From: Patti de Beck

Date: June, 2004

To: Baayork(a)achorusline.org
Subject: Update

Dear Baayork,
As for me, well................after BROOKLYN with Jeff Calhoun in Denver last may & june 2003, I've directed/chor. SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE at Pioneer Theatre in SLC, Ut, KISS ME KATE in Cape Fear, NY, and done a number of teaching artists weekends and weeks. One week was at VCU in Richmond,Va(Virginia Commonwealth University).........well, the week was magical, and fulfilling.............students cried when I left and so did I................, so they asked me to direct, & choreograph a couple productions there and to do a musical theatre workshop, and some movement classes for actors. They actually kina' created a place for me there............ I can go in and out of town and do other stuff...............It is a 2 semester, 15 weeks each committment...............and you
know what.................I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT IT................WOW...................I never would have thought I'd be doing this ever, but it's pretty cool helping to create my own work and a life for myself..............this feels like a whole new chapter in my life............... it's the beginning of exploring a new life chapter...........!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sending you much love,
pd'b

From: Thommie Walsh

Date: May 26, 2004

To: MISSWONG(a)achorusline.org
Subject: Note from Thommie Walsh

Miss Wong!
Grand night for B'way gypsy's hosted by JUSTIN ROSS at his penthouse apartment here in NYC.... The terrace looking over the southside of Manhattan was packed with dancers that illuminated the choruses of the 60's 70's & 80's. The dancers that were hand picked by Bennett, Fosse, Robbins, Field, Gennero, Kidd and Champion. I had the best time. Everyone looked terrific and the love and laughter was intoxicating...... The playing field was mellow, everyone comfortable and very little chatter about theater or me, me me. The conversations were about the good ole days of course, children, losses of parents, moving into other careers, teaching dance, social work, and creating your own dinner theater. My favorite line from LARRY GIROUX (Promises, Promises, and a wonderful Fosse
Dancer) was Insurance, Health, Inspiration and LIFE! I was only going to stay an hour but stayed for 5..... Yes, I had a few cocktails so I will probably leave out a lot of guests names but here goes....I arrived with MITZI HAMILTON (Val/Sheila-B'way) after a great afternoon soiree at the Leonard's (KELLY BISHOP & husband Lee) in South Orange a special event for Kelly. KATE WRIGHT (Sheila-B'way) and beau Andy, VICKI FREDRICKS (Cassie B'way/National) and good looking husband, CYNTHIA ONRUBIA (B'WAY) & very good looking husband Harrison Beal 16 years together. FRAN LIEBERGALL (original assistant to Marvin Hamlisch) SUSAN DANILLE (Sheila-B'way) minus husband JOHN HART (Larry-B'way). GENE FOOTE (Director Amsterdam Co.) GARY CHRYST (Paul-B'way) STEVE and DENISE BOOCKVOR (the real Al & Kristine) Denise still a knockout, MURPHY CROSS (Judy-B'way/international). Robert Rosen, Mary Sue Finnerty (Milliken Dancer) & husband. Michael Kubala, Kevin McCready, Michael Kristin, PI DOUGLAS (Richie -Australia), DEAN BODELOTTO (Mike,Al/B'way). ANGELIQUE ILO (Judy-B'way) was so generous sharing her real estate stories with me. Eileen Casey (Milliken dancer) who lost her Mom 3 months ago..LYPSINKA, KAREN ZIEMBA (Bebe-B'way), BILL SCHELLEBE (ACL Publicist) Charlie Siedenberg, Richard Hilner, and TONY STEVENS (Larry/Organized the original tapes session). I'm sure there were any more but I'm too exhausted to think about it. I would like to thank Justin for giving us this great gift, we should do it yearly!
love always,
Walshman

From: Dean Scott

Date: June 13, 2004

To: bruce(a)achorusline.org
Subject: Note from Dean Scott

Hi Bruce,
My production of ACL went great. I directed and choreographed the show. I had a very strong community theatre cast here in Saratoga, Ca. We had a 92% sell out for the run, 5 weekends. Most shows do about 80% so I felt really good about the turnout.
Hope to hear from you soon.

