The first day of the residency went extremely well. It was satisfying to hear Kibibi’s praise about the work we had put into the script since October. And to hear Yako’s ideas as a fresh ear.
This process is pretty incredible, all at once it is the strongest theater piece I’ve worked on, and on a personal level, this process is definitely bringing my father and I much closer.
The second day:
Sitting on the A train as it pulls into 42nd St. My father just got off at 34th. We had a lively discussion on the train trying to work through some practical issues around the process of creating Crossing. And although I’m exhausted and drained I am also feeling empowered and definitely closer to him.
An image that will live in my memory for years to come… I reached for and held his hand. Just a moment of connection, our hands together, and it felt natural. That’s the first time as an adult I’ve reached out and touched my father without it feeling forced. We are truly becoming father and daughter in more than just words.
The day after we finished the residency:
It’s been a long satisfying, exhausting, illuminating week.
I’m sitting on the Bedford Park Blvd platform waiting for the D while I imagine my father has returned safely to Virginia. It’s amazing what five days can do.
I definitely feel like our relationship has grown this week, not to mention that the script is in pretty good shape. I am ready to let more people read it, and continue the process of refining and tightening…
The interviews. Wow. So incredible. Seven friends of mine who were willing to open up and share their stories of growing up without a father. A diverse group of people, they ranged in ages from 18 to 36. But as I think about the second round of interviews, it’s very apparent there are holes. So far I’ve only interviewed one male, although I do have three more lined up. And I need some folks in their forties and beyond.
The following week:
I’m in Miami and super excited because tomorrow I get to hang out with my brother Chad. I am going to interview him, because he also grew up with out our father. Not sure yet if his voice will be just another voice in the soundscape, or if his identity is known. I’m really curious to hear his answers to the questions, as we have gotten to know each other, we haven’t talked that much about our childhood experiences.
And so the process continues…
