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AUGUST 2006 Life on the road is particularly exciting
since it is different each experience. For instance, a memorable experience was one week at Bard College with Vit Hores of Czech Marionettes, a real genius. He promises some day to pack me into his trunk. His puppeteers are hardly recognized from some of his huge puppets. I see myself huddled all over with the puppets in the trunk. When unpacked I walk rather stiffly like a puppet, but keep the audience puzzled. What is this all about? She is grey haired, about 4'6" looks like a puppet, but somehow more flowing in movements. And she is very old, almost 88! And so the experience was one of sheer magic. There are so many puppets, and the puppeteers so skillful, that sometimes it seems the puppet is pulling the strings! At Bard, one week was glorious for me. Had all the fun of a delightful campus, a great library, swimming pool, with no classes! I had no responsibilities, could read all day in the library, or just hang out with the computer. No exams, papers to write. The swimming pool, it had been so long since I swam lapses, but the Director kindly lifted me gently, all 4'6", and set me down holding on to the side. Wow, that was the only way to get me in. An excellent swimmer during my youth, I somehow gained confidence, and slowly swam, holding the side of the pool for guidance. Not bad, I say, for going on 88. Bard has an extraordinary space for concerts and puppet people. Constructed in Europe, it was an old-fashioned European elegant bar, complete with the good stuff on tap. Torn down for shipment by boat, it arrived in many pieces, but like a jig saw puzzle was finally put together, creating a nostalga for Old Europe. How blessed to hang out at Bard, no classes, no exams, and kids all over the place. With 21 grandchildren, and 6 greats, it seemed to me like a family celebration of my birthday. Travelling is indeed a rebirth to eternal light. |