Tom. Hello Dolly was one of the most wonderful, pivotal moments of my life. It is something I think about daily, and cherish. I was 17, and not sure I could ever be a leading lady. Your care, passion and humor inspired me to grow into the best version of myself I could muster. I will never forget early on in the rehearsal process you basically telling me to bring my "A game" to every practice...or else lol. There was to be no hiding on my part, no playing it safe. I had to take center stage, now. I was pretty nervous, but you were so gentle and clear that I did. And that experience has informed every day of my life since...I do my best to lead others the way you led me, led us. It is woven into who I am now, that part of me you brought to life.
I think my favorite part of Hello Dolly! was just improvising with you how to drop and retrieve that food down my dress in the restaurant scene. Just you and I doing what we shared best privately, how to be silly and funny and really milk a joke. There is such an intimacy in that, in creating art together.
I think it is safe to say that you have lived and full, rich, beautiful life. You are known, you are loved, and you pulled art out of all of us. I am better for having known you, as we all are. This is my standing ovation.
With love,
Adrienne