forgot totally but was just able to claim his spirit because of his last name, which to be honest, I don't think I can say correctly, let alone attempt to spell.

We finished and went into our half weekend. We knew we had rehearsal on Sunday because of the days off for thanksgiving, so there were mixed feelings about heading into the weekend.

I actually picked up a shift earlier in the week at the Apple Store and by the time Friday night rolled around, I was regretting it. I woke up and went in to work and it was weird considering that I haven't been in there in like 3 weeks and there are always new people in the store. I also managed to attract every weird or complicated customer in the store. Of course, I felt a little rusty because of my time away, but not only that, I had people asking me every question about everything that was either new, or I didn't know the answer to...Other than that, it was nice to be back in there and it reminded me how lucky I was to have the show to go back to the next day. Don't get me wrong, I actually like working for Apple a lot, it's just not what I am here for. I also was reminded that I was going to have to attend a meeting Sunday night after my rehearsal for Aladdin.

That night, I was supposed to head to Ray's for a little shindig, but I realized that I wouldn't have any other time to do my laundry and clean before heading to STL so I made the ultimate sacrifice and stood in and did laundry on Saturday night.

Needless to say, I was a little upset at the thought of not being to watch my football games today, but at least I had a fun day ahead of me. Wolfy looked up at me confused this morning, he had a look on his face that said, "Where are you going, it is your day off...my day for the dog park!" We finished filling in the gaps with the Genie number and I got to work with a few of the other Blue Men...crazy! LOL It is going to be a blast doing a show and working with all these different people. I drank about 4 cups of hot chocolate today and i'm feeling it now... :( We ended up getting released early around 4:30 which was nice. I thought I'd get home with about 3 1/2 hours to spare before my meeting at Apple, but of course traffic had different plans for me...

I still had enough time to play with the Wolfster, clean my room and get some clothes ready for my trip to STL! I'm getting excited to visit the Stegemans and see Queenie's two little dogs. I'm also excited to cook. The deal is that we all have to cook something. I've got an interesting surprise brewing...edible of course :)

To my right, I can hear Wolfy tearing apart the bone I bought him today LOL he's got little burgundy stains on his little white paws from the bone, but he is loving it. Gotta give him a bath before we take off. He'll be staying with Alex and Stanley, a huge golden retriever that Wolfy knows from back in the day ;)

It's nice to listen to some Christmas music although the weather won't commit and let me feel like it is cold enough to be listening to it.

QUESTION FOR YOU ALL IN LOS ANGELES! Do you ever listen to the Coast radio station on 103.5?? They play some good Holiday music, but their DJ's are funny as hell when they talk on the air. They tell these funny stories in this weird deep, jazzy, smooth voice and it is ridiculous. Please, do me a favor and check it out! You'll die!

Giants are 10-1! Our former QB looked good though against them today. Kurt Warner is still kicking man. I tell you what, you can't take anything away from what Favre has done, but if he wasn't around all the talk would be around Kurt Warner in my opinion. There will be a movie about him one day, I guarantee you. I may even write it ;) "From Grocery Stock Boy, to Superbowl MVP!" I'm excited for the next few weeks of football! All the division and rival games are coming up!

My body is lagging today, usually this is my rest day...I'll have to settle for the plane Tuesday morn!

TiLL NeXt TiMe!

Ninja’s, Lunch Rendezvous and Hazing

2008-11-20T06:38:00.000-08:00

So the tech's at Aladdin were starting to get jealous because they couldn't participate in our color or theme days. So we decided to make it black day in honor of them. Actually...it was already announced last week that today would be Ninja Day, but we just combined the two...don't tell.

So I'm dressed in all black today and find the perfect way to turn a t-shirt into a ninja mask and decided I wanted to try it out before stepping out of the house. Erin was passed out in my bed and her dog Wolfy was licking her every few seconds. I stepped into the kitchen and put on the mask and then came back into the room in true stealth, ninja fashion. Wolfy looked at me and I just stared at him for like 20 seconds and then started to slowly creep in. He backed up and then...he started to bark and jump back and forth on the bed, waking Erin. She looked up at me in my full Ninja garb not impressed and insisted I stopped, while I kept on egging the dog on lol. Her main problem with it was that he wasn't going to know when to bark at the real danger...real NINJAS? LOL She wasn't fully awake and had just been taling in her sleep for like 5 minutes on and off. I decided, my outfit was complete.

I showed up and before going into the green room, I put my mask on and got into Ninja mode as I crept around the room. Everyone was looking, trying to figure out who it was and then there was a, "that has to be Ace. Of course it is!" LOL I then proceeded to find a small table next to the piano and got Juan to lure people over, who I then scared at random intervals until we were called into the theatre. There were quite a few people who were dressed in black, but not really celebrating full Ninja spirit. Apparently, people are still not getting the memo's so we will need to find a more effective way of announcing our color/theme for the day.

We went into the theatre and I was crawling and rolling around as I made my way to the front to hear our speech for the day. After we got our assignments, I ducked out of my Ninja clothes and became a civilian to rehearse...not for long...at one point I was being harnessed in for the effect where I fly across the stage and of course, it was time to bust out the ninja mask. Sure enough I put it on and I was surprised that the techs were cool with it. I thought I'd at least get yelled at after my jump, but no. One person asked me if I could see well and of course I could and he was fine and off I went. I threw imaginary smoke bombs at the people on stage below me as I flew across and looked like something out of a Jackie Chan movie. Kudos to Sam for giving me the idea though. A few minutes earlier he soared over in a pose from Crouching Tiger.

It was then time for lunch and for the safety of a few other ninjas and of course my own, I can't openly say what 3 of us did. Let's just say there were some screams, maybe some scares, perhaps a drop or two, and of course...Ninjas...all under 10 minutes. We were back before anyone could telll we were missing, but what else do you expect from three deadly Ninjas?! Let's just say that there were people after us that were not as lucky and they did not make it back...happy.

Back to rehearsal and after eating two portions of lunch I had a nice little Ninja bulge as I readied for a full on run of One Jump. Fast forward a bit and we are on a 15 and after showing some signs of jealousy over Sam's braided locks, Helen offered to give me an, "Updo". Not that I knew what it was, but oh well...why not. So she proceeded to work on my hair and let's just say that 4 different people said I looked like the little girl from Monsters Inc. LOL Oh! If that wasn't enough, Oscar offered her some of his makeup(??) to use on me and after some of the other vets mentioned this would be my right of passage, I figured to give in...lol not really, I would have done it anyways, who cares?

Pics to follow at some point this week. I'm sure I am already tagged in some on facebook.

Jason D- Hang in there! We all want accomplices'! LOL

Hope you are having a great week and I'm looking forward to my trip to St. Louis next week!

