Happy Memorial Day!

This morning the production cast singers all sang God Bless America and the National Anthem on the pool deck to celebrate. The Captain and a few of our Officers put fresh flower leis in the pool in remembrance and our Hawaiian ambassador, Kaulana, said a dedication.

Your Production Cast Singers!
Left to Right: Qiana, Kennen, Felix, Myself, Vincent, and Chase!

So many veterans came and thanked us for singing, which actually surprised me. They were the ones who fought for our country and risked their lives for our freedom, the very least we could do was sing the National Anthem. It was very sweet of them, though, and I was so glad to have a positive impact on an important National holiday. 

Aloha from Honolulu!

Arriving in Hawaii is a big deal. The energy of people excited for their vacations, newlyweds on their honeymoons, and the first timers, like me, who are ready to explore something new is overwhelming. 

I really can’t believe I’m here. There is a six hour time difference from Eastern Standard Time to Hawaii-Aleutian Time. But, there is too much work to be done before sleep can be had! So, of course, I found a Starbucks, where I’m currently updating this blog, and so I could get coffee!

I know there will be more to come!
Meghan

Expect the Unexpected

So, in the last 48 hours, I have left Florida, flown to New York City, seen some of my best friends, celebrated a friend’s birthday, and found out that I am moving to Hawaii for six months.

As unexpectedly as this adventure began, I found out today that I will be joining the cast that I was swinging as Production Cast Principal on the Pride of America.

Life in musical theatre really turns upside down when you least expect it.

So, tonight I am getting my life in New York together because I fly down to Florida to see my family for a few days before heading to Hawaii. Hawaii!

I already can’t wait to share all of my Hawaiian adventures!
Meghan

Surprises Around Every Corner part 2

While receiving that phone call was a fantastic feeling, realizing that I would be living in the same city as my best friend, Kathryn, was so exciting.

As soon as I accepted my contract, I began plotting with her fiance. Fiance! Did I mention she gets married to a wonderful guy in a few short months? (Amazing!)

For so long I didn’t tell anyone about my contract or where I was going so I could surprise Kathryn. It was such a hard secret to keep! I wasn’t even home for Christmas this year, so seeing her was top priority.

Yesterday was the day. Gabe, her fiance, got her up for a nice breakfast out, he pulled into my new subdivision to “turn around” and surprise! Best friends united at last!

After breakfast at First Watch (Floridian French Toast, what’s up?!), we decided to head to Busch Gardens in Tampa to see Gabe perform in his show, Soundsational! 

You know, there are many things about musical theatre that I have always loved, but today I love the surprise factor, never knowing where I’m going, but finding out I am exactly where I should be at the end of the day.

Surprises Around Every Corner part 1

It doesn’t matter how many times you get the call or the email, getting a job always feels like someone planned an extravagant surprise birthday party just for you.

Your phone is ringing, it’s a number you don’t recognize, do I pick up? Is it that weird product survey company again? I have to get on that updated do not call list!

Then you think, Oh My God, what if it’s Broadway? What if Broadway is calling? Not that I have auditioned for a Broadway show recently, or that this is a New York area code, but, what if?

Finally, and probably with a total of two seconds to voicemail, you clear your throat and answer, “Hello?”

Then, they offer you a job. They offer you a job and as they are giving you necessary details like pay and time, all you can think is, “I have to call my parents! I wonder if I know anyone else that got this offer? I have to text my best friend! How much time do I have to pack?”

You end the phone call, do all of the above, and get ready for the next big adventure.

Yes, I’m off again. I am headed to Florida to begin rehearsals as a swing for two Norwegian Cruise Line ships!

All of those 4am mornings paid off, what an amazing feeling.

Meghan

Best Friend Adventures

My best friend Kevin and I love to love this city. On any given weekend, you can find us grabbing coffee, shopping in bookstores, seeing a Broadway show, eating in diners, or walking through Central Park.

We both look up at this skyline and know we are home.

I think one of the greatest things about Manhattan is having Kevin around. We have been apart since graduation (he was on a cruise ship!) and we never really know when one of us will book another job and be off again. Here are some of our favorite adventures from this winter so far!

With Her Nose Stuck In A Book

Fun fact: I have always wanted to own a New York Public Library card. It is synonymous  with being a New York resident and provides hours of subway entertainment.

Today, I went out and got my NYPL card, Starbucks, and a stack of books to go with it! 

Some days, this city just treats you well.

Meghan