Sunday, March 29, 2009

A few amazing women

Last week, the kids, Nicolas and I went to see the annual Habima theater production. This year it was "Once Upon a Mattress". I think this may have been the best production yet. My friend (who also happens to be my father's looong time girlfriend and Gillen's Godmama) Dina Shadwell has been directing this group for nine years. She received a BIG Atlanta theater award a few years ago and for that occasion a video was made that introduces some of the Habima actors. Check it out here on the theater's web site. This group of "special needs" actors glow with pride and enthusiasm in every production I have seen. They always get all of us laughing and crying with joy as a result of their shine! I wish that I had posted about this earlier so that those who live in Atlanta could go (they just ended this year's run) but be sure to catch it next year. I am so grateful to know Dina and get to witness her magic as a director and as a woman. She brings out the best in everybody. She needs to run for office.

I also feel inspired right now by these two amazing artist/photographers - Stephanie and Jen. They have entered a contest to win money towards making their dream job assignment happen. Their idea is so beautiful that they have risen through the ranks of many applicants to be major contenders to win this contest! Their idea is about hope. Here is their video:
Shutter Sisters Dream Assignment: Picture Hope from LittlePurpleCow Productions on Vimeo

4 comments:

Tamar Orvell said...

OH I LOVE THIS POST and VIDEO and HABIMA ("the stage," in Hebrew; Israel's national theater and one of the first Hebrew language theaters). I have already loved many actors profiled in the video. Susan (first frame) I have known since we were members of the same synagogue years ago. Also, through other synagogues and at my neighborhood Kroger, I have met other stars in this production. Blessings to them, the families, communities, and Godmama Dina! And you, uber-blogger!

Madeline Rains said...

That is so cool that you know them Tamar! you'll have to come with us next year. And as for the video, I just need more time. I can't wait to see yours.

Tamar Orvell said...

Just click on the > button on my current blog post... and you'll find a "tasty" video;-)

Dina said...

Wow, Maddie! Thank you!!!

I don't think anyone who has done outdoor drama can ever run for office though....