Inspiration from the Amazing Jessie Dean

New momentum and inspiration resulting from a wonderful breakfast at Quack's in Austin with the incredible Jessie Dean.

It's time to start speaking this project out loud. Keeping it to myself until I can get my ducks formin, what may somewhat resembl, a row isn't helping this project actualize.

I'm starting to feel like I may need to head to Rwanda this Summer for 10 days or 2 weeks to explore Kigali and make some vital connections there. Heading over there with an ensemble without having been there at all myself seems risky (that would be the not-good version of risky rather than the exciting one). I've already pretty much dismissed the idea of trying to do a more conventional directing internship or fellowship this summer, so I think the best way to use the time will be to lay the groundwork over there, hopefully for a return the following summer with many more exciting people. Thank you Jessie.

So many wonderful ideas too about how to broaden this experience and somehow bring it home with us to Austin - or elsewhere. Photography exposition in a gallery that documents the process, a video that could be used perhaps in presentations to colleges, highschools, community organizations.. Perhaps workshops here, too. Who knows? Can't wait to brainstorm these ideas with the soon-to-be ensemble.

Some great fundraising ideas, too! Readings of socially-relevant plays or new plays at a house, perhaps with a dinner included. Pass-the-hat, pay-what-you-can sort of dealio. Perhaps some kind of classical play or Shakespeare reading to target the Winedale group? Maybe the Loehlins would be interested in getting involved.. Also, once the ensemble is together, getting a kickstarter going and sending personal letters to friends/familiy/peers letting them know about the project, our goals, what our financial needs are, and inviting them to donate! In terms of transportation to and from Kigali, we need to figure out if anyone has any connections with travel agents or airlines that maybe be willing to sponsor us or donate some seats.

In terms of getting this going and making it legitimate, we need to file an application for a non-profit organization and use that as the basis for creating a company. This will enable us to apply for grants, be tax exempt, and also provide our donors with tax-incentives for their support of our company.

To work on now: A working name for this project, a mission statement, getting an ensemble together, get in touch with Jennifer about a research trip to Kigali this summer.