Phillip Wilson

Amazingly, I survived my Life
2011-09-23 00:00:10 (UTC)

1992 REVIEW (PART TEN)

24-26 August, Otsego Township/Benton Township/Dowagiac, MI (continues)

While we on yesterday, the evening (8:00) performance had around a 13/15 'house.' The response was pleasant and from the heart.
Dead or Alive was again a success - due to Jennifer, or to me?
And does that really make any difference?
Does the perfect casting make the piece a hit even before we get going?
It was the practice field of the Benton Harbour High School Fighting Tigers yesterday.

(acerca 4:00 P.M.) The several school districts in the Great Lakes State Have different scheduling for full-time school-resumption. Today, the children of Dowagiac were confined only to noon or so -
for there was a 2:00 matinee. And it had around an 11/16 'house.'
I was satisfied with the response; it was uncontrollable, nor was it relunctantly given. The response was energetic with just the correct level of 'tone' to it.
Dead or Alive has audiences on the edge of their seats. The reaction is seldom belly-laughing - what the act draws is amazement, study, grins, long-lasting memories builders, etc.
Which is what I go after. For we all know that superficial laughter is so easy to get!
A Clockwise - if it was a one-way-track - that is so-so in levelness.
The local Rotary Club brought us to this field across from the high school.
Damn! it is so great not having Fabian around! It's as if the 1992 season has started anew!
In a way it has - choreographically speaking, I am able to 'grow' from last year, and don't have the Wall that has blocked so much of my previous attempts at escape!

(acerca 9:50 P.M.) My first Spec of the season! Jennifer has some of those Klown Kids to escort around the track, so I decided to walk the Boat.
Interesting reaction!
But a march that distance in those heavy fireman's boots (I was in the Balloon Bandit get-up) is exhausting!
Of course I will most likely do the bit again!
The idea came to me for a fast count when I try to reprieve the Hat, while keeping Jennifer vertical, in Dead or Alive. Most times I have difficulty discerning whether Jennifer is straight and on her feet, due to the lighting.
A rapid-fire count to seven makes the 'fall' about 20-degrees; eight brings her back a little more.
I wonder if I can manage a ten? I figure this is what the act should be.
I don't want to let Jennifer hit the ground, though.
Here's hoping the act continues to develop and remain a popular attraction.
The evening (8:00) performance had around a 13/16 'house,' the response politely enthusiastic.
McDonald's, Burger King (where I come to you), Subway, a couple of Convenient Stores, and a small shopping complex are a block or so from the lot, on the main highway.
The sun broke through the Wall that the Enemy had 'built' around us, about 5:00 P.M.

27 August (Thursday), Jonesville/Hillsdale, MI

A drizzly, overcast, cool Thursday on a grassy field just beyond the city limits sign of Jonesville, MI. We were originally to set-up across from Walmart, with a firmer hold on the heart of Hillsdale, but conditions was traitorous to Circus Day.
We are still on highway 99, I think.
August 27, 1992 - as the clock approaches the season Closing on November 12.
Jennifer collects and sells beverage cans; so in the mornings I gather up those I find, sometimes breaking into garbage bags to seek out those in hiding.
It gives me something to do. And knowing that the campaign is for Jennifer peps me up, channeling sexual energy into the matutional activity.
Just as the pull from Jennifer is revitalizing my Mime output.
So what if her Clowning is a travesty!
So what if that Boss Clownship given her is a sinecure, a joke!
So what if Jennifer will never take me on as a romantic object!
I am being used by the lady - and I don't care! I have been desperately searching for something - anything! - that would save a sinking ship.

And Jennifer is the life preserver!
The team will most likely fade away after this season - but maybe I will have enough momentum and force stored for 2-3 years.

(acerca 9:58 A.M.) A Full-Fledge Rain Session! Almost continuous since, say, 3:00 P.M.
Needless to say, it rained on our parade - Spec was allowed in te Big Top, either show
The Optimiist Club of Hillsdale sponsored us today.
The afternoon (4:30) performance had around a 2/3 'house'; and the courage people not only defied Rain, but spit in Its Face with pretty good response!
Dead or Alive - Ring 2 was swampy. There was water, in spots 'deep,' on the ring mat.
The tarp we (Jennifer and I) put down in the center of the mat didn't prevent us from a Dance of Dampness.
Jennifer didn't slip as I was afraid she would: That concern soften the punch I normally give the piece.
So we denied the act to the evening (8:00) performance.
What happen during Come-in instead was a 'Mr. and Mrs.' Improv bit. I had begun the Search - I still bring it out from time to time as an alternate display - and Jennifer joined me when I was in front of the Reserved Seats.
We worked the Wandering Couple up in the bleachers of the General Admission Sections.
The team was, once again, a hit. It's beginning to be a natural phenomenon!
And the idea of a double Conductor excites her!
I must say - what am interesting development! If this keeps up . . .
Around a 16/19 'house' this evening, the response being rather high on the meter.
A Counter-Clockwise path the Circus-goers follow around the track during Come-in.

28 August (Friday), Milford, MI

Milford (MI.) High School - not exactly the 'North Side of Hwy 59 - West of Highland' lot set aside for us today, but who knew Andrew (the Hurricane) would reach this far north?
At least this campus/field is firm enough to hole us!
It is cold, the sky taking a shower with the frosty curtain hiding Her.
Friday.
The twenty-eighth of August.
1992.
The goal net for soccer is just outside my door; in fact
it is parallel to the entire driver's left side of trailer #414 (which means Dave is separated from #413 also by the webbing).
A miserable day - here's hoping it will get better!

(acerca 10:26 P.M.) Jennifer made the comment that Mr. Flippen wasn't visiting the show this year as he had in the past.
"I know why, but I'm not telling!"
"Is it because you have a new girlfriend?"
"Yeah!", I replied, thrilled into near speechlessness that she is reaching out to me.
Another level! Damn! if I ever expected it!!
I must let this stage run its course, and accept and, hopefully, be ready for what follows.
You know, this relationship just may turn into something beautiful!
Hell! it is already!
Some Huron Valley organization (Jaycees? Chamber of Commerce?) controlled the day.
Much sand looks up at me when I open my door. No wonder - this is a Soccer Field!
It has - and still does - felt like October, not August. I don't think we have dealt with many summer days this season.
A Clockwise turn of the track.
The afternoon (4:30) performance had around an 11/17 'house'; the response wasn't bad. Well worth noting!
Like Vampires, the evening was a time for the locals to come alive.
And alive they did - the response for the 8:00 performance was enthusiastic and outslanding. The around 13/16 'house' seem to enjoy themselves!
The evening Dentist was enjoyable - I improvised with Walkers on the track, and with the Prop Boys. Then it was time for Jennifer and the choreographed act.
Jennifer as the Business Manager - she was in an Administrative position (a real one, not the so-called one she has here!) for many years.
I could handle the choreography, wardrobe, props, music, and all that other stuff Artistic Directors must do.
A perfect team! And, I might add, a very profitable venture.
Surely Jennifer can see that!

