“It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” – John Wooden
It is an exhilarating journey taking ‘illusionAria’ from conception to final product. With the success of the big production shows in March and the ‘mini-shows’ in April, there has been a lot of interest in the show. Things are out percolating in the universe. (See highlights from the show here on Youtube for Spinella Tenor.)
It’s not that easy being able to sing all those songs in my ‘opera’ voice, hitting all the marks, acting out the song and then remembering every step for the illusions. You have to be aware and ‘in the moment’ for every song. Even when something goes wrong, you have to make it look right on stage. It’s a challenge every show; and that’s what makes the live performances so exciting.
But I was also, perhaps, a bit unprepared for the demands on my time for all the tiny details. The e-branding and little things like logo design that need approvals. The updated bio, the website, the new press kit, the newsletter and promotional materials that need to be duplicated quickly and sent out – all seem like tedious details, but details are important to the overall show. And we are on a roll now!
My staff and crew have been invaluable. I am always amazed at what they come up with. My staff came up with a way to put the show set and props up in less than half a day and break it down in the same time. That leaves more time for rehearsals. I just did a ‘mini-show’ in Orlando that people went wild over. It can easily fit a venue for a smaller theater or convention or special event. It was a successful fundraiser; and I did not get to bed until 5 am because of all the fun after the show. I am always so touched when I get the standing ovations; and I am happy because it feels like I’ve done my job. People really do love magic and beautiful music. It’s a good feeling to know that you can do something you love; and that everyone enjoys it and goes home feeling a bit better.
I am very excited about the opportunities that are opening up right now. I so enjoy working with my staff and crew, who have become like family and have been so supportive, innovative and creative. If there is any success in this endeavor, I am bringing them along with me. That only seems fair. So my decisions right now of which venue to pick and how to get everyone there with me is a meaningful one.
Everyone involved feels so confident about the show; we’re lining up proposals and bookings and also considering a global tour. And while we are being conscientious with the details, we are also pushing to meet deadlines and everyone else’s schedules. So it has been hectic, joyful and illuminating.
It reminds me of the story of the potter who went to apprentice with a master. The apprentice showed the master his work.
The master said, “You need to smooth this edge; add a handle; and make the bottom level.”
The apprentice argued, “Master, these are but little details.”
So the master replied, “And that is the difference between mediocrity and excellence.”
For now, we press on with the details, the pursuit of excellence and upcoming events. If you want to see more photos and event information, please like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Magical.Tenor.
My website is SpinellaTenorofillusions.com
For contact and booking information, please click here SpinellaTenorofillusions.com/contact
Joe Spinella, Magical Tenor 