Backstage at the D-Star

Closing night for "The Addam's Family Home Evening" was exactly one month ago.  I've never had a month go by so quickly.  When does life slow down? Never?!  That's what I thought you'd say.  

It has been fun (and a little stressful) getting ready for the wedding.  I had so much fun performing this past summer at the Desert Star but I'll admit it has been nice to have my evenings free to spend more time with Patrick and also to just get stuff done.

I meant to post these pictures ages ago, but obviously that didn't happen.  Better late than never.  Here's your backstage peek at life at the D-Star...

This picture sums up my experience this summer.  I loved this cast!  What great people!  I was always so excited to get to the theater each night to see everyone.

Here is the view from the wings.   

Mr. and Mrs.Measley.  One thing I don't miss in the least is that wig.  (Sorry to break it to you , Mom.  I know how much you liked it).

The one memory from this show that I will never forget is the night I accidentally punched Corey in the face and  gave him a bloody nose.  Oh man, I still feel bad whenever I think about it.  Who knew I had such a strong right hook?

I had to leave myself notes everywhere so I wouldn't forget to put on my character's engagement ring.  One day another actor saw one of my notes and asked if that was a reminder for Patrick to buy me a ring. Ha. It was so fun to share the news of our engagement with the cast.  "We're ENGAGED!" (nasally voice).

 As wonderful as my summer was I am excited to take a little time off from the theater world and prepare my newest role... being a wife. (Cheesy, but true).

The Annual Mother/Daughter Road Trip

Every year my mom and I pack up the little, yellow VW Bug and hit the road for a girls' trip.  This year we both knew exactly where we had to go... St.George, UT.  

Whenever people from Utah hear how much I love theater, they always ask if I've been to Tuacahn.  

I am proud to say I no longer have to answer no!

Why is Tuacahn so great?  Is it the amazing amphitheatre built into the red rocks of the Snow Canyon?  Is it their professional shows with a cast full of talented triple-threats?  Is it the technical brilliance of its productions?

Yes to all of the above!  We saw ALADDIN the MUSICAL and there were real camels, a carpet that carried Aladdin and Jasmine over the audience, 3D glasses, and fireworks.  Can't you just picture me with my mouth wide open in awe the whole 2 1/2 hours?!  Mom and I were so impressed that during intermission we went to the box office to purchase tickets to their production of HAIRSPRAY the following evening.

MARRY POPPINS is coming to Tuacahn next year.  My dream role!  I will definitely be making a return trip.  They don't call me Mandi Poppins for nothin'.

St.George has lots to offer in addition to the shows at Tuacahn.  We spent Saturday morning hiking at the Snow Canyon State Park.  There is just something about the unique beauty of Southern Utah.  It absolutely takes my breath away.

I really wish I could camp out for the night in one of these caves!

The Snow Canyon is very diverse.  This picture captures the red , white, and lava rocks.

Mom at the mouth of a cave we discovered on the Lava Flow Trail.  Next time we visit we have to bring flashlights and explore a bit.

Nature's artwork.

The weather was perfect.  It stormed a little when we arrived on Friday but we couldn't have asked for better weather the rest of the weekend.

I thought these little flowers were so sweet.  However, I wasn't so fond of all the red dirt that kept getting into my shoes.

Before we headed home on Sunday we stopped by the St.George Tabernacle and then the St.George Temple.  I was going to crop this photo of the temple a bit but I decided I liked the old man crossing the street.  Such dedication!

It was such a fun time and I wish I could have spent a bit longer getting to know the town.  However, I was happy to get back home to my prince charming because this frog prince just wasn't cutting it.

Dear St.George,

Thank you for a wonderful weekend!

I'll be back soon!

xoxo