Believe in People....And Beautiful Things

Jimi Hendrix - Power Of Love

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 11:41:04 -0400

I’m grateful when I find art and words that inspire me. If you take the time you can find astounding things on the lovely internet. I found this piece online yesterday and fell in love with it right away.

It was created by a printing company called Studio on Fire. I will post more about them soon because they are incredible. For now please absorb these words and think about them throughout your day.

For more inspiration online you must check out Brain Pickings!

I Want To Go To There - Venice

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 18:30:23 -0400

Venice. Another one of those places I can’t wait to get to. How can anyone not be inspired, in love and happy in that city!? Sometimes I can’t even believe it’s real! I mean, you get to and from places by gondola! I want to go to there!

I don’t know what it is about these old European cities that I love so much. Definitely the architecture. Definitely their creative geniuses that influence all of us to this day. Or it could be the history that is so alive in every photograph, building or story we hear about these magical lands.

Maybe it’s just in my blood. Maybe there really is a deep connection between us and our ancestors deep down in the roots of our family tree. I’d like to think so.

*This amazing video is by Joerg Niggli. Check out his vimeo page here.

Cuba Libre

Sat, 21 Jul 2012 13:30:47 -0400

My friend, Mandy Zeller, went to Cuba recently and took this incredible photograph in Havana. It must have been one of those serendipitous moments in life when the stars align and all the elements are in the right place at the right time. The colors. The car. The clothesline. The kids stilling on the door step. A moment in time.

It looks like an incredible place. It made me think of this.

Eduardo Fernandez - That Vintage Smile

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 10:43:27 -0400

Posted on July 17, 2012

My grandfather, Eduardo Fernandez, in 1947. He was in the Peruvian Air Force and eventually a Colonel.

I love old photographs. It makes me feel like I’m spying on the past and at the same time connecting to it. I especially love old photographs of my family. I love looking at them and imagining what their lives were like, what their dreams were, what they were thinking! I think old photographs are so much more genuine that what we have today. They really captured a moment in time and no one could say, ‘I looked weird in that one, let’s take it again’. Some of those weird looks are my favorite! Even the photos where families posed in a studio are so mysterious. I love it.

My mom (or maybe my aunt), gave me these pictures on my grandfather during his time in the Peruvian Air Force. He eventually was a Colonel and he is so proud of his time there. A lot of my childhood memories of him are listening to him talk to us grandchildren about his experiences, adventures and struggles.

He’s in his 90′s now (don’t tell him I told you that!), and only recently has begun to show his age. It makes me proud and happy that he took care of himself that well. Although he can be a giant stubborn pain sometimes, I am very grateful for him!

I’m so happy I have him and these photographs in my life!

Allison Janney For President

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 17:40:00 -0400

Toronto International Film Festival 2011

Ok. Not literally, people. Come on, the woman doesn’t even like politics. She doesn’t trust it (neither do I. Except Obama, of course). When I say ‘Allison Janney For President’ I mean it symbolically. As a compliment paid to a distinguished artist who is making the world a little better through her art and her life.

Truth be told, I stole that line from my sister. I did not stop laughing for hours after hearing her say ‘Anita For President’, in response to my friend Michelle’s portrayal of Anita in 1st Broadway National Tour ofWest Side Story. My sister was so taken with that performance that she just believed Anita was real was going to conquer the world one Jet at a time. It also helped that, as a person, Michelle is the coolest girl around.

That’s how I feel about Allison Janney. Forget the fact that she played one of the most powerful and memorable characters on television (CJ Cregg). Or the fact that she transforms herself for every role (think Drop Dead Gorgeous or Juno). Or even the fact that she stands out even while sharing screen time with some of hollywood’s greatest, like Meryl Streep. The really outstanding thing is the honesty and humanity she brings to everything she does. That’s the part that makes people think they know her, love her and want to be like her.

I think Allison Janney snuck up on me like I think she did for most people of my generation. I was aware of The West Wing but didn’t really watch it while it was on the air. I thought it would depress me like politics tends to do. I definitely had seen most movies that she’d done, but somehow took them all for granted. It wasn’t until 2009 that I really started to pay attention. I went to go see 9 to 5 on Broadway and was blown away by this Film and Television actress stealing every scene on that stage. Thanks to my Playbill (and later at home, IMDB), I discovered I knew more about Allison Janney than I had thought. I started to realize that I had been a fan without realizing it.