29 August-2 September, Pontiac/Tecumseh, MI/Lima/Marysville, OH
Galion, OH

(29th, About 9:09 P.M.) An asphalt lot downtown, the same Pheonix Plaza parking lot we played two years ago.
I mean smack downtown!
Most of the day with Jennifer - breakfast this morning, the Salvation Army Thrift Store (4 or 5 blocks away, on the other side of a railroad tressel), rehearsal for the Duo Conducting, Cookhouse the show, prop designing, Cookhouse, the show.
Would it be as wonderful to spend the rest of my days with so much Jennifer? Yes! And maybe it will happen!
I spent $33.70 at the thrift store - 2 pairs of size 15 shoes, two towels, a pair of gloves, a beautiful Dark Blue velvet Dinner Jacket, a pair of trousers, a pair of sparkly knee socks, a velvet pant suit, etc.
A full day, and a sunny, warm, breezy day.
A day handled by the Catholic Social Services of Oakland County.
The Special Seats were on hand in case downtown Pontiac became the scene of an Overcrowd. But they really wasn't needed - sure, the 2:00 matinee assigned one of the Specials to go among the audience - in this case, between the General Admission.
At the expense, though, of of the Regulars. No complaints, however.
Around a 13/15 'house,' response unsophisticated, albeit loud and hard-hitting.
Dead or Alive was watched out of curiosity, but the protracted Mimedrama lost most of the crowd.
The evening (7:00) performance was a Full-House Plus; a wild reaction to our services, including Dead or Alive.
If it rains tonight, the asphalt will save us. Ha! Ha! No stuckage!

(30th) All services to the Great Lakes States has ended (at least it will be in the morning)! Tecumseh, MI., is the final lay-over on what has been my longest tenure in Michigan.
Sunday, August 30, 1992, a warm, bright, breezy day - a beautiful way to end this 'leg' of the 1992 tour.
The Industrial Park.
I spent the morning with Jennifer, at the laundrymat.
You know the can-collecting crusade that we had going? Redemption brough over $45! Three of the dollars are to re-pay Lalo for a Dentist bag he picked up for us at that thrift store yesterday in Pontiac. The rest is Jennifer's - for I sincerely hope to share it and her life soon!
The Duo Conducting premiered today - Jennifer's stands on the right pedestal and I mount the one of the left, the one I use to 'speak' from.
Jennifer parodies me; she is a sensation!
Another success for Shenanigans and McBride (the name of the team)!
I spent around an hour with her last night as she bagged ice!
Our 'oneness' is proceeding much more rapidly than I ever though possible! And to think I had a strong dislike for the woman last year!
One thing about it - it wasn't love at first sight!
Unless it was inchoate, unripe love! Just waiting for each of us to conquer our emotional dysfunction.
Payday.
The 2:00 matinee had around an 11/17 'house.' The response was shyly given up, especially for Dead or Alive. At first the 'deadness' of the crowd was disconcerning - what a difficult time I had absorbing any audience feedback! - but then I realized the people didn't know how to 'reply' to our 'commentary.'
My social schedule has me fatiqued and off-sync - Dead or Alive and the Dentist suffered.
A rarity - the Sunday 4:30 performance was better attended than the matinee! I would say around a 13/15 'house' contributed to the record breaker!
No Dead or Alive, due to the shortened 'Doors' period; but the Duo Conductor had its second showing.
John photographed it. And he 'shot' Jennifer and me seesawing on a teeterboard by the Back Door. The Alley posed for a group picture - Dave, Riccardo, and Andras 'holding down' Jennifer while I was 'up.'
A Counter-Clockwise path around a mostly-grassy, pimply track.
I have enjoyed my stay in Michigan, especially the Upper Peninsular. Not much of a summer up here, but, all in all, a calm 'Autumn.'


(31st) The last day
of
August
(the 31st)
The first day
in
the Buckeye State
(Ohio)
Beantown - better known as Lima (long 'i,' not like the Peruvian capital city) - gets us nearer the 1992 season closer.
The Allen County Fairgrounds, a beautiful warm, bright Monday.
K-Mart, Subway, etc., is about a quarter-mile north of here.
Jennifer may be turned-off by my speech pattern, but I have her where I want her - dependent on me. No one else in the world can partner her so she is a star like I can!
Jennifer need me more than I need her!
Damn! I love this position! You better believe I'm going to use it to get Jennifer! Call me George Ballachine, but I possess what the lady desperately wants - the power to make her a Clown Sensation!
So let her chase me for awhile - let her worry and become insecure about us!
Geary paid me the $25 this morning in Tecumseh.
Randy left the show, so I rode, still in #138 (butcher reserve) with Neil.

(acerca 10:00 P.M.) Damnit! If Jennifer would only consent to submit Shenanigans and McBride to Royale International Circus! This Australian Big Top Road Show has an ad in the recent Circus Report for a tour lasting 100 weeks, beginning in January!
But she doesn't want to be two years away from her son, Brian! In spite of me telling her Brian can take his R & R from the navy in Australia!
Perth, in Western Australia, is a major port-of-call for the United States, and Brian could arrange to meet us there!
Maybe I should try for another partner. Now that I know the direction my career is headed, and have waited all these years for a duo act, surely I can come upon another female willing to seek out new worlds!
It was a Clockwise Front Door-to Sound Booth-left General Admission seating section.
And a Duty Day for those Auxilliary Seats.
The Lima Rotary Club pushed us into this Ohio Opening Gambit.

Ohio will go down in the Carson and Barnes Circus History of the 1992 tour as the state that started the 7:30 evening showtime! Supposively this will allowed the students to take in the late performance, and still get to bed at a reasonable hour.
Supposively!
Why should this do that? Kids will always find something to postpone beddy-bed!
It's only a hardship on us! Dinner doesn't have the opportunity to settle before work once again!
For it's the same 4:30 afternoon shnowtime!
Eleven more weeks of these weekday rush-jobs!
But look upon the only positive side - at least we are done for the day, and can, too, bed at a reasonable hour!

