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I just recently watched the movie, Julie and Julia, and it never ceases to amazes me how Meryl Streep morphs into any character she portrays.

Because she’s an icon, you can’t help but see that it is Meryl Streep, but she also has the ability to make you forget that it’s her. She disappears.

As it was in her brilliant characterization of Julia Child.

After 10 minutes of viewing this film, I honestly thought I was watching Julia Child.


I haven’t seen The Iron Lady yet, but from the looks of it, Meryl has once again embodied the essence of the legendary, Margaret Thatcher.


In past posts, I’ve shared several experiences of what it’s like to be an actor, and the process you go through in getting to heart of the character you’re portraying.

I know this sounds strange, but my approach to acting has always been in allowing the character to become me, rather than “I” become the character.

I approach a character from the outside in; starting with their physicality.

It could be something as simple as the way a character walks with a cane, talks with an accent, wears eyeglasses, or a particular style of clothing. This is especially helpful if the character is from another time period, because clothing from another period will not only make an actor move their body in different way, but also feel a different way.

Once I get a grasp on even ONE physical characteristic, it opens me to the internal life of the person I’m portraying.

It’s an odd approach, but it seems to work for me.

I’m also one of those actors who does not like to think too much about my acting. I would rather abandon myself to a role, and then see where it takes me.

Acting is very much like living life. If you just get out of the way, life takes you where you need to go.

Many of my longtime readers know of my portrayal as the Wicked Stepmother in the musical version of “Cinderella.”

I had always wanted to portray a woman onstage and finally got my wish when I was hired by a professional children’s theater, whilst still living in Florida.

This was one of those roles in which I really needed to get a sense of the physicality, because a woman walks, talks, and sits differently than a man.

My costume for this role was extremely important, so I asked the director if he could get me a pair of women’s shoes and a rehearsal skirt as soon as possible because I needed to learn how to move in them.

Rehearsing for a show is a progression. You start symbolically naked, and then gradually layer the costume, makeup and hair, until you get to the final dress rehearsal, when everything culminates.


This is a photo me backstage as the Wicked Stepmother in full costume. The gentleman you see standing to my left is, Rick, who designed my wig and costume. He built the costume from scratch and his attention to detail was brilliant. I wore a female body mold under the dress, which included a waistline, hips, buttocks, and BOOBS. Also, (which you can’t see) I wore Little Bo Peep ruffled pantaloons, so that when I lifted my dress while walking onstage, they peeked out from underneath.

I created the makeup myself, which took over an hour to apply before each performance.

Once I had everything on, I WAS the Wicked Stepmother. And it’s funny, even when I wasn’t onstage, I still walked around backstage as the character because the costume made my body and soul feel like a real woman.

Magically, the Wicked Stepmother had become me…..

Work it, girl!

59 comments:

  1. After 10 minutes of viewing that photo, I honestly thought I was looking at Julia Child. - you mean both those pics up there aren't of julia child. dang, i will say i have to agree about meryl, not that i watch movies, but i've seen commercials. i don't know anything about acting, but in the past i've read how actors prepared for a role and basically they become that person (will smith is one of my favorites when he portrays someone else) i forget it's him and believe it's the person he's portraying.

    i wouldn't thrive as a serious actor, comedy maybe, but what i want to play is a corpse. i watch so much law and order that i want to play a dead person, any dead person.

    and i've seen that pic of you before as the wicked stepmother and i just want to say, it scared the shuuuger out of me. yeah, you look evil for real. thanks ron.

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  2. RON! You look like a mean Italian lady from the Old Country!!!! The widow's peak on the wig really adds to the evilness! LOL!

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  3. Boy, Ron, you really bring wicked to a new level! Love this post and the whole idea of letting "the character become me." Years ago I interviewed a young woman who was performing in a classical music concert in Connecticut. When I asked her what it was like to go out on stage and play her violin, she said "you just let the music take you." I've always loved that line and I think it applies to music, acting, writing or any other creative endeavor. Have a great holiday, buddy!

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  4. What a great wicked stepmother you made!
    Meryl is an icon! I thought she portrayed Julia brilliantly, however I did not see her as Margaret Thatcher.

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  5. Hey there Bijoux~

    "RON! You look like a mean Italian lady from the Old Country!!!!"

    Bwhahahahahahahha! OMG....that made me HOWL!!!! And you're so right, that's EXACTLY what I look like!!!!

    Che faccia brutta!

    *Italian for: "What an ugly face!"