The cast of 9 to 5: The Musical. Megan Hilty, Allison Janney and Stephanie J. Block

Then, after the mega success of Juno and then last year’s The Help, I think it was pretty safe to say that I and most of my generation were on the Janney campaign bus. It’s also worth mentioning that her numerous appearances on The Ellen Degeneres Show always kept her on our radar AND showed us what a hilarious, warm and kind person she was. After all, if Ellen loves you, you must be doing something right.

So, I was not surprised that when my roommates and I started watching all the seasons of The West Wing, Allison Janney quickly became one of our favorites. I know she’s an incredibly trained actress having studied in London and at The Neighbourhood Playhouse in NYC, but still, the facility with which she delivers those massive Sorkin monologues or the way that she can emote incredible love for her friends and castmates is just crazy! How can she be THAT good? Well, on The West Wing it definitely helped that she had an incredible group of actors to play with. One of the best ensembles EVER on television. It also helped that they really got along. I especially have a soft spot for CJ and Toby…and also Allison and Richard Schiff. It is the type of ensemble and relationships that actors strive for.

Toby Ziegler and CJ Cregg….I mean….Richard Schiff and Allison Janney

CJ Cregg is the career woman and friend I want to be, and Allison Janney the actress, humanitarian and role model I admire. Although there are many, this is one interview that I think embodies the essence of this wonderful artist. It was filmed during the 2009 Drama Desk Awards in NYC after she won for her performance in 9 to 5.

Childhood Television Favorites

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 16:52:38 -0400

This is for anyone who grew up in the late 90′s and early 2000′s.
This is for those good people with a healthy sense of humour.
This is for those pop culture junkies who know how to appreciate a good vintage video without judgement.

I remember this era of television fondly. Friends, Will and Grace, Fraiser, Scrubs, every incarnation of Law And Order, etc. THURSDAY NIGHTS! My only regret is that I didn’t get into The West Wing sooner. But not to fear….I’m all caught up now and it’s quickly become a favorite.

The Zucker Follies was an unprecedented network promo that aired at the 2002 Upfronts. Intended as a “mockumentary”, it was shot in 16mm for a gritty documentary feel! Megan Mullally is hilarious as Karen Walker from Will & Grace. Supporting cast included Jeff Zucker, David Spade, Martin Sheen, Jay Leno, Zach Braff, Kelsey Grammer, Aaron Sorkin, Allison Janney, Sean Hayes, Eric McCormack, Jesse L. Martin, Matthew Perry, Donald Faison, Jill Hennessy and the late and incredible Jerry Orbach.

Once again, I am amused and impressed by the creativity of people…and the sense of humour of these amazing actors. The perfect way to spend some time on a rainy afternoon.

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

Let's Look At The World A Little Differently

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 16:49:41 -0400

“A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. “
- Margaret Mead

I’m the tiniest bit hesitant to post something about a corporation as big as Coca-Cola. At the same time, they have been making beautiful videos and commercials for years, and they never fail to bring to tears or infuse me with happiness.

So, I’m doing it! Judge away, but this video put such a smile on my face I wanted to make sure to share the joy. I won’t ruin it by explaining too much. Just enjoy the 1.5ish minutes of beauty and then go back to your day, looking at the world a little differently.

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

Quiet Design - Dream Bedroom

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 08:31:08 -0400

I really don’t think anyone could wake up in a bad mood in this bedroom. If the sun always promised to shine it would be perfection. Part of me always wants to be surrounded by pretty colors, lots of books and beautiful art on the walls, but another part of me thinks white and sparse is the way to go.

Wooden ceiling beams should just be standard in anyone’s home. There is no confusion there.

I will need to live many lives to appropriately honour all sides of my design style. Or maybe just own many houses. Ah, one can dream…

Paris - I Want To Go To There

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 12:59:21 -0400

There are a few cities on my bucket list that I am incredibly sure I am going to love as soon as I set foot on their culturally and historically rich streets. Paris might be on the top of this list. It’s either Paris or Barcelona. The only reason New York City isn’t on this list is because I have been there so many times it’s almost my home away from home.