Ace

Week 4 begins in the THEATRE~ Carpet Training, Flying in a harness & an Elephant

2008-11-19T06:37:00.000-08:00

So Monday was our first day moving into the Theatre. Holy shit, I have never performed in anything that big. I think the stage at Middlesex was close, but the wing space in this theatre is huge as well. It was really exciting to walk into the house and look up at the balcony. It's going to be great to see that house full!

First up was going to be the introduction to the harness that we would be putting on for our effects in the show. So I don't spoil the show for all of you who will no doubt come to see it, let's just say that Aladdin does some flying across the stage that will be a pretty cool part to watch. I was a little nervous at first, because this thing is flinging me across the stage at probably 20ft in the air, but after getting down the technical things, I was just having fun doing it over and over. One part will suck because I have to sit hoisted like 50ft in the air for a few minutes by the lights and I'm sitting in this uncomfortable harness that squashes anything in it's way if ya catch my drift ;)

After that, we headed up to learn the, "Gantry" and fly the carpet through the house above the audience. This by far was one of my fav's of the day, because this was like a freaking ride at the park. It was a bit scary at parts for SURE! First of all it dips down and it looks like you are going to fall, but then it levels out and runs its course dipping and diving, flipping and jiving. It's just like the movie, we do flips and duck under trees and what not LOL...just kidding, but you'll see, it is really fun. There was one part that one of the veteran Aladdin's named Eddie wanted to warn us about and the tech guy was just wanting to discover it on our own LOL It's called the surge, and it is a point through the carpets flight pattern that it shoots up really fast and you feel like you are going to fall off. The first time I was ready for it and it still made me cringe. We ran it again and I was challenging myself to not hold on to anything to see what it would be like during the show and I was chatting with the Jasmin who was up there with me and I almost died. I had forgotten about the surge and it started to climb and it was too late to posture up, I mean we are strapped to the carpet, but I don't care to find out what it would feel like if I were to fall off. I f'n grabbed on to the closest thing and held on for dear life. Well worth price of admission ;) I'm also glad to see that the tech's in the show have a sense of humor to scare us poor newbies. It's also weird for me to call them techs, I'm used to crew.

After lunch it was time to learn how to ride the elephant. Now, in case you forgot or haven't seen the movie, Aladdin rides up to the Princess in an elephant right? Well, this is Disney kids and we are doing it in style here. It was pretty cool to sit in this thing and, it is quite large. His name is Babar. Just kidding, I don't know if it his a name. But he's really nice and he drops me off right at the foot of the stage. Wait till you see it.

Today (Tuesday) we met some more vets and we began to block One Jump on the stage which is a new experience with moving set pieces and scenery. I also have to run down two flights of stairs and sprint right into the beginning of the number, which we staged today. Mark, one of the other Al's showed Carl, Marc Oka and I his method, which was basically grabbing the railings and jumping as we slide down on our hands (if that makes sense.) I've done this a lot before, so it wasn't a big deal, but the other two guys were not having it LOL The last flight, I pretty much have to run down and just hit every third or 4th step. I also managed to scare, "Poison Oka" twice by gabbing his foot as he was looking out of one of the high windows and then another time, by joining in with his singing by staring at him from the window right next to him. One Jump is a blast with everything and I did it 4 times. 2 back to back with a break and then the next two. Surprisingly, I felt pretty good after each. I think I'm starting get used to it. I actually was not breathing hard at all, the sweat was still there, but even that was better.

Earlier in the day all of the Al's and Jas' were called to work on Whole New World with the Vocal Consultant, Todd. This was the first time that all of the Aladdin's were together. We are all so different. It's surprising.

I got to fly in my harness a couple of times today, which was also a lot of fun. A group of us were having a backstage chat and I almost missed my cue for my entrance...ok I did miss it and was like 2 steps behind, but I recovered ;)

We also took our spirit days to a new level and introduced our first theme. Today was 80's rehearsal. Last night I got home and passed out around 9:30 and woke up without my alarm at 7:30 which gave me a half an hour to get everything ready. I was panicking because I didn't know what to wear. After a quick search on google, I came across a suggestion that mimicked Miami Vice. So I grabbed my white blazer, put on a light green tshirt, some khakis, shoes and sunglasses and I was ready. As I looked in the cabinet for the hair dryer to style my hair, I noticed a can of gold spray hair color. I thought of Don Johnson and sprayed that shit on...granted I looked like I had a grey hair and some people thought I was taylor hicks, but on some level, people guessed right away. One of our cast members Matt came up to me and said he had a hard time figuring out my costume but then he finally got it. He then went on to reveal that he thought I was just dressing like an 80 year old and that it was a joke, get it? Like I was supposed to be in my eighties! LOL

At lunch, there were a few hairs Juan's cup of water and we started to joke around to dare someone to drink it and then, I pulled a gross one. I started pour a little bit of everyone's lunch, most of which was left over into the cup of water/hair. I told them I would drink it for some dough. Some of the stuff I poured in: Sour Cream, Honey Butter, Baked Beans, Left over tortilla wrap with something in it, chicken gravy with chunks of chicken and who knows what else, pepper...i forget what else. By this point, some people were beyond grossed out, Juan was telling me that I had to chug the whole thing for his 5 bucks and Will was grossed out and just kept repeating how much of a bad idea this was. LOL He kept reminding me that I was going to be running around all afternoon in One Jump, which I was nervous about, but by this point, there was no turning back. The deal was that I would have to take a big swig, pause to show it to the camera and then swallow. I brought the cup to my mouth to prepare and I heard someone dry heave, I looked over and it was David and this probably grossed me out more. After I saw he was laughing I went back to the cup and as I tilted my head back, I could hear the groans and yells. I paused as the nastiness reached my toungue and opened the mouth to offer another gross moment to everyone and the did the deed. People were standing up and walking away, some of the veteran cast members, who I only knew for 3 hours at this point were just in shock and some random guy on his phone was trying to figure out what everyone was grossed out by. The fear factor concoction I drank at Universal definitely was worse, but this one looked pretty bad. Not sure what I gained from it, I didn't even get my 5 bucks because I didn't drink the whole thing. But oh well..

A fun day once again.

Other random goodness. The cafeteria that we have to eat at now that we are at the Theatre, sucks. We were spoiled before. It's also a bit of a walk it seems. However, there is a food truck that comes by while we are in the middle of rehearsal, but I was lucky to catch it today and it looks to be food truck quality. Parking is easier (knock on wood) so far though. It is always cold in EVERY building in Disneyland! WHY?! We have a nice little green room that has plenty of games, two pianos, free coffee and hot choc, a massage chair and comfortable couches. Don't spray gold/white hair stuff in before sweating in rehearsal...

TiLL NeXt TiMe!

New Apartment - Getting rid of anything?