    HAHAHAHAHHAHA!

    Thanks for stopping by, my friend! Have a faaaaabulous week!

    X

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  6. Hey there Suzi~

    Thank you. I had so much fun playing the wicked stepmother. What a hoot!

    Isn't Meryl Streep amazing? I can't wait to see "The Iron Lady" on DVD.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a great week! Happy Memorial Day!

    X

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  7. Hey there Rob~

    " Ron, you really bring wicked to a new level!"

    Tee, hee! Aren't I a wicked-ass beast?

    " When I asked her what it was like to go out on stage and play her violin, she said "you just let the music take you."

    LOVE that, Rob! And it's true....you just allow it. And that pertains to any creative endeavor.

    Thanks for stopping by, buddy! Happy Memorial Day!

    X

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  8. Hiya ladyV~

    "you mean both those pics up there aren't of julia child."

    I know, isn't that freakin' amazing? And to watch her body language and vocal imitation of Julia Child is mind-blowing!

    "(will smith is one of my favorites when he portrays someone else)"

    I agree. Love Will Smith. And he's originally from Philly I think?!

    "i wouldn't thrive as a serious actor, comedy maybe, but what i want to play is a corpse. i watch so much law and order that i want to play a dead person, any dead person."

    HAHAHA! Val, that cracked me up - a dead person!

    And knowing your sense of humor, I think you would be excellent in comedy. Comedy is actually harder than drama.

    "and i've seen that pic of you before as the wicked stepmother and i just want to say, it scared the shuuuger out of me. yeah, you look evil for real. thanks ron."

    Tee, hee!

    Thanks for stopping by, girl! Have a faaaabulous week!

    X

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  9. wait did i really write after 10 minutes of viewing that photo. i seriously don't remember that - OMG, the drugs. i'm sure i didn't eyeball her for 10 minutes. just a shocker for me to read that when i don't remember. sigh.okay

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  10. Helloooooooooooo Pam~

    Thank you. I had soooooooooo much fun playing a woman. All my life I've always wanted to portray Eva Peron in the musical "Evita", so portraying the Wicked Stepmother was my next best choice - HA!

    LOVE Denzel Washington!!!! Another great actor!

    I read or heard somewhere that when Meryl Streep prepares for a role, she too grabs onto the physicality of a character first - especially when she's portraying a truth to life person, like Julia Child. I also heard that she has amazing concentration when she acts, and will stay IN character between 'takes' so she doesn't lose it.

    Yes, I do remember you mentioning that you've had experience in film, and I think that's AWESOME!!! I've dabbled a bit in film, but my soul has always been drawn to the stage. I admire actors who excel in film because that's a TRUE talent. With me, I like to perform LIVE. It's scary as shit, but I love it - HA!

    "My parents are involved in their local theater, The Bobcats, and I get to watch all the plays plus see behind the scenes. It's so much fun."

    OMG...how COOL!!! I adore local/community theater because as you shared, they put so much of themselves into it. Some of my most enjoyable acting experiences have been in community theater.

    "I'd like to get back into it again but I just don't have the time (I told you I need to manage it better!). Maybe one day I will."

    You GO, girl! And the great thing about acting is that you can jump back into it at anytime. In fact, the older you get, the better the roles.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend! Enjoy your week! Happy Memorial Day!

    ((((( You ))))))

    X

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  11. Ron you look amazing! I so agree with you about Meryl - she's fabulous!

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  12. Good morning Pearl~

    Thanks, m'dear!

    Isn't Meryl Streep fabulous? And she just keeps getting more and more faaaaaaaabulous. It's so wonderful to see a female actor still working in the business at 62.

    Thanks for stopping by today. Have lovely week!

    X

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  13. Ron, this was so interesting to read. And these photographs are really wonderful. You make a mean Wicked Stepmother. Almost like the Disney animated film. Love your makeup. I can't imagine myself being an actor, but I admire those who can. I would be much too self-conscious and nervous.

    And I agree, Meryl Streep is an amazing actress. I loved her in The Devil Wears Prada!

    Have a wonderful week, Ron.

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  14. Oh I love the movie Julie and Julia. And I am obsessed with Meryl Streep.
    She was BEYOND amazing in her role. And Stanley Tucci was pretty amazeballs too.

    And, Ron, you made for the BEST Wicked Stepmother ever!

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  15. Meryl Streep is a fantastic actress! If she's in a movie, I know I'll love it, no matter what it is.