(1st) I'm too old to be mooning and having adverse reactions to and over Jennifer! It's as if I feel as if my life is done with if I don't establish something with Jennifer!
Life goes on; and my career will, somehow, continue. Neither is contingent on Jennifer.
I know, August is gone, but memories of the final day is still fresh in my mind. So I better get it down - and quickly! With my recall, it would otherwise soon slip from my Cerebral Center -
The evening (7:30) performance yesterday was a Straw House. Those Called-Ups did what they were trained for, and several ring curb sections joined in on the manuvers.
Above par response, although not overbearing.
For the preceeding 4:30 performance, it was a Full-House Plus. Honorable response, but not memorable.
Several 'strips' of gravel intersected the Big Top, crosswise. One cut the Dead or Alive 'stage' into uneven halves. I failed to notice, and the tumbles I take after the butt-kick hit pay-dirt.
Of course that pain pales to the other pain Jennifer is causing.

(2nd) Here it is the second day of September (1992) - and you don't even know how this nineth month kicked off! Rusty McDonald, a former Painted Face on Carson and Barnes, visited yesterday, and his coming by last night kept me from you.
September 1, 1992, a warm, bright Tuesday, was spent at the Union County Fairgrounds in Marysville, Ohio.
K-Mart was across from the Fairgrounds.
A dirt Horse-Racing track encircled the lot.
A hot shower serviced me in the morning, and again after work last night.
The Marysville Evening Lions Club took us in while we awaited for others to offer us set-up space the rest of the 29 days in September.
A Clockwise swing around a relatively smooth, grassy track.
Warned of a possible overflow, that Riot Squad was stationed around the tent. The afternoon (4:30) performance was handled by the Regulars - around a 7/8 'house'; but the evening (7:30) performance brought them into action - it was a Packed-House.
Responsively, there wasn't a whole hell of a big difference between the two shows - accounting for the difference in the quanity of the 'houses.'
Dead or Alive was warmly received each time, but the acceptance was disappointing.
Maybe the piece is too long for the average Circus-Goer, but the vision is also 'long.'
Of course, the T.V. fare is usually shallow, quickie 'gags,' aimed for the low attention span.
Am I attempting to feed steak to an unteethed baby?
How will the people of Galion, Ohio, deal with Dead or Alive?
And on Wednesday?
For it appears the day of the week, which determines people's reactions and biorhythum, just may affect the response.
The sky is in purdah - covered from head-to-toe (horizon-to-horizon) by a large Cloud-Scrim. A slight breze, works in synergy for a cool, dreary Wednesday morning.
Albert is driving #138 - Randy, the former driver, left Sunday, and Albert (with wife Anita) will be leaving Tuesday - so my new driver is__?!

(acerca 9:54 P.M.) The 'Committee' can't seem to clecide on a definite evening show time! So the 8:00 tip-off was reverted to.
And not a bad attendence - around a 13/15 'house.' The response was wicked, also - loud, boisterous, and enthusiastic.
Especially for Dead or Alive - the piece got great reaction from both the back and front audience.
A Counter-Clockwise Public Walk around the track, on this Industrial Park field.
The 'Ayes' carriecl forth the afternoon (4:30) performance; around a 13/16 'house' was also voted in.
Good response - excited, eager for a good time, and delightful.

Rain pushed us off that soft field and onto the asphalt parking area of a shopping center (an out-of-business Ames, a Save-a-Lot Food Store, a drug store) about a quarter-mile from the Industrial Park.
How quaint! The Homo Sapien Sapien Eagles gather in Aeries just like the avian eagles do! The Galion Eagles Aerie #630 nested us today.
I stated to Jennifer that ours was a Professional Relationship.
So I lied! And she probably knows it!
But I can't let on that I am after a romantic/sexual liaison. For such a confession could destroy Step #2, the Working Compatibility.
The track was roughish; a couple of small ditches slithered along it.
Rain continues to fall, and the air is cool.

3-4 September (Thursday-Friday), Willard/Ashland, OH

(3rd) A rumor is loose on the show - Jennifer and I are getting married! As much as I would like such to happen, the story is spreading because of our sensational Working Relationship.
Of course, it was Ted Bowman who 'leaked' the 'news.' He first hit me with it when I went to the Ice Truck in search of Jennifer.
Then, as we entered the Big Top for Come-in, as Mr. and Mrs. Clown (more about this latter) he began singing the Wedding March.
Let's assume Jennifer and I are headed in that direction - I can't allow suspicions and jealousy blow it â -
- while awaiting Dentist this evening Paul cane by the Alley and a motel key from his pocket, and said '8.'
An innocent remark - or an invitation for Jennifer to join him?
It wasn't innocent to me - it made me forget my White Coat!
The relationship Jennifer and I have must first and foremost be professional. If romance develops, so be it. But the show must go on!
Willard, Ohio - the Willard City Airport.
Thursday, September 3, 1992.
I write up at Hardee's, which affronts the airport, along with McDonald's, Quicky's, and other businesses on the main drag of town.
A Muddy Mess - all the vehicles played hell getting to their slots.
Rain left the ground so bruised and battered that the heavy seats (Preferred) had to stay away.
So the Regulars had it all to themselves.
Spec wasn't even allowed to see the damaged 'theatre'!
The Back Yard was here, the Connection was there; the Front Door was a Public Entrance only.
The performers had to use a raised Side Wall.
The Willard Area Kiwanis Club dealt us this blow, unknowingly.
Dead or Alive was cancelled today, in memory of the injured and maimed. And because Jennifer didn't want to wallow in the muddy ring (no ring mats).
The Mr. and Mrs. Clown Come-in Improv was damn good exercises in Mime. Fortunately, the audience, not bullied by the Conditions, 'played' along with us superbly, especially this evening.
The afternoon (4:30) performance, with just the Regular Bleachers to depend on, had around a 13/15 house, with above-average response.
Music Man gets more respect with Music Woman up there with him.
Damn! if Jennifer doesn't make me look good!

