Delusions of Adequacy

I haven’t written in so so long about what is going on with my voice. Last info anyone would have (according to just this blog) was my taking that pH monitor test from about a year and a half ago.

The results of that test were: I have acid in my throat. A lot. And it got worse whenever I laid down. So the last visit I had with my ENT was that he prescribed yet ANOTHER different medication plus a consultation with another doctor who specializes in a procedure that basically (as I understand it) stitches up and tightens the muscles at the base of the esophagus. It is an endoscopic procedure (down-the-throat) which may or may not help, the next step being laparoscopic (small incision in the abdomen). Neither of these options were appealing to me.

Recently I had been made aware of acupuncture and how it works by my friend, Dr. Richard Betts. I, like many other people, always thought acupuncture worked along the lines of “you got a pain in your hand, you stick a needle in your hand, you don’t got a pain in your hand anymore” sort of process. In fact, this common perception is dead wrong. Sadly, Richard’s practice wasn’t covered by my health insurance, so I couldn’t get treatment from him. But intrigued by the education he gave me, I have instead been seeing another good friend of mine who also recently started her own practice: Natalie Doliner, DCM (that means Doctor of Chinese Medicine, FYI). And I have to say the way it works FASCINATES me.

Chinese medicine is based on ancient methods focused on the “chi” or energy flow of the body… and how the chi helps the body to heal itself. I am about to seriously oversimplify how it works, but as I understand it: below our skin is a layer of tissue called fascia. Fascia covers the body and is connected to all parts of the body, either directly or indirectly. Eastern doctors have figured out points all over the body that relate to various organs & body systems. (i.e. the fleshy part of your left hand between your forefinger and thumb is the pressure point to relieve headaches.) If you have health problems and/or pain, that is a sign the chi is stuck. Inserting an acupuncture needle helps to get the chi flowing, not unlike when you stick a straw into a capri sun pouch. Acupuncture needles are thin and rounded at the end, so they don’t even hurt when inserted and you don’t bleed or anything like that. They get below the skin and they use the fascia as a biological communication network. Over time, increased chi flow improves body functions and its ability to function properly on its own.

The negative aspect of acupuncture/Eastern medicine is that there is somewhat of a conspiracy theory mentality surrounding it. Its treatments and concepts thereof are so rooted in abstract ideas and intangibles that Western medicine can’t wrap its brain around medical treatment that doesn’t do one of the following: (1) medicate, (2) radiate, or (3) operate. And because of the nightmarish mess of corporate bureaucracy and greed that surrounds our disastrous healthcare system, many believe that Eastern medicine is ignored and poo-pooed simply because there is no money to be made in utilizing the body’s own natural ability to heal itself… with a little help from its Chinese friends.

Anyway, long story short (too late), my mother had some success with acupuncture back in the 1980s, so I was raised in a house that wasn’t averse to alternative medical treatments. And being the staunch, militant, middle-of-the-road, seeing-things-from-all-sides person that I am, I believe it works great for some people, but it’s not for everyone. So I decided to give it a whirl. Some folks warned me of the placebo effect… I said, hey, if I get my voice back and start feeling human again as a result, I don’t care if it’s a trick of my brain or actual tangible results of the treatment. I just needed to do something, anything so that I could (1) have fully functioning capabilities of my voice at my full-time job (I was really struggling with getting through each day AND last April I started a new performing job that was actually more vocally challenging than the previous one), and (2) have enough voice left to pick up extra work and feel comfortable socializing outside of work. (I had basically become a hermit; I worked and then I went home and didn’t talk any more than I had to. Even trying to carry on a conversation in a loud restaurant was difficult, and just made work that much more difficult the next day.)

I’ve been in treatment for almost a year now, and I’m happy to report I’ve seen some improvements. One of the other pitfalls of acupuncture is that certain treatments bring only incremental improvements over a long period of time, so it’s hard to perceive “feeling better”, especially from the American cultural point of view where even instant gratification takes too long.

Stay tuned for talk of my acupuncture journey (and other stuff I’ve been doing for my voice) and how all it is working out for me…

I generally love 3D movies. And this current trend where EVERYTHING is being released or re-released in 3D is fine with me. I mean, give audiences a reason to go to the movies, and not just wait for it to be available on Netflix. BUT I do not think that 3D is the be-all and end-all.

First of all, 3D viewing can never replace 2D because it’s more work to watch. Our eyes have to adjust to the varying depths-of-focus required for each shot. Since long, lingering shots are really a thing of the past, every cut means a perceptual adjustment, even if it’s just for a nanosecond. If your eyes can’t seamlessly go from shot to shot, it’s going to be challenging to really ‘lose’ yourself in the visual rhetoric of the film.

Secondly, I find that putting on the glasses feels like placing a barrier between my eyes and the images. Especially with the current ‘polarized’ technology, I always feel like I’m watching the film through a grey filter. (I wonder if they’ve ever considered bumping up the color levels to compensate for that?)

But both of these opinions I find are often trumped by the simple fact that 3D is still pretty freakin’ cool.

Now, about these recent Disney re-releases. I saw “The Lion King” and the 3D didn’t bother me. But at the same time, I don’t think it really ‘bought’ anything, dramatically speaking. It looked like flat drawings spread out… like a moving diorama.

 But in the case of “Beauty And The Beast”, there were times when the gimmick of the 3D was actually distracting, and I think it took away from the emotional impact of the film.

The dimensionality of the backgrounds was certainly well done, and I felt a much greater sense of the vastness of the Beast’s castle. The ballroom dancing scene looked terrific. (That’s cuz the ballroom and chandelier were originally done CG.) But just before that little bit, as the Beast and Belle are descending the staircase, I never realized the background was drawn as though a fish-eye lens was viewing them from the bottom of the staircase. Suddenly I had two giant banister posts jutting out at me, and it took me a second to find the action of the shot, the two leads, comparably tiny, coming down the stairs to meet one another in the middle.

Similarly, the climax of the story, when the castle is attacked, and Gaston and the Beast fight it out, takes place in the rain. The 3D conversion places the rain at all different levels behind and in front of the action so that there are these constantly moving obstacles between our eyes and what’s going on. The same goes for the final magical transformation of the Beast with all the magical shooting-star beams of light… get that stuff out of the way, I want to see what’s going on! It wasn’t a problem in 2D because it wasn’t right in front of my face, and I could visually discard it in favor of watching the real action.

Also, B&B is a visually dense film. It is well-constructed and tight: the plot clips right along, the characters are never still, and there are a lot of shots and cuts. The varying-depths-of-focus issue I mentioned earlier seemed to be more of a problem as a result. At a couple of points, I took off my glasses just to be sure I was correctly analyzing why I wasn’t connecting to the film as much as I know I am usually able when I am watching it on DVD at home.

And speaking of the DVD, I was very sad that they didn’t include “Human Again” in the 3D version! It was the number they added/restored for the IMAX release in 2002… and I think it is very entertaining and would have loved to see it. : ( At least I have it on my Special Edition DVD at home.

So, for my money, live action and CG films lend themselves better to 3D (and even stop-motion such as the successful “Nightmare Before Christmas” conversion). You can get a better sense of being in the middle of the world of the film when that world actually WAS in 3D when it was being filmed. But I’m not sure flat-drawn animation will ever have the ability to draw me in to that extent. And certainly not flat-drawn stuff that wasn’t constructed with the 3D medium in mind. Even with Simba’s nose or Mrs. Potts’ spout popping out at me a little further than the face itself, flat animation is will always look, well, flat.

Oh, and by the way, I can’t wait to see “Titanic” when its 3D version comes out!!

Another discovery from the past: My friend John DiDonna teaches drama at several local colleges, and one of his assignments back in April of 2007 was to have his students interview actual actors in the community. One of his students sent me this questionnaire, and these were my answers. I found some of them really interesting, from a “looking back” perspective. Amazing how much can change in 4-1/2 years. [I have also given updates to some of these in the brackets.]

1. What is your education?

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Cinema Studies from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

2. Training for your field?

As a performer, I have had little formal training. I took a couple of basic performance courses in college. I have had a couple of different voice teachers for my musical training, but I’ve probably only studied voice for about 2 years cumulatively. I was part of an improv troupe back in the early 90’s where I received improv training that has proven very valuable. But most of what I know about acting is from actual performing, absorption, mimicry, and being fortunate enough to work with very talented people.

3. What drew you to your job? How did you get involved in the field you are in?

I don’t earn my entire income from performing. I have had an office day job my entire adult life. My primary performing “gig” for the last several years has been Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show. I have also done some community and professional productions in town and I’ve done some playwriting and producing for Fringe. [2011: Now I can say that I do earn all of my massive whopping income from performing! YAY! So, can somebody out there lend me ten bucks?]

I was drawn to performing in high school, mostly because I was a TV & movie junkie and I was aware I had the ability to mimic voices and repeat jokes and routines I had seen. (Catch me at a party today and I still do that. A lot.) I wasn’t particularly driven to do it, I just thought it would be fun and maybe a way to make some friends. As I got more and more roles, I realized I was good at it.

4. What is your approach to your work?

Research is very important. Plays with real characters are such a wonderful opportunity to learn and teach (i.e. I was in a production of Sondheim’s Assassins – such amazing histories to be learned there). I can’t imagine doing a play without knowing about the life of the playwright and the circumstances under which the play was written. And of course researching the role itself, understanding the character’s background, upbringing, and experiences outside of the play (and creating those where they are not dictated). I also do character studies, and I often “model” my performances after certain specific people.

5. What is your philosophy?

In general, I believe that theatre is a unique experience where they audience can escape, think, and learn. It is an amazing medium where creatively anything can happen without having to show it (unlike, say, the literal medium of film). Other philosophies — I believe that:

(a) (as a playwright) The best plays ask questions without providing the answers.

(b) Theatre is inherently a collaborative art where all people involved have something unique to bring to the table. And the final product, when the people are aligned just right, can end up greater than the sum of its parts.

(c) Accidents often produce brilliant results.

(d) Actors should always be nice to the costume designer because s/he can make you look awful if s/he doesn’t like you.

(e) There are few people out there who can multi-task and do their best work in all departments while wearing multiple hats (i.e. directing and acting in a project they also wrote).

[2011: I owe a lot of these to Steve Miller, my best friend and greatest collaborator. Many of these are directly from his own artistic manifesto.]

6. Your background?

I really didn’t have any sort of theatrical foundation in my life. My only exposure to the theatre was the odd field trip I might make through school. My parents never took me to the theatre. TV and movies were my real passions. (Or do you mean ethnic background? I am Caucasian of Italian, English, Dutch, Scotch, French descent. From a casting standpoint, I am tall and skinny, not quite handsome enough for leading man roles, but not quite short or strange enough for character roles. I am very pale, so I never get cast in ethnic roles – you won’t ever see me playing Othello or Zorba. And I am generally not considered for the manly-men masculine roles. Is that what you meant?)

7. Your goals?

To earn a living solely from performing — for at least a short period of time in my life. I’m not sure I will like it (no stability no benefits etc), but I think when I’m on my deathbed, I’m going to want to be able to say I did that. [2011: Cross it off the bucket list!! And God bless the theme parks for continuing to employ me. I’m gonna try to stick with this for as long as I can. Wow I never imagined I’d ever be able say this back then.]