    Even with a smile on your face, you look pretty wicked ha ha ha! I bet you did a great job. I wonder why, in pantomime, women play men and men play women. It's very strange :)

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  16. Hiya Babs~

    "Meryl Streep is a fantastic actress! If she's in a movie, I know I'll love it, no matter what it is."

    Ditto! I could watch Meryl Streep read the telephone directory and I'd pay to see it - HA!

    Honestly, though...she faaaaaaabulous!

    "Even with a smile on your face, you look pretty wicked ha ha ha!"

    I had such a BLAST playing this role. After the show was over, I was so sad because I didn't want to give the dress back - HAHAHAHHAHA!

    "I wonder why, in pantomime, women play men and men play women. It's very strange."

    I really don't know for sure, but I think it's because in pantomime there are no spoken words, the actor uses his or her body to express the dialog, therefore both a man or woman can do it?

    Also, in many Shakespearean plays men play women and women play men.

    Thanks for stopping by, Babs! Have a super week!

    X to you and Mo!

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  17. Hey there Meleah~

    Wasn't that movie faaaaaabulous? I just recently bought the DVD at FYE, so I just HAD to post about it.

    "And I am obsessed with Meryl Streep.
    She was BEYOND amazing in her role. And Stanley Tucci was pretty amazeballs too."

    Agreed! I adore Stanley Tucci. He and Meryl also did "The Devil Wears Prada" together. I think I read somewhere that they are real-life friends.

    "And, Ron, you made for the BEST Wicked Stepmother ever!"

    *wink*

    Aw....thanks, girl!

    Hope you're enjoying a super Memorial Day! Can you believe how stinking HOT it is? I'm scared to go outside today because I fear MELTING - HA!

    X

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  18. Wow, Ron. Way to morph into the Wicked Stepmother role - I would seriously think you were a woman seeing you in costume like that!! When Tara and I were driving around Bend the other morning we saw a guy walking down the street in a dress and high heels. Only thing is, he was NOT on his way to act in a play.

    To each their own. No judgment here.

    Julie & Julia was a great movie, and Meryl Streep is amazing in every role she plays!

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  19. Hey there Mark~

    Aw...thanks, bud! I had so much FUN playing the Wicked Stepmother.

    " we saw a guy walking down the street in a dress and high heels. Only thing is, he was NOT on his way to act in a play."

    Bwhahahahahhaahhaha! HILARIOUS!

    And it's so freakin' ironic you mentioned that because I saw a guy come into my store about two days doing the same thing!

    "To each their own. No judgment here."

    Exactly!

    And wasn't Julie & Julia faaaaaabulous? I *heart* Meryl in everything she does.

    Thanks for stopping by, Mark! Have a great week and Happy Memorial Day!

    X

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  20. "It's so muggy and gross.."

    Oy vey...you said it! I just back from running around in the city this afternoon and I look like a drenched rat! I talked to my mother and it's hotter here today, than in Florida!!!

    "I hope we're getting together soon!"

    Meeeeeee too!

    Stay cool, girl!

    X

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  21. WOW, Ron....those photos of you are fierce! You really did look like the Wicked Stepmother. And that makeup is scary. But a GOOD scary. I'm curious, how did the kids react to you?

    And yes, I too enjoy Meryl Streep in anything she does. I haven't seen The Iron Lady either. She's one of those fortunate actresses in the industry who has been able to continue working as she matures. And bet she even has the luxury of picking and choosing.

    Enjoyed reading about your process of acting. Very interesting.

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  22. I must say, I HAD a wicked step-mother and you don't look anything like her. LOL okayokay......I admit she turned into one of the best things that ever happened to me.....I just THOUGHT she was wicked (but what 16 year old doesn't think that?).

    Btw--she was much shorter, had shorter hair and was Danish AND Catholic (NOT that either mean anything 'cept to me--I learned to NOT piss off the Dane--holy cow what a temper.....and the Italians think they have a market on it...yeah notsomuch....)

    And unlike the gal that stared for 10 minutes at the photos, it didn't QUITE take me that long, but wow does she have the Julia Child look down.........even to the bird holding. LOL Excellent job, I'm sure. I'll now have to find the movie and have a good look.

    In the meantime, I believe whole heartedly in what you shared here--"Acting is very much like living life. If you just get out of the way, life takes you where you need to go." I'm a fairly good actress...LOL....just not of the type of which you speak. I'm also fairly good at hangin' on and going for the ride that life takes me on. I've tried to steer it......wayyyyyyyyyy too much energy and I'd burn out the brakes cuz I was forever trying to slow it down to what *I* think it oughta be. Fact is, I was just along for the ride--and when I let go and just hang on (that sounds like an oxy-moron but I know you know what I mean), it's far more fun and way less painful.

