Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1381634
18 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2021 " Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards." –Soren Kierkegaard As we try to navigate life, work and this world in which has a "new normal," we must continue to move forward. Stepping out of our comfort zone and stepping up and into a way of doing things that we aren't so accustom. The opportunity to be bigger and better than before is part of what we do. Regardless of the extremely long break from performing our art, we are a part of what the audience feels. We are a part of the heartbeat. As most of you know, Disneyland has reopened with a limited capacity. Some of our cast members were called back to work, and some remain on furlough. We are hopeful the remainder of our cast members will be called back soon. Network television has continued to work in a very limited capacity. Thankfully, more of our network artists have been going back to work. Regionally (San Francisco & San Diego), there has been some film work. Bringing awareness to the fact that we have amazing Local 706 union members that live and work regionally, San Francisco Opera did a drive-in opera in the performance of Barber of Seville. San Diego Opera did the same show (Barber of Seville) in an outdoor performance. It was a wonderful way of putting valued union members to work doing what they love and staying within the COVID guidelines. Theatrical and Pink Contract shows have started to announce opening dates for season performances touring dates. Our live industry artists have been hit the hardest. When theatrical shows reopen, most of our members have seen a year and a half of no work. Some longer. During this time, our members have made whatever changes they could to hold on for the industry we all love so much to open again. Many took advantage of the time for schooling. Now more than ever, we need to be strong in support of each other. The time has come for us to live life forward. Wishing you and yours healthy and safety, love and light. In solidarity and unity, Patrice K. Madrigal BY PATRICE K. MADRIGAL Theater Business Representative I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Theme Park, Theater & Broadcast Television News SHOW NEWS