8. Thoughts on critics/criticism (of your performances)?

I have been very lucky to receive some generous reviews recently. Elizabeth Maupin at the Sentinel likes me personally, which helps. I have been told by some directors that I could make stronger choices at times, my comfort zone being lower-key “together” characters as opposed to the off-the-wall hyper energy types. And of course I am my own worst critic. It has taken most of my life to let go of perfection and accept my limitations and be happy with doing the best that I can and hopefully not humiliating myself or ruining a production in the process. I think criticism can be constructive, but it probably hard for me to deal with it because I don’t have the training to fall back on. If a critic says, “He doesn’t know what he’s doing,” I don’t feel like I can present much of an argument. [2011: This was a surprise to read this answer… I struggle every day at Disney with the need to make to stronger choices and build a stronger character at Citizens of Hollywood. *Sigh* Guess I gotta keep at it…]

9. Thoughts about state of film/theatre?

I find it very sad that our government doesn’t see the benefits of a lively thriving arts community as shown by the constant cuts in federal funding. I am still puzzled as to why professional sports are still a more popular form of live entertainment. As for films, I am glad to see the emergence of popular, bankable independent films without the restrictions of corporate Hollywood. The Hollywood “system” seems near-impossible to permeate without losing a piece of yourself somewhere along the way. I have no desire or aspirations to work in Hollywood. [2011: Unless, of course, someone out there asks me to…  LOL]

10. What performances have you been involved in?

When I got to Florida, I joined a gay & lesbian sketch comedy troupe that was an off-shoot of the Orlando Gay Chorus. I honed some performance skills, and really started to find confidence in my writing abilities. I did a lot of community theatre shows over the years, mostly hanging at Sleuths. I co-produced, co-wrote, and acted in the Fringe shows My Big Fat Gay Wedding and Whipping Wally Wonker in 2003 and 2004 respectively. Most recently, I was in three shows at Mad Cow Theatre: I played Mr. McQueen in Urinetown, Bentley the Butler in The Constant Wife, and – a dream come true – Pirelli in Sweeney Todd. And you’ll hear me in two quickie voice-overs at Sport: Rematch at this year’s Fringe.

11. Which one was your favorite and why?

I am still high on the whole Sweeney Todd experience. It was last October and I’m still in the ‘afterglow’ of it. Pirelli was a dream role because (a) he is a comic character and I could be funny, (b) he shows up just when the audience needs him – a ridiculous over-the-top hammy role in the middle all the heavy Gothic drama, (c) he needs to sing well, so I got to show off my musical abilities, (d) he is evil and I never get to play bad guys, (e) he is in an impostor necessitating both an Italian AND an Irish dialect – I love doing dialects, (f) I got to be killed and die on stage, and (g) in Act II, I became an ensemble member so I was still deeply ensconced in the camaraderie of the chorus while still having a featured role. It was the best of everything.

12. Explain your childhood and where you grew up.

I grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, a fairly urban suburb of Boston. I was the youngest of 2 with an older sister. My father owned an office supply company, my mother was a medical records coder at a hospital. We were upper middle-class, had a pretty big house and wanted for very little. It was a very privileged life. Mom & Dad couldn’t have kids of their own, so they adopted and my sister and were always given tremendous amounts of love. Getting more inside my head, I wasn’t a particularly attractive child, and I didn’t have a lot of self-esteem. I think part of that was growing up knowing I was gay, but not understanding what it meant. Losing myself in TV and movies was a good escape. I had a tape recorder and would entertain myself for hours recording myself doing voices and repeating bits I’d heard on TV. And I also recorded shows – this was before the VCR mind you – and listened to them over and over again. I think that’s where I learned a lot of my comic timing. I am surprised that I ever tried out for drama when I think of how introverted I was – but then again, you could argue that theatre and acting is a form of escape, couldn’t you? In any case, I don’t feel like I really “came into my own” as a person and as a performer until after I moved to Florida in my early 20’s and really created my own life and came out to my family.

13. What is the favorite part about your job and why?

Sleuths: the people I work with. As a dinner theatre, they can hire Equity actors without contracts, so I get to work alongside some of the best professional actors in town. It has taken me a long time to even consider myself on the same level as them.

Producing at Fringe: Calling all of the shots. Having a vision and creating it yourself from scratch. It’s so hard to do it all though. It’s not for the faint of heart. I’d do it again, but it’ll take a lot more butter to get back into that frying pan.

14. If you could have another job than being an actor, what would it be and why?

Well, as they say, if you have any interest in anything other than acting, you should probably do it. I agree with that. The field of acting is SO difficult, you have to be 100% committed to it and have no other options. I have always been able to walk away from it whenever I wanted, but I must admit I always come back to it. But I am not one of those people who isn’t “whole” unless he’s working on something. Currently, I am the assistant manager of a printing company. It’s a job I’ve had for 14 years now. It’s OK-fine, but not completely fulfilling. It’s comfortable and stable, and I know I am the type of person who needs that. Another field that interests me is computer graphics and Web design. [2011: I have always said if and when the acting well dries up, I will be OK with going to back to corporate America. It won’t be as much fun, but I will GREATLY appreciate the stability and ongoing benefits, plus I can always do theatre on the side. And I will never stay in a position that doesn’t make me happy… the acting world has made me much less fearful of unemployment.]

15. And finally, when and how did you finally realize you wanted to be an actor?

I think I have only within the last few years even considered myself to be on par talent-wise with the people who do it for a living. And by association, considered myself to be able to work at this for a living. I used to just consider it a thing I dabbled in and did for fun. But to actually answer your question, I can’t find anything in my life that brings me more joy and connection with so many other people. [2011: Amen!]

I’ve recently started reading some old blogs and thought I’d post a few classics here. This is originally from my MySpace blog - November 21, 2005:
I saw “Walk The Line” last night with Sarah [French] and Steve [Miller]. It was exceptionally good. Part of the reason why it worked so well (on top of the superb performances of Joaquin and Reese - doing their own singing no less!) was that the “arc” of Johnny Cash’s and June Carter’s love story was perfect for a screenplay.

Which got me to thinking that I really need to start working on my own biopic. Not the actual movie of my life, I mean I need to start working on living my life in such a way that it will translate well to film in case they ever want to do a movie about my life.


One thing I already have going for me is that I haven’t physically aged much in the last 20 years. I don’t look THAT different facially, so one actor should be able to play me through several stages of my life (I was thinking maybe Jonathan Lipnicki could do it in a few years if he gets taller as he progresses through puberty).


However, I am still missing a few elements in my life to make for a great biopic, you know on the level with Walk The Line. So, I am making some changes in my life:


(1) I am asking my father to stop approving of my lifestyle. If you don’t lay the foundation, you can’t build the house. The fact that I was brought up in a home with two parents who loved and supported me all my life is just not going to work. If we can’t correlate my life-struggle to an inherent need to please my unpleasable parents, then we have no reason to begin the film with scenes from my childhood that scarred me for life, or at least the next 150 minutes.


(2) I have decided to get back together with my ex, Jeff Scott. I don’t figure we still love each other in “that” way anymore, nor do I think a reconciliation would survive for very long, but if we get back together, we’re giving Hollywood the ability to portray my life as a journey toward true love. You know, like I found it with him those many years ago, and after 3 years together and 8 years apart, they could do the “he always had love, he just didn’t know it – he had to set it free for it to come back to him” approach.


(3) I have decided to start using illegal drugs and controlled substances of all kinds with an intended goal of addiction. Let’s face it: a good biopic has got to have some sort of triumph over adversity; drugs and alcohol are the cream of that crop. If I do stuff to piss you guys off along this path, I’m sorry. Just hold tight – I’ll see you when I get to my 5th step of recovery. Look on the bright side: if I really fuck you over, Jake Gyllenhaal or Scarlett Johansson may play you in the movie. 

“…when the rights folks stay at home?”

-Noel Coward

I have been in Los Angeles for the last few days. This is the first time I have ever traveled to the West Coast. I’m staying with my friend Martin and I’ve also been lucky enough to see friends-from-yesterday Sarah and Bob.

I should really write a blog about the trip.

(acquired from my friend Marcie)

1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?

(a) got my first full-time contract at Disney

(b) started working part time at Universal

(c) got to speak to a theatre class at UCF about performing in drag

(d) did a convention gig for Disney

(e) did a voice over gig for Disney

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Yes and no. Every year it’s the same… wanting to focus on diet and fitness and getting in better shape. I dropped 20 lbs in the spring and promptly gained them back in the fall. : ( I think my watchword for 2011 is going to be “Reconnect.” As in, I need to reconnect with my body (including eating habits, exercise, vocal health) as well as reconnect with friends… too many are drifting, and I’m not happy about that.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

My cousin Brian and his wife Maegan welcomed their first daughter, Evelyn, into the world on October 16th. (I think the little princess heard I was in town and waited for me to clear out before making her grand entrance! LOL) Also, my friends Amber & Nathan gave birth to their son Rowan in the summer.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

My Aunt Marge lost her battle with lung cancer on December 16th. On the heels of that news was the shocker that my actress friend Kate Singleton died of an aneurysm at age 51 just two days later. A weird holiday season.

5. What countries did you visit? None… As last year, I choose to change this to a 2-part question:

5a. Where did you travel?

I went to Massachusetts in October for the wedding of my friends Trish & Ruben.

5b. Did anyone travel to visit you?

My friends Bruce & Kathy were down in April with their girls, and we got to enjoy Disney together (Bruce for the first time!). My friend Doug was here last month… I hadn’t seen him in 12 years. And I also had the joy of meeting the daughters of my friends Peter & Monique when they were visiting Disney last month. Them I hadn’t seen in 15 years. God we’re getting old.

6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?

Last year I wished for a little more steady work. I got my Green Army Man contract at the end of January, and now with its impending completion, I’m still amazed and thrilled to have had it. So at the risk of sounding selfish, let’s hope for a gig that lasts a little longer, or at least has the potential for renewal.

7. What date from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory and why?

My birthday. Alex put together a really special night for me. It was so thoughtful and special.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

My goal was to ‘diversify my employment portfolio’ and I achieved that. I got my GAM contract, I was hired to sub at Universal for Disaster, I got my second Disney gig… And it was fun while it lasted! LOL The Green Army is gone as of yesterday and Velcro is closing February 4th. : ( Back to the drawing board!

9. What was your biggest failure?

Last year I wrote: “Eating well and healthily on a consistent basis… not so much. I did really well with exercising, tho!” This year: epic fail on both counts. I was in SUCH a good place in May & June, and now I’ve fallen so far off the wagon. Seriously, changes are coming… I will NOT type this again at the end of next year. Also: not getting into Fringe for the second year in a row. Though last year’s failure was a blessing as I had a lot of other better stuff going on in May… I hope the Universe has something pretty effing awesome lined up for me in 2011.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

YES. The vocal strain caused by the Green Army sent me to a throat specialist. It was a battle to try and not hurt my voice each and every day I was out performing that parade. I also had minor issues with my ankles, my knees, my shoulder. I don’t know what I was thinking trying to start a career like this so late in life. I am just not a young man anymore.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

My laminate floors. Kelly-green carpeting no more! I’ve been wanting to do this for 12 years now, and I am so so happy with the results. Honorable mention: my brand new side-by-side stainless steel fridge. LOVE IT!!