(4th) As for the evening (8:00) performance yesterday - around a 7/8 'house.'
(Of course, that 7/8'er was emphasized by the inability of those Heavies to get in!)
The response was excellent! Jennifer and I worked the Mr. and Mrs. Clown for Come-in; and, I must say, the people provided outstanding material on which to jump!
In spite of the Mud and Damp, it was warm yesterday - especially upon the late afternoon arrival of the Sun.
Sun had, apparently, been sent to recruit Wet Warriors. Their defection left us sweating.
It was either '89 or '90 that Carson and Barnes played Willard. If you have been following this History, Hardee's split the lot - the Big Top was on one side, the Front Yard, Cook house, and Pie Car on the other.
The Back Yard was behind a restaurant or something - due to the temper tantrum of the restaurant staff (they were chagrined at our patronizing Hardee's and not their place), we were all treated to a buffet.

(acerca : 10:09 P.M.) Ashland, Ohio.
We were here on this Ashland County Fairgrounds, a beautiful sylvan enclosure, 2 or 3 years ago. Albert reminded me - and the nearby K-Mart further triggered recall.
September 4, 1992, a warm yet overcast Friday.
I spent the morning with Jennifer - we went to breakfast at Hardee's, then the Goodwill Thrift Store;
(I bought four pairs of size 12 shoes, 2 pair being 'Dance' shoes, a blue 'warm-up' jacket, and a Cat Stevens cassette, all for around $14.70).
About an hour and a half last night in her room, with Milk Shakes and conversation.
Jennifer made the declaration that she wants to be independent for awhile. This, after she declined my services as an escort to the Tallmadge party Sunday night.
Given the slime she has been involved with, I can well appreciate her Independent Woman stance - she needed a 'drying out' period, a self-purging.
But does this mean my interest in her is to no avail?
A close Working Relationship just may lead to, at least, a marriage of convenience.
A grassy, smooth, lovely track, which the Public footed Counter-Clockwise.
Once again, Extra Troops were put under Contract. Not all were used, but it would have been a 'noisy' outcry without them!
The afternoon (4:30) performance was around a 13/15 'house,' above par in response.
Dead or Alive had the people on the edge of their seats, and was scutinized with much interest and cognition. The act received a nice, sophicated reaction.
In what was, in all possibility, the final 8:00 evening showtime, around a 7/8 'house,' a Full-House Plus, developed for the Evening Lions Club event. A very enthusiastic bunch, well trained as Mime-readers.
How Dead or Alive was treated let me on to the secret. An exceptionally long, complex piece for the American Circus, this evening crowd was one that remained with Jennifer and I the entire presentation.
Unlike so many that was invited as jury!

5-9 September, Oberlin/Tallmadge/Champion/Jefferson, OH

(5th) I was engaged in such an animated discussion with Albert this morning - and there're not many people connected with this show with which I can do that! - that I didn't even see the campus! I was aware that the lot was on an Athletic Field in Oberlin, Ohio; here it is, after 9:00 P.M., and I waked across the Quad and passed many of the buildings of Oberlin College to Rax, a fast food restaurant on the other side of the campus, downtown.
A gorgeous small institution of higher learning!
September 5, 1992, Saturday. It has been, and still is, warm and clear.
The lot was soft and easily impressed. So much so that the shoulder carry of the Dentist was sacrificed.
In fact, this evening Jennifer, impatient with my protracted introductory Improv, enterred the Dental Office on her own accord.
Our relationship is showing signs of souring. With only nine weeks remaining in this 1992 season, I don't see us getting together or remaining together, romanticly, or as a Comedy Team.
And, you know, I really don't care anymore! Jennifer is becoming too demanding, too cocky.
Least we forget who is the cynosure of the Alley!
There is just too much difference between us.
I will always be thankful and indebted to Jennifer - she pulled me out of the artistic slump I was in, pointed me in the direction I should go with my career; but any future with the Shenanigans & McBride, I don't see beyond this season.
I will stick with the Working Relationship; and after this season concentrate on Mime.
I feel this is best. I am not as mechanicly adept as Jennifer likes.
Live and learn, right?
The 2:00 matinee only pulled in around an 11/16 'house.' Response from the prisoners was lackluster, and very low-energy.
Dead or Alive was only a moderate success.
The elephants imprinted their feet in Ring 2; a Great Depression resulted near the center of the stage. The Straightening of the Dead Shenanigans was shortened due to Jennifer's captivotion by that pit.
This was for the evening (7:00) performance, which had around an 11/17 'house.' The section of the Big Top which witness the Murder only gave it a polite reaction.
Frank and Wendy were on the lot this morning; so I had babysitting duties and was unable to attend to Prop Building and Maintance.
The Front Yard, the tentless Cook House, Pie Car, Shop, were off to one side of the lot lay-out. An asphalt road divided the Backyard from them all.

(6th) If I asked whether the show is moving off a particular lot due to the threat of rain, I am vilified and chewed out.
But when I don't inquire, my house is located to a new, softer (asphalt) surface.
Such happened last night - I packed up the Pulley Block, but not my buckets and bags, and didn't roll the light cable to #414 up.
Flashes of lightning led to an apparent spur of the moment decision to move to the parking lot affronting the stadium.
All was calm when I initiated my peregrination to Rax last night, around 8:30 P.M.; but returning to the Athletic Field was under Searchlights.
Some one had seen to it that my two buckets, and the bags for morning trash pick-up got over to the Shelter.
I shared two chocolate Milk Shakes with Jennifer last night; and we talked as she bagged ice.
If I am re-considering my interest in Jennifer, why, then, am I increasing my fraternizing of the lady?
Could it be that I am more hooked than planned? And can't seem to let go?
The Wind grew fierce last night. I was sure Rain would launch an invasion; but if it did, Oberlin was spared.
Today, the sixth of September, begins the 1992 2-day stand in Tallmadge, Ohio. As for the past million years, the Summit County Fairgrounds is the base of our activities.
The Cuyahoga Falls Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #49, once again, bought the show for the 48 hours.
Sunday.
Sun day.
There were times when Nimbus got sassy, but, so far at least, this is a paridice.
Payday.
Lalo told Jennifer that the Madam (Barbara Byrd) doesn't want her to help conduct the Music anymore. I have been hearing negative comments (from Albert, in particular) that the additional Conductor only distracts from me, but I didn't know how to break the news to Jennifer.
Anyway, it was a return to Solo Music Man for the mid-afternoon (5:00) performance.
I thought the duet played well, but I don't guess it did!
That Tallmadge show #2 had around a 12/17 'house.' The response was curtous and moderate.
Dead or Alive was eagerly received.
Audiences respond to the sultry parts differently; that is why one can't choreograph piece by piece, basing each 'bit' on the laugh drawing power. The Whole must by Humerous, in hopes - but not the deciding factor - that the inner workings tickle the people's funny bone.

