Opening Night

I’ve been a single mom for almost 4 years now. It wasn’t a role that I auditioned for, but was nonetheless cast in.

By far, it is probably the most demanding role that I have ever had. There are no scripts to read through, but I feel as if an invisible camera is always rolling, requiring me to give a stellar performance even without someone calling out, “ACTION!”. There are no rehearsals or numerous takes till I get it just right. I can’t yell “Cut!” when I make a mistake, or call it a wrap during the times when I just can’t take it anymore. It gives whole new meaning to the phrase “The show must go on”.

It’s a role made for a solo performer. I am not paired with a leading man to practice my scenes with, cue me when I forget my lines or help me overcome the occasional stage fright.

In his place, I have an extremely reliable Personal Assistant (a.k.a Yaya) plus a cast and crew of colorful characters. There are the main - stay good friends and close family, the supporting actors made up of well-meaning, though sometimes insensitive relatives; the expected antagonists played by prying officemates and tactless acquaintances. And of course, let’s not forget, the cameo appearances made by various men who come along the way.

Welcome to this show that I call my life. Each season of it has various episodes, some are funny, some are sad, some are down right outrageous. But it is my life, which my 3 year old daughter is the only constant, integral part of. When the spotlight is turned off and the curtains come to a close, she remains as the one critic whose opinion really matters. Her applause will be the one thing I hope to be deserving of.

She’s still deciding whether or not my performance is award – winning.

In the meantime, I’ll continue to play this role dressed in my signature short skirt and high heels, made up in tons of humor, accessorized with resilience and oh yes, all topped off with loads of drama.