Originally Posted By TALL Disney Guy Well, it's official. Saturday was the most depressing day of 2006 to date. One of my friend's moms, Kaye, who's also a great friend of mine (I call her my "2nd mom"), took it upon herself to e-mail the director of the center where Vicki Lawrence is performing next weekend, and this is what she wrote: ---------------- "I have known Byron since he was a little boy, he was my daughter's best friend, and is a true fan of Vicki Lawrence. April 29th is Byron's birthday, he will of course be at the performance, but it would be the dream of his life to meet her in person. Every word of that article this morning was written with love and from his own resources, he wasn't paid for it. He just wanted to do it for her." (woman who works there) "is a good friend of Byron's if you need references about him. Byron is dear to my heart also, and I so want him to be able to meet Vicki Lawrence on his birthday. It would be a literal dream come true for him. I hope that you will consider making that happen for him. He has been a fan of hers since The Carol Burnett show days and it is not very often that any of us get the opportunity to meet someone we have admired so long , much less right here in town and on our birthdays. Thanks," --------------- And here is the director's reply: "It was a delight to read Byron's article today for me as well. Nora had shown me an early draft of the article that he had forwarded to her. Byron is among several other local fans that have expressed an interest in meeting Ms. Lawrence and presenting her with some token of their esteem. I have spoken to her management and although very understanding they have made it very clear to me that her schedule is simply too tight to be able to meet with fans on an individual basis. Just to give you some idea, she is being driven from Madisonville that morning to Louisville where she will be staying and then down to the PAC for the performance. She will arrive and have just enough time for sound check, a quick run-through of the show, a vocal warm up with her accompanist and then get into costume and makeup for the show. After the show, she is going directly to Louisville as she must fly out early Sunday morning for another engagement that afternoon. Also, because of her hectic schedule, she is traveling very light with only a carryon baggage for the flight that evening so she is not in a position to accept any gifts. What I can do for Byron is get him an autographed copy of our season poster which features Ms. Lawrence prominently. I know how disappointing this news will be and wish I could do more. I look forward to hopefully meeting Byron at the show and hope he has a truly wonderful time at the show." --------------- I can't tell you how utterly disheartening it was to read that. I've been down all day. Kaye was a little afraid I would be mad at her for sending it, but I called her up and thanked her because at least now, if my dream dies, I have a week to try and accept that. She's still hoping and saying anything can happen, but be prepared just in case. Thanks to her e-mailing though, I now see I have to take further action. I'm going to see if I can meet the director one day this week, take along what I have written for the book so far, a letter from one of her writers whom I correspond with, and show him that I'm not just a run-of-the-mill fan or someone simply impressed and obsessed with "Hollywood!", but rather someone who has truly admired her since I was a kid and am sincere in my love and appreciation for her show, its characters, and history, and her talents. I've also been planning on getting to the center about 2 hours early "just in case" something may happen ("Hi, I'm the writer who put the article about Vicki and the show in the local paper, and today's my birthday [flashes license] and I wondered if I may get a quick photo with her?" "Oh you're the guy, sure, come on in!"---I really need to stop daydreaming, ha) Part of me is jealous of those fans who *have* gotten to meet her---some who are "picky" about the characters (they don't like the early years, they don't like Iola or Fran or they like or dislike the Burnett "Family" sketches, etc.), and I appreciate *all* of the phases of the Harpers and see the humor and reality across the spectrum, and I'm the one trying to get a book out there. But I know, life isn't always fair, and you just have to deal with it...I also thought it might be neat if I was the first one to write a feature article for a paper promoting her show and she would hear about it and that might get me to her. I do know there's hope because some of the fans online who have met her have asked either the right person after the show, or waited around for a while and caught her in the lobby, or worn a home-made shirt and been allowed to show her (part of my plan). And so much for the Mama-picture-collage gift I've been working on---though I thought I'd take it with me if I can see the center's director this week and ask if they'd maybe like to display it near the entrance or somewhere if I indeed can't give it to Vicki (I'd love for her to at least see it, but oh well). All I'm asking for if possible is a picture with her...a poster sure doesn't make up for that, but I suppose it's nice of the management to offer. And I know this isn't the end of the world, it just seems like it at first because I've dreamt of ever getting to meet her for *years*, and this is a rare time she'll be anywhere near me. I know some people are bound to be sick and tired of me going on about this show and everything the last couple of weeks, but I can't help it...this was to be a MAJOR milestone in my life, one of my biggest dreams ever come true, and now I have to face the reality the chances are slim to none. And I thought for sure with the combo of my birthday *and* if she saw the article, I would be a shoo-in. But nothing is ever guaranteed. For 7 months I've been hoping this would be the best birthday I've ever had...and there's a slim chance it *could* be, but I have to be realistic too. Thanks for letting me vent here, because I just really needed to get this out of my system...*sigh*...