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

(a) Congress: For finally repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Cathy Thompson bought her first house this year, too; hooray for her!

(b) Friends who have been succeeding at meeting their fitness goals: Laura Hodos, Meghan Moroney, Michael Colavolpe, Frank Arcidiacono, Todd-Michael Hayes, Steve Miller…

(c) Robyn Pedretti Kelly expecting her first baby – SO EXCITING!!

(d) Mark Baratelli for starting what will hopefully be an annual event, the Orlando Improv Festival. Bravo, Mark!

(e) Alex Mrazek for making me want to bring back my Halloween Party. : )

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

Reality TV and the News Media. Why are the Kardashians and the Palins and the Jersey Shore people on TV?!? Stop the insanity!

14. Where did most of your money go?

As last year, paying the everyday bills, home improvements (just the floors this year) and food. Lots and lots of food. (see also: fitness failures)

15. What did you really, really, really get excited about?

All of the theme park work that came my way this year. We actors need constant approval and reinforcement, and thankfully the Universe has been sending it to me in abundance.

16. What song will always remind you of 2010?

“Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry. (the Glee version)

17. Compared to this time last year are you:

Happier? Yes

Thinner? No

Richer? Same

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Spent time with friends. I wrote this last year, sadly. My friend Guy took this to heart and he and his husband Paul and I had a lovely dinner in January as a result. I have yet to reciprocate. And I think I saw less of people in 2010 than I did in 2009. Part of that was because the vocal strain put me in the mode of ‘not feeling well’ where I just want to become a hermit and cocoon until I am healed.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Eating, worrying about my voice.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

With my family in the morning, with Alex in at Universal in the afternoon, working at Disaster at night, and enjoying a Chinese food fourthmeal with friends after that.

21. How will you be spending New Years?

I went to Sea World to at least see my hunny while he’s working, then I popped in and out of 4 parties. A busy night!

22. Did you fall in love in 2010?

I met Alex Mrazek in May when we started rehearsing “The Cradle Will Rock” at Mad Cow. We started dating June 26th, and we’re still going strong 6 months later. He makes me very happy. : )

23. What was your favorite TV program?

The last season of Lost, Modern Family, 30 Rock, Glee, Community, and Divine Design. I’m also obsessed with The Sing-Off.

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

[I am officially changing this stupid question to the following:]

What was your biggest surprise this year?

Getting some Spanish voice over work for a multi-lingual talking comic book.

25. What was the best book you read?

I really enjoyed Malcolm Gladwell’s “The Tipping Point” and “The Outliers”. I LOVED Kathy Griffin’s “Official Book Club Selection” (the audiobook in particular) and I just finished Carol Burnett’s memoir “This Time Together”. (a gift from Steve Miller, thanks, Steve!)

26. What was your biggest musical discovery?

I don’t discover music, Steve Miller discovers it for me. And nothing jumps out at me.

27. What did you want and you got?

More theme part employment at Disney and Universal; roles in Mad Cow’s “My Fair Lady” and “The Cradle Will Rock”.

28. What did you want and not get?

Fringe 2010 - I was really looking forward to producing again, but the lottery didn’t go our way. At least we were in good company. Also, I was supposed to do a cabaret with Don Hopkinson at Breakthrough Theatre, and I had to pull the plug on it, simply because I just wasn’t vocally up to it. (see also: Green Army vocal strain)

29. What was your favorite film of this year?

Inception, Toy Story 3, Tangled. Black Swan was really good but really creepy.

30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old did you turn?

I turned 42, and I went to a lovely dinner with friends at Bennigan’s, where I enjoyed my first Monte Cristo sandwich in years. (see also: diet lapse)

31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

I stand by my response last year: “Immeasurably”? Um, winning the Lotto? It was a weird year of ups and downs, but at the tail end of it, it was pretty good to me overall, so I’m not wishing for more. Other folks have had it a LOT worse than I have.

32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?

Wear what I can afford and hope it’s cool/warm enough for whatever the weather might be. And pray it is age-appropriate. I think the one-word description the encompasses the aforementioned would be BORING.

33. What kept you sane?

As always, Steve… and I kept him sane, too.

34. Which celebrity did you fancy the most?

Jake Gyllenhaal, Joel McHale, Chris Evans

35. What political issue stirred you the most?

The economy, still. The repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell – FINALLY!

36. Whom did you miss?

I always miss Mom and my friend Mikey. I still often miss my Dad, pre-Alzheimer’s. And among the living, I miss my family from up north. The October trip was just incredible. There is such an overabundance of love in the O’Neil family… it is the most beautiful legacy my Aunt Marge could have left behind.

37. Who was the best new person you met?

Alex. He’s just a great boyfriend and I’m kind of nuts about him. Also, the Green Army men (not to mention the folks at The American Idol Experience): it has been an honor to have been a part of that group, that brotherhood, that family. I didn’t feel like the ‘new guy’ for very long. They just rock, and I am so proud to say I got to ‘sit at their table’. (BTW last year here I talked about my great new friend Stew Jamesson… and he’s moving away next week! Waaaah! Orlando’s loss is Chicago’s gain… go get ‘em, boy!)

38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010:

Health has got to be a top priority. Always. I am nothing and cannot achieve and contribute all that I am capable of if I am not taking care of myself and/or not feeling well.

39. Favorite play you saw:

I enjoyed all the plays I saw… Bach at Liepsig @ Shakes, Rent @ Goat, Sleigh, Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead @ Mad Cow, Almost, Maine @ OTP (RIP OTP – snif!), Superior Donuts @ Mad Cow, Ironhead @ Fringe, Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) @ Jester/Winter Garden, Splash @ PB&J, The Heiress @ Mad Cow, PRT Summer Shorts, PRT Goring Festival, 6 Guitars @ Fringe, Company @ Mad Cow, [title of show] @ PH, Noises Off @ Jester/Winter Garden, Talkin’ Turkey Cabaret @ Winter Park Playhouse.

40. Favorite play you were involved with:

“My Fair Lady” with Mad Cow & The Orlando Philharmonic; “Cradle Will Rock” with Mad Cow, and “A Christmas Carol” with Beth Marshall and her crew. Great groups of folks to work with, all of them.

41. Quote or song lyric that sums up your year:

from Yentl: “The more I live, the more I learn / The more I learn, the more I realize the less I know…” I feel like 2010 was a better year in general for folks than was 2009. The economy seems to be bouncing back slooooowly, healthcare reform hopefully will bring about positive changes down the road… and the local tourist trade seems to keep go-go-going. Echoing what I wrote last year, this certainly was not a perfect year for me, but overall the good far far outweighs the bad. Here’s hoping for a super 2011 for everybody!

(courtesy of the “My Status History” app… in case you forgot to check in on what I was up to all year. Or for those with a severe case of insomnia, I herein offer you a potent cure.)

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011, EVERYONE!!

David watched the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom for the countdown - AMAZING… then spent some time at Casa Lockard. Slept until 11am and now it is MONSOONING out. The perfect day off! (Fri, 01 Jan 2010 16:57:11 GMT)

David slept till 11am, went to two MARVELOUS New Year’s Day open houses, and is finishing off the first day of the year by picking up the house and doing laundry. Last day of “Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” is tomorrow… : ( (Sat, 02 Jan 2010 03:36:27 GMT)

David is back at “Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” today. Our final day. Sadness. A New Year of possibilities? Happiness. Bring it, biznitches!! (Sat, 02 Jan 2010 14:48:23 GMT)

David saw “Sleigh” in Winter Garden today… absolutely delightful. Then he spent a quiet evening at home, and was supposed to go to bed early, but got tied up posting old pics to the Web and sharing them with family. Time well spent. : ) (Mon, 04 Jan 2010 05:28:28 GMT)

David is sending lots of Happy to his employed friends who are returning to work today after Christmas vacations… in 33 degree weather no less! EEK!! (Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:20:20 GMT)

David hasn’t had a 2-movie day in forever. First: “The Blind Side” - wonderfully done, slightly formulaic, Sandra Bullock is exceptional. My grade: B. Second: “Youth In Revolt” preview screening - a delightful coming of age story with surprises, twists, and Michael Cera at his most adorable. My grade: A-. (Wed, 06 Jan 2010 03:31:08 GMT)

David is taking down the tree today. Tonight, Lilah/Detective at Sleuths. : ) (Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:36:43 GMT)

David is taking down the tree today. : ( Tonight, Lilah/Detective at Sleuths. : ) (Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:37:03 GMT)

David is tackling his to-do list with great determination. (Mon, 11 Jan 2010 03:10:02 GMT)

David is off to the gym. Pweh. Universal callbacks tonight! (Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:43:39 GMT)

David just did the gym… now to read some plays by high school kids (adjudication for the District 12 Thespian conference next weekend). (Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:53:44 GMT)

David is stoked to announce he will also be [becoming good friends with the] Green Army Man at Block Party Bash at Disney Hollywood Studios! More potentially semi-steady work! WOO HOO!! (Fri, 15 Jan 2010 04:16:46 GMT)

David just watched Frank Alfano Jr. KILL at Best Of British Pub Sunday Night Open Mic Night— what a great way to celebrate! All my best birthday wishes to you, Frankie! (Mon, 18 Jan 2010 06:01:09 GMT)

David is off to the gym. GWEH. (Have I said that enough this year so far? LOL) Later: AVATAR IMAX 3D!! WOO HOO! (Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:45:39 GMT)

David had a syooper hang-out day with Todd-Michael Hayes… lunch, a nice drive, dessert, then a healthy brisk walk… tonight, back to reading high school plays for adjudication at the District 12 Thespian Conference in Ocala this weekend. (Wed, 20 Jan 2010 23:20:55 GMT)

David just saw RENT @ Greater Orlando Actors Theatre — an outstanding production for a new community theatre … go and see it. Bravo to my friends Ana Bateman, Adam Galarza, Wyatt Glover, Jon Jimenez, and all the cast for a job well done!! (Sun, 24 Jan 2010 04:36:42 GMT)

David is hitting the sack early - back at the Mouse tomorrow! (Mon, 25 Jan 2010 03:11:14 GMT)

David Finally! A trip to the gym where I felt better after working out as opposed to tired and inconvenienced. I wondered if I’d ever feel that way again…! Now I just need to stop eating fried food and ice cream and candy and pizza. Oy. (Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:05:59 GMT)

David is sorry about the spoiler… got a little caught up in the “Project Runway” swirl and lost my head. Grrrr… reality TV….!$#%^&*!#$!! (Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:59:59 GMT)

David is trying to get over ANOTHER cold… !#$%^&*! (Sat, 30 Jan 2010 20:40:14 GMT)

David is getting a big kick out of all the celebrity doppelgänger photos. Just took sleep drugs, going to hit the sack early and wake up feeling better, dammit!! (Sun, 31 Jan 2010 02:26:06 GMT)

David is home sick - first Disney call in. : ( (Sun, 31 Jan 2010 15:38:57 GMT)