2008-11-17T07:13:00.000-08:00

So we headed over to our new apartment today to take a look at some stuff that Jay and Laura might be getting rid of. It was awesome to be in there and just vision living in a better environment with a great new roommate ;) It's bigger, brighter, a better area AND CHEAPER! It looks like the four roommates our going to have a great time in the new space. More so than anything I'm looking forward to enjoying my time with Erin and arguing over how the place will be decorated LOL I think she already is winning this battle. It will be great to finally have people over for parties, fights, sports games or just to plain hang out in our new place. So many plans, so many things to spruce up and so much fun to be had. It can't come soon enough. The time will fly though because after this week, we are off to St. Louis for the Holiday and then once we return, it will be time to call a new place home.

We may need some assistance from someone with a pickup truck to move our stuff. It won't be so much for Erin's stuff, because she literally lives across the street from the new place. It will be more for me. I need to get my futon and bookshelf over and possibly a small computer desk. I don't think it will take long at all. Most of the stuff can be taken over in my car.

We've also already begun checking out craigslist for free stuff for the place. Of course we may even spend a few bucks too if it's nice ;) LOL

We're in the market for a few couches, chairs for a dining room table, computer desk, book shelf...and I'm sure some other random shite.

UFC 91 - Lesnar Champ - Randy still has it.

2008-11-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a night. I had quite a few people message me about my picks for this UFC event in my last blog. You can all go to hell because I was 6-3 with my picks LOL more on that towards the end for you fakers!

As far as the main event, I don't want to hear anything. Most of you who gave me crap about my pick for Randy couldn't even name 5 past opponents of Couture and I'm certain, you have no clue who Lesnar's first win was. As I explained to most of you in my replies, I knew Lesnar would be a champ would day, and have been pulling for him since his arrival, but I didn't think he would be able to adapt and respond to Randy's offense. I assure you that when he steps in to fight someone closer to his size, he will have a much more difficult time. It is easy to sit back and say what Randy should or shouldn't have done, but he got beat. He was fighting a good fight, but didn't go his way. However, for shits and giggles, consider this:

Randy weighed in at 220 lbs and considering that the weight limit is 265, he probably didn't cut down to make that weight. Lesnar on the other hand had to cut down to make the 265 limit so he probably was at least 280 lbs by the time he stepped into the cage. For arguments sake, lets say he wasn't 280 and walked in at 265. He outweighed Randy by 45 lbs at least. Let's see...If you want to consider a similar weight difference, let's make a fantasy fight- Let's take one of today's winners, Kenny Florian and put him against a current Middleweight Contender (and gym partner) Patrick Cote who fights at 185 lbs. That would be a difference of 30 lbs. Let's also pretend he wanted to step in and fight Quinton Jackson at Light Heavy. Kenny would weigh in at 155 lbs and Rampage would be 205 lbs which would make a 50 lbs difference, which is closer to the difference in weight between Randy and Brock. Just like I'm sure this sounds crazy, why should it seem any different in the heavyweight division? Granted Couture chose to fight at that weight, so he has to deal with it...but when Randy said, "He caught me with a big shot." maybe it makes more sense. Brock looked good though all in all. He got hit hard by a couple of the shots Couture landed and if you want to think about another heavyweight who couldn't take a jab from an off-balanced light heavy weight, he actually has a legit future. Please, no more talk of Kimbo/Brock- Do you honestly think that the bearded beast would have a chance? If so, continue to watch your youtube videos and pretend to have a clue.

Here are how the fights turned out in case you were not able to catch it tonight-

Matt Brown Ryan Thomas Submission (Armbar) 2
Mark Bocek Alvin Robinson Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) 3
Jeremy Stephens Rafael dos Anjos KO (Punches) 3
Aaron Riley Jorge Gurgel Decision (Unanimous) 3
Demian Maia Nate Quarry Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) 1
Gabriel Gonzaga Josh Hendricks KO (Punches) 1
Dustin Hazelett Tamdan McCrory Submission (Reverse Armbar) 1
Kenny Florian Joe Stevenson Submission (Rear-naked choke) 1
Brock Lesnar Randy Couture TKO (Punches) 2

By the way, You can all kiss my bum because I was specific about my picks, I didn't just take the easy way out like most people. It is easy to show up to watch the fight and call out a few of your winners by picking one of the two fighters. Your odds of winning are a 50/50 - A monkey could easily do the same LOL get educated and make specific picks next time ;)

Week 3 Wrap Up~ Run Throughs, NEW APARTMENT, Run Throughs

2008-11-15T17:53:00.000-08:00

What a week. I think I mentioned in my last blog, that Carl (the actor from NY who is also learning Aladdin) hurt his back during rehearsal on Wednesday. When you see the show, you'll see that Aladdin moves quite a bit in the show. Carl especially has a lot on his plate, because he is also learning an additional chorus role and has to learn some of the dance numbers as well. Well, somehow something in his back was not having it and he ended up in the hospital. Thankfully, it seems to just be strained bad and he will hopefully be back within a weeks time. We're pulling for you dude!

Beginning Thursday, we sang through the show from beginning to end, which was a little nerve wracking for me. We had to stand in front of the new cast members and the veterans and sing to them! LOL I felt a little behind on my first number and Whole New World went better...probably because the focus wasn't entirely on me.

We then started to actually run the show all the way through. Immediately, I felt in the zone since I was moving. I'm just the kind of person that needs to be physical with my work. However, right after the big number in the beginning, I was drenched and breathing hard from running around at full force and about 5 seconds after the song ended, they stopped us and had us start again from the beginning of the number! LOL I had about 30 seconds to catch my breath and we were off again! It ended up going well the second time through and we moved on through the show. I'm going to be in crazy shape from this show. Now, those that know me well, know I can eat. A couple people from the cast laugh at me because of how much I eat. I usually bring my full lunch from home and then end up buying some additional food to eat as well. Even still, I realized that I've lost about 10 lbs. I have not been this weight for at least 10 years LOL. Anyways, we ran the show again before the day was through, but it was going great!

Between our first and second run-through I received a phone call from my friend Jay about an apartment that was going to be available. I've had my eye on this place for a long time and I was stoked to hear that it was going to be opening up. It's in Brentwood, which is only 5 minutes from where I live, but is close to all the major highways and still less than a 8 minute drive to the beach. It's also a very expensive area to live in for Los Angeles, but this apartment was a steal. We ended up getting a great 2br apartment in a great area and I couldn't be happier. Erin and I will no doubt he having some parties and it's great knowing I will have triple the space for so much cheaper than what I'm currently paying! We looked at a lot of places, but kept true to our promise of not settling and making sure we found a place that we really liked...little did we know, it would find us! The age old saying proves to be true once again, "Good things come to those who WAIT!"

Friday came and they actually had one of the verteran Aladdin's run the first two run-throughs. They also used one of the veteran Jasmine's too and it was interesting to see the different performances from everyone. Usually, it is weird to watch other people do your role. Sometimes, you can over think and question what you do, but this was different. Maybe it's because all along, I've been rehearsing with another person learning the same role. But even aside from that, the production team has been great about communicating that there are a few of us and we are all going to be different, in fact they encourage it and we definitely are different!