Dean Scott (International tour 82 - 83)

From: Karen Johnson

Date: July 1, 2004

To: Baayork(a)achorusline.org
Subject: Family member update

Dear Baayork,
I choreographed Tin Symphony for the opening ceremony of our Olympics--which I think was really the most exciting and thrilling time of my professional life--sitting in the stadium and watching a year's work, blood, sweat,tears and arguments come to life on a world stage with 1600 performers on a magnificent Sydney evening was a great moment in time--not bad for your CV (resume) either. I also choreographed four sections of the closing ceremony--with Greg Norman, Paul Hogan and other Australian icons--fun but a little more
stressful--not the time available for the closing as the opening. Been doing a lot big massed stuff since then-go figure! Choreographed the Commonwealth Heads Of Government Meeting two years ago with Queen Elizabeth sitting on stage for the entire 2 hour ceremony--its so hard to choreograph twirling spears and, manic Irish dancers, and crawling indigenous dancers without getting a comprising picture opportunity for HM in the background seated on a white chair!--the danm thing was a live broadcast as well but we somehow it went well.

At the end of 2003 I went back on the stage in the Australian production of Footloose; writers were here revamping script right up to our opening. Good production-great reviews--not enough audience -we closed after 3 months.

Last year I choreographed and was assistant director on Leader Of The Pack which played at Star City in Sydney. Again a well needed revamp of a very flimsy script--and in my opinion lots more work needed in that area--however--the show had a very successful run in Sydney--great reviews--it was only ever scheduled for a Sydney season to test the waters. Ellie Greenwich came out for the opening and was thrilled with what we had done with it --so it may get a tour--but who knows! Apparently David Atkins (Mike-Australia) was interested in picking it up but I've heard no more.

At present I am completeing my Masters Degree in Theatre Research. Its my last year--I have been juggling this with work committments for the past 21/2 years. Anyway this is the year I direct and choreograph my own script--and of course its my show on Bob Hope - my life long idol! This thing has been cooking for ten years now. So now I get a chance to get it on its feet--even though I am using 2nd year students as a cast--that's how the University has organised the assessment--mine for script and direction and the students for their embracing of musical theatre.

I am also Artistic Director for the performing arts in 147 Catholic Schools across Sydney--and we have five festivals coming up in October and November at the Opera House and Sydney Entertainment Centre--so I'maging rapidly.

Yes my kids are now 22, 21 and 16. Eldest finished University with a commerce degree -out working in corporate world and playing football professionally as well--not in top grade yet --but is his dream. Second son--completed his degree in communications--specialising in film--and now doing an honours degree--which is based around a documentary he is scripting and filming, and daughter in final year of school--hoping to go to the institute of Music next year and do a degree in contemporary music. Fantastic singer--great jazz singer and muso--also a fabulous dancer--still studying --doing her RAD ADV ballet exam in 2 weeks--just to complete her training as well as modern and tap exams--she truly is a terrific dancer-but her passion is her music and if she can combine that with her dancing she will be a happy girl--I tell her there's nothing like a triple threat--anyway all's ahead of her. Stephen (her husband is a famous athletic star) is well.

Hope you are well and heres hoping we catch up,sometime in New York

Love Karen

From: Jennifer Brooks

Date: June 19, 2004

To: achorusline.org
Subject: Family member update

Just to let you know....I'll be playing Cassie at Yorktown Stage this July. Directed by Dennis Edenfield. www.Yorktownstage.com. I miss everyone. Drop in and say "hi." I am still working at Ellen's Stardust Diner on 51st and Broadway (Home of the world famous singing waitstaff..weeee).

From: Mary Ann O'Reilly

Date: June 21, 2004

To: achorusline.org
Subject: A further update

The Beu Sisters' new single comes out the end of June. I still have three of the eight living home: two sons are married and doing great Jamie is a computer programer and financial advisor, Jesse is an electronic engineer, Damian is studying to be a graphic artist. The four girls are singing and writing. And the baby Gabrielle is 11 and may be moving up into the group in a couple of years. Five of the children were home schooled and continue to do so. I'm now giving lectures at Universities and Women's Groups, and continue to write music and lyrics. There is a life after divorce. I have so much more to do.      

From: Troy Garza

Date: May 11, 2004

To: achorusline.org
Subject: A Message from Troy

To all my ACL family,
 
Happy to announce that HGTV and DIY Network will soon be airing a segment of "My Ultimate Workshop" which features a spot on Torte Knox Cooking School www.torteknox.com . This incredible culinary workshop in a restored bank building just five minutes from my home in Pennsylvania has been the focus of my energy for the last nine months since I partnered up with its owner Sheelah Kay Stepkin, a retired actress.
 
