After our performances in Grand Rapids, we got four days off! Two of them were spent in Chicago, which was great and there was lots of time to relax and find things to do in the city. Marc and I went to see “RAISIN,” which is the musical version of “Raisin in the Sun” on our first night in town. It starred Ernestine Jackson, who was in the original Broadway cast of the show, so we had very high hopes! Unfortunately, our hopes were dashed immediately after the opening number… It lacked some serious energy and the whole thing was kind of a let down. But, it was an experience!!!
The next day, we went to see a movie, “The Science of Sleep” (which was bizarre, but very good!) After that, we headed for the Navy Pier and we got to ride the huge ferris wheel and have an amazing view of the Chicago skyline. We had big plans to head out to the bar that night, but our plans were thwarted by a huge thunderstorm with rain so heavy that we did not dare head out in it. Still, we had a fun few days in Chicago!
After Chicago, we headed for Danville, Kentucky where we were very pleased to see a rollerskating rink right next to our hotel! After looking into it, we found out that on Tuesday nights (the night we were there) it was only 2 dollars to get in. Laura, Marc, and I headed right over and spent the evening rollerksating to hits like the countrified version of the Macarena! It was definitely a fantastic experience. It didn’t take long for the place to clear out, and the three of us were the only three out skating on the floor. It took me a few times around to get my bearings and feel comfortable on the skates. I don’t think I have been rollerskating since junior high school! It made for some great photo opportunities!
We are in Joliet, Illinois at the moment and we are in between shows at the Rialto Square Theatre, which is a really beautiful space! There was even an organist that played pre-show music in the theatre. The first show of the day was a bit hectic for me because my microphone crapped out half way through the show and we had to do a switch (which is quite a chore when it is clipped into your hair and hidden under all of your clothing!) It was a bit stressful, and I almost missed my King Louie entrance as a result, but Abby and Bill worked there magic and helped me get it taken care of and I made it in the nick of time! Heres hoping that the second show isn’t quite as eventful in that way!
Tonight, we are heading for the Karoke Bar across the street from our hotel!!