David just enjoyed the most amahzing homemade chicken soup, thanks to his BFF Stephen J. Miller. Hopefully its healing powers will kick in soon and make me well. : ) (Sun, 31 Jan 2010 23:18:23 GMT)

David LOST Season Premiere: KICK-ASS. My favorite part: Dharma Shark!! (Wed, 03 Feb 2010 04:34:40 GMT)

David forgot to mention he saw Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead at Mad Cow opening night - INCREDIBLE AMAZING AWESOME production - bravo to Tim Williams, Michael Marinaccio, Christian Kelty, Jamie Cline, Elizabeth Judith, Eric Bridges, and the rest of the cast and crew! (Don’t miss it, y’all!) (Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:22:48 GMT)

David had a great day off… gym, bought new tires at Costco (where they feed you to shop there), Super Targay shopping with TM, Pisa Pizza for lunch, then a second viewing of “The Princess And The Frog”. Good times. (Fri, 12 Feb 2010 03:22:40 GMT)

David has another day off — so many possibilities — and then he’s going to see Orlando Theatre Project’s Almost, Maine tonight. (Sat, 13 Feb 2010 14:34:59 GMT)

David wishes all the Harry Potter actors @ Universal much love as they embark on their first rehearsals today. I’m very sad I can’t be among you this go-round… but the Mouse has me happily otherwise engaged, so it’s all good. : ) (Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:52:59 GMT)

David s learning Block Party Bash parade this week… his performance will be reminiscent of “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” with Richard Simmons, only much much gayer. (Mon, 22 Feb 2010 02:37:12 GMT)

David spent all day at rehearsal - don’t even want to think about how sore I’m going to be tomorrow. (Tue, 23 Feb 2010 02:14:27 GMT)

David OK, so the body survived day 1 of rehearsal, wasn’t too sore today. Tomorrow…? I’m hoping for the best. (Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:14:05 GMT)

David fficially got his first year-long contract with Disney today - 4 days/week “being very friendly with” the Green Army Men at Hollywood Studios’ Block Party Bash. Woo hoo!! (Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:49:48 GMT)

David survived evening 1 of overnight rehearsals… 10pm-4:30am. GWEH. Only one more to go tonight/tomorrow… thank God. (Fri, 05 Mar 2010 16:52:50 GMT)

David YAY Kathryn Bigelow Best Director! Well deserved!! (Mon, 08 Mar 2010 04:56:47 GMT)

David WOW surprise that “The Hurt Locker” won… it was a well-done film, just not my cup of tea subject-matter wise. I appreciated it, I don’t really think I would care to sit through it again, though. (Mon, 08 Mar 2010 05:01:17 GMT)

David Why can’t I stop watching “RuPaul’s Drag Race”? I know that parts of my brain die every minute it’s on the screen. But I just can’t look away!! I need help. (Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:13:13 GMT)

David did his first parade today. Not too terrible!! Chipotle for dinner, then kawfee with John Bateman — good times!! (Thu, 11 Mar 2010 01:04:51 GMT)

David Second day on parade: rained out. Wah, waaaaaah. BUT I got to see Michael Colavolpe as one of the new American Idol judges and I got to watch him with Stew Jamesson and Kevin Bee! Lots of silver linings there!! (Thu, 11 Mar 2010 23:35:03 GMT)

David The rain is gone - YAY! Now my regular disposition can resume, already in progress… (Sat, 13 Mar 2010 13:56:12 GMT)

David Day 8 of 10 down… and you know what? This job is so much freakin’ FUN!! (Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:01:05 GMT)

David THREE DAYS OFF!! Plans: Vocal rest priority #1. Gym. Taxes. Shopping. Picking up the house. Paperwork. Chillaxing. AND… counting calories with the AWESOME “Lose It!” app. Now I get why everyone is hooked. (Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:55:26 GMT)

David is seeing Superior Donuts at Mad Cow tonight… can’t wait!! (Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:12:02 GMT)

David Awesome night at Superior Donuts at Mad Cow Theatre… really good show, time with many many friends - who could ask for more? (Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:54:23 GMT)

David just watched Pedro Almodovar’s latest film “Broken Embraces”… AWESOME flick. I worship all of his work. (Sun, 21 Mar 2010 03:12:11 GMT)

David just porked out at the Theatre Potluck / Toast to Elizabeth Maupin… a wonderful time was had by all and SO MUCH FOOD!!! (Mon, 22 Mar 2010 02:07:40 GMT)

David is training into “Disaster!” this week. (Oh, did I forget to mention I got hired to do this? Yep, I’m officially employed by both Disney and Universal now… I like to think of it as diversifying my employment portfolio.) (Wed, 24 Mar 2010 01:37:37 GMT)

David Last night’s “Lost” - AWESOME. (Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:41:04 GMT)

David spent the day watching TV (oops, I mean “catching up on the DVR” - sounds more productive that way), walking 4.75 miles, and napping. Now, to dinner with Stephen J. Miller in Winter Garden before seeing The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Can’t wait!! (Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:04:22 GMT)

David ate a little too much at dinner, so he made a late trip to the gym to work off the calories. Must… obey… the Lose It! app… (Sun, 28 Mar 2010 23:39:16 GMT)

David hopes everyone has a SYOOPER Easter! I’ll be celebrating by working. But I am having a dinner with friends on Monday night, and then a belated family dinner next weekend out in Clearwater. Holidays=Fun. (Sun, 04 Apr 2010 02:55:25 GMT)

David has a day off tomorrow! Woo hoo! (Thu, 08 Apr 2010 02:21:47 GMT)

David Thursday weigh-in: 176. Down 9 lbs in 3 weeks. Thanks, Lose It app!! (Thu, 08 Apr 2010 12:43:01 GMT)

David just saw a preview screening of “Kick Ass” — GREAT MOVIE!! (Fri, 09 Apr 2010 01:56:02 GMT)

David is at Disney on a Saturday (unusual) then at Universal tonight (pray for me). Tomorrow: Late Easter dinner with family on the West Coast. Friends visiting from out of town next week… My Fair Lady rehearsals start the week after. Things are kray kray — in a good way!! (Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:29:28 GMT)

David just finished his work week at Disney - three days off, WOOT!! But in there are rehearsals & convention work, costume fittings, and a Sleuths show. WHEW! My friends from college the Longees are in town this weekend, CAN’T WAIT to see them on Friday! (Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:12:25 GMT)

David Thursday weigh in: 174, 11 lbs. down so far! Goal is 165 by end of May. Totally doable! (Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:46:39 GMT)

David spent a lovely night with the Bruce Longee & Kathy Engel Longee family at the Magic Kingdom. Hearing their youngest scream with excitement during “Wishes” — amazing!! (Sat, 17 Apr 2010 12:06:19 GMT)

David Thursday weigh-in: 172! Down 2 more pounds this week. Total loss: 13 lbs. in 5 weeks. I’m going to KFC, biznitches!! (Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:45:41 GMT)

David thinks the Tams-Whitmark Library should be assessed a fee for every time someone rehearsing one of their shows inevitably asks, “What page is that in MY book?” (Fri, 23 Apr 2010 19:21:44 GMT)

David baby-sat his nephew, rehearsed My Fair Lady, visited his Dad, helped Cathy install a new chandelier, went to a (un)birthday party, visited friends, and made cookies… A good long, if not slightly too busy, day off. : ) (Sun, 25 Apr 2010 01:56:28 GMT)

David is accomplishing stupid little stuff and - most importantly - crossing things off of the dreaded TO-DO list. A very good thing. : ) (Fri, 30 Apr 2010 02:34:07 GMT)

David Weekly weigh-in: 170! Another 2 lbs. down, total weight loss since March 13: 15lbs!! (Sat, 01 May 2010 22:11:32 GMT)

David Omg trhekrm’n
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David The first thing in the morning… The smell of bacon along Commissary Lane at Hollywood Studios… OMFG!! …drool… : ... (Wed, 05 May 2010 12:13:50 GMT)

David is at the car fixin’ place for regular service… and I also need $800 worth of repairs? I don’t think so. (Thu, 06 May 2010 13:16:10 GMT)

David Dress rehearsal for “My Fair Lady” tonight! 2 perfs tomorrow @ Bob Carr (2pm & 8pm) (Fri, 07 May 2010 21:11:50 GMT)

David just watched Glee - the “Run Joey Run” video absolutely ROCKS! LMAO!! (Sat, 08 May 2010 04:35:40 GMT)

David Weekly weigh-in: 167!! 2 lbs away from goal!! (Notice I didn’t update last week - didn’t lose anything. Honesty.) (Wed, 12 May 2010 15:32:39 GMT)

David is at rehearsal for Slapstick and having a BLAST… could not be enjoying Tom Vazzana, Mary Thompson Hunt, Jennifer Brassard, Annie Haines, John Graham, and Allison Decaro any more!! : ) HAPPY : ) (Fri, 14 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT)

David Garth & Kat - LMAO! (Sun, 16 May 2010 04:31:58 GMT)

David just spent a great weekend in New Smyrna with Stephen J. Miller, Jamie Cox, Daniel Kilponen, and Todd-Michael Hayes… fried seafood at JB’s, ice cream at Banana Split Republic, brunch at Aunt Catfish’s… did I mention this was a splurge weekend? The coming weeks are going to be VEEEEERY BUSY…. (Mon, 17 May 2010 01:00:19 GMT)

David So… the whole FB changeover from “being a fan” to “liking”… has this achieved anything other than sounding silly? Personally, to be Fan, I would think you’d have to more than Like something. Why the face? (Mon, 17 May 2010 21:43:32 GMT)

David is burning into the Slapstick show at Epcot tomorrow. I think times are 11:30 and 3:30. Come and see me if you’re at the park (and not at Fringe — shyeah right!!). (Fri, 21 May 2010 02:07:47 GMT)

David has an AWESOME burn-in day at Slapstick~! The fun continues tomorrow. Then it’s back to Green Army Man Sunday and rehearsing “Cradle Will Rock” at Mad Cow. Busy busy busy busy busy busy busy busy busy …. (Sat, 22 May 2010 01:36:01 GMT)

David Some people dream of lush fantastical landscapes… some people’s dreams are populated by those they love, or perhaps those whom they have loved and lost… I dream that Toddie’s cats peed on the couch. Nice. Thank you, subconscious, for reminding me of my chronic lack of emotional complexity. (Thu, 27 May 2010 12:16:06 GMT)

David Weigh-in: 166. Goal was 165 by May 25. I’m a pathetic failure. I’m going to Fatty Fatt’s Sandwich Ranch and bury my sorrow in a carp po’boy with extra chuckle. (Thu, 27 May 2010 12:50:02 GMT)

David is in ‘tech day’ for “The Cradle Will Rock” at Mad Cow Theatre today. All day. (Sun, 30 May 2010 11:56:07 GMT)

David is in the Green Army again @ Hollywood Studios today. Very fitting for Memorial Day… Congrats to all my friends and their Fringe successes, I am so sorry that my crazy schedule prevented me from seeing much of anything this year. : ( (Mon, 31 May 2010 13:19:02 GMT)

