Hello from the Rehearsal Room!

You may have noticed I’m not teaching this quarter. Huge thanks to Andrew for stepping in to teach our advanced class while I am in rehearsal in Langley on Whidbey Island for my next project — it’s such a gift to have an Artistic Director who not only supports but celebrates the life of a working actor.

What Project Am I Working On?

So, what project am I working on right now?

Cowboys Are My Weakness is Pam Houston’s acclaimed short story collection. It has been adapted and directed by Myra Platt, co-artistic director of Book-It Repertory Theatre. She founded the company in 1990 alongside Jane Jones. Myra first adapted these stories for the stage in Seattle in 1999. Now, in 2025, she boldly brings the piece back to life, guiding it with curiosity, courage, and the leadership to honor its original questions and the new ones that emerge today.

Myra Platt: A Pillar of Seattle Theater

Myra has been a pillar of the Seattle theater scene for decades. She is also a dedicated educator, teaching students of all ages. Additionally, she serves as a guest lecturer in Youth and Theater at the University of Washington’s School of Drama. I feel incredibly lucky to work with her. I am learning from her deep knowledge, clarity of vision, and fearless approach to bringing stories to life on stage.

The “Book-It Style”

What is the “Book-It style”?

Their signature “Book-It style” brings literature to the stage using the author’s exact words — dialogue, narration, and description — all spoken aloud and performed. This approach demands precision. It also creates a playful, surprising space where text, actor, and audience meet in real time.

Working with text in this way has made me reflect on Andrew’s recent script analysis masterclass. I think about how those tools translate into this highly specific form. In Houston’s landscapes of grit, risk, and wide-open spaces, every word carries shape and intention. As actors, we ride the text like a current. It’s demanding, precise, and full of joy, keeping the heartbeat of storytelling alive in the room.

Double Bluff Beach. Freeland, WA

A Moment of Growth and Change

I’m especially grateful to be part of a Book-It production at this moment. The company is reopening after a brief pause in 2023. Stepping into this community during a time of growth and change has been artistically inspiring. If you’re in Seattle this weekend, I highly recommend checking out their reopening production, The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, directed by Jane Jones. It opens this Saturday, September 27, at Seattle’s Broadway Performance Hall.

Watching professional actors at work will allow you to connect back to what you're exploring in class with Alana and Andrew. Notice the nuance, presence, and specific choices made. Go see it, feed your curiosity, and celebrate the return of a Seattle theater treasure.

The Importance of Community in Acting

Being part of a vibrant theater community is essential for growth as an actor. It provides opportunities to learn from others and to see different styles of performance. Engaging with fellow actors and audiences enriches your understanding of the craft.

In Seattle, the theater scene is alive and thriving. You can find a variety of performances that showcase both new and classic works. Each production offers a unique perspective and a chance to learn something new.

Embracing the Journey

As you continue your journey in acting, remember that every experience counts. Whether you are in a class, attending a performance, or rehearsing for a role, each moment contributes to your growth. Embrace the challenges and celebrate the victories, no matter how small.

Acting is not just about the final performance; it’s about the entire process. The connections you make, the skills you develop, and the stories you tell all shape you as an artist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the Seattle theater community. Attend performances, engage with fellow actors, and continue to hone your craft. Remember, you are part of a rich tradition of storytelling that has the power to inspire and connect us all.

So, go out there, explore, and do your best work now. The world of theater is waiting for you!