After lunch, it was time for me to step in and run the show. We ended up running it twice and it was a blast! I actually ended up running it with some of the older cast members, which was obviously different, but fun all the same. I love when things are different and this was an awesome experience that kept me on my toes! The returning cast members are really talented and very supportive in the room. It is a great environment and I am looking forward to working with more of them. Everyone is working so hard and this is becoming a great show, not to mention it is SO fun to do. I feel so lucky to be in this position. I would easily do this for free so it's a pretty sweet deal. I had a few cast members come up and give me some great feedback, which meant a lot considering the high level of talent in the show. I also had some great feedback from the Director, Choreographer and Vocal "Consultant" which really made my day. I can honestly say I am giving it 100 percent and it feels good. I'm also very lucky to be surrounded by some great performers in the show and they are all great people. We have a great time together and they really help to make it the good time that it is. As I mentioned in my last blog, Carl, Emily and I started to get everyone to wear a chosen color for the day and it is catching on quick. Within a week we went from 3 people to about 25 people dressed in similar colors LOL We are actually kicking it up a notch and we are starting themes as well. Tuesday is 80's, which will totally be fun, but I have no clue what to wear. It looks like the rest of this coming week is already set with colors/themes for the day.

We ended the day with the learning of the, "carpet toss". At one point in the show, I have to help flip the carpet and I'm not going to lie, I was a little nervous. We eventually got it down and it will be a cool little move, once it is set.

After our long rehearsal 8 of us headed into the park for some fun in DCA and then we came back to Disney to hit up Pirates, Indy Jones and watch Fantasmic. It was great to hang with everyone and drain what little energy I had left. But it was all worth it because after all, the next morning I was not going to have to get up and look for apartments!!! We went on Tower of Terror which was a hilarious experience. Ray was screaming the whole time and his picture looked funny as hell. I was actually ghetto and took a picture of the picture on my camera and will post it later LOL

Monday we will be moving into theatre finally and we will be flying on some carpets and jumping across the stage in a harness that will no doubt give me a huge wedgy! Pix to follow ;)

Also, I want to extend an invite to anyone who wants to come enjoy the park. I have a hookup and if you are interested in taking advantage before the new year, let me know! If it is during the week, I can join you after I am done rehearsing.

Other than that, I'm ready for football. Time to watch my Giants notch another W on the board. By the way, I know the Giants are the Superbowl Champs, so there are no doubt a boat load of fans who have jumped on the bandwagon. Just like people were quick to do it with the B.S. Yankees. It is funny how NY teams attract so many temporary fans. But you should at least know that they actually play in New Jersey. Just like the Jets...which come to think about it, that's probably why they are actually doing decent this year...throw in Farve and some luck left behind in the stadium they share with the champs and who would have thought they'd be decent? Let's see if it lasts.

Staging Complete, Injury, UFC Picks and of course Thanksgiving early by Moving Out

2008-11-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

We have officially completed the staging of the show today with the exception of some of the stunt work that we can only work once we are in the actual theatre which is next week. We were drilling the big opener today like mad and Carl and I were switching in and out of that crazy diddy, while jumping in and out of the other rehearsal room where we were rehearsing our three big scenes with the Genie. All I know is that I happened to be in the room doing a scene with our Genies and on a break I went next door and everyone was crouched around the other new Aladdin, Carl on the floor. I noticed one of our trainers running in and new something was up. I turned out that Carl had a weird back spasm during one of the bits and was having a hard time moving. They took him to the trainer's office and iced his back and after rehearsal was done, I went over to check to see if he was ok while I grabbed some ice for my own soreness and they said they were taking him to the E.R. I spoke to him on the way home while he was sitting in the E.R. waiting room with Terri. Hope you have a speedy recovery Mr. Man!

Tomorrow we have our first stumble through of the show which will be exciting as it will give us that first real sense of it's rhythm. It's also Mellow Yellow day and we will be wearing yellow t-shirts to rehearsal. This all started after Carl, Emily (our new Jasmine) and I showed up wearing a red shirt and black bottoms without PLANNING! Everyone however thought we DID plan it, so we decided to pick a color (PINK) and wear it on Tuesday. This obviously seemed odd and after telling everyone we planned it, we had some people that wanted to join in on the fun and today about 10 of us wore Blue.

THREE days till the big day where we will decide on our apartment and begin living a fun, spacious life with the pets. Out with the old and in with the new! That day will also have a tense evening around fight time at 7pm...who are you pulling for?

The main event is no doubt one that I am excited about, and will no doubt spark the interest of people that casually follow the sport but claim to be big fans. However, there are a lot of fights on the card that are actually really solid and will more than please the real fans.

I'm making my picks here:

-Randy Couture vs. Brock Lesnar : Randy takes this one via SUBMISSION in the later rounds. I think Brock is a pure athletic specimen and I feel he will be a champion one day for sure. I actually have a hard time with this fight, because I like Lesnar a lot and want to see him grow in this sport, but call it nostalgia, but I can't go against Captain America and I want to see Randy's legacy continue to grow. I feel once Randy applies his game plan to avoid Lesnar's early aggresiveness, his experience will continue to win him points as the fight wears on. I don't think that he will outright go for anything crazy right away. He will be patient and trust his ability to create opportunities and will eventually catch an inexperienced Lesnar in a submission, before he realizes and can defend it.

-Gabriel Gonzaga (7 Heavyweight in the World)* vs. Josh Hendricks : I think Gonzaga goes streetfighter Blanka on Hendricks and finishes via ref stoppage midway through the 1st round. Most of Hendricks wins have come via submissions and I don't see him catching Gonzaga.

-Joe Stevenson (10 Lightweight in the World)* vs. Kenny Florian: another tough one to call, because I have been fans of both these guys since their arrival under the UFC Banner. I think Stevenson is similar to a Sherk, but way more dangerous at this point in his career. However, unlike when Kenny faced Sherk, he is ready and can handle someone with Stevenson's power. All you have to do is look at three of Kenny's recent wins to see that he has progressed well enough to hold his own against powerful wrestlers. Alvin Robinson, Joe Lauzon and Roger Huerta couldn't utilize their wrestling against Florian and I think Stevenson will fair the same. I think Florian picks him apart on the feet and cuts him in true Ken(Blood)flo fashion with one of his razor sharp elbows. I think it will go the distance, but after a war, Florian will emerge one step closer to that second crack at the title.

-Demian Maia vs. Nathan Quarry: Call me sentimental, but I like Quarry and his crazy story so I'm pulling for him. However, he hasn't looked the same since he returned from his injury that Doctor's said was so bad he would never fight again. Where I think he win's by just being able to step in the cage, I don't think he will be crisp enough to take Maia. I see Maia bringing him down and tapping late in the second.

-Dustin Hazelett vs. Tamdan McCrory: Two scrappy dudes who are going to go to war with passion even more now since it was announced today that their fight would air live due to Amir pulling out due to injury. I think Hazelett takes this via tko in the second.