David officially hit his goal weight today! (much to his surprise, considering this previous week’s eating habits) Total lost: 20 lbs. in 11 weeks. Maintenance calorie allotment now: 2479. I think I’m gonna cry. (Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:27:24 GMT)

David My morning to sleep in… and awake at 5am?! Are you effing kidding me, body? (Sat, 05 Jun 2010 11:30:07 GMT)

David going to bed early. Sorry, GayDays, this has been a work weekend. Hopefully all 100,000 of you managed to have a good time without me there. (Sun, 06 Jun 2010 03:05:10 GMT)

David UP AND AT ‘EM!! 9 hours of sleep… SO rested and ready for my day. Gym, Visit Dad, 2:30 matinee of “Cradle Will Rock”… thanks, Unisom! (Sun, 06 Jun 2010 13:35:19 GMT)

David had the pleasure of running into Amanda & Joel Warren yesterday! I got to meet Baby Landon - and when I held him for the first time, he cried. : ( (Tue, 08 Jun 2010 10:41:24 GMT)

David has the day off from Disney… birthday party for Dad and Nephew (one of them is 7, one of them is 83, you guess which) then back to rocking the cradle at Mad Cow Theatre tonight! (Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:33:59 GMT)

David Have you ever been at the gym and thought, “Yikes, someone nearby really stinks…” and then as your workout progresses, you realize the stank is coming off of you? Yeah, well, um, that’s never happened to me either. Especially didn’t happen today… heh heh… (Fri, 11 Jun 2010 17:30:24 GMT)

David Fighting a sore scratchy throat… GRRRRR. “Cradle Will Rock” Industry Nite tonight! Come and see us for cheap. www.madcowtheatre.com (Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:23:00 GMT)

David just got off of sets at Pixar Place, only to flip on the TV to find Kathy Griffin on The View. Hasselbeck: “You’ve said things about us here on the view that are both untrue and unfunny. Is it weird for you to be here sitting down talking to us?” Kathy: “No, because these are the moments I live for. Bring it!” LOVE HER!!! (Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:48:55 GMT)

David s home sick today. It’s that thing of when like you know your throat is sore and your head is congested and you’re all flushed with fever… : ( (Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:38:40 GMT)

David just posted a blog on MySpace… So what’s the verdict? Are people even keeping their MS accounts? Is it time to go back to Blogger? (though I still think it is INSANITY that Facebook doesn’t have a true blog function) (Thu, 17 Jun 2010 02:29:34 GMT)

David is up too early to be at the dentist getting several teeth drilled… back at The Cradle Will Rock tonight!! YAY!!! (Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:18:19 GMT)

David just saw Toy Story 3 - OMFG what an amazing accomplishment. Just brilliant - every frame, every wonderful moment… (and the Green Army Men are in it!! Woo hoo!!) (Sat, 19 Jun 2010 05:26:54 GMT)

David has a Saturday-day to himself. Wait.. WHA-? OMFG! OK, be good… Will try to rest to get the last of this cold out of my system… tonight, the Cradle Rocks again! : ) (Sat, 19 Jun 2010 13:39:46 GMT)

David Father’s Day visit, then a Sunday matinee of “Cradle Will Rock” today! Back at Block Party tomorrow. Later in the week: Sleuths, Slapstick, and Disaster… it’s gonna be a full week of fun and variety! : ) (Sun, 20 Jun 2010 13:26:23 GMT)

David has been wanting to get a new suit… And just found one at a thrift store that he really likes and fits him off-the-rack. Cost: $18. Now THAT’s a store-gasm. (Thu, 24 Jun 2010 16:24:14 GMT)

David is at the Velcro show today (shows at 11:30, 12:00, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00), then back at Mad Cow Theatre tonight for “The Cradle Will Rock”. Tomorrow: Disaster! from 8:30-12:30, then more cradle-rockin. (No comments about cradle-robbing from the peanut gallery, please) (Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:43:53 GMT)

David got brushed up fine at Disaster this morning. More Cradle Will Rock tonight (only 2 weekends left folks, Monday is industry nite, I’m just say’n) then tomorrow is reverse day with Cradle in the afternoon and Disaster at night. Back into the Green Army on Monday… work work work work work work work (and that’s a good thing - somebody please tell my voice) (Sat, 26 Jun 2010 20:20:52 GMT)

David doesn’t mind mornings… He just wishes they didn’t happen so early in the day. (Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:15:34 GMT)

David is up too early again… Idol & Block Party today, some home improvements at Catherine Thompson’s place tonight, following by some baking (don’t tell the “Cradle” cast, it’s a secret… shhhh)… and probably sleep drugs before I go to bed. : ) (Tue, 29 Jun 2010 10:56:26 GMT)

David is up and at ‘em!! Slapstick/Velcro today (shows @11:30 12:00 3:00 3:30 4:00), then off to start the final weekend of “Cradle Will Rock” at Mad Cow Theatre. Oh, Cradle cast… coma brownies are coming!! : ) (Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:20:56 GMT)

David Idol this morning. Parade this afternoon. Cradle tonight. Tomorrow: SOME TIME TO REST! WOO HOO! (Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:43:46 GMT)

David Last day of “Cradle Will Rock” — : (  I’m gonna miss this cast sooo much… (Sun, 04 Jul 2010 14:37:12 GMT)

David has an evening free… Wha-wha-what?!? (Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:04:25 GMT)

David is just getting out of the dentist’s office. Five teeth drilled & filled, permanent crown now installed. Great way to start my ‘weekend’… Cuz it only can get better from here. (Plus side: no more metal in my mouth, all beautiful white composite now. Yay!) (Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:28:34 GMT)

David is at his Dad’s condo in New Smyrna Beach… and some poor unsuspecting neighbor has WiFi set up with no key code. I’m connected to the world, woo hoo!! <feeling of happy> (Fri, 09 Jul 2010 03:07:18 GMT)

David just looked at his closed MacBook Pro and realized THAT’s what the new design of the iPhone 4 is about. The square-edge late 80’s/early 90’s boxiness may seem retro, but it mirrors the design of the laptop computer. I may have to get the new phone now, just to have a matched set. CURSE YOU, APPLE!! (Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:08:52 GMT)

David saw a pre-screener of “Inception” earlier this week - AWESOME flick!! Highly recommended. (Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:47:22 GMT)

David had a great day at Animal Kingdom yesterday with Alexander Mrazek-got to see Ame Livingston and Sam Sinns in “Nemo!” and Brian Morrison and Kyle Stevenson in “Lion King!”, two of the best shows on property. We got soaked TO THE SKIN in the 4:30 torrential downpour. Imagineering may want to make the daily post-parade monsoon a little less realistic. I’m just say’n. (Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:26:10 GMT)

David is at Disaster this afternoon, then going to see Splash @ Shakespeare tonight. Yay for work and play! (Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:52:37 GMT)

David saw Splash at Shakespeare tonight - GREAT JOB, Brandon Roberts, Jason Horne, Mark Koenig, Becky Eck, and that new girl whom I don’t know and whose name I forget!! Bravos all around!! (Sun, 18 Jul 2010 01:27:46 GMT)

David is feeling a tremendous sense of gratitude lately. (Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:17:38 GMT)

David is spending an exciting evening at home paying bills and filing stuff. (Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:03:49 GMT)

David out of the blue starting singing stuff from “Zombies From The Beyond” yesterday morning. Ended up listening to the whole show on the way into work. Hey Jay & Diana Hopkins, Todd Long, Rod Cathey, Melissa Mason Braillard, Kate O’Neal, Corey Ryan Matos, and Elizabeth Takacz — when are getting together to watch the video?? (Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:07:50 GMT)

David is going to see The Heiress at Mad Cow tonight - I got an extra ticket… anybody wanna come with? As in for free. It starts at 7:30pm. Text or call me 407-924-9983. (Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:47:03 GMT)

David The Heiress at Mad Cow Theatre is AMAZING!! Bravos to the across-the-board incredible cast (too many to tag here)… Such a great play and a WONDERFUL production!! GO SEE IT!!! (Sun, 25 Jul 2010 00:05:45 GMT)

David experienced Bar Louie last night for the first time. Dollar burgers, a basket of tots, the company of Alexander Mrazek and Matthew Burton and other fun folks… not to mention running into Mike Carr… followed by Menchie’s - OMFG, who needs anything more?! (Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:28:19 GMT)

David is having lunch with Alex at Thai Blossom restaurant in Winter Garden. Yum x 2! (Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:20:51 GMT)

David is desserting with good friends tonight! YAY! (Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:13:38 GMT)

David just activated the deposit function on the Chase Bank app. Now I can take pictures of checks and deposit them directly from my iPhone? Srsly?!? These are good times, people!!! (Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:56:10 GMT)

David just at dinner with Alexander Mrazek at O’Boys Barbecue and desserted at UTopIt in Baldwin Park… it is probably not a good thing to have food this yummy within walking distance of my house. (Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:35:32 GMT)

David just got home from saying farewell to Katie Hammond - her beauty, her talent, and her spirit will be missed. Our loss is NYC’s gain… GO GET ‘EM, GURRRRRRL!! (Wed, 04 Aug 2010 04:24:20 GMT)

David will be getting his free Planet Smoothie smoothie for dinner — Birthday Month has begun! (Thanks, Laura Hodos, for starting this wonderful celebration trend) (Wed, 04 Aug 2010 21:48:09 GMT)

David You know, sitting in the shade on the piazza next to the Baldwin Park Publix… The breeze is lovely and the weather is quite nice. *deep breath* ahhhh…! (Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:32:19 GMT)

David had an AWESOME shopping day with the girls (Alexander Mrazek & Stephen J. Miller)… tonight, going to see PRT’s Summer Shorts 2010: Summer Love August 5-7, 11-15 with Steve & John Bateman … great day off!! (Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:51:21 GMT)

David was at the gym at 5:45 this morning… not pleasant at the time, but feeling GREAT now! (Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:29:01 GMT)

David is at Orlando Shakes seeing Chase Padgett’s “6 Guitars”. (Fri, 06 Aug 2010 23:55:25 GMT)

David saw 6 Guitars - last local show weekend! … AMAZING. Every bit as good as you’ve heard, do not miss it!! I already knew Chase Padgett was a talented guy, but this show made me go WOW. (Sat, 07 Aug 2010 10:33:59 GMT)

David had a great day at work with John Bateman and Frank Alfano Jr. … and a good parade too… now it’s time to put on my eatin’ dress and attend THEATER POTLUCK! tonight with Alex. NOM NOM NOM!! (Sun, 08 Aug 2010 21:10:30 GMT)

David has a new guilty pleasure: RuPaul’s “Drag U”… the IQ points keeps dropping, right down to every time he jokingly refers to his faculty as his “fal-kuh-tee”. (Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:11:22 GMT)

David just finished an overnight green army man rehearsal… Heading home now. Not as painful as I expected, and I am going to slee-heep now…! (Tue, 17 Aug 2010 06:50:26 GMT)

David How do you know it’s still birthday month? Peanut butter toast and chocolate cake for breakfast! YAY!! Thanks so much to everybody for all of the birthday notes and wishes. I can truly feel the lerve. : ) (Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:45:36 GMT)

