Photo by Larry Blackburn
It is such an honor to be bringing Rosemary Clooney’s story to Key West, where David Black and I (under the inspired direction of Joy Hawkins and supported by the fabulous trio of Jim Rice, Joe Dallas, and Daniel Clark) have been playing to sold-out houses and rave reviews at the Red Barn Theatre. Those who’ve followed my work over the years know what a cherished role this is and how much Rosie means to me, so I was incredibly touched by this lovely feature article running in the current issue of Konk Life. “Becoming” Rosemary Clooney is an extraordinary labor of love for me, and I’m reminded of the wise and resonant words of the late, great Colleen Dewhurst: “It’s worth it when you have a part that speaks to your heart, blows it open with all that it provides as a challenge, and when it works, when you connect with your fellow actors and your audience.”
Oh, is it ever.
If you’re in the Key West area or need an excuse to escape to paradise this winter, Tenderly runs through March 16th.