    Oh--and I think I know about that 'put me in the dress and I can and WILL transform'. Happens every week for me when I go to Administrative Meetings. LOLOL I become professional!! *gak*

    OMG........how true is that?! (please note that the hidden toys undo all that professionalism in 0.25 seconds....which is how I get in trouble....dang props do it every time!) ;-)

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  23. Howdy Matt~

    "And that makeup is scary. But a GOOD scary."

    Yeah...it IS scary!!!!!! And I love how Bijoux described me...." You look like a mean Italian lady from the Old Country!!!"

    Bwhahhaahhahaha! That's hilarious because it's so true!!

    "I'm curious, how did the kids react to you?"

    Oddly enough, when I first walked out onstage you could hear an overall HUSH from the kids that said, "OMG...what the hell is THAT? It is a man or a woman?!?!?" But after about 10 minutes, they figured out that, YES, it was a man, but they ended up going for the ride and enjoying it. Meeting the kids at the end of the show each night was the best part. They were so CUTE!!

    "She's one of those fortunate actresses in the industry who has been able to continue working as she matures. And bet she even has the luxury of picking and choosing."

    Yup! And I bet she DOES have the luxury of picking and choosing. Wish she should because she's faaaaaabulous!

    Always great seeing ya, Matt. Hope you had super Memorial Day!

    X

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  24. "allowing the character to become me, rather than “I” become the character" Very cool! I never thought of that sort of approach. And the more I think about it, the more it seems brilliantly obvious.

    As for your costume, I have to echo "Work it, girl!" That's a fantastic costume, and with your makeup you really make the whole thing pop. And I'm sure with theatrical lighting and stage settings you came off quite well (how could you not?!).

    How much acting do you do nowadays? Any chance Karin and I could catch you in a show someday?

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  25. Hiya Mel~

    "I must say, I HAD a wicked step-mother and you don't look anything like her. LOL "

    HAHAHHAHAHAHAHA!

    But that's so funny because as you know, my mother is my stepmother too, and SHE use to call HERSELF the Wicked Stepmother!!!! But of course, she wasn't. She's the BEST!

    " it didn't QUITE take me that long, but wow does she have the Julia Child look down.........even to the bird holding."

    Yes, isn't that AMAZING???? OMG, you've GOT to rent this film because I have a feeling you will LOVE IT! It's a wonderful light comedy, but it's also very touching. You really get a 'sense' for who Julia Child was. Also, the movie is about BLOGGING!!!

    " If you just get out of the way, life takes you where you need to go." I'm a fairly good actress...LOL....just not of the type of which you speak. I'm also fairly good at hangin' on and going for the ride that life takes me on. I've tried to steer it......wayyyyyyyyyy too much energy and I'd burn out the brakes cuz I was forever trying to slow it down to what *I* think it oughta be."

    Me to, Mel. But, as we get older (and wiser) we realize that if we just get out of the way and allow our life to happen as it should, it's much easier than trying to STEER it in a way that might not be for our best. I know that I live my life very differently than most people, but I believe that my life is happening as it should, and all I have to do is make choices based on what's happening NOW...in THIS moment.

    "Oh--and I think I know about that 'put me in the dress and I can and WILL transform'. Happens every week for me when I go to Administrative Meetings. LOLOL I become professional!! *gak*"

    OMG...you said it. Because I have to do the same thing whenever I go to those Account Executive Meetings and put on my professional costume! Hey, maybe next I should wear a DRESS! HAHAHAHAHA!

    Thanks oodles for stopping by, dearest lady. Hope you had an enjoyable long weekend and Memorial Day!

    ((((( You ))))))

    X ya!

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  26. Howdy Herman~

    "I never thought of that sort of approach. And the more I think about it, the more it seems brilliantly obvious."

    All actors work differently. If I start thinking to much about what I want to DO with a character, it somehow screws it up. I find it easier to just get out of the way and allow the character (which includes the physicality, the costume, and the script) to become ME. It's sort of a psychological thing, I guess.

    "That's a fantastic costume, and with your makeup you really make the whole thing pop. And I'm sure with theatrical lighting and stage settings you came off quite well."