David made a taco salad lunch for the bf and the roommate, is doing a 1/2 shift @ disaster right now, followed by yet another birthday month celebration… TM is taking me to Carrabbas where I’m planning to eat bread with olive oil and spices until I faint. Good times… : ) (Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:31:52 GMT)

David is working Slapstick/Velcro with the lovely and talented Krista Miller! AND i get some GRT with John Graham and Missy Meyer!? And (all too briefly) see Sarah Hanchar & Eric Pinder too??!? My cup runneth over… Seriously. (Sat, 21 Aug 2010 17:58:19 GMT)

David is watching the movie “Tron” for the first time… Me like. : ) (Sun, 22 Aug 2010 16:44:43 GMT)

David had an awesome day in spite of a headache and bad weather… American Idol with Laura Hodos and cake… and then chat time with Steven Lane in the DHS parking lot! Me so happy. : ) (Wed, 25 Aug 2010 23:29:08 GMT)

David would post a status update, but he’s too busy watching Netflix on his iPhone 24/7. OMFG!! (Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:30:26 GMT)

David Emmy opening number - AWESOME!!! (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:19:35 GMT)

David Emmys so far: KICK ASS with the comedy bits. LOVED the modern family bit!! (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:44:00 GMT)

David GREAT emmy show so far. Jimmy Fallon is doing well… but the nominees, WOW what a strong year it’s been. (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 01:46:10 GMT)

David January Jones - what is with that blue cupcake foil dress? FUGLY!! (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:09:39 GMT)

David I think Claire Danes is one of those exceptional-but-underrated actresses… and she never looks less than stunning. GORGEOUS tonight, and (spoiler alert) SO HAPPY she won!! (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:38:51 GMT)

David LOVE “Modern Family”!!!!!!! I really thought it was gonna be “Glee” though… pretty awesome to not be disappointed either way. WOO HOO! (Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:59:10 GMT)

David is having a quiet night at home. A good thing. : ) (Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:09:31 GMT)

David had one of those days where he woke up feeling headachey and crappy — but pushed through, worked out at the gym, and felt like a million bucks afterwards. If only all workouts were this satisfying! (Sun, 05 Sep 2010 00:09:54 GMT)

David woke up rested and refreshed… Spent a great night with my honey shopping at Downtown Disney, discovering Ghirardelli now makes a PUMPKIN SPICE CARAMEL chocolate square - OMFG!!!, seeing Nanny McPhee Returns (great flick) and then curling up on the couch together watching 30 Rock on Netflix. Aaaaahhhhhh…. : ) (Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:52:19 GMT)

David Do not miss Company at Mad Cow Theatre… the production is superb!! Congrats to the entire cast & crew for a job well done!! (Sat, 11 Sep 2010 05:19:58 GMT)

David is going to bed. Now. Must get my rest. Logging off of Facebook and walking away from the computer. Now. Right now. Srsly. OK, clicking two more things, and then going to bed. I mean it. Going to bed now. NOW!! (Mon, 13 Sep 2010 04:06:29 GMT)

David spent last evening at Epcot - seeing Mary Thompson Hunt & Jay T. Becker in “What’s Your Problem?”, playing Kim Possible with my honey Alexander Mrazek, being embarrassed by Carol Stein, and seeing Captain EO for the first time in a long time and riding Soarin’ for the first time EVER. OMFG!! Dinner at Mexico… Illuminations… dang, just a great great night. (Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:59:11 GMT)

David is still fighting this stupid cold! Be gone! Germs of sickness, I rebuke you!! (Sat, 18 Sep 2010 14:17:38 GMT)

David First reading of “A Christmas Carol” - AWESOME. In other news, Fringe application for 2011 just emailed. Cross yer fingers, people!! (Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:09:36 GMT)

David is at the Orlando Improv Festival. Enjoying some Irish food beforehand at Fiddler’s Green. (Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:54:53 GMT)

David Halloween Horror Nights Preview tonight!!! Woo hoo! No drunken ignorant stupid rednecks!! (Aside from those employed by Universal, of course) (Wed, 22 Sep 2010 15:55:07 GMT)

David watched “Temple Grandin” last night - it won Emmys for best made-for-TV movie, Claire Danes, David Strathairn, all SO well deserved!! Great great awesome film!! (Sun, 26 Sep 2010 13:34:49 GMT)

David is still on a sugar high from all the candy at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary… great times with his honey Alexander Mrazek and Melissa E. Koerner & Jim Doyle… the weather looked iffy, but it turned out perfectly. Got to see ALL of the special stuff (parade, unusual characters, Villain Castle show) with room to breathe… what a joy to experience a pleasant and enjoyable Halloween Theme Park Event!! (Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:16:12 GMT)

David enjoyed dinner last night with Alexander Mrazek including homemade pork, rice, and tostones made by Ana Bateman & John Bateman… finished the night with key lime pie and “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” (the original classic)… ahh, the perfect evening. : ) (Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:35:07 GMT)

David is devastated to find Thriftko in Casselberry is closed. Gone. Does anybody know what happened? Where am I going to find my Halloween costumes for $3 now?!? (Fri, 01 Oct 2010 02:51:29 GMT)

David WOW what an emotional Project Runway. Great, great show. One of the best ever. (Even though I’m still not sold on the 90-minute format…) (Fri, 01 Oct 2010 02:52:30 GMT)

David wants to be a Ziti Sister!! (Sun, 03 Oct 2010 21:12:46 GMT)

David used his patio for the first time yesterday. *CONTENTED SIGH* Autumn weather, Central Florida welcomes you with open arms!! (Mon, 04 Oct 2010 11:29:41 GMT)

David slept last night with the windows open for the first time in… well, actually for the first time EVER since he bought his house 12 years ago. WOW. PLEASE OH PLEASE autumn weather stick around for a while!! (Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:11:21 GMT)

David wishes many broken legs to his friends in the cast of GUYS and DOLLS tomorrow! Philip Nolen Andrea Canny Rod Cathey Michael Edwards Matthew Burton (and the others I can’t tag - Michelle Knight-Hinson, director Frank McClain … and other ones I know I’m forgetting!!) (Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:31:02 GMT)

David is at Logan airport… hoping to get on the NEXT flight that will get him home. Ah, the crap-shoot of flying stand-by… (and I’ve been boasting all weekend that I never have a problem - D’Oh! Shoulda kept my big fat mouth shut!!) (Sun, 10 Oct 2010 19:25:29 GMT)

David missed 3 flights out of Boston - I think the 4th time is gonna be the charm… (Sun, 10 Oct 2010 22:08:24 GMT)

David is in Atlanta now… and will be back in Orlando soon. YAY!! (Mon, 11 Oct 2010 02:19:12 GMT)

David is back in the Green today after spending an amazing long weekend in Massachusetts with family & friends! And then a kick-ass lazy day of rest with Alex in between…  Good times. : ) (Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:04:24 GMT)

David has new wood grain laminate floors at his house!! (still stacked in the middle of the living room) Being installed next week, I can’t wait!!!! (Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:10:02 GMT)

David saw [title of show] at PH last night — AMAZING CAST, AMAZING PRODUCTION!! Kevin Kelly, Rob Lott, Robyn Pedretti Kelly, and Melissa Mason kick some serious musical theatre ass! (More info on the show: Come see [title of show] (an awesome, four-person musical!)) Congrats to Michael Wanzie and Kenny Equality Howard — EVERYBODY GO AND SEE IT. NOW!!! (Sun, 17 Oct 2010 12:02:39 GMT)

David had an awesome day yesterday at Food & Wine with Alexander Mrazek, Todd Long, Ritch Broughton, Stephen J. Miller, Kevin Kriegel, and Todd-Michael Hayes… so so much food, so so much fun! Back in the green today, and SO EXCITED the new floors being installed today!! AAAAAAIIIIIGGGGHHH!!! (Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:54:27 GMT)

David Day 2 of floor installation. Todd-Michael Hayes and the kitties are stuck at the house… send him some lerve, people… note him/chat him/call him/text him. I am thankful he is able to be there and I appreciate him bunches!! (Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:48:37 GMT)

David is starting to feel run down… too much going on… going to stay home and rest tonight. Will be missing 2 friends’ birthday celebrations, too… Not a happy camper. : ( (Sat, 23 Oct 2010 23:31:13 GMT)

David came home to find his sweetie Alexander Mrazek had done some AMAZING Halloween decorations around the house! LOVE IT!! (Sun, 24 Oct 2010 21:16:34 GMT)

David “Modern Family” Halloween episode… LOVE LOVE LOVE this show more and more each week!! (Thu, 28 Oct 2010 03:00:59 GMT)

David just watched Mindy Cohn (of “Facts Of Life” fame) on “What Not To Wear” - she is one of those famous people who gives off the vibe that what-you-see-is-what-you-get, and she’d probably be really fun to just hang out with. (Sat, 30 Oct 2010 18:22:27 GMT)

David had a blast at his Halloween Party last night - lots of great friends, great food, great fun… and AMAZING decorations!! Thanks to all who came out and made the return of this event so wonderful. Photos coming soon. Alexander Mrazek Todd-Michael Hayes (Sat, 30 Oct 2010 18:24:13 GMT)

David is in Winter Garden … going to see Noises Off!! (Sat, 30 Oct 2010 22:22:42 GMT)

David really enjoyed “Noises Off” in Winter Garden last night. Congrats and much love to Jay & Diana Hopkins, Sarah Lee Dobbs, Jason Horne, Meggin Stailey, Becky Eck, Tyler Cravens, and all of the wonderful cast. DON’T MISS THIS PRODUCTION!! (Sun, 31 Oct 2010 13:37:09 GMT)

David had one of the best Halloweens EVER! The weekend started with the return of his annual party… it went superbly (the decorations by Alexander Mrazek got great reviews)…  and last night after seeing Hoop Dee Doo, Alex & I went to the Haunted Swamp at the Enzian (def will do it again). Running into Leander Suleiman & lots of other folks was also very enjoyable… Just a great super awesome Halloween 2010! (Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:03:06 GMT)

David Eye infection is not an infection, it’s an “internal hordeolum” meaning my right lower eyelid is swollen and red and is going to be swollen and red until it isn’t swollen and red anymore. BOO. Halloween decorations down and packed away. Cleaned out utility storage in the process. House looking more like its old self. YAY! (Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:36:00 GMT)

David *thinks* the eye is looking better today… (Wed, 03 Nov 2010 12:51:54 GMT)

David 30 Days of Thankfulness (catching up with this super awesome idea): 11/1: I am thankful for my family up north. I stayed with them last month and hadn’t seen them in a long time. The outpouring of unconditional love was overwhelming. (Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:42:08 GMT)

David 30 Days of Thankfulness (still catching up): 11/2: I am thankful for my job and that my acting career seems to be working out ok so far since losing my office job in 2008! (Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:44:44 GMT)

David 30 Days of Thankfulness - 11/3: I am thankful for Disney and Universal and Sleuths and Sea World and all of the tourist destinations in Central Florida that pay people to perform and earn a living doing what they love. Expected griping about one’s job aside, these businesses are the cornerstone of our local economy, and I feel privileged to be in their employ, being paid to do what I love! (Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:50:07 GMT)

David has a friend arriving from out of town this evening!  We’re going to IOA tomorrow to see WWoHP. OK, experts — what time should we arrive? (Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:37:48 GMT)

