Number 4: Ukraine
I guess I’m cheating including a trip that didn’t involve my teardrop camper, but there was no way to take Louise when I was hired to travel to Ukraine with Complexions Contemporary Ballet a few weeks ago.
The job offer was quite out of the blue, but an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. I got to work in my favorite of all theatrical roles, as a lighting supervisor for a ballet company, and see a part of the world I never before would have dreamed of seeing.
The Ukraine was a truly incredible experience. It was the farthest east I’d ever been in Europe, and culturally different than any of my previous travels. I loved learning about the culture. I loved experiencing the craft beer and farm to table style meals I had. The work – it was the hardest work I’ve ever done in my 20 year theater career, but it was so rewarding. The work I helped facilitate was truly fantastic, and I’m proud I was a part of it…. The company of dancers, production crew, choreographers and ballet mistress are the most incredible artists I’ve ever gotten to work with. I am truly honored I got to be there.
The second stop of our three city tour was Odessa. We performed at the Opera and Ballet Theater, which was first built over 200 years ago. It’s burned down twice, but is rebuilt each time more impressive than the time before (though, honestly, I’m not sure it can get any better).
Everything about the theater is magical. Our crew was the best we had in all the tour stops, and the Soviet Union era lighting “technology” was fascinating to say the least!
That I got to work on the same stage as some of the greatest opera singers, dancers, and composers have performed is something I will treasure forever!
Teardrops & Ales 