(7th) Day The Two of the annual Tallmadge, Ohio stopover.
A beautiful Labor Day 1992 (September 7). With the inchoate warmness, the fact that Tallmadge has been rewarding to us - climaticly speaking - two years running must surely be some kind of record!
Monday.
Tallmadge 1992 was kicked off with a 2:00 matinee. As usually happens the people rely on word of mouth from the Guinea Pigs before venturing into the Big Top; and that Opening performance was able to gather around an 11/17 'house' for that Introductory Offer.
Response was bad. Not all that good, but we can live with it.
A lush, green carpet floors the lot, even though the recent rains left behind slick spots, and made the ground soft to the touch.
Jennifer vetoed the Shoulder Carry in Dentist (which, by the way, was in Ring One the second time - the Teeterboard rigging was being set in the usual Ring Two showplace).
Dead or Alive had a nice, friendly reception.
One of the highlights of dropping by Tallmadge is the bathhouse - I have already had three!
Sensual, outslanding Hot Water!

(acerca 7:15 P.M.) A Tradition - the circle of downtown Tallmadge!
Ron and Milly brought me to Big Boy Restaurant (they were going for gasoline, anyway; I was saved a one-way walk.).

(after a half-pound Cheezeburger) Performance #3, today's 2:00 matinee, was a Full-House, whereas the one that followed (a 5:00 P.M. fourth and final performance in Tallmadge, Ohio - at least for two years. Labor Day 1993 has already been arranged - and it won't be in this Akron suburb!) had only around a 2/3 house.
One out of three? It was a Buy-Out anyway; but it would have been nice if all the tickets had been used.
The Heat was friendly - but Humidity was fiendish! Not only was the water pulled from the ground, it was sucked from our bodies!
It was miserable - but it is over!
Jennifer had two friends in the audience for the mid-afternoon Performance #4; so we did Dead or Alive in Ring Two, facing the Preferred Seating.
What a diseaster it was! I damn near allowed Jennifer to fall too far before I caught her!
As it was, she buckled under - she bend her knees and her body to ease the sudden stoppage; and the 'crooked' position wenched my back!
I told Jennifer it was her fault - but it was actually mine. The flooring of Ring Two was as, if not more so, pimply as Ring Four.
And the slick ring mat made the footing even worse!
I mis-judged Gravity - and the perfidy could have been injurious to Jennifer.
If only she hadn't been so concerned about her friends seeing her work!
Will Jennifer and I get together?
Should Jennifer and I get together?
If my infactuation with the lady is my last bout of The Crisis, would Post-Mid Life mean I see no purpose for Jennifer in my life, but it would too late to re-consider?
Which is a manor reason for a slow proceeding.

(8th) Storm dropped by and laid a farewell on us last night, around 8:30 P.M.
I was caught out in the 'party' - as you can see, my backpack is not water proof. I now have to go back and rewrite many of the top-of-the-page sentences.
So, in addition to a day-to-day literary insight into Circus Life, one can see, just by the condition of this journal, what I go through with this job!
The Thrumbull County Fairgrounds in Champion, Ohio, the eighth of September 1992.
Tuesday has hung 'floor-length' drapes of puff-balls. The air is warm, Wind is outspoken, and Sun appears whenever Tuesday monkeys with those drapes.
A light sprinkling this morning, early; much standing water and mud, but maybe the Blitz is over.
Isn't it strange how the failed coup by Jennifer against Music Man - I admit it! I was a quisling in the whole affair! - turned my loyalty away from the lady?
Or did it?!
As with all the Tallmadge Big Top designs, the 1992 was Clockwise for the Pedestrian traffic - although, up until last year, a no-Special Seating policy had the crowd going both ways.

(acerca 1:22 P.M.) I got naked and moved a water hose over my body.
And the hose was connected to a working water faucet!
On the other side of the fairgrounds, in the stable area.
Who knows - it may rain out my normal toilet time!
A 'quickie' did it just a few minutes ago; and who knows what intrigue Weather has in mind!

(acerca 9:35 P.M.) The Champion Rotary Club outdid itself - the Circus was so popular, so many people wanted to take it in, that the You-know-what were called up.
Now the afternoon (4:30) performance only had around a 13/15 'house,' not pushing into active duty all of the Special Forces;
but the evening (7:30) performance was sure a scramble for seating!
A Fill-House!
Each show had enthusiastic response, accordingly.
Dead or Alive was on tap each Come-in.
Ross destroyed my concentration this evening - he came into the ring while I had the Body in the vertical stance, trying to figure out how I could get the hat, and he told Jennifer, "Barbara said speed it up, and go and fill in for Dave at the Front Door."
(Dave was required on the Middle Gate, to help with the Crowd.)
Why in the hell! couldn't that message had waited to Jennifer was safely out of the Ring?
Barbara claims to want high-quality Clowning, but when it is given to her, she pulls tricks like this!
Fortunately, the 'third person' didn't overthrow the piece too much - it still got great response.
The track was damp and muddy, the grass slippery. So the Dentist Shoulder-Carry received another day off.
Clockwise around that soft, wet path.
It never did rain; in fact the clouds lessen late this afternoon, revealing a beautiful blue shy, highlighted by the sun.

(9th) Wednesday of the twenty-fifth week.
Twenty-six years ago Leslie came into the world. It provided me with avuncular experience in helping to raise a girl. Almost like a baby sister, our maturation was probably parallel.
September 9, 1992, the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds in Jefferson, Ohio.
A breezy, warm day.
Fatsos have bullied their way into a diurnal celestial hegemony; Sun locates the free places alright, but when It moves from hole to hole, the area is shady and dreary.
Thick grass most places - but the Army passed through this Fairgrounds. Their pillage and plunder left this place weak and soft.