    Aw...thanks, bud. And yes, the lighting and scenery added MUCH. That's what I love about stage acting...creating an illusion in front of the audiences eyes. It's a culmination of so many different talents all coming together.

    I haven't done ANY acting since I moved back east. Philadelphia has a very small pool of actors that it uses. It's probably one of the most difficult cities to act in because it's very "clicky." Most of my acting was in NYC and Florida. I also toured various countries. I really do need to find a way to get back into it because I miss it at times.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Hope you and the family had an awesome long holiday weekend!

    X to you, Karin, and Tyler!

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  27. Hi Ronnie,
    You bet that I remember the post about you playing the meanie stepmom.
    I remember how much your pic cracked me up back then! Thanks for adding a close up with the costume designer.
    So, you can say that you really have been in body and soul of a woman; boobs and all. Just for info, in the first pic, is that you with that kooky Spanish outfit? Olé!

    So, you can really have a feeling for Ms. Streep's talent for entering each character. It was very interesting to see the method that you approach a character.
    Ms. Streep is a truly amazing actress. How incredible a make up job that is, for both Julia & Maggie Thatcher! I am the worst for seeing new movie releases!

    Do you ever get the urge to start up acting again in a modest form with, say, a small local playhouse? Or, just going to plays near home and supporting their efforts. I know, it takes time and the business of making a living takes already many hours.

    This post was much appreciated, my friend. Bravo! Take a bow!!
    xox

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  28. Bonjour Barb!!!

    " Thanks for adding a close up with the costume designer."

    And thank YOU for noticing the additional photograph :)

    "So, you can say that you really have been in body and soul of a woman; boobs and all."

    HA! You said it!!!

    " Just for info, in the first pic, is that you with that kooky Spanish outfit? Olé!"

    Yes it is. And thank you again for noticing that one too :) I played a CRAZY Spanish guy in a French Farce called "A Flea In Her Ear." It was a blast! And the whole cast was so incredibly talented! I felt honored to be in that show.

    "Ms. Streep is a truly amazing actress. How incredible a make up job that is, for both Julia & Maggie Thatcher!"

    Isn't she amazing??? I haven't seen The Iron Lady yet, but her makeup in that looks flawless. As Julia Child too! In that movie, it's more her voice and body movements as the character. She's utterly amazing because you actually believe it's Julia!

    "Do you ever get the urge to start up acting again in a modest form with, say, a small local playhouse?"

    Yes I do. I miss it at times. I truly need to search an outlet. My trip to Florida is going to be a great time for not only visiting my family, but also for clearing my mind, body, and soul, and doing some INNER searching. I'm soooo looking forward to my trip at the end of June!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Hope you had a lovely weekend!

    (((((( You ))))))))

    X to you and D!

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  29. Ron! That is seriously hilarious! I just read the comment about the mean old Italian lady from the old country!!! OMG! Hysterical!! I am positive that you are an awesome actor!! I totally agree with you about Meryl Streep....she deserves each and every award that she has been given...I have never seen her play a "bad" part! She really turns into the character. I have not yet seen the Julia Childs movie, but it is on my list of movies to see. I think Meryl is amazing...wonder if her kids have picked up the acting bug?? Her daughter looks exactly like her! Hope you had a great weekend Ron!
    xo
    Jeanne

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  30. Hey there Jeanne~

    "I just read the comment about the mean old Italian lady from the old country!!! OMG! Hysterical!!"

    OMG...is that not HYSTERICAL???? And it's TRUE too!!!

    "about Meryl Streep....she deserves each and every award that she has been given...I have never seen her play a "bad" part! She really turns into the character."

    Ditto! And yes, one of her daughters (I can't remember her name) is also an actress. I've seen her in a few movies and she's VERY good. And you're right, she looks just like her mother.

    If you ever get the chance to see Julia and Julie I KNOW you'll enjoy it. Fascinating life Julia Child had!

    Thanks for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

    X to you and the girlz!

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  31. I adore Meryl
    and you describe her craft perfectly
    I loved her as Julia Child, it could be easy to make Julia comical in the wrong way but Meryl never did
    It must have been so tiring to do the voice

    I have read reviews of Iron Lady where they say she becomes Margaret Thatcher

    I love you as the wicked step-mother
    you look a bit like stockard channing with a of make-up on
    I would have loved to see that show

    Hope sends sticky hugs
    it's hot as hell here

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  32. Helloooooooooo Lady Dianne~

    "I loved her as Julia Child, it could be easy to make Julia comical in the wrong way but Meryl never did."