Preliminary Bouts:
-Jeremy Stephens vs. Rafael dos Anjos : Lil Heathen Stephens takes this fight on the feet and drops Rafael in the 1st, but after getting overly aggressive, he will get caught in this Gracie trained fighters triangle.

-Alvin Robinson vs. Mark Bocek: This is one of these fights that will fly under the radar, but has fight of the night written all over it. I think this will be a high stakes fight for both fighters considering their position within the company and division. I look for Alvin to come out aggresive and after a few minutes on the ground, Bocek will turn up the heat and will outlast Robinson but won't be able to finish him. They will go back and forth with Bocek taking an exciting decision.

-Jorge Gurgel vs. Aaron Riley: Jorge Gurgel WILL NOT BE A CONTENDER IN THE UFC. He will lose or win another boring decision and will once again apologize for both and leave us all wondering why they keep bringing him back. Please Aaron, destroy...fast!

-Ryan Thomas vs. Matt Brown: Matt Riddle injured - Matt Brown steps in on two weeks notice. I like Matt Brown and thinks he has heart and should have received the nod in the controversial Dong Hyun Kim fight. I think he poses a lot of medium level threats to anyone, but with two weeks to prepare, I'm not sure he can pull it out. I think Thomas takes this one via sub in the 3rd.

We shall see...

Week 2 in the Bag, Pilot, Being replaced, Fitness Test and PAIN!

2008-11-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

Ok, Apologies Apoglogies! I'm sorry for not getting this out sooner. Please stop yelling at me(you know who you are), I'll get better with the updates I promise! I put a new pic up didn't I? LOL Well, I actually had some stuff to write, but I was working on getting my pics in the blog too and then I got tied up with something else and forgot to come back to it...Anyways, there are new pics under ALADDIN REHEARSALS and RANDOM DISNEY FUN. I'll do my best to get this blog at least up to this week (3) and I will definitely be sure to update again before the week is out!

SO! I can't remember what we did last week after the last blog! LOL I know we worked hard, probably learned some new songs and scenes...Oh! I started to do my work and pranked one of our cast members who had the bad luck of showing up for work late on the same day the past two weeks. One day he woke up late after being drugged at a club and the following week he forgot his id at home and couldn't get past the Disney Guards without it. So on Friday, I decided to give him a call and pretend I was the scheduling department and put on a whole show until he let on that he knew it was me. I made the most basic mistake of NOT blocking my number, which usually is not a problem. Most of you know how I am and can usually tell when I have pranked someone, because you'll get a call from me and the number is blocked...well I blame it on the fact that it was early and I wasn't awake! LOL He actually said, that he was worried for a bit. He saw my number and thought it was me but then after I kept up with him, he started to think that maybe he had put in the wrong number somehow...Oh well, it won't be the last. In fact I got someone good today, more on that later. So we were released early on Friday and instead of sitting in traffic, I decided to head into Disney's California Adventure to check out my future home at the Hyperion Theatre(hence my new picture). While I was there I hit up the Tower of Terror, which was my first ride ever in DCA. While I was on the ride, some other employees of Disney who were sitting next to me and taking advantage of their free park pass invited me to join in with them for the night. They ended up being real cool and we had a great time. We later went to watch the opening show of Fantasmic which was AWESOME. It was my first time seeing the show and it was great. I saw my next job at Disney during the show. I want to be one of the stunt pirates on the Hook's ship during the Peter Pan skit! After that I took off and headed home to rest for a long day of apartment hunting on SAturday.

So we still don't have a new place, so no need to go into any details of Saturday afternoon. However, we saw some potential places, but nothing we loved...it is nice to have time to look and not settle for the first thing! Saturday night Erin and I went to see, "Zach and Miri...Porno." The first 30 minutes I was really feeling like we had maxed out on those Judd Apatow like films...it just felt like every other word was an f-bomb or something that just felt unnecessary and out of place. It was making it hard for me to believe anything in the movie, including their relationship. I also felt like she was too winning to believe that she could be in such a shit hole. Thank god the middle picked up and oddly enough when it was time to "make the porno" there was a lot of heart that came through in the story... Wait for the rental.

Sunday was just a lot of time to brush up on my stuff for Monday and then FOOTBALL. I ended up meeting with a buddy E-Kan at Big Wangs in NOHO to watch my GIANTS face his EAGLES. I actually ended up being a competitive game, but of course the champs pulled through! 8-1!!!!

Now time for Monday (Yesterday - getting close!). So we found out we would be doing our fitness evaluations with the Athletic Trainers for the show. Oh yes! LOL I was ready for these guys! Not because I'm in great shape or anything, but because I was looking forward to finally meeting with them so they could see where I was and set up a good program to get me into tip top shape! I had my smirk on the whole time because I had gone right after a few dancers who had incredible flexibility and what not and I clearly am not that. It went as I expected...I'm not flexible and I have some things to work on. Can't wait! I'm actually sitting here now on Tuesday night with a lot of soreness in my legs from the damn eval! LOL I didn't feel too bad, because some of the dancers were sore today too.

We then went into a meeting with other Disney Cast Members where we heard all about the future goodness coming to both Disneyland and California Adventure. It's going to be great! A lot of great stuff is on the way! Make sure you go online and sign up to celebrate your birthday at Disney for free in 2009! I'll join you and maybe get some of your friends in! LOL We also were informed of a show that might be taking our place! AGH! We haven't even opened yet! LOL Nothing to worry about....or is it? ;) We rounded up the day with some good ol' banner work for me personally since I'm doing SO good with them and then we started to chip at the ONE JUMP AHEAD song - the beast that it is!

Today was great, we showed up and it felt like the room was packed! I got to meet a couple of the other Aladdins, Genies, Jafars and so forth. Everyone always asks if it is weird seeing the other Aladdin's cause we all look the same, but you'd be surprised...we are very different. We learned our parts to ONE JUMP and it is going to be crazy! Thank god I have that Fitness Program on the way! My knees are hurting but they'll get used to it.

Random shite...I missed out on an audition for a movie today that may or may not be starring George Clooney. I got called in from a Casting Director who saw me in School Girl Figure this past month. While I'm bummed I couldn't make it do to the crazy day today, I'm excited for next time. Erin got cast in the film though and will be doing a scene with or without George Clooney! LOL UFC's big fight is this weekend and I'm figuring out that so if you are interested let me know. The last thing is that the pilot I shot in NYC before I moved out here FINALLY appears to be completed...It was very promising at the time and had people from Sony and HBO behind it if I am remembering correctly. It is actually a creation from the Grammy Award Winning Record Producer, Andreao "Fanatic" Heard. It's crazy to see after almost two years of waiting, but so is the way of this biz right? Better to see it period I guess. I'm in two parts of this trailer...one of which I guarantee you will miss but the pilot will be great! Please check it out! I will also leave you with a little message that he wrote us:

"We are now about to begin the shopping process to many different
networks and with our countless contacts, we should be able to secure
a situation very shortly. I myself take pride in the casting for the
show and there were a lot of great performances and many stand outs.
I wanna thank you for bringing my vision to life and interpreting the
characters exactly how Kevin and I envisioned them. We are hoping
that we will be able to keep our cast intact once a network picks up
the show. We will push for you guys to remain as part of the cast.
One way you can assist us in this process is by having your family and
friends leave comments on our youtube page about your specific
character and about the show as well. Please do not leave obvious,
transparent or contrived comments. The networks that we'll be
approaching will be monitoring our page carefully. Thanks again for
your support and a job well done."