(acerca 9:29 P.M.) Storm finally swung enough votes to crash the proceedings! Voted in, it was and still is a tough, merciless di_tatorship.
Coming around 5:30, the Cabal included - Rain, Thunder, Lightning, Wind.
A cruel and hard blow, Rain was the most destardly - the ground, inside and outside the Big Top, underwent a policy-shift.
Hell! the track (Counter-Clockwise) was horrid to begin with - muddy, rutty, damp!
The Ashtabula High School Band Boosters (?) was unfortunate in their Circus Day.
Although people were kind and courageous enough to put their support for the local organization above their own comfort - the 'calm' afternoon (4:30) performance had around a 13/16 'house.' And the response was outstanding! Dead or Alive walked away with better than usual reaction from the crowd.
The audience responded to parts that was untouched until this afternoon!
I worked the Boat in Spec - Jennifer didn't feel up to it, with the mud and all.
And you know what? The Sound-Booth Left General Admission bunch went wild when I passed in review!
This popularity spilled over to the Dentist (which was done without the Shoulder Carry).
No Dead or Alive for the evening (7:30) performance - a muddy Ring Two put a stop to it!
Instead, it was a Come-in for Mr. and Mrs. Clown, a surprise hit with the Circus Goers.
Even that was hampered by the slippery, unsafe Walking Path.
Around a 7/8 'house' this evening.
The wrecked Dentist (Teeterboard was being set-up; and I had to work around that, PLUS the gorey floor) was very well related to by the brave people.
No Spec while the Cabal encircled the show.
Lightning is in an animated speech as I write, with Thunder interpreting.
Did I ever tell you that Geary handled over the $25 yesterday afternoon, as I was preparing for Dead or Alive? Well, he did!

10 September (Thursday), Conneaut, OH

(Around 12:27 P.M.) -but not the Malik Park, as stated on the route slip. That place is a swamp!
It was slow going, but the show is being set-up on some kind of athletic field, adjacent to a General Electric Plant of sorts.
A long time getting all the vehicles on this soft, damp field.
A cool, raw day; the Shade has been drawn, blocking out the sun.
Grassy (thickly laid) and green.

30-degrees rain fall, around 12:27 P.M. I suspect we are in for a long, hard Water Letting!


The Big Top parallels Maple Avenue. The G.E. Plant is across Reig Avenue from the back end of the lot (which, in addition to the Back Yard, includes the Cookhouse, Pie Car, Front Yard - all opposite the mid-way).
A railroad track parallels the Connection.

(around 2:06 P.M.) At around 2:06 P.M., the 'Firing' has ceased.
Although we are not dropping our guard!
Jennifer lived in this town most of her married life; in fact her son Brian was borned here.
Will this play in our relationship somehow?

(acerca 9:35 P.M.) We are leaving Ohio for a little while - leaving on a Windy, threatening night.
The Full Moon is wrestling with Storm Clouds; so I hope we can get gone safely, and, when we return next week a Peace treaty has been signed.
Conneaut High School Music Boosters made our Conneaut debut possible.
A rough track (Counter-Clockwise turn for the incoming People Traffic), but not as bad as it could have been.
Jennifer went up in Balloon Bandit today - she, of course, has many ex-in-laws in this town; and most came to the show.
I was the Police.
The running and falling were welcomed Movement, but the newness has me exhausted.
The afternoon (4:30) performance - around a 13/16 'house.' Response was guarded and light.
Although the evening (7:30) performance had a larger attendence - around a 13/15 'house' - I didn't discern any major improvement in the response.
I was bothered by all the talk from Jennifer concerning her ex-husband. Their reunion was on friendly terms.
Was it a twang of jealousy that blocked my mind from the Dentist Coat?
The afternoon Dentist was presented White Coatless!
What right do I have to be jealous? Hell! Jennifer and I have yet to kiss!
Exocising Jennifer will be more difficult than I imagine.
Jennifer's ex, who attended the afternoon show along with his wife and child, led the applause for Dead or Alive.
Is that significant?
I think it best if I let this thing with Jennifer die after this season. It is bringing forth qualities that frighten me - for I didn't realize I possessed them!
One thing's for sure - I will have to do a massive introspection this Winter!
See you soon, Bucky! Maybe next time my situation will be better in hand!
A parting note - I finished "Rumpole of the Bailey" this afternoon.

11-16 September, Edinboro/Greenville/New Castle/Butler Township, PA
Vandergrift, PA/Salem, OH

(11th) Damn! if I know where we are!
Sure, this is Edinboro, PA!
And, yea, it is September 11, 1992, a cool, overcast Friday.
But we are not on the announced lot - southwest of I-99 & Crane, North of Drive Range.
No where near it!
We are on a thickly-grassed field, soft and multi-level, out here - someplace!
Is this anyway to start a tour of Pennsylvania? As if it ain't short enough, the logistical hardships will, I guess, 'double' the time in this state!
Leaving the Warfare with the Elements for awhile - I doubt very much if this Shenanigans and McBride will ever get off the ground. Nine weeks and almost 3 days, that's all I give the duo. Jennifer doesn't seem to be as excited, as enthusiastic over the whot-could-be sensational Comedy/Mime team.
I could say much more concerning how Jennifer won't be able to follow though with end of the bargain - and maybe I will at a later date.
However, it's what has developed from the experience that is noteworthy.
A dynamite pedogogical method has come of this! Instead of lecturing and trying to figure out how to get Clowning and Mime across - something I was never prepared to do; case in point, the dismal teaching session I attempted at Ballet UAB a while back! - I could, right from the start, have the students work a routine, and then take each part and the different movements, and study each..
If only I could locate an outlet for these Master Classes!
My thanks, Jennifer! You have opened a new world to me!
500 years ago, Christopher Columbus, by accident, landed on a Carribean Island, opening the way for the Americas to receive notice from Europeans.
That was in 1492.
This is, of course, 1992; and I have landed on what I hope is a Classroom technic which leads to a greater appreciation of Mime.
Was what Columbus did good or bad?
Will my voyages be helpful or harmful?
First, though, before you begin the Judgement Call, let me have my chance to showyou what I mean!

(acerca 9:29 P.M.) We can't say we weren't warned!
That is why there was only one section of Preferred Seating in the tent. And no Lo-Boy.
The Edinboro Rotary Club turned in a poor job - attendence was lousy!
The afternoon (4:30) performance only drew around a ¾ 'house.'
Actually, given the lessened seat-load, it wasn't such a dismal attendence.
Jennifer's ex-Parents-in-law were in that afternoon conference; so I let her go up, and I did the Police.
The evening (7:30) performance did a little better - around a 13/16 'house.'
I was back in the saddle again; Luis was ill, so I also started the Robbery before hook-up.
Dead or Alive (which I could never figure out about the audience) was presented in Ring Two (from the Front Door, a Clockwise Audience-walk) for the Ex's, and facing the Front track.
What a rutty, mis-fit of a track today! The ground all over the Big Top was damp and bumpy - which could have been the reason for keeping out all the seats, and not because of the Low-Count prospect.
Each set of Circus-Goers gave out the best they could - but the overall response was disconcerning and disheartening!
It is rather cold this evening!
Sun got a chance to walk around; air was Hot with Anger, but kept Its Cool.
I began the reading of "Billy Budd," Herman Melville's short novel. The story is the title piece in a Signet Classic paperback which includes "The Piazza Tales" and "The Town-Ho's Story."
I will check-in when I hit the pa_e of each.
Pennsylvania's first time at bat in 1992 was a strike-out; what about the next time at the plate?