Sheelah is an incredible food artist and we became fast friends after I went for a couple of cooking classes. Long story short: I became her production coordinator/food stylist for the upcoming "My Ultimate Workshop" segment (as well as the pilot for a Food Network series which we shot at the school back in December). The segment will run Saturday May 15th at 8AM on HGTV, and Sunday May 16th at 8 PM on DIY Network, set to repeat in June and beyond. Check out this DIYNET link for info and a preview.   
  
 http://www.diynet.com/diy/hi_workshop_woodshop/article/0,2037,DIY_13941_2863429,00.html

 In the meantime, we've been busy running the cooking school where we do classes and live demonstrations as well as restaurant nights each weekend creating high-end-presentation cuisine with zillion-dollar ingredients. Very, very cool. 
 
And I finally realized, I just want to do what I love as much as I can and as long as I can, but at least now I'm doing it for me... Except the fat part.
 
So bon appétit, love to you all, and I'm gonna be FIFTY real soon... and I'm real glad.  
 
- Troy

From: MamaBew

Date: May 4, 2004

To: achorusline.org
Subject: The First mama of A Chorus Line

This is the first mama of the Chorus Line family, Mary Ann O'Reilly (MamaBew). I went into the Broadway company one week after the official Broadway opening. My first performance as Vicki was exactly two weeks after I gave birth to my second child Candice. When my ex-husband (Andy Bew) and I went out to LA with the original cast, Jamie my oldest son was three and a half years old and Candice was a baby. They slept in my dressing room. They were the company babies and show mascots.
I now have eight children. Four of my five daughters are carrying on the family tradition, they are the fourth generation of performers on my side of the family. I trained them well and developed them into a pop singing group. They have a CD out on S-Curve/ EMI records, called "Decisions." I am a guest vocalist on the girls CD "Decisions," Candice sings the lead on the song  "Emily" the last cut on the CD, and I share some of the lead. They are currently on five soundtracks; "Lizzy McGuire", "How To Lose A Guy in Ten Days",  "Ella Enchanted" and "Home On The Range",  singing material they wrote and a song Allen Menkin wrote for them. They also sang two of their original songs on the opening episode of the TV series "Miss Match."  They are also on the new Disney Mania II album, first artists to have two songs on the CD. Baayork is Candice's Godmother, so I know she will be excited to hear this news. You can check out the girls website @ thebeusisters.com. Also the girls, The Beu Sisters, have just completed a thirty-two city tour  as opening act for Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aikens, Independent Tour. Lots of good things are in the works, for all of us. I'll keep you posted. Check out their website, you won't believe their harmonies.
 

So glad you have this website.  Mary Ann

From: Scott Pearson

Date: April 6, 2004

To: achorusline.org
Subject: LA Reunion

Hi MissWong and Bruce,
Mitzi Hamilton’s birthday on March 21st became the raison d'etre for a reunion of theLos Angeles contingency of ACL alumni.  Mitzi was visiting friends in Hollywood, and Justin Ross, Kate Wright, and Sandahl Bergman took that as a cue to invite me, Ron Dennis,Cheryl Clark, Vicki Frederick, Blane Savage, Candy Brown, and Frank Kliegel among others to Sandal’s new home for a gala evening. Donna McKechnie, Sammy Williams, and Kelly Bishop were unable to attend. Much laughter, good food, good wine, good friends, and great memories.  You were missed, Baayork!
Love,
Scott Pearson

From: Kimberly Dawn Neumann

Date: Fri Apr 16, 2004

To: baayork ~ achorusline.org
Subject: Hello

Hi Baayork!
 
How are you?  Wanted to let you know that after I came back from playing the role of "Lily St. Regis" in the recent Martin Charnin directed ANNIE, I landed the role of "Susan Mahoney" in the Off-Broadway production of FINIAN'S RAINBOW at the Irish Rep.  We opened last night and it was a blast.  The show is charming and I'm loving playing opposite the ever-talented Malcolm Gets.  My ballet technique is getting a serious showcasing, which is lovely.  And since there are only 4 women in the show and one of them is a tenor/baritone, I'm also singing a lot (an interesting challenge for the "mute" character in the show - I've gotten quite good at onstage ventriloquism:-).  I feel very blessed to have this opportunity though.  The show is charming and I'm feeling quite appreciated and loved, which is what all artists hope for, yes?
 Hope you are well!
 
