On one of our APHC cruises, I was lucky enough, while waiting for the doors to open for a show, to stand in line right ahead of Sue Scott. I can vouch for the fact that Sue Scott is a "True Professional!" She was genuinely interested in this audience member's feedback on the characters she portrays. She wanted to know how her personas come off on the other side of the microphone. When I'd say that "Mom" was "annoyingly intrusive," she'd smile - knowing that's exactly the impression she was intending to convey!
After our little talk, I was twice as aware of "Sue Scott, the Actress" - as a truly skilled, professional woman who took her performances seriously!
(In response to “Listening to that lonesome whistle blow, etc.”)
Garrison Keillor's apparently taking permanent leave of Minnesota and it seems notable, though I'm sure he'd be the first to say, "Well, not that notable; I certainly don't think remembering it is worth taking up space in your brain that might otherwise be occupied with where you left your keys or recalling the face of a pretty girl you never had the nerve to ask out. If it comes to that."
I've been to Minnesota a few times. When I was a kid we took some family vacations there to Lake L'Homme Dieu in the town of Alexandria. Even though it was just a town, I guess Alexandria was remote enough to have its own TV station. And it was town enough that its pride and joy seemed to be a giant statue of "Oly" the Viking smack dab in the middle of its modest downtown. It was one of those kitschy roadside attractions that dotted the American landscape in a simpler time, though you probably have to be of a certain age to know what I’m talking about.
I found out some years ago that they moved Oly from his pride of place to a spot somewhere outside of town. Maybe the kitschy warrior became an embarrassment that videogame playing kids today wouldn't understand anyway. Whatever the reasons, Oly's banishment makes me a little bit sad.
But "L'Homme Dieu" is French for "the man of God" and I think that's worth something. It certainly seems appropriate for the fond memories the place impressed upon me. I can't say how, but then if I could, the magic might be lost. So let the mystery abide. It's probably not that notable anyway.
As a British person I have to push back on the “warm beer” trope. Nobody drinks warm beer, there are certain beers in the UK which are cellar/cool room temperature just like red wine is usually enjoyed at cellar/cool room temperature. And other beers, like lagers, are served chilled just like in America
Went to two funerals Saturday and met an Anoka grad who was in your class. He immediately mentioned your name, but I redirected him to my cousin, Jan Olson, who graduated with him and you. The last time I sang at a funeral was ten years, and I sang "Abide with Me." Such a beautiful hymn. FYI: Found my way to the Congregationalists - very democratic foundation. Thanks for tears of singing hymns and reading poems and writing about life. Oh, my.
Unfortunately the vast majority of Republicans won't say it in public. In fact about 70% of them say they believe the Big Lie. Carl Sagan's sad observation of a quarter century ago rings true:
“One of the saddest lessons of history is this: If we’ve been bamboozled long enough, we tend to reject any evidence of the bamboozle. We’re no longer interested in finding out the truth. The bamboozle has captured us. It’s simply too painful to acknowledge, even to ourselves, that we’ve been taken. Once you give a charlatan power over you, you almost never get it back.”
Thank you for responding. Another cast member would have been ok too. Of course we hoped to see you. We understand being careful. I do have to hand it to you, a 3 hour show had to be tiring. I'm not sure I could do it at 62 with bad knees and weak back.
I enjoyed reading this group of comments! The “News from Lake Woebegone” arrives in my inbox on Sunday, about the time we’re driving home from our Episcopal Church in Iowa City. Listening to your monologue is a lovely way to start the rest of our afternoon. Best regards, Katrina
This is late, but went to your Nashville show and had a great time. The Hym singing intermission was magical and I'm a not that religious Presbyterian. I did know most of the songs as did most of the rest of the audience. We flew down from Seattle and saw the Grand ole Opery on Saturday. They had a great pre show VIP room with a visit from Jeannie Seeley. The Ryman "VIP" room (we are calling it the VIP closet) was a few sandwiches, popcorn and a micro bar. No visit from any cast member. Someone could have at least walked through Room was at the top of 2 steep flights of stairs that some of we older people didn't want to tackle for a drink refill. I too have a younger wife and she took pitty and brought me another beer. We had seats down front. The VIP closet was a real disappointment for the money.
In response to the post of Mr. Armbruster, most people of the world would agree that anything undermining empire-building asperations by major countries is a good thing, as it usually comes at their expense. Unchecked ego in countries or leaders usually does not bode well for others. As for the British monarchy, it seems like nostalgic memories of my grandparents. I it comforts them and they are willing to pay for it, so be it. They can always vote them out! Joe k., Charlevoix, MI.
