Show #5: International Falls, MN

Backus Auditorium
January 30, 2006
Piano du jour: a mildly out of tune 7’ Steinway

It was a very foggy morning, and we were concerned about driving. But by the time we left, the sun came out briefly and burned it off. Much of our drive today was along the beautiful Rainy River, which forms this part of the border between the US and Canada.

Jody behind the wheel of our poor, dirty van

Some in our troupe have dubbed this venue a gymnatorium. It’s a 1,000-seat auditorium (art deco/WPA style), while the stage doubles as a full basketball court – complete with hoops and score board. But black curtains were hung to enclose the stage area, so you’d have no way of knowing the stage’s other athletic life.

...or is it an audinasium?

We got word from the producers that the show is running too long, so sadly we’ve had to cut the Patty Lupone section of the show: Stacey’s stirring “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina” and Jody’s emotional “Meadowlark,” which is my all-time favorite song to play. We’re all sad to see them both go.

Patty made a new friend tonight. Five-year-old Hunter came to the show with his grandmother. He loves to sing (“I’ve Been Working on the Railroad” is his favorite), and he wants to learn to play the piano. Go, Hunter!

Patty and Hunter

Word for the day: bivouac: temporary encampment, usually for the night

Miles traveled: 125
Hotel: Days Inn