When it comes to deadlines, oftentimes you have to make choices as to what gets your focus. My hope was to get a copy of Blue into the Fringe Festival Play Contest this year. The deadline was October 24 and I was in the midst of re-writing A Walk in the Park (now called Walk) and began working on the screenplay version to Listen to Grace. I could have done work on Blue, but I felt it would have been rushed, so I let it pass. Editing/re-working a script, I always find needs more time. For me, I need to get back into that world, re-familiarize myself with the characters and get to know the story again. Timing is also everything and my energies these days have been devoted to getting these screenplays done for the Kairos Prizes and my new play Hero.

Walk is complete and has been sent to Karios. This week, I put the finishing touches on Listen to Grace. Karios extended their deadline to Nov 8 so I was able to finesse the script further. The process of translating this play into a screenplay was most enjoyable. The work opened itself up and I was able to further develop the characters and plot. The screenplay version of Listen to Grace is a stronger, clearer piece of writing than the play version. I would be very curious to know what some of the actors who performed in the play, think of the script.

So…Struck, Walk and Listen to Grace compete in the Kairos Prizes and I wait. I will know if I make the first round of cuts by mid January.

Now the focus turns back to Hero… (not that it ever left). It’s hard to believe but one month today Hero opens – another deadline. I have been busy working with the actors, refining their characters and motivations. I have an interesting set for this production and a great designer who is interrupting my vision. Original music is being learned. And comic book pictures are being drawn as they play a central part in the story. A poster and trailer will be posted in the weeks to come.

Tea Time, my one act play which I submitted to the Alumnae’s New Ideas Play Festival was rejected. It did not get picked up for production. I leave you with this quote about rejection:

“Every rejection is incremental payment on your dues that in some way will be translated back into your work”.
James Lee Burke