(12th, About 4:27 P.M.) Out here at the Greenville Airport - but just barely! The soft, muddy field didn't want us on It, but all the vehicles lined up, and creeped into place, most requiring assistance.
Hell! it wasn't until around 11:00 A.M., that the Big Top aired its views!
A sunny, cool day, the blue sky scraped white in spots, in amebic globs.
Slight breeze is withus.
It was COLD early this morning! Damn near the freezing point!
And the Driving (Golf) Range was near the lot in Edinboro - I saw it on the way here.
The Greenville Faternal Order of Police Lodge #88 provides sponsorship today.
Under that police guidance, the Riot Squad set-up. Now, the 2:00 matinee didn't absolutely need them, but the Full-House Plus hinted (or teased) that a too-much-to-handle crowd just may show-up later, in spite of the fact that the Saturday matinee usually pulls in the majority of this day's people.

(13th, About 6:35 P.M.) Around a half-mile west of the Lawrence County Fairgrounds, the 'arena'for today, is Forbes Buffalo In. There are 4 or 5 bison grazing in a field.
But are they truly bison? Or just cattle with buffalo physiogomy?
I mean, what makes a species a species - appearance or behavior?
Can bison really be bison penned and treated as cows?
Or can a bison only be a bison roaming free and running their own life?
But, hold on - how can I be so philosophical about an animal, so concerned, when I just ate a sandwich for which one of these magnificent beast gave his life?!
Shame on me! I am such a hypocritical slob!!
A beautiful day - sunny, clear sky (for the most part).
Two showers at the Shower Room!
A dry, grassy lot!
A terrific day, ruined only by the humiliation of Payday.
I rode from Greenville with Frank and Wendy. A pleasant ride, but I was tired for the fellowship of last night -
- for we went to Perkins Family Restaurant. And the stress and flustration of my no-where getting with Jennifer exploded into a burst of uncontrollable, insane laughter.
I needed the social - even if with Frank and Wendy!
While we on Greenville - the evening (7:00) performance was a Full-House Plus, although many of the S.W.A.T. Team had nothing to do.
The response was good from both of yesterday's shows.
It was a Counter-Clockwise Frontdoor to Sound-Booth Right in Greenville, just as it was Clockwise today.
The New Castle Rotary Club centralized us at the fairgrounds today.
Having released the crippling pressure last night, I was hard-hitting today. I was able to pick-up on the energy from Jennifer during the single Dead or Alive.
And the act probably show it!
That was for the 2:00 matinee - around a 13/16 'house' for this early show.
Good response - sophisticated and enthusiastic.
Music Man was more 'with it.'
The smooth, level track allowed for the Shoulder Carry to the Dentist Office.

(acerca 8:10 P.M.) Nine weeks! Until the end of the 1992 Carson and Barnes Circus tour!
As happens each season I had to deal with many situations.
Not to review them all - yet - the one I currently face will most likely be cleared up. I'm talking about the situation with Jennifer.
My appreciation to her for re-vitalizing my career MUST NOT spill over to a fondness for her romanticly.
She doesn't want it - and I shouldn't want it!
63 days - take charge, will you Sixty-three?
The Laurel Junior-Senior High School is directly across the highway from the fairgrounds.
At the Gulf gasoline station/Convenient Store, a few yards further west of the Buffalo joint, I transferred $300 in cash to a Money Order, for 59 cents.
Now, for the mid-afternoon (4:30) performance today - a Club juggle and 3-ring juggle Come-in as the around-2/3 'house' poured in
Nice response.
I handled the Balloon Give-Away during the Peanut Pitch for Jennifer, as she was busy assisting Neil Huff in attending to Jason, the Cage Boy - it seems he knocked the door down on him as he was cleaning one of the cages. He head was really gashed. Mucho blood.
Jason is sure having rotten luck as the Cage boy - his forearm is still under going repair as a result of the vehicular accident Brad Jewel (the Cat Trainer and Cat Truck driver) had a couple of weeks ago.
Can I assume Jason will not want the Cage Boy job in the future?
It was cool this afternoon, but tolerably so.
After that string of Mud Manuvers, today was a welcomed R and R.
Music Man was damn good the second try - I am so relieved my stride is back!

(14th, 10:36 A.M.) The Bulter Farm Show Grounds just outside Bulter Township, PA
A bright, clear, cloudless penultimate Keystone State stop.
The Bulter Farm Show Grounds is in reality a fairgrounds; why the esoteric name I have no idea!
Geary handed me the $25 this morning in New Castle.
It is mildly cool this morning (10:36 A.M.).

(acerca 11:35 A.M.) Evans City Road, a few yards southeast of the 'Connoquenessing Township' sign - our location today.
Although the sun is still supreme, Clouds are beginning to Challenge it.

(acerca 9:24 P.M.) The Butler Farm Show sponsored us today; and we are the third tent show to play this area this Summer (Robert Bros, and Great American were here earlier).
As a result, attendence was lousy - around a half-house for the afternoon (4:30) performance, the evening (7:30) performance with, at the most, a 5/8 'house.'
The afternoon Dead or Alive felt good ' apparently my childish fear of not 'winning the girl of my dreams' was keeping me from connecting with the unifying energy Jennifer shoots out.
How many times have I told myself, one can't force the Hand of Fate? The Capricious Bitch will do things Her own way, or not at all.
One must be an opportunist, ready to jump on the largesses of Fate.
In fact, Fate can become spiteful if pushed too far - then She stops Her flow of honey.
Jennifer is my Business Partner.
Jennifer is my . . .
I must repeat that to myself, however much it takes, until I accept the situation. There can never be anything between us personally. There really shouldn't.
Jennifer arrived for Come-in too late for an evening Dead or Alive - she fell asleep. But she did defy Barbara Byrd and did the Conducting with me.
I'm so proud of her - she is actually standing up to these people!
A Clockwise trail around a grassy relatively smooth track.
The flies are a terrible nuisance today - as they have been for several days. And the fact that the horses are ten or so yards away doesn't help!
62 days - and counting! What will the final rush be like?
I already had the Second Wind -something that happens every season.
What will follow Dead or Alive? Or will anything follow Dead or Alive?
Has it been just a fluke, and accidental discovery - or an inchoate Mime Team sensation?
Sure, I can't force it: but I sure as hell can hope for its continuation!
The Busses/trailers are in two files on an asphalt drive; the remainder of the Backyard is on lush grass.
A street light is right outside my door.