Here it is:

Week 1 finished

2008-11-06T07:24:00.000-08:00

So last time I wrote, I think I was going into my second day of rehearsal.

I guess a couple of days have passed since LOL

Suffice it to say that we've been working REALLY hard, but it is still a blast. Definitely a lot to take in, but we have 4 weeks still and the show IS only 40 something minutes.

Let's see, we staged the big FRIEND LIKE ME number which is going to be a lot of fun...actually almost everything is staged at this point, except for the crazy ONE JUMP AHEAD song. Thank god, because it'll give me a little time to get my cardio up for task. The day the other Aladdin - Carl and sang through the song, we had to run around the rehearsal hall pleading our case to the rest of the cast while we were being chased by our Vocal "Consultant", Todd. If we finished the song without being caught, he owed us $5, if he caught us, we owed him a Lincoln. He never caught me and someone owes me 5 bucks - CARL! Needless to say, I was wiped after that, but it certainly gave me a good idea of what the number would feel like.

The week was full of new faces and a lot of information both from the show and about Disney stuff. Clocking in and out is a bitch. The drive is not a problem at all for me and my body is starting to adjust to the early hours. We have a guy that reads palms, is a professional rub down man, does astrology, karate and is great dancer. HMy voice is starting to warm up nicely. I'm sore after each rehearsal, which is cool because we have trainers that help keep us in shape and healthy.

Thursday was out last day of work for the week since we were off for Halloween so some of us decided to hit up the park; part celebration, part time to have some fun as guests. Not to mention that the last thing we worked on in rehearsal was the ending number that involves lots of spinning gold banners, which are not easy to get down. Let's just say it was a kind of irritating way to end the week, but I was ready to come back and conquer(hence my profile pic). Unfortunately for me, California Adventure was already closed so I was once again denied access to the park and have still not stepped foot inside of it. We hit up the buzz light year ride that you sit in a car and shoot shit. I just kept firing the gun with one hand and took pictures of everyone with the other. We then hit up two more rides before we found out that the park was going to be closing. Short lived, but so what...we work there everyday and will continue that adventure another day. I posted pictures and will get them in here if it doesn't take too long.

Fast forward through a weekend that involved a haunted house, a toga, looking at new apartments, watching my Giants notch another win along with some fun with the pup Wolfy. Monday was great because the Steelers beat the skins, so that puts Giants up 2 in their division for first place!

Monday at rehearsal we finished the golden banner fiasco and set the curtain call. I've never worked on a show where the curtain call was set so early! Tuesday was singing through WHOLE NEW WORLD, which was a lot of fun. We actually got to work with not only our Jasmine, but one of the show's veteran Jas' also. GO OBAMA!

Today we finished working on WHOLE NEW WORLD combining two songs and the scene as one. We also started working on PRINCE ALI which I will ride an Elephant through the audience in LOL

That's all for now, I just wanted to get something out, before I forgot more. It's amazing how it feels like we've already been there for a month.

TiLL NeXt TiMe...

Disney Orientation & 1st Day of Rehearsal

2008-10-28T01:18:00.000-07:00

So, if you caught any of my last blog, I thank you!! I have had a bunch of messages from people and I can't believe so many of you took the time to read AND touch base with me. A bunch of people wanted to hear how things progressed and I'm going to do my best to continue some with some kind of journal/blog of this experience...

So Saturday was my first official day as an employee of Disney and while the day was long and at times I wanted to fall asleep from being up so early it was fun. There was a certain charm that was in the air and call it cheesy, but it was kind of cool knowing I was going to be a part of the, "Happiest Place on Earth." It was pretty cool hearing all about the history of Disney and learning how Walt took his idea and shot to the moon with it. It was a bit hot walking around the park on a tour wearing a button up and slacks and being nervous about whether or not my hair was the appropriate length was not cool. There were moments where I was being reminded of my childhood visits to Disneyworld and there were moments when I was probably not wanting to let in on how excited I was. However it's not worth lying about the fact that I was pretty damn thrilled at the end when I got my little name tag and my id badge. Why? Because, they opened a curtain to reveal the boss himself, MICKEY. He was standing there with our id's and name tags and I was just sitting there my former 6 year old self! I had to go up and get it and it was almost a better feeling than when I graduated college LOL An excellent day for sure.

Sunday was the day I was looking forward to the most because that is when we would be meeting with the entertainment company and we would be in there with the new hires for the Aladdin show. I wanted to meet the rest of the cast and of course I wanted to see who else was hired for the Aladdin role. Well I was surprised to find out there was only one other guy from NY brought in for Aladdin. I was pretty excited to find that out. Out of all the people who auditioned and all the places they went to INCLUDING NYC, I was one of two guys brought in for the show. LOL Stephens would be proud...right? LOL I have to call Lamby and Beth. As far as Orientation goes, this was a better day as it was geared towards the entertainment company and the people running it had no shortage of cool personal stories to share. I was definitely looking forward to our first rehearsal the next day. I decided to finish my day and treat myself to a ride on Space Mountain and Pirates. I intended on going to check out the Theatre we would be performing in, but California Adventure was closed by the time I got around to it...next time..

So today finally gets here and we get to the rehearsal studio. Disney is freaking huge and I am going to need to get a skateboard or something. Let me also say that it is great to be a performer for Disney, they take care of their performers FOR SURE. I'm going to be working with some athletic trainers and the show goes allllll out. We walked into the rehearsal studio that would easily hold a basketball court and the floor was taped out and then someone said that the divider would be lifted up to reveal the other half of the taped out space. The Hyperion Theatre is HUGE!!!!!! I definitely have never been on anything like it. I met a few more cast members today 19 of us newbies in all ranging from Genies, Jafars, Carpets, Jasmin and some great dancers who will help make this show kick arse! Carl the other Aladdin and I were like Siamese Twins today taking turns to sing and read the script with the cast. I'm really excited and I hope some of you peeps get to check it out! The creative team is amazing and I'm having a BLAST so far. I am definitely am grateful and can't wait to go back tomorrow!

More next time!

Ace

NEW GIG - I'm Flying on a Carpet!!

2008-10-25T01:12:00.000-07:00

Below you will find the longest blog/bulletin I have ever taken the time to write. If you take the time to read it, I'm impressed and owe you a cup of joe or brew...