David 30 Days of Thankfulness: I am thankful for my health. This is a tough one… in spite of my wonky ankles, my sometimes annoying back, this knotted up shoulder that will NOT quit… and now a new facial allergic reaction thing (in addition to my stye which is getting better)… I know my physical complaints and annoyances are mere grains of sand compared to the beaches of suffering that others must endure. (Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:40:56 GMT)

David TDOT Day 5: I am thankful for my friends, in particular the ones I don’t see very often. My friend Doug is visiting me from NY right now, and I haven’t seen him in 12 years. We’re at WWoHP and everywhere I turn I see amazing talented people with whom I am acquainted and/or have had the pleasure of working. These folks may be supporting players in my life, but I still feel tremendous affection for them. (Fri, 05 Nov 2010 20:54:56 GMT)

David TDOT Day 6: I am thankful for food. I love to eat, and food brings me so much pleasure… not just its taste, but the social occasions that surround it. The fellowship and sense of family that it brings is possibly my favorite thing about life itself. (And I am a lucky person that it has always been plentifully available throughout my life.) Food is Love. (Sun, 07 Nov 2010 04:42:53 GMT)

David TDOT Day 7: I am thankful for Daylight Savings Time! With it, I get more sunshine each day in the Summer and an extra hour of sleep in the Fall! (Sun, 07 Nov 2010 04:45:11 GMT)

David TDOT Day 8: I am thankful for theme parks. Seriously. We Orlandolts take them for granted, but in our own back yard we have these amazing places full of incredible architecture, design, creativity, theatre, food, and entertainment… I still find myself full of wonder and amazement when I am a guest at Disney, Universal, Sea World… (Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:29:11 GMT)

David TDOT Day 9: I am thankful for my job. I’ve already mentioned my ‘career’, but now I’m just talking about my actual job. So many talented people out there (people far more talented than I) would give their left arm for regular theme park acting work; I know I am VERY fortunate to have it. (Wed, 10 Nov 2010 02:10:57 GMT)

David TDOT DAY 10: I am thankful for my sister, Lauren Almeida Hockenberry. When we first relocated to Florida, we only had each other until we slowly built our individual lives. In that time, our sibling-dom grew into a genuine friendship. She is kind, generous, loyal, supportive, beautiful inside and out… and she always has my back. Lauren, you are the greatest, and I love you infinitely with all my heart. (Thu, 11 Nov 2010 01:10:32 GMT)

David TDOT DAY 11: (Veteran’s Day Version) I am thankful for all of the amazing members of the armed forces who fight and have fought for my freedom. It is a lifestyle I cannot begin to fathom; it is a sacrifice I could never make. And though the institutions are in direct conflict with my gayness, I believe the majority of the individuals serving are not. It is SO hard not to take our freedom for granted…! (Thu, 11 Nov 2010 18:45:27 GMT)

David TDOT DAY 12: Today I am thankful for technology. It’s a love-hate relationship, but as a gadget-geek who is obsessed with his iPhone and his MacBook… what would life BE without these amazing inventions!? (Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:40:40 GMT)

David TDOT Day 13: I am thankful for the Velcro Show at Epcot. Today consisted of Allison Decaro AND “The Devil Wears Prada” on our long break. Always a complete and total joy to work there! (Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:15:47 GMT)

David TDOT Day 14: Whoa, having a rough time of it today… worked on 2 of my 3 ‘days off’, starting my Disney week sleep-deprived, stiff, achey, cranky, and vocally worse than in past weeks. … I guess today I’m thankful for the ability to have a bad day, vent about it on Facebook, and know that things will seem better tomorrow, if not sooner. (Sun, 14 Nov 2010 14:45:46 GMT)

David is at the Fringe Lottery… Our group Utmost Productions is 22nd on the wait list. So SO disappointed after we didn’t get in last year… : ( (Mon, 15 Nov 2010 23:56:16 GMT)

David TDOT Day 15: In spite of my disappointment at not getting into Fringe 2011, I am thankful that the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival is a successful annual outlet for so many of my insanely talented friends to produce their own theatrical pieces. Congratulations to all who made it in! (Expect me to start begging to be cast in something the next time I see all of you) (Tue, 16 Nov 2010 02:01:11 GMT)

David TDOT DAY 16: I am thankful for Alexander Mrazek. Having such a terrific guy in my life that makes me feel so special is a wonderful blessing. I am proud to call him my fella. : ) (Tue, 16 Nov 2010 22:07:29 GMT)

David (Catch-Up!) TDOT Day 17: I am thankful for Florida weather. Haven’t the last few weeks been amazing? Now that I work outside, I appreciate living in the south more than ever this time of year. (Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:03:34 GMT)

David (Catch-Up!) TDOT Day 18: I am thankful for my father. Even as his Alzheimer’s advances and his memory loss robs him of his old self more and more… Tony Almeida is still one of the kindest, gentlest, gregarious, affectionate, and generous men I have ever met. How lucky I am to have him for a Dad; I love him very much! (Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:05:12 GMT)

David (Catch-Up!) TDOT Day 19: I am thankful for my mother. She’s been gone more than 6 years now, but I am reminded of her every day. From her I learned patience, kindness, gentility, and the ability to remain calm in the middle of a storm. Claire Almeida, you are gone but not forgotten, and very very loved. (Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:10:49 GMT)

David (Catch-Up!) TDOT Day 20: copying Marcie Schwalm… I am thankful for the production of “Assassins” I did 7 years ago this month. The production values and direction were awful, but the talent was amazing, and with this show I made some amazing friends. Steve MacKinnon Kimberly Gray Larry Stallings Justin Sargent (Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:16:43 GMT)

David TDOT Day 21: I am thankful for my awesome co-workers, the Green Army Men. The family is unfortunately being broken up when the parade closes 1/1/11… I am truly honored for the brief time I have been blessed to be a part of this brotherhood of hilarious, talented, clever, generous men. Arnie Ellis Tony Whitten Frank Alfano Jr. Mac McLeod Cameron Matthews Matthew Warfield Jeff Farley Robert Buchanan (Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:26:09 GMT)

David TDOT Day 22: I am thankful for laughter. I have had an abundance of all through my life; I have always been surrounded by amazingly funny people who make me laugh all the time. And I’m even blessed enough to be able to lead folks in laughter sometimes, both on-stage and off-. I was inspired to write this as I watched a man snarf beer out of his nose at Sleuths last night, and it was because of something I said. : ) (Mon, 22 Nov 2010 03:00:14 GMT)

David Day 23: I am thankful for my best friend Stephen J. Miller. Loyal, talented, and funny, he has made me more comfortable with being challenged by art; he has helped me to shape and recognize my own life philosophies, artistic manifestos, and spiritual beliefs; He strives to be decent and gracious, and freely admits to failure and imperfection. As we grow old, he reminds me that we don’t necessarily have to grow up. : ) (Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:47:22 GMT)

David TDOT Day 24: Today I am thankful for chocolate. Is there a more delicious delight in the world that can take on so many delectable forms? I worry that a food can bring me so much happiness… But if loving chocolate is wrong, I don’t wanna be right. (Thu, 25 Nov 2010 02:01:57 GMT)

David TDOT Day 25: I am thankful for the freedom and the ability to create my own Spirituality. Somebody once said, “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is ‘thank you’, it will be enough.” I try to aim higher than that, and I try to thank my higher power (which I call The Universe) on a regular basis for all of the blessings in my life, both the obvious and the not-so-apparent. Happy Thanksgiving Y’All! (Thu, 25 Nov 2010 19:15:28 GMT)

David is going to see Talkin’ Turkey Cabaret! tonight! Woo hoo! (Fri, 26 Nov 2010 21:51:48 GMT)

David TDOT Day 26: I am thankful for a day off to recuperate from Thanksgiving. I love to go shopping on Black Friday… because I usually don’t need to buy anything, and I just like getting caught up in the holiday energy and decorations. Good times!! (Fri, 26 Nov 2010 21:53:28 GMT)

David TDOT Day 27: I am thankful for all of the amazingly talented theatrical people in this town. (Both on-stage and off-!) I am lucky to work with some of the best top-notch talent…as good as you can find anywhere, including NYC and LA. I am very aware of this as we rehearse A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas. : ) (Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:59:33 GMT)

David is hanging with Alexander Mrazek tonight, helping him put up Christmas decorations. (And by ‘helping’, I mean sitting on the couch FB’ing while watching “Elf”…) (Sun, 28 Nov 2010 04:31:03 GMT)

David TDOT day 28: I am thankful that tech week of A Christmas Carol is here! At last we’re permanently on the stage with lights & costumes … ! Can’t wait!! (Mon, 29 Nov 2010 15:54:50 GMT)

David TDOT Day 29: I am thankful for my house. Correction: My HOME. I bought it before the market went crazy, and 12 years later, it’s very affordable, I LOVE the location, and it is my beloved retreat from the crazy of the world. (Now would somebody please move all of the theme parks closer to the neighborhood? thanks luv ya mean it) (Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:06:59 GMT)

David Day 30: I am thankful for my life. Yesterday John Bateman said, “David could end up in the gutter and still manage to find two gold coins.” By the grace of The Universe and probably some dumb luck, I have been given an overabundance of good fortune from Day 1. As I type this, living my Dream Life, my gripes and complaints are far eclipsed by the positive things… I feel unworthy, and very, very appreciative. (Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:24:31 GMT)

David really should get to sleep… hanging at Universal tomorrow. I mean today. Thursday, that is. Who all’s working? (Thu, 02 Dec 2010 07:05:38 GMT)

David The Christmas Season has officially begun: I just heard “Christmas Shoes” on the radio for the first time this year… anyone who knows me knows that it is probably hands down my favorite song to hate every year. : ) (Sat, 04 Dec 2010 04:54:07 GMT)

David is obsessed with “The Sing Off” — !! (Wed, 08 Dec 2010 01:39:35 GMT)

David Contract Meeting @ Disney at 1:00pm. Stay tuned for more information… (& cross some fingers while you’re at it) (Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:31:02 GMT)

David had busy ‘day off’ - dentist appt, IOA to see Alexander Mrazek as Dr Doom, IKEA (ran into cute preggers Robyn Pedretti Kelly - BONUS!!), throat doctor, home to nap, then A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas performance tonight. WHEW! (Fri, 10 Dec 2010 01:32:37 GMT)

David is finally watching the Sondheim birthday concert PBS special. Just pry me off the couch in 2 hours. (Sun, 12 Dec 2010 15:26:23 GMT)

David INDUSTRY NIGHT TONIGHT of “A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas” at the Garden Theatre at 8 p.m.! Tickets are only $15… Come out and see the spooky side of Christmas! (Mon, 13 Dec 2010 22:21:36 GMT)

David spent a leisurely “work” day at Slapstick with Sarah Hanchar - love huh! I was accompanied by my personal photographer Matthew Burton - it was his first day with his Disney ID so I showed him backstage and the tunnel. Interesting to remember back to how exciting that was for me. Pics coming soon…! (Right, Matt?) ; ) (Fri, 17 Dec 2010 04:22:01 GMT)

David just got serious about shopping for Christmas. It’s a week from tomorrow! Did you know this?!? (Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:23:09 GMT)

