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Pitter-patter

There was only a piano, a microphone, a stool and some shimmering attire on the stage of the Julie Harris Theater on Friday night. The pitter-patter of rain outside complemented the patter of the cabaret performers. (Patter is the small talk the actors say to the audience, which breaks the fourth wall and gives you insight into the personality of the performers.)

It all served as props for the intimate cast of cabaret, which included the audience. The show was scripted with improv and allowed the actors to sing what they love, not what they were gratefully hired to perform.

Andrea Marcovicci shared with us her love for the music of the WWII era. It was when popular songs were written about missing your loved ones and when love sounded a lot more black and white.

Karen Mason opened her part of the show with the song, "All That Jazz," and I'm not going to lie - she was a showstopper. The lady did not need a microphone because her voice radiated control, intensity and splendor.

I like that even onstage, the actors were directly teaching their students, with whom they have spent all week honing their skills. And most importantly, they taught them that it was OK to screw up.

Pottery

I can't think of anything more meditative than painting pottery at the Potter's Wheel on a Saturday and Sunday. (People like me need more than two days to complete the multiple projects I was inspired to produce, though.) It is the perfect way to spend some time with your friends and create ceramic masterpieces.

Potter's Wheel owner Gail Holthausen, is extremely helpful in figuring out how to translate your vision into paint. And there are stencils and pencils and idea books at hand to help spur and harness your imagination, as well.

Anything you make there is a perfect gift for someone (such as your mother if you ever forget her birthday), or for yourself.