Warmly,
 
Kimberly Dawn

From: Jani Walsh Weber

Date: April 4, 2004

To: BruceATachorusline.org

Subject: Jani K. Walsh

Hi,
I saw this page and thought it was time for an update.
After 3 very successful years with Disney's The Lion King I have decided it is time to move on. My last day with Lion King in Germany is May 30th. Sad to leave such a beautiful production but excited about the future. What ever that may be. fter 12 fantastic years in Europe it is time to come home! I am looking for an oppertunity to move my family back to the states..we'll see:)
I am married and have 2 beautiful daughters 13, and 11 and a wonderful husband Manfred. Therefor this is to update my name as well just add Weber:) well...thats it,
love,Jani

From: Ross Coleman

Date: March 31, 2004

To: Baayork

Subject: Update

Dear Baayork,

Thank you for your email regarding Kooky Tunes. It was a big hit and will do a bit of a tour real soon. At the moment I am in Melbourne and this week begin rehearsals for Urinetown which I am choreographing. It is fortunately a busy time and that is good at 55 years
old. I directed and choreographed Bye Bye Birdie last year for a company somewhat like the ENCORE one in NY and have been nominated for an award. I am so grateful to be still gaining the recognition at this time in my life.

Ross

From: Erin Hunter

Date: February 2, 2004

To:achorusline.org

Subject: Hello and...

Hi! It's Erin Hunter, Kristine from the 97/98 tour.  I just wanted to say hello and send my love to everyone - Two things got me thinking about ACL.  I ran into Thommie Walsh a couple weeks ago (who is awesome!) and then I recently took a class at BDC and we danced to some of the ACL montage music.  Michelle  Martin (Hawaii 98) was also in the class and we just cried about how great the show is. It really is an amazing show  - I'm so grateful to have learned and performed it.
Love, Erin

From: David Inloes

Date: January 13, 2004

To: bruceATachorusline.org

Subject: Hello and...

Hi to all,
I was sent a link to your site by a friend who knew I had performed in the show many times (national 1980-81, national/international 1985, european 1986).  I have long since retired from the business and live on Long Island with my partner. I think often of the many wonderful people I met during the various productions I was in.  It's great to hear everyone is doing so well. A special thank you to Baayork...having worked with you in ACL and The Cocoanuts was beyond compare.  You made me a better person!  Much love to all.

David Inloes 

From: Stefan Nagel

Date: November, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: E-note

Hey Baayork,

It was so nice to hear from you. You have not slipped my memory and I think about you from time to time.

I hope that I could work with you again. Even though it was hard sometimes, you helped me to grow up. I thank you for that. Now I
am grown :-) and I walk up straight. You telling me not to be "little Stefan" anymore really helped.

Anyway - in the summer I opened up my own Big Band - 15 Musicians - it is the swingiest Big Band in Germany. You know me - if I do things, I do them right. We even have illuminated notenstands - that looks really great and I am proud of it. We play only danceable swing music with arrangements, that are exclusively written for me. - so we have an own sound. I am still looking for a producer to set up a tour through Germany or anywhere for an event, where the "normal people" can go and not just listen to a concert, but also dance again to music that sounds from the late 40's and 50's. Like Sinatra when he worked with Count Basie. Like I used to say: It's hot shit swing music. Of course I am still tapping a little, whistling, talking and entertaining. I have material on video and audio and pictures in case you know a producer that could be interested. I am a real singer now and I am also an actor now. (meaning a "trained" actor)

Well I did'nt plan do write all that - let me hear a bit from your life. Bye for now

your friend Stefan

PS. If you want - check out my website www.stefannagel.net and see if you find yourself under the "Chorus Line Section" where the pitcures are.

From: Sylvia Rhyne

Date: November, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: E-note

Dear Baayork,

It was so great to see you a few months ago! I'd love to contribute a few notes:
I don't think I've sent in any updates at all yet, so I suppose I could mention that I've had a fabulous, rip-roaring career since my Chorus Line days, and there has never been any doubt in my mind that it was you and A Chorus Line which really set me on my path.