Originally Posted By goodgirl Sorry to hear the disappointing news Byron. By the way, have you seen her perform live before or is this the first time?
Originally Posted By chickendumpling Oh, Byron. I am so, so, so sorry to hear about this. I am heartbroken for you. But don't give up yet. It ain't over 'til its over. A lot of people are sending a lot of positive thoughts your way so hang on little tomato. (Oops. Sorry - forgot you hated tomatoes. It is a great Pink Martini song though.) Okay. So here's the plan: Go with your plan. I think it's a good one. I would just hate to see your enthusiasm die on the vine like this. Plan for the unexpected. I think still doing the collage and asking to display it there is a great idea! I'm confused about the director part though. Which director are you wanting to see? The director of the place she's performing? Does s/he have the final call on who Vicki sees? Sorry if I'm dense on this one. I just am missing somethin' there.
Originally Posted By chickendumpling Okay. Re-read the third time. I was just dense about the director thing. Sorry. Is trying to contact her management directly just too rude to consider?
Originally Posted By trekkeruss I'd ask if it's possible to at least sit in on the sound check. For the other fans that wish to present a gift, they can be sent backstage; just make sure that they are easily inspected... don't wrap anything.
Originally Posted By trekkeruss Reading your message a bit more carefully... I'd send the gift you are making backstage, with a note. Do it well before showtime; consider having it delivered to the theater by courier, where it must be signed for. Enclose a large, self-addressed stamped envelope if you wish to get an autographed photo back. Don't make the note you write too long; consider that she may not have the time or inclination to read it. But I would certainly let her know you are writing a book... and you could ask or hint that you would like to arrange for an interview. There's always a million things you can do, so don't give up hope, and good luck.
Originally Posted By davewasbaloo Hi Byron, I am on the work PC, so I need to make this quick. As some people know, I come from a performing arts family. Whatever you do, don't be a creepy stalker. Please take heart that at least you are able to see one of your idols perform live on your birthday. That is much more, than many will be able to remember. It is far better to look to what you have, rather than waste your energy lementing what could be. However, here are some tips to try to meet her: 1. As Trekkerruss has suggested, you may be able to see her soundcheck, which is still quite special - try approaching the theatre. 2. If you are willing to leave the show before it finishes, you might be able to go to the stage door as she leaves and at least say hi - but don't be pushy. 3. Sarah used to be a silly mad fan girl with boy bands and comedians here in the UK. Her tip is if you see a small group hanging back at the end, you may be able to join these groupies as they may be used to seeing her briefly. 4. Also, gifts from strangers are very creepy. If you want to make a gesture, find out her favorite charity, make a donation and send her a card explaining what you have done. Best of luck Byron, you know we all love you here in the UK, but there are lot's of things to make your day very special. Place your energy in them, and everything else is a bonus!
Originally Posted By cape cod joe See Joel Osteen TDG and your life WILL change. Trust me on this !!!!!
Originally Posted By trekkeruss <<If you are willing to leave the show before it finishes, you might be able to go to the stage door as she leaves and at least say hi - but don't be pushy.>> It's always a good idea to scope out the theater ahead of time, so you know where to be. <<gifts from strangers are very creepy.>> Performers know this happens from time-to-time. Some think it's creepy, others appreciate the gesture. A mama-collage might be a bit over-the-edge though. <<If you want to make a gesture, find out her favorite charity, make a donation and send her a card explaining what you have done.>> I have done that.