(15th, Around 9:39 A.M.) It was I 1988 - wasn't it? - that Carson and Barnes Circus found itself in Vandergrift, PA, behind Trunzo's Dari-Twist.
September 15, 1992, and we are once again established on the Driving (Golf) Range in the rear of that Fast-Food restaurant.
The reason I remember this stop so clearly is because the Motor Vehicle Inspection team gave the pick-up and wagon I was then driving and pulling a major scrutiny.
Two citations as an unsafe vehicle. The show had to pay out around $275.
(Other trucks was bled more!)
A sunny, clear Tuesday (it is presently around 9:39 A.M.). The sky is cloudless, and this field is beautiful, manicured, and grassy.
(I suppose the sponsors know what they are doing, having us on this lovely patch of Pennsylvania - it will get rutty, you know!)
We bring the 1992 Pennsylvania tour - it has been brief! - to a close tonight. Will we part on a good note, still 'friends'?
My lumbago is hell this morning! The damp air is kicking shit out of it!

(acerca 9:08 P.M.) I guess Fate is serious about not allowing Jennifer and me a union - of any kind.
I had a premonition last night that Barbara Byrd would, for some reason, yank Dead or Alive from Come-in.
As a consequence of Jennifer's conducting yesterday, Madam Byrd told her Dead or Alive tied up two clowns for too long. We must go back to our old Come-in, and be more visible to more of the audience.

(acerca 9:25 P.M.) Now, is it over? Both of us desparately want the Festival gig in Sarasota; but will Fate queer that also?
Is it defying the Bitch to continue our Relationship (Jennifer and me.)?
Are we both trying to back away from what was becoming to deep?
But this is not the first time an obstacle has been dropped in my path! And I always bounce back - usually better than ever.
Can I this time, though? Or should this be a sign that I am headed in the wrong direction?

The Vandergrift Area Business and Professional Association brought us for a return visit to this Vandergrift stand, the lauch point for another conquest of Ohio.
It was an o'kay take-off - the afternoon (4:30) performance had around a 2/3 'house' - and witness the final Dead or Alive, at least the Mime Version. The act was well-received, and should be remembered as one of the highlights of the 1992 tour.
Especially if it becomes responsible for giving the World Shenanigans and McBride.
Damn! if I can let my flustration and anger be transferred to Jennifer! I manhandled her too roughly during the Dentist Shoulder-Carry!
If the truth be known, the flustration probably - no, does! - originates from the fear of losing Jennifer. Hell! I have tried so hard, done most everything, for the lady!
As I have always said, it's the little things that brings down an Empire, not the expected, able-to-cope- with ones!
Clockwise around a smooth track; Spec was Counter-Clockwise.
I worked the Boat in Spec - Jennifer had Kiddy Klowns to deal with.
The evening (7:30) performance had around a 13/16 'house' - not bad response.
The Search was laid on those people - which, after an absence of several weeks, oozed out nicely.
Sticks and Boxes enjoyed being back in the saddle, and co-operated.
Remember back in '88 when I bathed in the creek that flowed behind the lot? Well, I repeated the procedure this visit. I had a dim recollection of the Water Main when I saw the tree line.
So I bathed nude in it this afternoon.
The two-mile hike from the mall (K-Mart, Goldern Eagle) this morning - a female towner drove me out to it - was great for my lumbago. I was able to kick out two great sets of Clowning!

(16th, Around 11:29 A.M.) I'll show her! I CAN make repairs!
The hasp that secures the Ice Truck door from the outside was up to par - in a drunken rage, Terry pried the lock and got the hasp bent and out of whack.
Vern, a 'mechanic,' kept saying he would fix it;
but I did the job this morning.
Me, myself!
Let's see now if Jennifer needs any other man!
I can do general fix-ups, including mechanical work. However, are handy men and mechanics able to do high quality Mime?
I think not!
September 16, 1992, and the Buckeye State welcomes us back at an out-of-the-way location so that we won;t disturb anybody with the wild Festivities.
The Quaker City Dragstrip, near Salem, Ohio. It is a warm, sunny Wednesday (round 11:29 A.M.).
A comforting Breeze assists in the pre-party preparations.
No Clouds are in the vicinity; apparently our return will be a surprise to Them, also, when it is revealed later on.
When I went over to Jennifer's last night with milkshakes, she was trimming Vern's hair. The tire man was an audience (he later was groomed).
Paul came by; earlier Jennifer had told me Paul asked her to have a banana split with him up at Trunzo's. The restaurant was closed at that late hour - but is my previous prophecy coming to fruitation?
How can something that feels so right be so wrong?
Is it now the challenge, the stubbornness to spite Fate? Surely, though, I don't think I can win!?
Both Vern and that other were drunk. They bagged ice as payment for the cosmotological service.
I finally gave up - I left.
Two rejections in one day! How many will it take for me to understand the writing on the wall?

(acerca 9:50 P.M.) The Bulter Kiwanis hosted this Welcome Back Party.
And Climate did such a fantastic job as Decoration Chairman!
Counter-Clockwise went the Search.
Speaking of which, reverting to the Search - or, in this case, being thrown back into it! - seems a fall from Grace! It could be that Mime wasn't finished with the piece - there is much more I could do with it! - but isn't there a way to leave it behind? Dead or Alive was just getting smooth and secure!
I am not done, though! Sixty days remain I this 1992 season - 120 performances! The way things change, the way Fate operates, anything can happen!
And probably will!
Not only for Jennifer's sake, but I will fight to the end for my own survival!
I will make Mrs. Byrd regret her punitive action!
The afternoon (4:30) performance had around an 11/16 'house.' Good response, even if the poor lighting in the Big Top prevented a successful Sticks display.
Around a 13/16 'house' for the evening (7:30) performance; and above-par response spilled from it.
A brighter work place brought out well-executed Sticks and Boxes.
Am I becoming too Fabianish with my pre-Dentist Ad-Lib? While the prop boys are clearing away the Teeterboard (the 'gag' follows that act most of the time) stuff, I have no choice but to 'cover' for them. (continued)




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