    You are soooooo right about that! She could have easily taken it to the extreme (cartoonish), but she didn't. What I found utterly amazing was that she discovered the delicate balance of the humor, determination, and passion of Julia.

    "It must have been so tiring to do the voice"

    You know, I thought the same thing. I bet she had a vocal coach to help her technically.

    "The Iron Lady" is already out on DVD, but I'm waiting for the price to drop before I purchase it. I bet it's faaaaaabulous!!

    "you look a bit like stockard channing with a of make-up on"

    Bwhahahahahahaha! OMG, that cracked me up because both you and Bijoux are so correct in your visions! I do look a bit like Stockard Channing!!!!

    Holy shit, can you BELIEVE how HOT and HUMID it's been? I read the weather report for this week online, and they said that by Thursday we'll be back down into the 70's. THANK GOD, because it's way too early for this hot crap!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you had a super Memorial Day weekend!

    Cool hugs to you and Hope...

    ((((((( You & Hope ))))))))

    X ya!

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  33. wicked indeed - must have been fun and fabulous! Also have to agree about Meryl Streep, she is a true treasure of the American cinema. much love, diane

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  34. Loved seeing the photos! I sometimes imagine being able to act and submerging myself into a character. I would think it liberating to "be" someone else for a time. You should go online to CBS.com and watch the recent interview with Meryl Streep on 60 Minutes. I think you will enjoy it.

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  35. Read the book--and it actually was a decent read. So, yup, I'll try the movie. I'm kinda one who doesn't DO the movie after the book--preconceived idea that it'll be a letdown cuz it has been more than once. I forget that there've been times it's NOT been a letdown. LOL So--yup, I'll find the movie and let he-who-ate-all-the-ice-cream make me popcorn. LOL
    I'm gonna get a whooooooole lot of mileage outta that ice cream deal. :-D

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  36. Hey there Diane~

    "wicked indeed - must have been fun and fabulous!"

    Tee, hee! Yes, I had the time of my life playing that wicked lady -Fun! Fun! Fun! I have a video that I made of all the backstage 'going on's' during the run of the show. That was as much fun as being onstage!

    "Meryl Streep, she is a true treasure of the American cinema."

    Amen! LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE her!!!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend! Hope you're having a super week!

    Much X to you and Cristybella!

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  37. Hiya Jen~

    " I sometimes imagine being able to act and submerging myself into a character. I would think it liberating to "be" someone else for a time."

    Oh, it is LIBERATING. It SO is! It's both scary AND freeing! Acting is such a wonderful lesson is trusting and letting go.

    OMG...thank you soooo much for sharing the link to the Meryl Streep interview on 60 Minutes! I will be sure to watch it sometime today. Yipppppppeeee!

    Much thanks for stopping by, girl! Hope it's cooler there than it is here. Yesterday it reached 92 degrees and humid. However, later this week it's going back down into the 70's. ALLELUIA!

    X

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  38. Hiya Mel~

    "Read the book--and it actually was a decent read."

    Ironic you mentioned the book because yesterday, while in Barnes & Noble, I saw the book on a shelf and am thinking about reading it.

    " I'm kinda one who doesn't DO the movie after the book--preconceived idea that it'll be a letdown cuz it has been more than once."

    I agree! So often it's a letdown seeing the movie AFTER reading the book because there is so more detail in a book. But yet, sometimes it's NOT been a letdown, you're right.

    "I'll find the movie and let he-who-ate-all-the-ice-cream make me popcorn. LOL
    I'm gonna get a whooooooole lot of mileage outta that ice cream deal."

    HAHHAAHAHAHAH!

    X ya, dear lady!!!!!

    Thanks for stopping back! Have an awesome day!

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  39. Oooh Ron, how did I miss this post? I think my reader is playing tricks with me. Never mind, I'm here and I caught up. I do so agree about Meryl Streep/Margaret Thatcher. I saw a clip the other day and honestly I thought it WAS Maggie. I couldn't believe how much Meryl looked like her, she even got the facial expressions right. I've seen a few actors try to take off a real life person and get it wrong but Meryl got it all right. Apart from that I like her acting.

    I don't know of Julia Child but I can see that Meryl got her off pat.

    Is that really you ... I thought it was the Wicked Stepmother... hehehe. I can understand that the clothes make the difference, I can imagine dressing up and getting the 'atmosphere' ... you proved it.

    Have a wonderful Wednesday.

