Still in the Picture
Back at the tail end of the last millennium, I had new headshots taken. I needed them to promote the premiere of my one-man show at Danny’s Cabaret in the New York theatre district.
A year later, I found myself starring in a very different kind of one-man show — this time as the newly hired founding director of the Hardin County Schools Performing Arts Center.
At the time, there was no cast, no crew — no staff at all, actually — because I hadn’t yet hired anyone. It was just me, a big empty building, and an even bigger dream.
Fast-forward 24 years. A few weeks ago, I had new headshots taken for the first time since those originals. Same shirt. Same smile. Just… a few more miles.
The face may not be as fresh, but it certainly has more character now — like a favorite LP that pops and crackles but still plays your favorite tune. Every wrinkle has a story, every scar a punchline, and every gray hair (well, each one I’ve clung onto) deserves a well-earned spotlight.
The reason for the new photos? You may have heard by now that I’m retiring at the end of the year. Don’t cue the sad music. I’m not taking my last bow. I’m just… changing scenes. I’ll still be performing, directing, and teaching—just in new ways and at a pace more suited to someone who’s enjoyed an incredible 24-year run.
As we head into the holidays, I find myself thankful for every moment that carried me from that bright-eyed guy in the first photo to the well-lit veteran in the second. I’m grateful for the laughter, the late nights, and the learning curves, and as the curtain begins to fall, I can’t help but applaud all of you who’ve supported me all these many years. Thank you.
So here’s to the passage of time, the persistence of shirts that still fit, and the power of art to keep us all in the picture — no matter how many retakes it takes.
And here’s to the past 24 years and to whatever encore lies ahead.
Video Links
The links below provide a video version of this month’s blog and a link to HCECTV’s The Monthly Marquee, an interview program hosted by Bart focused on performing arts activities in our region.
Audience Survey Winners
Congratulations to Kayla Haynes, Phillip Kennedy, Kate Stahl, and Julienne Wilkes, each the lucky winner of a $20 PAC gift certificate for completing an audience survey in November, and thank you for helping us learn how to serve our audiences better!
Audience Survey
Share your thoughts on your recent PAC visit and get entered into the next drawing.
PAC Spotlight
The December PAC Spotlight shines on East Hardin Middle School’s Alyssa Brangers
What do you want to do when you grow up?
I want to work in the medical field, either as a doctor or a nurse.
What have you seen at the PAC?
Ragtime, The Little Mermaid, Oklahoma!, Footloose, Secret Garden, Seussical, Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, Clue
What have you participated in at the PAC?
The Nutcracker, Elizabethtown Dance Centre recitals, and East Hardin band concerts
What have been your most rewarding PAC experiences?
Being able to perform with my best friends and my family in The Nutcracker. I love that it is a holiday tradition for my family to do together.
What did you learn from your PAC experiences?
I’ve not only learned what it takes to perform on the stage, but I’ve learned everything that goes on backstage to put a show together. All of the backdrops and curtains, the set pieces, and all the practicing that it takes.
How have you benefited from the PAC?
I was given the opportunity to perform on stage in front of my family and friends alongside professional performers. I’ve also been able to meet many new people both on stage and backstage at The Nutcracker.
Why is the PAC important to you?
I’ve basically grown up there because my grandparents, parents, and siblings have all been involved in shows at the PAC for years. I’m happy to be able to continue a long line of family tradition.
Why should the PAC be important to others?
It offers many opportunities to meet people you may not have ever met before. It also gives you the opportunities to enhance your performing skills and gain confidence in yourself and your abilities.