My favorite highlight since then has been my Phantom experiences. I am possibly the only woman to have performed the role of Christine in all three of the major versions of Phantom: by Ken Hill, by MauryYeston & Arthur Kopit, and by Andrew Lloyd Webber. In the Webber version, I had the delight of being in the originating cast of the US National Tour (the Music Box Company), while with the International Tour, I had the delight of giving a command performance for the Prime Minister of Singapore, and to top it off, I enjoyed a beautiful year as the principal Christine in Toronto, Ontario. What a joy this time has been! Other treats have included appearing as Joanna in the Sweeney Todd revival on Broadway, the Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music on Broadway, as Lily in The Secret Garden opposite Craig Schulman, and as Emma in Jekyll & Hyde opposite Brad Little. And not least, I was cast as young Juliet Prowse in the gala production of Follies at the glorious Fox theater in Detroit, because I "had the legs" - a direct gift from you and Chorus Line!

This past fall I had the priviledge of appearing onstage with a host of Hollywood's greatest - including Susan Sarandon, Meryl Streep, Robert DeNiro, Kevin Kline, Whoopi Goldberg, Better Middler, Chita Rivera and Rita Moreno! - in Katie Couric's benefit concert of selections from West Side Story at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. I had the joy of singing Maria in the Tonight Quintet as the finale of the performance!

This year, my musical partner Eric and I are creating our first album of early music for two voices and lute, and preparing for a concert tour of Morocco! Our duo is called Asteri. I have also begun teaching Master Classes in audition technique and finding emotional truth in the performance of a song. It is intended for young artists and those wanting to expand into musical theater from dance and
acting. I have enjoyed teaching this class at Carleton College, one of the top colleges in the country, and will now bring it as a series to New York. My first class will begin in January!

I'm thrilled by these new adventures and look forward to an exciting new year.

Love, Sylvia

From: Nick Demo

Date: November, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: E-note

Hello Baayork,

I am beginning my 5th year as the Artistic Director for Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma. I can't believe that it is already five years. We had an incredibly successful season- the best ticket sales in the 42 year history of the theatre. I directed and choreographed Chicago starring Deborah Gibson, and then we produced Footloose, Wizard of Oz, Smokey Joe's Cafe and Forever Plaid. I had a great time with Chicago...it was one of those productions where there was magic...everything worked...and well. I was a proud papa.
I'm directing a reading of a new musical called Kids in America in Los Angeles in December, go back to Lyric in January for our production of Pageant and then go to Wichita, KS to direct a production of Godspell.

All of this leads me to our '04 summer season: Best Little Whorehouse in TX, Chess, Annie, Jekyll and Hyde and My Way, a musical tribute to Frank Sinatra.
I still have a place in Los Angeles as well as a home here in Oklahoma City. I fly back and forth frequently. Next week I will be in NY for 2 days and then off to London. I am taking a tour group of ladies from Oklahoma. Imagine me in London with a group of blue hairs!
I hope this finds you well. I so enjoy reading the website and hearing how everyone is doing.
Nick

From: Erin Malloy

Date: November, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: Hello and....

Hello there,
I am sad to say this will be my final e-mail from Thailand. I leave tonight for NYC and begin my journey home. I am officially a certified yoga instructor. It was well worth the aches and pains. A few Thai massages and I am back to normal.

Meanwhile, I flew over to Phuket last Saturday for some R&R on the beach and I decided to get my scuba diving certification. I am now a certified scuba diver as well! This was my trip for certifications, I guess. The diving was great and I have a feeling it will become my new obsession. I already want to buy my own fins, mask and snorkel, and wetsuit.
Well, now it is back to reality. I wish I could bring back the weather with me and the gorgeous colorful sunsets. But, now it is back to cold, snow and Christmas music. I must go and pack my things. See you all soon!!!

Love..................Erin

From: Jan Leigh Herndon

Date: November, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: Update
Baayork,

Since working with you at Papermill (the first production in the 90s) I went on to do the show with Mitzi many times which was a joy as well. I played Anna in THE KING AND I a couple of times (Mitzi choreographed one of them), Elsa in THE SOUND OF MUSIC
(just got back from Casa Manana on one of those) , did a couple of productions of THE WORLD GOES ROUND ( Karen Mason role), a couple of Dorothy Brocks, a string of shows at Gateway Playhouse ( thanks to Bobby Longbottom for getting me there) and no matter what show I'm in, I always come in contact with someone who was at one time very connected to our beloved show. I'll always be grateful for the history the show gave me and so many other people. And I'll always feel a closeness of heart to those who have experienced it the way we did. Bless you for creating such a lifeline that can go on and on.
Would love to hear from anyone who wants to get back in touch!
Love,
Jan Leigh Herndon

Webmaster's note: We will gladly forward any notes to Jan sent to us at the website.