On one of our APHC cruises, I was lucky enough, while waiting for the doors to open for a show, to stand in line right ahead of Sue Scott. I can vouch for the fact that Sue Scott is a "True Professional!" She was genuinely interested in this audience member's feedback on the characters she portrays. She wanted to know how her personas come off on the other side of the microphone. When I'd say that "Mom" was "annoyingly intrusive," she'd smile - knowing that's exactly the impression she was intending to convey!
After our little talk, I was twice as aware of "Sue Scott, the Actress" - as a truly skilled, professional woman who took her performances seriously!
(In response to “Listening to that lonesome whistle blow, etc.”)
Garrison Keillor's apparently taking permanent leave of Minnesota and it seems notable, though I'm sure he'd be the first to say, "Well, not that notable; I certainly don't think remembering it is worth taking up space in your brain that might otherwise be occupied with where you left your keys or recalling the face of a pretty girl you never had the nerve to ask out. If it comes to that."
I've been to Minnesota a few times. When I was a kid we took some family vacations there to Lake L'Homme Dieu in the town of Alexandria. Even though it was just a town, I guess Alexandria was remote enough to have its own TV station. And it was town enough that its pride and joy seemed to be a giant statue of "Oly" the Viking smack dab in the middle of its modest downtown. It was one of those kitschy roadside attractions that dotted the American landscape in a simpler time, though you probably have to be of a certain age to know what I’m talking about.
I found out some years ago that they moved Oly from his pride of place to a spot somewhere outside of town. Maybe the kitschy warrior became an embarrassment that videogame playing kids today wouldn't understand anyway. Whatever the reasons, Oly's banishment makes me a little bit sad.
But "L'Homme Dieu" is French for "the man of God" and I think that's worth something. It certainly seems appropriate for the fond memories the place impressed upon me. I can't say how, but then if I could, the magic might be lost. So let the mystery abide. It's probably not that notable anyway.
https://images.app.goo.gl/FvasCdn5W5SJpUw79
As a British person I have to push back on the “warm beer” trope. Nobody drinks warm beer, there are certain beers in the UK which are cellar/cool room temperature just like red wine is usually enjoyed at cellar/cool room temperature. And other beers, like lagers, are served chilled just like in America
Went to two funerals Saturday and met an Anoka grad who was in your class. He immediately mentioned your name, but I redirected him to my cousin, Jan Olson, who graduated with him and you. The last time I sang at a funeral was ten years, and I sang "Abide with Me." Such a beautiful hymn. FYI: Found my way to the Congregationalists - very democratic foundation. Thanks for tears of singing hymns and reading poems and writing about life. Oh, my.
Unfortunately the vast majority of Republicans won't say it in public. In fact about 70% of them say they believe the Big Lie. Carl Sagan's sad observation of a quarter century ago rings true:
“One of the saddest lessons of history is this: If we’ve been bamboozled long enough, we tend to reject any evidence of the bamboozle. We’re no longer interested in finding out the truth. The bamboozle has captured us. It’s simply too painful to acknowledge, even to ourselves, that we’ve been taken. Once you give a charlatan power over you, you almost never get it back.”
Thank you for responding. Another cast member would have been ok too. Of course we hoped to see you. We understand being careful. I do have to hand it to you, a 3 hour show had to be tiring. I'm not sure I could do it at 62 with bad knees and weak back.
I enjoyed reading this group of comments! The “News from Lake Woebegone” arrives in my inbox on Sunday, about the time we’re driving home from our Episcopal Church in Iowa City. Listening to your monologue is a lovely way to start the rest of our afternoon. Best regards, Katrina
Thanks for a wonderful morning read!!
This is late, but went to your Nashville show and had a great time. The Hym singing intermission was magical and I'm a not that religious Presbyterian. I did know most of the songs as did most of the rest of the audience. We flew down from Seattle and saw the Grand ole Opery on Saturday. They had a great pre show VIP room with a visit from Jeannie Seeley. The Ryman "VIP" room (we are calling it the VIP closet) was a few sandwiches, popcorn and a micro bar. No visit from any cast member. Someone could have at least walked through Room was at the top of 2 steep flights of stairs that some of we older people didn't want to tackle for a drink refill. I too have a younger wife and she took pitty and brought me another beer. We had seats down front. The VIP closet was a real disappointment for the money.
In response to the post of Mr. Armbruster, most people of the world would agree that anything undermining empire-building asperations by major countries is a good thing, as it usually comes at their expense. Unchecked ego in countries or leaders usually does not bode well for others. As for the British monarchy, it seems like nostalgic memories of my grandparents. I it comforts them and they are willing to pay for it, so be it. They can always vote them out! Joe k., Charlevoix, MI.