In those 10 years, however, most of my summers have been filled with work, of one kind or another. Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for the wonderful opportunities and I'm not discounting the experiences I've had with Oak Park Festival Theatre or Door County Shakespeare, or any of the other companies I've worked with on those summer projects. But the number of barbecue's, concerts, festivals, softball games, patio drinking and just random beach time with friends that I've missed due to rehearsals, performances, promo shoots, and more is just a few too many. (I even tried playing beach volleyball one year, knowing I'd miss a game or two due to rehearsal. Not much fun to come in 3 weeks into the game schedule to discover that friendships have already been established and there's no room for the newbie.) Summer in Chicago is one of the most amazing things ever, and finally I'm going to experience it. Bike rides, picnics (nearby park helps!), street fests, outdoor lunches, and... lots & lots of concerts!
So I feel safe saying that this year will be my first Chicago summer...in fact, the concert I'm seeing tonight (Foreigner & Styx) is the #SoundtrackOfSummer tour. It's at FirstMerit Bank Pavilion, so right by the lake (yay!) and it's going to be a gorgeous night.
Tomorrow night, I'll be heading downtown to the Chicago Theatre to see Eddie Izzard in concert - what?!?! YES! The comedian I've most wanted to see live since my Florida roommate, Erin, introduced me to "Dress To Kill" and "Glorious" in 2001! I've missed him a couple of times, but knowing what my schedule is (rehearsals for "Witch Slap!" start June 23rd) meant I could buy tickets & plan ahead. (Isn't he dreamy?!?!?!?)
So are you doing something fun this summer and want company?
Hit me up - I've got 9 summers to make up for!