From: Paul Frank Liberti
Date: Nov 20, 2003

To: achorusline.org
Subject: UPDATE

Dear Baayork and Bruce,

I just completed filming THE STEPFORD WIVES with Nicole Kidman, Bette Midler, Christopher Walken, Glen Close, Matthew Broderick ... as a dancing Stepford husband. We did a HUGE Viennese Waltz sequence with many Broadway dancers... I actually had to teach Jon Lovitz and Bette Midler how to waltz without killing the people around them... imagine 40 couple swirling in opposite rotation as
fast as they can ... it was exhilarating! The Stepford women all were at least six foot in heels and most of us men were 5'7'' and under. The set was in Queens and the women were stunning. My partner was the lovely Tango dancer/actress Marianna Hettinger. Choreography is by Patricia Birch and is directed by Frank Oz. Roger Bart and David Marshal Grant play a "male Stepford couple" in this new version of the dark comedy ... they are hysterical!

I just had a film come out called DUMMY which was in theaters as of September starring Adrian Brody. I play a bad magician whose rabbit dies during a hat trick ... short but very funny moment in the film. Oddly ... we filmed this long before Adrian had won an Oscar ... it was shelved and recently released due to his new-found fame.

Earlier this year I was seen dancing in the "Ballywood" numbers choreographed by Twyla Tharp dancer Jennifer Kellogg in THE GURU starring Marisa Tomei. It is out on video now. Also just out on video... I play a journalist in Hal Hartley's film NO SUCH THING starring Helen Mirren.

I just booked a voice on the new Disney series coming out next spring called PINKY DINKY DOO as the voice of Principal Diphthong! Jim Jinkins who created DOUG is the brains behind the project and is creating a very smart looking children's cartoon that should be very popular. Currently I have commercials running for MSN (yes, that is me as a butterfly) and 1800 FED-INFO carrying a parrot that refused to speak for me. You can also hear me on the cartoon POKEMON as the voice of Professor Elm.

Paul Liberti

From: Dean Scott
Date: November, 2003
To: achorusline.org
Subject: Hello

Hi, my name is Dean Scott, I was a Mike/Larry/Al understudy in the international in 82-83. I am now a Doctor of Chiropractic living and practicing in the San Francisco Bay area. I did Mike in SF while in transition. I am still in the biz. I gave up my AEA card this year. I am directing a production of ACL in Saratoga, Ca. and I am looking for a copy of "the book". If you know anyone that can get a copy I would really appreciate it.

I was with the company for 9 months on the road. It is one of my most fond memories. I did Cats in LA for two years. Got divorced and married twice, have one son and one step-daughter. My second wife was an alum of ACL as well (Janie Allen).
This is a great idea. Thanks so much.

Dean Scott

From: RJ Peters

Date: November, 2003

To: achorusline.org
Subject: Hello

I wanted many times to contact my old friends and comrades from ACL, but life is always getting in the way. Better late than never, however.
I am an energy consultant these days for fuel cell companies. I currently live in Northern California where I am doing my best to lobby for the industry with the Governor's office.
I can confirm that Chrissy Bocchino is living in Southern Cal. I bumped into her and Trish Garland some years ago. I don't know where the rest of the missing guys are as yet.
Warm Regards,

R.J. Peters
(Former, Larry, Mark)
rjpetersATatt.net

From: Melinda Buckley

Date: Fri Aug 15, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org
Subject: Hi from Melinda!

Hey, Baayork!

It was great to see you yesterday but I'd rather under better conditions than the "Blackout 2003!"  Anyway, you look fabulous!  Your hair--so adorable!!  And I hope you got home safely and as quickly as well... as was possible.  Wow... anyway, guess what?  I'm having dinner with Jamie Torcellini tomorrow between shows (well, if there's subway service!!!).  He's doing Man of La Mancha~  So much to catch up on... Did you know I helped conceive and choreograph the musical sequences in "Stuart Little I & II?"  And I used Jamie as my "mouse."  We had a ball on the set with the animators and Geena Davis, et al.  But anyway, yeah-- I've been moving into this world of the other side of the table with industrials and a few films and still writing and performing my own stuff too... It's been a trip and I love it! 

