Wow! We made front page news in the Marin Independent Journal (March 04, 2008, Tuesday), for performing Shakespeare’s “Much to do About Nothing.” Who would’ve thunk it? Well, truth be told, I wouldn’t have believed it before June 2005. Me, quoting Shakespeare!? In prison? Believe it or not, that’s just what I’m doing now. Using terms like, “then, though o’er, etc…”
This all began for me walking through SQ’s Arts in Correction’s Door looking for their Creative Writing Class. There stood the then “Director,” Johnathan Gonzales, and his two students J.B. Wells and Ronin Holmes. Boy, were they smooth and cordial. I informed them that I was looking for the Creative Writing Class (Ronin provided me with the information because he was also a participant in the group). So they encouraged me to recite some of my poems, and I’ve been with our troupe ever since.
The first piece I performed was Jacques (7 Ages of Man) “All the World’s a Stage” from “As You Like It.” This is also where I met Professor Aldo Billingsley from Santa Clara University Arts and Theater Department. Suffice it to say, he is a giant in comparison to myself in height (and on the stage). He and his students from Santa Clara performed scenes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
Our group has grown and we’ve changed directors to Suraya Keating (who challenges us to reach our potential). I would’ve never imagined the impact that performing classical literature could have on my life. I returned to school and obtained my GED and I’m presently nine classes away from receiving my AA College Degree. My attitude and outlook on life have changed. I am not just ready for success, I’m prepared for it. I shall accomplish great things. Keep your eyes open and enjoy the show.