This incredibly visual and artsy video was created by Land of Nod Inc. and its founding members Robert Kolodny and Bennett Elliot. The amazing song is by Les Sans Cullottes. It captures what I hope one day will be my whirlwind adventures in that incredible city.

My mom lived in Paris for a couple of years when she was a teenager and I have loved growing up listening to her stories. In the last few years everyone in my family has made the trip and I can’t help but wonder when it will be my turn! I cannot wait to experience the museums, the food, the culture, and yes, the shopping. Mostly, I can’t wait to sit in some obscure Parisian cafe and people watch, read a book…and write. Bliss.

Inspiration Blitz - What Are You Waiting For?

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 15:54:28 -0400

I have these on my desktop and read them almost daily. It’s my daily mantra of sorts. I also have a poster in my room that says ‘What Are You Waiting For’. I stare at it as I fall asleep.

We should use anything that helps and motivates us to take full advantage of this world and our opportunities. It’s not always easy to remember…but I try.

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

Sesame Street - Best Thing Ever, Maybe?

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 15:52:26 -0400

This exploded online yesterday and I couldn’t resist. I love the cleverness of people. I have to celebrate it. I also love Sesame Street and Cookie Monster…and Elmo.

When I was growing up in Peru I knew it as Plaza Sesamo. If I remember correctly, when I got paid after doing a commercial (I think I was 5), my parents let me take some of the money and buy anything I wanted. I ended up with a board game set that was, I think, 4 games in one, and it was all Plaza Sesamo. Elmo didn’t even exist yet, I don’t think!

I recently had the pleasure of putting together an audition tape for Sesame Street and one of the scenes I had to tape was with Elmo. A very talented friend of mine read the scene with me and I couldn’t believe what was happening. It’s one of those moments when I pinch myself and think – is this really my life? Did I really leave work early today to come home and record an audition with Elmo? For Sesame Street? Craziness.

Enjoy these little pieces of magic. I promise they will put a smile on your face, and perhaps take you back to a time when all you had to worry about was how to get to Sesame Street.

The Intent To Live – A Must Read For Actors

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 19:04:36 -0400

I hesitated to write about this book just yet because I’m not completely finished reading it. However, I keep talking about it with all the actors I know and I just can’t wait to share it with everyone here.

Larry Moss is one of the most sought after acting coaches in the world and from what I’ve heard from mutual friends (I can’t even believe I can say that), he is also one of the most generous and kinds souls out there. In fact, he shares a lot of personal stories and feelings in this book and it is pretty evident that he’s a special person.

I had read pieces of this book when I was in theatre school but for some reason never the whole thing. It turns out it was for the best. I don’t think I was ready for it back then. This book has landed in my lap at the perfect time. At a moment in time when I needed motivation and inspiration and that extra little bit of something to remind me of why I love acting and this business in the first place. It helps that in the last couple of months I’ve also worked with some teachers who have been incredibly supportive and encouraging and let me know that I was heading in the right direction. It’s funny how life works.

‘The Intent To Live’ is a masterclass taught by a master teacher and aimed at giving you all the tools you need to be a truthful and honest actor. However, for me, the most valuable part has been the influence of Moss’ passion and love for the art form and his desire to understand himself and those around him. I almost feel like we’re kindred spirits in a way. He says so much of what I’m thinking but can never articulate. Or maybe I just haven’t found the right person to share it with.

If you ever get an opportunity to take one of his classes or workshops I would jump at the chance. I have my fingers crossed that I will have that opportunity soon. You can sign up for his newsletter by checking out his website: larrymoss.org

Happy reading…and discovering.

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

Lena Dunham On Knowing Nora Ephron (And Our Relief That These Two Geniuses Met)

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:55:08 -0400

“Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.”

-Nora Ephron

Is Lena Dunham the Nora Ephron of our generation?

After Mrs. Ephron died last month I wanted to write about her on this blog. Stupidly, I thought that night I would get in bed, reread some of her essays, get some inspiration and write a brilliant tribute. I wanted to, I thought I needed to, and I thought it would help me put into words why I admired her so much. Instead, I just sat there, stared at my computer screen and ultimately succumbed to reading what everyone else had to say about her on the internet.

