chrysanthemum the musical

As a photographer who befriends many actors, I end up taking photos of a lot of productions. It's a great way to spend time with people I love, and be surrounded by art. But this semester I took what seemed like both a step outside my comfort zone, and also into my element. I tried out for a show written by my friend Sam, called "Chrysanthemum the Musical" based off the children's book by Kevin Henkes.

What I found most beautiful about this whole process was the level of excitement and appreciation I felt all throughout. I haven't acted since the beginning of high school, and yet the majority of my friends in college are actors. So to be a part of a project as sweet and wholesome as this was extremely worthwhile. It felt entirely like a family affair. As I mentioned, my friend Sam wrote the play, Alex directed, Rai wrote music, Zev stage managed, Shayna was in the cast with me, and even my girlfriend Leah helped light design!

As if this wasn't enough, we were lucky enough to perform our show Off-Broadway at The Jerry Orbach Theater, making this not only my NYU stage debut, but my Off-Broadway debut. New York City is wild, and I'm grateful I'm apart of it. What started out as a way for me to get more involved, turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and reminded me the value of appreciating things. One of my cast mates told me that my excitement as a newcomer to the stage made her appreciate her craft even more. Positivity is contagious, and performing is such a thrill.

Marilyn