Were You There?
January 8, 2003
Dance of the Vampires (as 'Professor Abronsius')

Rob went on as 'Professor Abronsius' at the matinee yesterday, January 8. Rob was told at noon that he would definitely be on, so again the notice was very short! He was great!

His costume, of course, was similar, though not identical, to what Rene wears. The colors fit Rob's natural coloring better than an identical costume would have. The outercoat was of a striped fabric, his waistcoat (vest) was floral, sedate, (but to die for). He wore really 'oldman' wingtip shoes.

The look was astounding! Most of those here know Rob's age, at least roughly - well, he did not look it at this performance. The wavy/curly white/gray/silver wig fit him perfectly and he looked like a somewhat spacey Mark Twain. It did work, and real good. He had a full white moustache, and as men sometimes do, he occasionally made a small grooming gesture. It worked, it worked.

He nailed it, folks, he nailed it! The "tonguetwister in speedmode" LOGIC was done in such a way that the audience was able to hear and understand every word... that is right, every word!!! The "Books Song," done in duet with the Count, was smooth and seamless, as if the men had done it from the get go.

Well, I enjoyed Rob's performance, and the onstage interaction with the rest of the cast was great to see. I wish I could tell you all WHEN Rob will be on again, but the nature of the job is such that I cannot.

So, good luck to us all for another onstage turn soon. YOU GO, ROB!!

Linda Russak