Anyway, please keep in touch!  I and hundreds of performers in this biz owe you for pulling us out (and pulling us together) and giving us our first 'big break.'  So... thank you and drop me a line when you get a minute!

Much love always,
Melinda Buckley

From: Ron Guarnieri

Date: Thu Jul 10, 2003

To: BaayorkATachorusline.org

Subject: Back Singing & Dancing at Last

Hello Everyone,

Well it has finally happened.  After a long self imposed exile from the stage, I made my Comeback  last Saturday Night.

I was hired by my friends at the Rio Hotel to perform a number from Beauty and the Beast, “Be Our Guest”.  We did the number for World Pastry Chef Convention that was held last week at the hotel.  How appropriate for a former Pastry Major in school to return to the stage in the role of a Pastry Chef.

There were approx. 1100 chefs from around the world and I got to lip sync for them all.  It was a blast and everyone including me seemed to have a great time.  The hotel was so happy they are looking for ways for me to do it again, and maybe some other crazy characters too.

Anyway, I wanted to share these pictures with you, I thought you would find them fun!

Enjoy,

RON GUARNIERI (a.k.a. The Man with the fake moustache)                          
http://home.earthlink.net/~LasVegasRon

From: Tracey Bonner

Date: 14 August, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org

Subject: Catching up....

Hello there-
I was so glad to hear from you last week!!!! It has been such a long year for me and I wanted to update you on what I have been up to. 
At the end of last year I got this amazing opportunity to work for a company in Houston as a choreographer and created a Rockette style production for this company's Christmas party.  It was so amazing and such a great learning experience.  Anne flew in from Canada and really was my right hand gal....LOVE HER!!

Anyway shortly after that I was in the hospital.  They found a tumor in my face and had to remove it from the right side of my chin.  Well, as fate would have it there were complications and I spent the next couple of months with a swollen face.  It kind of looked like a tooth abcess but a lot more uncomfortable.  Well, after that I finally started to return to normal, then the doctors found a cartilage tear in my right hip!!!  AUGH!!!  Of course, I just GOT OUT of the hospital!!!!

The fear of course was that dancing was over, but things are moving along well and I am rehabilitating with Laurie and with a physical therapist at Sean Gallagher's office.  My doctor is hoping to have me really up and running by September 1st.  I am hopeful, but my problem has been consistency. One day I can dance fine, and sometimes the next I have trouble walking....so I am TRYING to be patient...but it has been a rough year!!

I can feel the good things are right around the corner and I just know something wonderful is waiting for me, so I am trying to be patient and pay attention to the opportunities around me.  I saw Donna last spring at AMDA.  She came in as a sub and I am teaching there some as a survival job.  It was so good to see her...

Well, I hope your auditions went wonderfully, and know that I am ready and waiting whenever I get the chance to work with you again.  You know Baayork you gave me the confidence to pursue this career...I never knew I was talented until you gave me a job and showed me I was.  Thank you......

Tracey

From: Cheryl Steinthal

Date: Wed Jul 16, 2003

To: baayorkATachorusline.org

Subject: Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven

Hi Baayork,

I'm the former "Rockette" you met after Donna McKechnie's show at Surflight. I just wanted to tell you what a pleasure it was to meet you and Clive. Thanks for signing my book, I'm honored. I'm sorry I didn't get the chance to meet Donna, I would have liked to tell her how much my daughter and I enjoyed her performance.

I hope those kids at Surflight realize how lucky they are to meet and work with true legends in musical theatre. My daughter, Robin who is just embarking out into this crazy business was really excited to meet you. She has seen three different productions of A Chorus Line, but nothing can compare to my memory of seeing it at the Public Theatre when it was just beginning.

I hope our paths cross again one day. I wish you health and happiness.

Cheryl Davidson Steinthal

From: David

Date: 10 July , 2003

To: bruceATachorusline.org

Subject: Looking for a Hat

Hi My name is David  Leisure - I am looking  for one of the original hats used in any production of ACL. I have done the show twice in Maryland Dinner Theatres. 

Thanks
Peace
David  Leisure
   

Webmaster note: please contact me if you can help David in his search and I will forward the information to him.

