Well, Jules and I met up with Mary up in Oakland. I was so pleased to finally meet such a warm, wonderful person. Mary ...if you're reading this, I enjoyed your company emensely. You're warm, down to earth and sincere. Jules...chick, you're the REAL BOMB and I'm so glad to have the opportunity to attend FL's play with both of you.

Orinda is just outside of Oakland and we got there early. Simply put the ampitheatre is beautiful reminding me of many a torchwalk volksmarch that I've done in Germany. The night wasn't cold, the air was crisp and I was excited. We sat down at a few tables and I saw Florenica walk in a bit late. She was a bit hurried rush but seeing her made me excited. Her hair was long and flowing again and she looked gorgeous with it!

So when the play started we went in to watch. While I didn't care for the costume she opened the play with, I was very impressed with the Archer's costume she wore when her character (Rosaline) overheard her character's love interest (Berouwn)'s confussion of love. It was very Shakespeare!! Berown speaking of love while his "beloved", dressed as archer, discovering she had pierced his heart. The other costume she wore which I was quite with was a 20's evening gown, empire waist I believe, that fit her to a tee!! It's also during the end that Florencia, in character does something that totally blows me away. Her character "Rosline" has been full of spit and venom all night. Downright snarky I might add. A bit playful and flirtious with Beurown but nothing that convinced me Roseline cared for him. Then as, Berown cuts through the games and speaks what is in his heart for her, Florenica immedately softens. She looks down, wraps her arms around herself and honestly listens to him. It's then that you know...WITHOUT A DOUBT, Roseline is as much in love with Berown as he is with her.

Other impressions? Roseline is a very physical role. Florencia sings, dances, YES!! Sings, and with Shakespeare, every gesture is emphased. Florencia appeared a bit tired to me after the performace and I honestly think it wore her out a bit.

What can I say? It was great to see her again. She's so warm and enchanting in person and what struck me again, as it did the first time is Florencia's wonderful smile. Taking a thought out of Shakespeare...her smile can and does...light up the dark!!

A college student approached her ... as she was approaching us and when we went to sit down he joined us. "George" (named changed to protect the innocent) was nice, a bit shy, had a charming smile. His questions to Florenica were mostly about the show and Roger. And while I enjoyed watching him he did hog a good part of "air-time" with her!! I wanted to ask her about California a bit more!! Sniff...sniff!! She did say she liked California because it was so open compared to New York. And she was a bit surprised to discover I DROVE up from LA to see the play. Sigh!! What true fans will do!! hehehe

As a special treat I have another picture for you. I debated about putting it up and decided to do it. All I ask is that you DO NOT TAKE the picture. Mind you, I can't stop you from taking it but please, respect my wishes and leave the picture here. Thank you very much.

Here's Florencia...taken outside of ampitheatre. Enjoy

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