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  40. Hey there Valerie~

    No worries, dear lady. And I know what you mean about your reader because mine (Google) does the same thing sometimes. Often, I won't get an update from someone's blog until later in the day or sometimes the NEXT day.

    " I do so agree about Meryl Streep/Margaret Thatcher. I saw a clip the other day and honestly I thought it WAS Maggie. "

    Isn't that unbelievable???? It's uncanny how much she resembles her! And it's the same with Julia Child. If and when you see the movie you will FLIP because you'll think you're actually looking at Julia.

    *Julia Child was a famous American chief who got her training while living in France. Her life story is fascinating!

    "I've seen a few actors try to take off a real life person and get it wrong but Meryl got it all right."

    AMEN!

    "Is that really you ... I thought it was the Wicked Stepmother... hehehe."

    HAHAHAHAHA! Yes, it's me! I had so much fun playing that part. It's one of those roles that will always go down as one of my favorites.

    Thanks for stopping by, dear lady. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

    X,
    The Wicked Stepmother

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  41. I hate to complain, Ron, but I'm not getting comment notification even though I ticked the box asking for one and even though I was 'told' I would get one because I'd subscribed. Duh! Just thought I should tell you.

    Have a great day.

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  42. Hey there Valerie~

    I don't know whats up with that because some days I will get an instant email notification to a comment response I left on someone else's Disqus blog, but then other times it takes awhile. So yes, it's happening to me too.

    I know (from my Disqus dashboard) that they're working on it.

    Thanks for letting me know, dear lady!

    Have a great day....X

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  43. Oooh - You ARE the wicked stepmother!!! Great job on that - costume and make-up both! And what a wonderful combination of colours, with all three of you together.

    I've often thought it must be strange, dressing as a woman when you don't have the right shape for it. I mean, yeah, carrying around the extra padding (hips and bust) can be a severe trial at times, but at least our musculature is suited for it. Strapping it all on must give you a backache!

    I have no idea who Julia Child was, but I can see that Meryl captured her very nicely. However, with Maggie Thatcher, she doesn't look selfish enough. Margaret Thatcher, though I know Americans love her, went through her political career upsetting everyone and ruining perfectly good institutions. We are still trying to recover from the 'every man for himself' attitude she encouraged.

    Sorry. Didn't mean to get political. And if you admire her, we'll just have to agree to differ on that one! ;)

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  44. Hey there Jay~

    Aw...thanks, my friend. I had the time of my life playing this role. The two girls standing next to me (my stage daughters) were WONDERFUL in their roles. The whole experience was brilliant!

    " I mean, yeah, carrying around the extra padding (hips and bust) can be a severe trial at times, but at least our musculature is suited for it. Strapping it all on must give you a backache!"

    Amazingly enough, the costumer (Rick) made the body mold extremely lightweight, so I could hardly feel it. The wig was actually the most cumbersome thing on my body. I had TWO, so I could alternate them as the other was being restyled.

    "I have no idea who Julia Child was, but I can see that Meryl captured her very nicely."

    She's was an American chief who studied French culinary while living in France for many years. She wrote a famous French cookbook and had her own TV show here in the States. She was very flamboyant and funny!

    "Sorry. Didn't mean to get political. And if you admire her, we'll just have to agree to differ on that one! ;)"

    No apologies, my friend. To be perfectly honest with you, I actually don't know all that much about her, so it was very interesting to hear your viewpoint - I learned something!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Jay! Hope you're enjoying a lovely week.

    X

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  45. I started out as an actor. I sucked and thus became a writer. Streep was completely robbed of the Oscar for Julie & Julia. And for that matter, so was the writer/director, and my personal idol, Nora Ephron.

    You, however are adorable in or out of costume. :)

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  46. Hey there Jayne~

    "Streep was completely robbed of the Oscar for Julie & Julia. And for that matter, so was the writer/director, and my personal idol, Nora Ephron."

    *jumping up and down; applauding you*

    I TOTALLY, TOTALLY, TOTALLY agree with you on both accounts!

    ROB! And is Nora Ephron not the BEST writer-director EVER?? I've seen every movie that woman has ever made and they're ALL stellar! She's brilliant!

    "I started out as an actor. I sucked and thus became a writer."

    OMG...I had no idea you had acted!?!? How cool is that? Well, I can't believe you sucked, but I'm glad you became a write because you're VERY, VERY good! And I mean that!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you're enjoying a great week!

    X

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  47. You really do look wicked! I wouldn't want to meet you in a dark alley. Great, now I'm gonna have nightmares...