In the last couple of weeks I’ve thought about her a lot. I read her works and I went on a mad hunt across Toronto to buy ‘I Feel Bad About My Neck’, a book I had read a few years ago but never owned. It wasn’t until I started rereading the book that I was able to BEGIN to articulate why I admired her so much. I was also able to understand how people like Nora, visionaries, wonder women, thinkers, shape our lives over the years in such subtle sneaky ways that we don’t even realize it’s happening until they’re gone and we feel the hole left in our heart and spirit.

I didn’t have to know Nora personally to have felt the impact of her words, characters and stories. To be inspired by her wisdom and love, which were always forefront in everything she did. I have to admit, I spent the first couple of days after her death trying to figure out why I cared so much. I mean, I was pretty young when I was watching all her movies. Most of her brilliant characters are women older than me and with much different lives, and my generation wasn’t really her target audience. This is what I came up with: To me she represented what I could and wanted to be. She made me think, strive to be better, smarter, and respect an art form that has the capacity to change minds and lives. In short, she represented an ideal. The ideal artist and human being who wants to do the right thing and share wisdom, passion and love. Knowing that there are people like this out there is comforting. When someone like Nora is no longer with us it’s a devastating thought. It’s sad to think of what else she could have taught us and who else she could have changed with her words.

This takes me to Lena Dunham. Boy am I glad Nora influenced her from a very young age and took her under her wing during the last year of her life. Dunham may argue this point, but I think she was a pretty brilliant person long before meeting Ephron or watching her movies. Like Ephron, she has a unique voice and a determination to be heard. I also think she feels a responsibility to tell the truth, specifically about our generation. It only takes the pilot episode of her hit HBO show ‘Girls’ to see her gift. Her gift of words, of storytelling and of humour. She doesn’t shy away from the truth. Instead she celebrates the highs and lows and ridiculousness of our generation, and our adventures in this crazy place we call the world. She seems fearless but at the same time incredibly uncomfortable with the spotlight that is currently on her. Yet, I know she will carry the torch proudly and continue to be the voice of our generation…or at least a generation. :)

Lena wrote an incredible article in The New Yorker about her relationship with Ephron. It was both enlightening and beautiful. At one point I thought maybe I would just link the article here instead of writing something myself! Lena’s words and thoughts are what finally pushed me to write this and articulate my thoughts on Nora. I urge all young women, especially creative women to read it. I know we are always striving for inspiration and mentorship and Lena’s relationship with Nora was the little piece of beauty I had been waiting for.

“Her advice was unparalleled. At one of our lunches this past January, I was sheepishly describing a male companion’s lack of support for my professional endeavors. She nodded in a very “don’t be stupid” way, as if I already knew what I had to do: “You can’t possibly meet someone right now. When I met Nick, I was already totally notorious”—note: Nora was the only person who could make that word sound neither braggy nor sinister—“and he understood exactly what he was getting into. You can’t meet someone until you’ve become what you’re becoming.” Panicked, I asked, “How long will that take?”

Nora considered a moment. “Give it six months.””

-Lena Dunham

A Father's Day Truth

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 23:22:00 -0400

Happy Father’s Day to my dad. The man who has been my instruction book for many, many years. I’ve helped him write a few chapters, but for the most part he’s written a pretty good book himself.

Thank you for all that I know. Thank you for putting up with the drama of living in a house with three girls for so many years. Thank you. Thank you. Gracias. xo

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

Call Me Maybe - West Side Story Edition

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:19:16 -0400

This is why I love these people.

This is the 1st Broadway National Tour of West Side Story with their take on Carly Rae Jepsen’s ‘Call Me Maybe’. This song has taken over, and this is one of many youtube videos dedicated to the catchy tune.

After a long and hard day yesterday I was so happy to get home and find this on my facebook. It put such a smile on my face to see some dear friends and some seriously funny and talented people.

I expect another video from Japan, friends!

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

The Wise Words Of Dr. Seuss

Mon, 21 May 2012 13:47:00 -0400

My favorite Dr. Seuss book is ‘Oh The Places You’ll Go‘. It was given to me by a good friend when we graduated High School. Actually, she had written a short play about it which we performed for our final Drama class project.

I haven’t thought about that in so long! It was a great script. I have such talented friends.