Originally Posted By Goofyernmost TDG...please be careful to not come across like a stalker. Travel with care.
Originally Posted By Pixie Glitter Byron, I am so sorry that you might be thwarted in your dream to meet Vicki. I know how much that means to you. Hopefully by Saturday you can get yourself turned around to the point where you will be thrilled to be seeing her perform live on your birthday. That *is* pretty cool all by itself. I hope your birthday turns out to be wonderful.
Originally Posted By Kar2oonMan As a result of wanting to have this meeting with Vicki Lawrence, you got to do something many people dream of and never get around to trying: YOU GOT PUBLISHED. Holy smokes, you wrote a very good article and it got published. Plus, you get to see her show -- you get to see her perform a character and I bet you never thought that would happen! So while I know you're disappointed, please don't let that ruin your birthday, the show, and most importantly, that you got a piece published -- uncut, no less! That, to me, is the thing you're not fully appreciating, and that's the thing (your writing ability) is a talent that you ought to focus your time and energy on and see where it can take you. I bet pretty far!
Originally Posted By u k fan I'm sorry to hear that you can't arrange something official Byron, but there's a good chance that you may meet her after the show as she leaves, there's bound to be a crowd at the stage door. One thing I know from other people is that if you're prepared to be there early sometimes catching performers as they go in is a better bet. As long as she isn't running late you are far more likely to get her to yourself if you are there when she arrives. I agree with what some others have said about trying to catch her soundcheck, perhaps you could offer some money to Vicki's favorite charity for the privelige or the theater probably has a charity it supports. An offer like that may help seal the deal and prove you're not a weirdo, but if you can't arrange that I'd settle for a quick autograph at the stage door and be contented. If you try too many things you'll end up coming across as a stalker!!!
Originally Posted By TALL Disney Guy Thanks for cheer-ups, y'all. I think I just needed to brood yesterday and get it outta my system. Like I said, much better to know now then "the day", lol. I'll still try to see her, but if I can't, I can't. And that's a good point about the gift. Sometimes I'm naive about things and I was just lookin' forward to givin' her somethin' original, creative, and that she'd (hopefully) get a kick out of. But I definitely don't wanna come across wrong, so I'll let that one go. I'll just stick with the t-shirt, and luckily, I've heard she really *does* get a kick out of those. And yes, I AM PUBLISHED!! And I am still SO excited at what future opportunities this may bring! So for now I'll just plan on wearin' my shirt, try to see the director this week with my book plans and a letter from one of her writers she may like to have (well, a copy), and we'll see. Thanks again for the support when I was down.
Originally Posted By amazedncal2 Add me to the list of LPers who will be keeping their fingers crossed that you will have your wish come true If it doesn't happen at least you'll get to spend your birthday doing something super special that you'll enjoy and remember always
Originally Posted By JazzCat I'm so sorry that this may not happen for you this year. You're what? 26? 27? I wouldn't give up just yet!
Originally Posted By Mr X Glad you took K2M's advice to heart...that was the best stuff I've read on this thread... Sure, disappointment sucks. But at the SAME time he managed to point out some awsome positives that (hopefully) will allow you to raise your head up high, enjoy the show, and go from there. And if you REALLY want to meet this person (whoever she/he is), become famous yourself. DO IT. Then, you won't receive any blow-off letters and people will wanna meet YOU! At least, that's MY plan. Just gotta figure out how to get there (seems you have a head start on me in that regard lol). Yeah...I would not say this lifelong dream is "slipping away" as you put it. at worst, it's just postponed a bit right?
Originally Posted By cape cod joe With all due respect X, mine was the best advice. Unfortunately the people who need Joel desperately won't invest half hour to change their lives. My wife and daughter were dancing yesterday watching him. I can't watch it for TDG
Originally Posted By RoadTrip <<See Joel Osteen TDG and your life WILL change. Trust me on this !!!!!>> <<With all due respect X, mine was the best advice. >> But will it get him a meeting with Vickie Lawrence?? If I watched would it get me a meeting with my buddy Slick Willy? ;-)