So, Aladdin has always been my favorite Disney cartoon and I always wanted to play the role of the man himself. I remember back in 2003 watching the Christmas Day parade and them cutting to a shot at Disney when they had these dancing Blue Genies announcing the arrival of their 45 minute stage show of Aladdin and I was stoked! It became my mission then to be in that show at all costs and I'm pretty excited to announce that starting Dec 14, that is exactly what will happen. I'm Aladdin!

This summer I was performing as Jean-Michel in the show LA CAGE AUX FOLLES. That was one of those roles I wanted to do after seeing it on Broadway. It was a great experience and I couldn't have asked for a better show to bring me back to the stage in a Musical! After working on the show for nearly 6 months, I was feeling pretty confident and caught wind of the Aladdin audition Disney would be holding at the end of July. I decided that it was time to grow the cojones and audition for the role that I've been wanting for a while.

I dug through some old music and found a song that I felt comfortable singing and brought it in to work on in my first vocal lesson with Rachel Lynn, which was the night before the audition. We worked on it and she coached me on the song and to be honest, I felt worse than I did about auditioning before my lesson. I got home and started to panic realizing that not only was I out of practice auditioning for musicals, but I had not put in the proper preparation on my song and felt that when put into the audition situation the next day, I would revert back to the way I was used to singing it. I decided that I wasn't going to audition. I then thought of what Queenie has said to me in the past when I was nervous about doing something that, "If you are afraid and don't want to do something, that is when you SHOULD do it."

So, I picked up another book of songs and found, "Santa Fe" from NEWSIES. I knew right away that this was the song I was going to kill that audition with. In my book, they are similar characters in their want for a better life and they were also written by Mr. Menken. By the way, I have never heard it played on a piano. I opened my Garageband, plucked out the first few bars on the piano to check if it was the same from the version Christian Bale sings in the movie and then I went to work singing it over and over. Looking back, I am surprised at how confident I felt going into the audition considering, that I was going to sing an entirely new song that I had never heard with accompaniment. Next, I picked out the brightest colored button up that I knew would bring out my "ethnic look" ;), got everything ready for the next morning and hit the sack.

I woke up, went for a run to get warmed up, ate a little breakfast, double checked to make sure I had everything and I set off at about 7:15am to get there early for the 9:45 sign in.

I pulled up to the audition studio and was surprised to see that there were already like 100 people waiting in line, most of which may I add looked like they could be my brothers and sisters. I parked my car, sang my song a couple of times and set out. As I was walking to the car, I recalled a golden audition tip someone had given me a while ago in situations like this when there were tons of people (Cattle Call). So I left my sunglasses on, took a deep breath, stood straight and gave the most confident walk to the front of a line with just a hint of a grin and in my mind I was thinking, "You guys can all go home, this part is mine." At first, I was a little nervous, but as I forced myself to keep walking forward, my nerves started to fade and I actually started to believe it, "fake it, till you make it" right? When I reached the front and "realized" there was no sign in sheet, I walked back smiling at people individually, but it was real this time because I felt great. It worked! I could sense the nervous energy coming from people and it fed me. (Funny tidbit, I remember seeing 2 guys in line who seemed in the zone and looked equally ready for their shot indoors...I ended up seeing them again in final callbacks...) I found my spot at the back, plugged in my headphones and started to read a book. I felt great, I felt ready and I finally had decided I didn't care if I was going to lose my job at the Apple store for being late to my 3rd day of training.

The sign up finally started and they guided us indoors. I got my number and realized that I would not be needed till about 2pm! So much for getting there early. In my opinion, the waiting around is where you win/lose a role. We always hear, "they WANT to cast you", or my favorite is that, "the role is yours to lose." I feel like that time in the outer office is where it happens. There were people nervously running through their songs, some were making last minute changes and shuffling through music to find a song they didn't just hear 4 times prior – it was crazy. I did the best thing I could do for myself. I left. I went outside, ran through my own stuff a few times to stay fresh and then went back in to…REST. I knew I was ready, granted I had not done it 250 times to know that I knew what I knew, but there was something about the state of its rawness that I liked. I had a tiny bit of an edge from it still being fresh and for the song, I PERSONALLY felt like that would work for me when it came time to perform it. I got up to refill my water, which kept my going to the bathroom every half hour where I would do few pushups to stay fresh and energized when I started to get hungry. I made a call to my vocal coach to touch base and she said to go grab some almonds and to remember that some of the best singers were known because they knew how to feel a song/lyric. I took that to heart.

I finally was close to going in so I, did some last minute pushups in the bathroom and waited in line. There were two people in front of me and at that moment, nerves started to creep up. I put my music down, took a couple of deep breaths and started to breathe through my eyes. I told myself that this was my time and then I was fine, that would end up being the last time they surfaced. Before I knew it, they were calling me in. I smiled when I walked in and was not shocked at all to see like 10 people in the room because I already made it a point to peek earlier to scope out where I would direct my song to. I walked over to the piano and felt like I was back in performance tech with Lamby. I took my time explaining where I wanted to start and how fast I wanted my song played. I also asked to hear the first couple of bars before I thanked him and hit my mark. No one said and word so I took my cue, slated my name, gave the title of the song with the author and then gave the ol' nod. Now this was when it started to get interesting, remember I had never heard the song played on piano so for a fraction of a second, it sounded off and too slow but I quickly remembered that the man behind the piano was there to accompany me so I thought SCREW IT and started to speed it up and sell it! I found a perfect moment to look at everyone which I've been told not to do, but screw it, this was my audition! It ended up being stronger than what I had blocked and felt that I found a good amount to work with in those short 16 bars. I finished gave a thank you and started to leave when they stopped me and asked me about LA CAGE. The casting director asked how it went and I responded and told him that it still was going and that it was going great. He said that he lived by the theatre and I told him to stop in to check it out. He then said that he wanted to bring me in for callbacks! I grabbed the set of sides and music from him and went out to sign up for a slot for the dance call! I finished, grabbed my bag and left with the same smirk I strolled down that line earlier in the day with. I got to the car and screamed out because I was so happy. I then realized that my callback was on a day I was off, but the dance call was going to be the next day which was going to be my 4th day of training at apple / 2nd day of missed work. I quickly thought about why I moved to LA and after telling myself it wasn't to sell computers, I headed straight to work to tell them that I would need to miss the next day. They actually took it well and I was now NOT looking forward to the dance call.