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  48. Hiya Chrissy!

    " I wouldn't want to meet you in a dark alley. Great, now I'm gonna have nightmares..."

    OMG...how funny!!!

    I know, don't I look evil and wicked? Kinda like my father's mother -HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

    Great seeing ya, girl! Mucho thanks for stopping by! Hope you're having a super week. Thank god we got a break from the heat because it was killing me :(

    X to you, Millie, Vinny, and Dino!

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  49. wow, what a fab wickedly fab stepmom you are, ron. isn't it fun to dress up? now getting on stage doing in this way would be my cup of tea because i would be behind those clothes and makeup. how fun is that? weirdest thing is i could do it that way or perhaps sans everything but not the everyday. oh, i am weird and need to stop leaving you comments. fascinating explain on the acting. and i adore her too...think she's the best there ever was and now am going to watch the iron lady on my dvr. it's just sitting there waiting the right moment and it must be now. have fun this weekend. *writing this later than late. :) xoxox

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  50. Hello dear Linda~

    Thank you. I had such a WONDERFUL time dressing up and playing the wicked stepmother.

    "now getting on stage doing in this way would be my cup of tea because i would be behind those clothes and makeup."

    Yes, a lot of people feel that way which is GREAT because they'er needs to be people behind the scenes too. That's what I love about doing theater....it's culmination of so many talents!

    Isn't Meryl the BEST? I'm waiting for the DVD of The Iron Lady to go on sale because it's expensive right now because it's a new release. I hear it's faaaaabulous!

    Thanks for stopping by, dear lady. Have a delightful weekend!

    ((((( You )))))

    xoxoxo

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  51. Amazing! I would have loved to have seen you do that performance!

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  52. Hiya Peg~

    I have it on video and really need to transfer it onto DVD. When I eventually do, I may make a YouTube video of one of the songs!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend!

    (((( You )))))
    X

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  53. Wow, Ron. You look amazing! I would love to see you perform. What a kick that would be!

    I, too, love Meryl Streep. Can't wait to see The Iron Lady.

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  54. Hey there Tara~

    Aw...thanks, girl! I had a BLAST playing this role. I do sometimes miss the theater. Once its part of your blood, it always remains. Perhaps one day, I will return. Even if it's just for the fun of it!

    I CANNOT wait to see The Iron Lady. I've watched a couple clips on You Tube and it looks GREAT!

    Thanks for stopping by! Have a wonderful weekend!

    X

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  55. Hello Friends!! This nice work and appreciating. I really love it.

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  56. OMG, how funny, Val, because I sincerely didn't even catch that!!!

    But I only just this minute started drinking my morning cup of coffee, so I'm still half asleep. That's probably why - HA!

    X ya, girl!

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  57. Ron, your transformation into the Wicked Step-mother is amazing! I wish I could've seen you perform!

    I've heard that Denzel Washington is a very serious actor and practically secludes himself while preparing for roles. I can believe it when I see him on the big screen...he IS his character! Meryl is the same way. Although I don't know her process for preparing for a role. But I'll bet any "good" actor needs to have a process.

    I mentioned that I dabbled in theater a little and I've done some extra work. Between the two, theater is much harder. With movies, you have a lot more leeway. Live, on stage, you can't miss a beat!

    My parents are involved in their local theater, The Bobcats, and I get to watch all the plays plus see behind the scenes. It's so much fun. Then when I go to the Bennedum in downtown Pittsburgh I am flabbergasted at how HUGE the props are compared to the little theater. But I still enjoy both because the actors put so much of themselves into those plays!

    I'd like to get back into it again but I just don't have the time (I told you I need to manage it better!). Maybe one day I will.

    I really enjoy hearing about your theater days and I just LOVE your pictures!

    Thanks for sharing!

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  58. Hola Denise~

    Ironic you mentioned the animated Disney version of Cinderella because that's what the director was going for, so he wanted our makeup to BE animated. He envisioned the show as if a comic book had come to life.

    OMG, yes....I adored Meryl in The Devil Wears Prada!!!! In fact, I own that DVD as well. Her character was loosely based on Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue. That's a movie I can watch again and again, and still laugh!

    Thanks for stopping by, girl. Have a spectacular week!

    X

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  59. It's so muggy and gross ­ but I'm sitting outside with my computer anyway. I can't be trapped inside my bedroom anymore!

    I love the two of them together. [Meryl & Stanley]

    Xoxoxo

    PS: I hope we're getting together soon!

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