The book has such a positive message and it came at a time when I had no idea of where I was going. I was heading to University, I wasn’t going to know anyone, I wasn’t sure if I had picked the right course of study. So many questions! Dr. Seuss has a way of shifting that fear into excitement for the future….and for that I am grateful! The book is never far from my sight and I try to share it with friends whenever possible.

It’s a great graduation gift for a student who is heading off into the world. It makes the adventure that much more exciting!

The picture below is another reason why we all love Dr. Seuss. His message is universal and one that we should be sharing with kids as early as possible. How incredible to see a small child holding this sign. Good job parents. Good job.

My Fantasy Home Library

Sun, 20 May 2012 17:37:48 -0400

There are few things I like more than books. There are a few more things I like more than being alone….but not many!

All kidding aside, I really love books and one day will have a library in my home just like this. A loving family. A house on the beach. A library. The simple things.

The Cast Of 'Anything Goes' Is Beautiful.

Sat, 19 May 2012 11:58:39 -0400

There are moments when I think the theatre community at large is full of crazed ego maniacs who make dumb choices based on silly ideas and negotiations. I ask myself why I’m in a business that treats me like a dollar sign, an object and a pawn. I think about all the skills I have, the education, and wonder why I don’t just get up and do something else! Start my own business, work for a worthy cause, or finally start focusing on creating a family of my own.

Then a video like this comes along. It changes my whole perspective and gets me out of my rut. in the few minutes it took me to watch this, within the first 10 seconds actually, I was reminded of the power of art. Of song and dance. That power, mixed with passionate people and great talent, really does have the ability to change the world.

In my moments of frustration I try to remember that the theatre community, as crazy as we are, is continuously spreading a message of love and light. It’s what keeps me coming back for more.

I saw Anything Goes on Broadway last year. I can confirm that this is an incredibly talented group of people. It’s nice to see that they are also eager to spread a positive message and share the magic of heart and music.

Let me end this by saying that Joel Grey is perhaps the cutest thing since my grandfather.

Enjoy the magic.

www.littlebirdnightowl.wordpress.com

When I Think of Bliss....

Fri, 18 May 2012 13:59:57 -0400

The coast of Lima, Peru near Miraflores. One of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. I made it even more beautiful by putting a 1960s filter on the photograph. I’m in love.

Some things are just bred in the bone. For me it’s the need to have family around. To learn. To be kind (to try to, anyway). To laugh. To be almost too introverted. To dream. To keep wanting more…and to find peace and clarity near the water. The ocean and the sun have never let me down. Just being able to smell the sea is enough to put me in a good mood. Sitting in the sun, looking at this view with family around, is what I miss the most about Lima.

Just add a plate of Ceviche and you’ve got heaven.

I just wanted to give a little shout out to Mr. President Barack Obama for coming...

Fri, 18 May 2012 13:25:00 -0400

I just wanted to give a little shout out to Mr. President Barack Obama for coming out in support of gay marriage. I’d like to think that he had always been a supporter and was waiting for the right moment to make the announcement. I hope this was it, and that it helps to propel him into his next (fingers crossed) term. I’m not a political person, and I often can’t stand politics because there is nothing real or sincere about it. There is no one to trust in politics it seems. I can’t be bothered with the games. However, since Mr. Obama came along people, young people especially, have had a reason to hope. I’m not even American, but what I wouldn’t give to be able to vote for him!

“I am honored to be doing this cover. It’s a celebratory moment for our country, and that’s what I tried to capture. (I don’t especially like those rainbow colors, but they are what they are—I had to use them.) I wanted to celebrate the bravery of the President’s statement—a statement long overdue—but all the more appreciated in this political year. We are on the right side of history.” —Bob Staake, the artist who created “Spectrum of Light,” the cover of next week’s issue.

I have many gay friends who are in some of the most loving relationships and partnerships I have ever witnessed. I am 100% behind gay marriage, or better put, just MARRIAGE between two people who love each other!! I feel very proud to live in a country which recognizes this and honours these relationships. I hope this never changes.

President Obama is being a wonderful example to his two young daughters and to all the young people in the world. It gives me hope that things are going to keep changing for the better. Here’s to 4 more years, President Obama. Yes we can.