Now, I've seen clips of the show and I know that Aladdin is not a dancing role, but I started to worry. I had met some people at the audition who said, they had done the audition before and that it was not that bad…but to each is own. I mean, I don't have two left feet, I think I have decent rhythm and I've been told I have, "Good line" - whatever that means, but I was hoping it wouldn't be a big movement call for my good man Al. I showed up the next day and decided I would wear tennis shoes instead of the Jazz Shoes I had under my bed, and I through on my UFC Shorts and a Sleeveless T. I was dressed for the gym and the others were ready to audition for musical theatre LOL I just told myself that I would sell it with a nice confident smile made sure to start/finish strong. It was a little awkward at times, especially when I was in the front line of 4 potential Aladdin's and we ALL forgot the dance piece. There was only one guy who really danced the shit out of that thing and I'm not sure he was even being called for Aladdin. They told us, it was not going to hurt us, they just wanted to see where we were, or in my case how much I could do before forgetting. We said goodbye and headed off to prepare for the callback two days later.

After that, I was lucky to have Jay play the songs for me so I could hear and record and when I got home, I realized they hadn't been recording. So I got the idea that I would check youtube, and there it was a few people had recorded piano versions of, "A Whole New World!" I ran over the songs a few times because I'm sure that I was already solid with them after singing them for 10 years and then I just worked the shit out of my sides. I felt like I was on fire and COULD NOT WAIT!

It was callback day and I was deciding what to wear. I usually wear what I wore on the audition, so that was what I showed up in, but I wanted to have another outfit ready for the actual times I was in the room. I picked out an outfit that was one of those risk taking choices, but again I thought that this might be the last chance I had to perform this stuff, so they were going to have to deal with seeing me in a vest, baggy white linen pants and my brown chucks. You know how people say, not to go crazy for auditions, just wear something that is suggestive…well I was going for it all the way!

I showed up to the callback and they brought us all into the room to tell us they would be pairing us up, but not before they played the music and we all sang to it. I had the sneaking suspicion that I was being watched, maybe it was because they heard a rumor about my callback costume LOL. Well we headed out with our "Jasmins" and some people started to nervously chat to their opposite, some didn't chat at all and went their separate ways and others…who knows what they did. My Jasmin and I actually had been chatting beforehand and when they announced we would be paired up it was great, because we got right to work instead of wasting time with getting to know you crap. We went through the song and made suggestions for movements and such and something was feeling off…I took a second and thought of the basics…We were not, "Playing the Love" which is HUGE in the song we were singing. I needed to have not only love for her, but more for the life that I wanted to be a part of. After that it all clicked. It opened up so many opportunities with the lyrics and I was amped! My Jasmin on the other hand was nervous as shit! I did my best to tell her that we were going to kill it, but at the same time I needed to keep my space so that I didn't pick up on her buzz. We finally were called in and killed it! They told us to talk amongst ourselves for a bit and then they said, "Ok thank you, Ace could you stick around for a little and Jennifer, we are all set with you, Thank you." Want to talk about awkward?? I walked out and didn't know what to say at all. I grabbed a drink of water and she came over and I thanked her and said that she was great, she thanked me and said she would see me later…

I caught wind that we would be going in to do Aladdin's song, "One Jump" so I decided it was time to make my costume change. The amount of looks I had as I walked out of the bathroom were amazing…and I felt like a tooooooolllll! I was contemplating changing back, but then thought I would look like an even bigger tool for that so I sat down and then realized that they were probably surprised that I had the cojones to do that. That is probably wrong, they probably just thought I was an idiot, but I just let the other thought sink in.

They called me in and I did my thing. They gave me some direction, like, "take the stupid costume off." Not really they just said they wanted to see me do the whole song, but without moving at ALL! I did and then they told me that I was singing a little behind the music so I made the adjustment and they told me to stick around. I wasn't sure what I felt about that visit into the room, I started to let those actor thoughts creep in for a second and was beginning to play it over in my head and thinking about the direction they gave on top of whether or not I made a huge mistake with my costume LOL but when I walked out, I was talking to two of the other Aladdins and they were telling me that they were a little nervous because during their duets, they TOTALLY went up and forgot the song! Not going to lie, this made me feel a little better, but I knew instantly they were interested in both of them because they were still there!

That callback went on for hours and there were like 8 rounds of cuts! We had to go in and sing with new people where they would make more cuts we went in and read our sides and they made cuts, they made cuts after someone passed gas…it felt like forever, but I kept going over my stuff and made sure not to tire or show it as George would say. Fast forward a few hours and there were 6 guys left for Aladdin and 4 girls left for Jasmin. At this point, I was excited to still be there, but was HUNGRY and I was starting to lose my edge. It had been close to 7 hours I think at that point and I saw way too many tears in that time. They made one last cut and had us come in AGAIN this time, to put us on tape! Thank god, I kept going over my stuff and kept doing my pushups (which by the way I probably did 1000 that day) because I was still feeling pretty energized. I finished my duet and they thanked me and told me that I would know in 1-2 weeks and they sent us all home. I knew that they were then heading to….NYC to scoop up all the triple threats floating around in NY which was not comforting, but I actually felt like I had a good shot. I mean I made it down to the final 5, I know I look the part, I made bold choices, took risks, surprised myself even and I felt like a pro from beginning to end. I was more than happy regardless of the outcome…so I thought…

Fast forward about a month and a half and I started to get defensive when people would ask about if I had heard from them. I realized that I was pissed off and it was bothering me more than I thought. A few weeks later I was fresh out of the closing of La Cage and knew that I was needing to get back out to audition and meet with agents and stuff and I had just gone in to meet with a prospective manager. I really felt like it went well, but found myself saying, so did Aladdin. LOL I was walking to my car thinking of some funds that I was not in possession of and looked towards the sky and said quite honestly, "I need some help." That was all…I went on with my day. I was heading home to take a nap, because I was exhausted when Erin came over begging for me to work out with her. I finally gave in and on the way received a call and for some reason I didn't hit ignore which I usually do when I don't recognize a number…I answer,

"Hello."
"Is this Ace?"
(I'm thinking telemarketer!) "Yes, it is why?"
"Hi this is BLANK from Disney."
(I'm thinking, great they told us there were scouts in the room for parade characters at the park, maybe my costume at the callbacks inspired someone to offer me a job as one.)
"Ok, hello BLANK."
"I'm calling and would like to first thank you for coming out and congratulate you for making it all the way through the callbacks."
(I'm thinking…YEA they are definitely going to offer me a parade character role because I sense a big fat hairy but lurking in her next sentence) "Thank you."
"Well we wanted to call and say that we are offering you one of the roles of Aladdin…in our musical at Disney."
"Oh! Um..Wow….."
"You did a wonderful job and we would like you to join the cast."
(I'm thinking HOLY SHIT!") "Great! Alright! What happened to 1-2 weeks notice??"

I didn't really ask that at that point, but I did bring it up later in the convo.

It was a crazy ride for sure, but one I am thrilled to have experienced. Tomorrow I begin the next phase in this adventure and can't wait to report back what fun/crazy times I will be having. I hope you can all come out to see it and can't wait to find myself in one of those funny youtube videos of the show. Stay tuned.. till then, you can find a little taste of what is in store for yo man, ACE below...courtesy of some other guys funny youtube video.