Randy Tallman

Randy Tallman [1939-2007] will be missed by all. My heart aches at the news of his passing on November 2oth, my birthday.

I met Randy in 1991 when I went to Dallas for the production of my musical drama, Rocket City! (then entitled: The American Dream...Interrupted). He, as director, and Russ Benzamin, as musical director mounted a vigorous production and helped move the play forward.

Randy and his wife, Laura (and of course, Ret and Joe who took turns letting me crash in their bedrooms) welcomed me into their home every 4th of July weekend to share their home and hospitality [until 9/11, and then I chose not to fly for a long while, and missed all the fun at their wonderful 4th of July party: love, friendship, music sharing, Laura's brisket, Randy's guacamole ...and all the other tasty and loving things that the Tallmans afforded their friends].

The unique talents of the wonderful, loving man that was Randy Tallman, will live on forever in our hearts and in the world.

I will truly miss you, Randy.

Memorial is on its feet.

Opening night (Nov. 15th) went well. Closing weekend Nov. 29-Dec. 1. All of Dreamer's signers will be part of the production. Should be great.

"Memorial" by Charles LaBorde

Rehearsals have been going well for "Memorial" under the direction of Gary Imel and musical direction by Jackie Marx. The Phoenix College production opens on Nov. 15th.

This Readers Theatre piece has been masterfully directed by Gary Imel. I have been given the opportunity to direct Scene 8, the Protest Scene and we will be tightening that scene in rehearsal tonight.

We have shadow signers ably led by A Dreamer.

With all the performance elements and the music from the Era this should be an exciting production.