So I did go to The Royce last weekend to participate in their Spoken Word event. It was fabulous, a really eclectic group of folks read, rapped, sang or recited for the packed house. Thank you Ryan Carlson for the invite. I was extremely pleased to be able to listen to work from three of Detroit’s finest actors, all of whom I’d had the pleasure of being on stage with in the past.
John Hawkinson, Jim Shanley and Kelly Komlein, lent their immense talent to this event. I gotta tell you, Jim did a couple of Shakespearean monologues, from Othello and Richard III that were showstoppers. Amazing work from all three.
Another highlight of the evening came from Keith Kalinowski, who I had the distinct pleasure of directing in On Golden Pond this past season. If someone is thinking about producing a TV sitcom featuring local talent, sign him up now. Hilarious, guaranteed!
Nothing is better than support from the audience and I was so happy to have both Laurine Griffin and Sherry Miller come through. These ladies are past Detroit Repertory Theatre Workshop participants and staunch supporters of local artists. We had a great time listening, nibbling on the yummy cheese and charcuterie served by The Royce. From what I understand, the wines they serve and sell are top notch as well.
I also had a brief conversation with the owner of the joint, Ping Ho. Her story is fascinating. Here’s a little background from Crain’s Detroit. https://www.crainsdetroit.com/conversation/marrow-owner-singapore-new-york-corktown
She also came out to see Ryan and I in Channel Cat at The Rep. I’m going to check out her other spots and let you know what I think. I think this is a local businesswoman worthy of our support and I’m grateful that she supports live performance at her spot. Till next time.