I’ve mentioned that doing this Neil Simon play has made me nostalgic for the last time I did a Neil Simon play, Broadway Bound, which was my very first play in high school ten years ago. It’s prompted me to reflect on the past ten years and remember how I got into this industry in the first place. On this show, I snuck in a couple of nods to that production, just for me and my own personal amusement and nostalgia.

Our costumer gave me a blue suit to wear in Act I, and I was allowed to pick a tie. In honor of my high school colors, I chose a gold one. Here I am rockin’ the blue and gold in the dressing room.

I also asked for a sweater vest, partly because I liked Mark Linn-Baker’s look in My Favorite Year, but also because Joey and I wore them in Broadway Bound. That show and the sweater vest are permanently linked in my brain. 

I made the request half-jokingly, not expecting it to be taken seriously, but lo and behold, she actually gave me a sweater vest for Act II. Unfortunately, the costume includes a bowtie. Here I am backstage during intermission.

Tonight is our last performance, after which, we’ll strike the set. I’ve had a great time working on this production, spending time with these people, and enjoying Bemidji. I’m gonna miss it.

P.S. Most of the cast went to see The Dark Knight yesterday. It was super good. Possibly my new favorite Batman movie.