David A miserable rainy day - perfect day for Holiday Baking! (& the only day I have off all month to do so…) (Sat, 18 Dec 2010 16:06:12 GMT)

David “A Christmas Carol” in Winter Garden took its final bow today. A great show and a wonderful company of generous and lovable souls. Here’s hoping this isn’t the last time I get to work with these folks. (Mon, 20 Dec 2010 03:36:04 GMT)

David Four days to Christmas, Four days to Christmas!! (not enough time to do my Christmas shopping) (Tue, 21 Dec 2010 23:40:37 GMT)

David Because Peg O’Keef is in my iPhone contacts, her name is contained in my spellcheck. Hence, when I attempt to text “Okee dokee smokee”, it auto-corrects the phrase to “O’Keef Dikey Smoker”. LMAO!! (For the record, Peg IS a smoker, but she is NOT a lesbian.) (Wed, 22 Dec 2010 23:58:17 GMT)

David “From Atlantic to Pacific, Gee the traffic is HORRIFIC!!” But I think I got all the Christmas shopping finally done. Wrapping it all up now, then to bed early for a special Friday Block Party Bash tomorrow. (Fri, 24 Dec 2010 01:55:18 GMT)

David Already half-way through Carol Burnett memoir “This Time Together”… thanks again, Stephen J. Miller! (& Jan Martinovic — where the eff were you!?) (Mon, 27 Dec 2010 01:00:08 GMT)

David Enough with the cold already! Never did I imagine I’d long for summer and the 97 degree weather. (Mon, 27 Dec 2010 13:56:50 GMT)

David is planning to catch up on his sleep tonight (stupid little cold is STILL hanging on!!) and tomorrow… his last day at Block Party Bash. Green no more… : ( (Wed, 29 Dec 2010 01:09:36 GMT)

10. You get a threatening note made up of letters cut out of a magazine with pinking shears, and they’re all the same size, the same font, and precisely lined up in razor-sharp rows.

9.   You find a lemon slice in the dog’s water bowl.

8.   On her TV show she makes a gingerbread house that looks exactly like your split-level, right down to the fallen licorice downspout and the half-open graham cracker garage door.

7.  You find your pet bunny on the stove in an exquisite tarragon, rose petal & saffron demi-glace’, with pecan-crusted hearts of palm and a delicate mint-fennel sauce.

6.  The unmistakable aroma of potpourri follows you even after you leave the bathroom.

5.  You discover that every napkin in the entire house has been folded into a swan.

4.  No matter where you eat, your place setting always includes an oyster fork.

3.  Twice this week you’ve been the victim of a drive-by doilying.

2.  You wake up in the hospital with a concussion and endive stuffing in every orifice.

AND THE NUMBER 1 Sign You’re Being Stalked by Martha Stewart…

1. You awaken one morning with a glue gun pointed squarely at your temple.

(I got this via an email, but I’m pretty sure it was an official David Letterman Top 10 List… if anybody knows otherwise, please let me know and I’ll happily credit the author.)

It is official: my production company Utmost Productions did not get picked in the Lottery for the Orlando International Fringe Festival for next year. At least we were witness to many, many wonderful groups getting picked, and even without us, it is going to be a great Festival.

Last year at this time, I was feeling the same thing, because we didn’t make it in the lottery then either.

But it is interesting to note… when Fringe time rolled around this year, I had just finished the concert version of My Fair Lady with Mad Cow, and I was cast in their production of The Cradle Will Rock. I was also experiencing the worst of my vocal strain due to my close friendship with the Green Army Men at Disney. AND I was lucky enough to be cast in another show at Disney, and had I been committed to Fringe I would have had to turn that role down… and I just don’t think saying no to the Mouse is ever a good idea.

Steve and Michael, my co-producers, also found themselves in busy situations at that time, and it was agreed that for all three of us, being in Fringe would have turned out to be a hardship.

As a result of my busy-ness, I only made it to the Fringe as an audience member one night. I saw only three shows, the lowest number I’ve seen in nearly a decade.

So, I am going to taking our “loss” tonight as a hopeful sign that bigger and better things await. That next April-May is going to be a crazy time of enormous employment and artistic opportunities. I’m dying to see what is down the road…

Usually my friend Meghan Moroney gets these, but this time I’m the lucky one! A message sent on MySpace (who messages on MySpace anymore?):

“Greeting, Having the opportunity to say “Hello”. Currently live in Orlando, FL. Yes, I’m Floridan Breaded. Looking to go step by step with lover. In search for the man that doesn’t hurt, nor keep me from reaching top goals. The man who I can spend long and enjoyable nights in his home (you need own resident and own transportation). As for myself still attending school… I am part time employee for xxxxx. Working to have something out of life, education very important. Tell me are you up for this ride?”

Wow, how could I say no? Especially considering I meet the requirements of having my own residence and transportation!? SIGN ME UP!!

(thanks to Michael at www.digitalmeatloaf.com for sharing this)

Truth for Mature Humans

1. I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong. 

3. I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger. 

4. There is great need for a sarcasm front. 

5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet? 

6. Was learning cursive really necessary? 

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I’m pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood. 

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died. 

9. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired. 

10. Bad decisions make good stories. 

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren’t going to do anything productive for the rest of the day. 

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don’t want to have to restart my collection…again. 

13. I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to. 

14. “Do not machine wash or tumble dry” means I will never wash this - ever. 

15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Dang it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voice mail. What did you do after I didn’t answer? Drop the phone and run away? 

16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste. 

17. I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call. 

18. I think the freezer deserves a light as well. 

19. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay. 

20. I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option. 

21. Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it. 

22. I would rather try to carry 10 over-loaded plastic bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in. 

23. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text. 

24. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger. 

25. How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear or understand a word they said? 

26. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters! 

27. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever. 

28. Is it just me or do high school kids get dumber & dumber every year? 

29. There’s no worse feeling than that millisecond you’re sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far. 

30. As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate bicyclists. 

31. Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is. 

32. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I’d bet my ass everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time!

Some friends of mine started doing this thing on Facebook, and I thought it was a SUPER idea: Doing an update status each day for the month of November stating that for which I am thankful on any given day: Thirty Days of Thankfulness. Now THAT’s how you prepare for Thanksgiving!

Check these posts out on my Facebook Wall: www.facebook.com/davidroz

Ever since I’ve become friendly with the Green Army Men at Disney, I’ve been experiencing a bit of vocal strain. This comes as no surprise to anyone who has seen what the work entails. It is universally accepted that what I do is very rough on the voice.

Finally it got to the point where I had to seek medical attention, so I’ve been to the throat specialist and gotten ‘scoped’ where they insert a little camera either through your nose or down your throat and take video of your vocal chords.

Overall, it has been good news…  I have no nodes, nodules, polyps, bumps, blisters, or anything on my vocal chords. They’re just strained and a little swollen.

The only bad news is that there were clear signs that I have acid reflux. Meaning, the acid in my stomach doesn’t just want to stay down there, it likes to rise up my esophagus and spill over the top, frying my vocal chords in the process.

So my treatment involves:

(1) Attacking the acid reflux. I take a prescription twice daily before breakfast and dinner. And I also take a different pill at night before going to bed. Over time (and they tell me it can take months) it will improve. Add this to my 2 allergy meds, and I quickly feel like an 80-year-old swimming in prescription pill bottles.

(2) Modifying my vocal habits. This is REALLY tough part. I’ve been given some special vocal exercises to do, and I’m trying to be better about ‘projecting’ as opposed to ‘shouting’ during the course of my job. I try every moment I can to focus on not straining my voice, but it is SO DIFFICULT. I’m fighting years of bad habits, plus the specific circumstances of the job (physicality, location, costume, being in character at any given moment) are also factors that can contribute to unintentional strain. I am also supposed to try to not speak when I am not performing. And if I must, I should speak in a hushed low soft tone. That one has been next to impossible. I just can’t shut up. Seriously. Not without locking myself away in a cave somewhere.

With the changes I have made (including cutting out soda and not popping menthol cough drops every 5 minutes) I have already shown improvement in 4 weeks, thank goodness. I was thrilled that I’ve gotten my ‘head voice’ back… it had just been squeaking for the longest time.

Things should continue to improve, and with the upcoming changes in my job after the first of next year, my role won’t be as vocally demanding. And most of all, I’m just looking forward to NOT being a state of ‘bad voice’. I’m tired of it and want it to become a non-issue.

The best part of all of this is knowing where I stand. At the very least I know that the abuse my voice has undergone hasn’t done any permanent damage. (Down the road it could if not treated… meaning complete zero-talking vocal rest, surgery, and other yucky stuff.)  Before I was constantly worried by not knowing what was going wrong and not knowing how to fix it. Knowledge is power, and while I’m on the road to recovery, I can forgive myself during those times I don’t quite get things working the way I should.

Forget laughter; peace-of-mind is the best medicine.

Or, “That List Of Funny Sayings You’ve Found In Your Email A Few Dozen Times”.
[I keep finding these files and emails saved on my computer. I never think to read them, so I plan to use this blog to periodically send some of them back out into the cyberworld.] 

* Black holes are where God divided by zero.

* All those who believe in psychokinesis raise my hand.

* What’s the speed of dark?

* Support bacteria - they’re the only culture some people have.

* Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm. 

* Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy. 

* Hard work pays off in the future. Laziness pays off now.

* Everyone has a photographic memory. Some don’t have film.

* Shin: a device for finding furniture in the dark.

* Many people quit looking for work when they find a job.

* I intend to live forever - so far, so good.

* Join the Army. Meet interesting people. Kill them.

* If Barbie is so popular, why do you have to buy her friends?

* Eagles may soar, but weasels don’t get sucked into jet engines.

* If I worked as much as others, I would do as little as they.

* 24 hours in a day … 24 beers in a case … coincidence?

* Dancing is a perpendicular expression of a horizontal desire.

* Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!

* Who is General Failure and why is he reading my hard disk?

* What happens if you get scared half to death twice?

* I used to have an open mind but my brains kept falling out.

* I couldn’t repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder.

* Why do psychics have to ask you for your name?

* If at first you don’t succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried.

* If at first you don’t succeed, then skydiving definitely isn’t for you.

* A conclusion is the place where you got tired of thinking.

* Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.

* For every action, there is an equal and opposite criticism.

* No one is listening until you make a mistake.

* Success always occurs in private, and failure in full view.

* The colder the X-ray table, the more of your body is required on it.

* The hardness of the butter is proportional to the softness of the bread.

* The severity of the itch is proportional to the reach.

* To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism; to steal from many is research.

* Two wrongs are only the beginning.

* You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive.

* The problem with the gene pool is that there is no lifeguard.

* Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7th of your life.

* The sooner you fall behind, the more time you’ll have to catch up.

* A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.

* If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you’ve never tried before.

* Change is inevitable… except from vending machines.

* A fool and his money are soon partying.

* Plan to be spontaneous tomorrow.

* If you think nobody cares about you, try missing a couple of payments.

* I’d kill for a Nobel Peace Prize.

* Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.

* Borrow money from pessimists - they don’t expect it back.

* A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel so good.