I was in Albany last night to open for David Sedaris, the first show of his spring tour. The essay I read was brand new and as usually happens with a new piece when I open, I just wasn't sure about it. It's always hard to judge your own work. While I usually have a feeling about whether something is working or not, I don't always know for sure until I get up on the stage and feel the audience's reaction and hear what David thinks.
And this is something I think most writers experience. One of my favorite things about teaching is watching a writer's face after they share a story they weren't sure about only to receive tremendous support and praise. That surprise of discovering they hit their mark and people felt something is so delightful every single time. It's a moment of connection that I cherish.
Before the show, when we are somewhere tucked behind the stage in dressing rooms, we chat and take in each other's outfits. This is obviously much more fun for me than it is for David. I just try to keep up with him in my own limited fashion way.
I give you exhibit A from last night, our shoes. While both pairs, mine and David's, were made by the designer Comme des Garcons, mine are from many seasons ago, purchased second hand, and even I am sick of them because I wear them so often. I will say they are holding up well. They are covered in sequins and none have fallen off after dozens of nights wearing them.
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