From: Fran Liebergal

Date: 28 July , 2003

To: bruceATachorusline.org

Subject: Hello

Hi Bruce,
      Just an update on what's been happening in my life for the past year.  I've been living with my son, Kyle, at his home in Bucks County, PA, so he could finish his senior year in high school after his father, Vinny Forchetti (the original lead trombonist with "A Chorus Line") passed away last summer. In fact, to clarify the Wong Notes from June, Kyle is not attending Princeton Summer Program.  He has been accepted by University of the Arts in Philadelphia and will be starting his freshman year in September.  In addition, he made All-State Chorus in Pennsylvania this past March, placing second in Tenor 1.  His star is rising, so watch out for the next generation of A Chorus Line babies, starring Kyle Forchetti! 
       As for me, I'm spending more time at my home in NJ, and right now I'm just about to open a production of Roar of the Greasepaint, Smell of the Crowd at a community theatre in Nutley, NJ.  I also lent my abilities to the Stephen Nachamie production of ACL in Sharon, Connecticut, and it was great to be back in the fold again! 
       Spoke to Walsh earlier today, who is "hot" and busy with Godspell at the MUNY.  Planning on drinks with Larry Blank when he comes into town late in August to work on the Barbara Cook Christmas Album.  Can't wait to see all my friends again....Mitz, Drake, Miss Lee, Clive....it's hard to believe we've known each other for over 28 years!
       Hope all is well,
                            Fran
   

From: LBrian Kelly

Date: June 8, 2003

To: bruceATachorusline.org

Subject: A Chorus Line Alumni

Dear A Chorus Line Family Member, 

My name is  Brian Kelly: I performed in both the International and Broadway companies of ACL from 1979-1981. As an update on my current life, I am a practicing dentist in Denver,  Colorado. As I was performing in La Cage Aux Folles on Broadway, I returned to college at Hunter College to recieve my bachelors degree then went on to the University of Colorado for my doctorate. I still perform occasionally in regional theatre productions here in Colorado.  There are a few alumns here in Denver including Michael Gorman and Mercedes Perez.  I am married and have a 5 yr. old girl.  I would love it if there were to be a 30th reunion party in New York in the year 2005.  (emphasis added) There are so many people that I would like to see once again.  Thank you for  making this web site available. 

Brian Kelly         

From: Larry Blank

Date: Fri Jan 3, 2003

To: Baayork Lee

Subject: from LB to BL


HI Baayork!!!

happy new year!

Ok. . . the latest. ..

Doug Besterman and I received an urgent call from John Kander. They decided to add a new song to the end credits for the film of CHICAGO about three days before the premiere in NY.

so John called Doug's studio. .  .played stuff over the speaker phone and faxed the new song. We taped the call. . .I wrote the end credits and Doug did the chart on the song. .we stayed up all night writing. . . faxed the music to the copyists in NY and it was on the stands and recorded the next morning in NY and put in the film.

Unfortunately. . . my name was left off the credits. . .although I orchestrated 4 of the songs.Doug has credit. . .somewhere between the caterers and shoes by. . . .

We are however, delighted by the success of the film.

best to you as always  .xo
Larry B.

From: BETH POLITO
Date: January 5, 2003

To: Baayork

Subject: e-notes

Today is my last day with Some Like it Hot, and I leave to join Beauty and the Beast tomorrow. I have three days to learn the show, and am ready for the challenge! I am feeling so blessed and grateful for a wonderful year. So much change has been happening in my life. It is exciting and scary at
the same time! But I am always grateful for the support of family and friends (like you!) I would never be who I am without them.

So Brenda Hamilton returned to Hot a married woman. We got to see her in her dress on the road because she had our wardrobe people fit her. My God, what a beautiful bride! She and her new husband Sam just bought a new car the other day, and she is just glowing and incredibly happy. She says hello, and sends her love.

It is so interesting how A Chorus Line family members show up everywhere we go. I am rooming with Lili Calahan's sister Kathy right now, and she played Maggie in Drury Lane Evergreen Park( in Chicago). We broke out in song in the car the other day "At the Ballet", "I've Got to get this job!" etc.! It is just so fun to go back to that world of the perfect show, and to know that it lives in me and so many others. Thank you for teaching that to me and touching so many of us. You really are a wonderful spirit Baayork, and I feel so blessed that you have touched my life.

Have a wonderful year, and I look forward to many more "Wong Notes!" I just love reading the site. I love our family!
Happy and Healthy New Year!!
Love
Beth