My Signature

The dust has settled and January has come to a close. For those one or two faithful readers that I have, you’ll recall me mentioning in December a new name logo that I was having done. Well this is it here. And I won’t go any further without crediting the artist/designer: BToon Dzygn (www.wix.com/btoondesign/portfolio). I’ve had the opportunity to work with Brandon on more than one project, and he always delivers.

So henceforth this will be my calling card…my signature if you will. I could go into the detail of what it means/stands for, but I’ve got to leave something a mystery. Otherwise what will Oprah and I have to talk about? (And, yes, I will continue to throw out the Oprah references until someone out there takes note and decides to do something about it.)

With yet another successful run of SOFT behind me, my focus now turns to preparing for Barbados, getting a firm commitment from Hawaii, and solidifying my Fall touring schedule. First and foremost? Reaching out to Rihanna. Yep, you read it right. Me and my team are devising a plan of attack to see if we can get so much as an honorable mention from the pop icon. I’ll be performing in her country for Pete’s sake!? The least she can do is mention me or the show on Twitter. Right?? (Am I asking for too much?) I don’t see why not. Crazier things have happened. So if anyone reading this knows someone that knows someone that knows Rihanna, inbox me on Facebook and let’s talk! FB: http://facebook.com/jasmynne.shaye

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

Out With a Bang

Well, my friends… The ones that were supposed to be there showed up, and you helped me make history last night. Seriously. Oh. My. Gosh. What!?!? Six runs of this show, and that may have been the best performance I’ve ever given. I’ll say this much, from an actor’s perspective, I’ve never felt more connected with the material than I did last night. I amazed myself – and that’s never happened before. I’m typically satisfied or dissatisfied with a performance, but I’m never ‘amazed’ by anything I do. I figure with a little practice anyone could do it. But last night was different. It really was. And the energy was electric! Whoa! Good grief! I wish I were a more talented writer and had a better command of the English language so that I could accurately convey these sentiments, but ‘whoa’ and ‘good grief’ is about the best I can come up with right now. Man, oh, man… I’m super grateful, thankful, and appreciative for all the love you guys showed me last night. You really, really made my day – cause it had been a pretty rough one right up until I took the stage (more on that later). Catherine Hooper: thank you. Peet Montzingo: you’re an angel. Rane Laymance and Jaimyon Parker: you both have hung in there with me for three gosh-darn years, and I don’t take that lightly. Vince Palmieri: you may well be my number one fan and supporter. What in the world would I do without you? A chance meeting at a theatre has grown into one of the most special friendships of my life. I owe you so much, and I love you to pieces.

So for those that weren’t there? STEPPING ON A FEW TOES went out with a bang! Yeah, we did! It was a spectacular show, an incredible audience, and we couldn’t have been hosted by a better person. Bryan Rasmussen at the Whitefire Theatre…you’re attention to detail is insane and the show was better for it. Thank you everyone for helping to put a huge smile on my face last night. Six runs in three years…I could have never done it without you. Lots of hugs and kisses to all of my fans and supporters!

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

Stick a Fork In Me

I woke up this morning and I had Marilyn Manson on the brain. So I’m rockin’ out to “The Beautiful People” as I right this – and I don’t think it’s gonna be pretty…

I began this blog because many have been asking me over the years about the fine details of mounting a one-person show. And please understand, I’ve never been a dream-crusher. So even though this is hella work, I have never really revealed the full girth of all the “ugly” to anyone, because if I did, most would never give it a try. But if the purpose of this blog is to give an honest look inside…well strap into your seats, cause you’re about to get a healthy dose of honesty from me today. Anyone ever seen Dave Chapppelle’s interview on Inside the Actor’s Studio? I had a friend tell me once, “It was the realest thing I’ve ever seen.” I’m not going to go all of there with you, but just know that the gloves (and when I say gloves I mean Sassy Js) have been taken off. And F, Y, and I: this isn’t a “rant.” These are feelings I’ve carried with me since June 2009. I’ve shared them with no one because who likes to hear anyone complain? Not me. But today is different…

Guys I’m tired. I am mentally and emotionally drained, and I do believe I’m at the end of my rope. Since May 2009 I’ve received nothing but praise for STEPPING ON A FEW TOES, and everyone has a suggestion of where I should perform next: what venue, what festival, what country, what organization I should pitch to. EVERYONE has an idea and a suggestion. Everyone tells me, “Jaz, more people need to see this.” Everyone. Everyone says they wish I were doing it for one more night or one more weekend so they can bring people. Everyone says this. And for the ones that have yet to see it? Their response is the same, “Please tell me when you’re doing it again! I’m coming next time!” Or I get, “Of course I’ll be there! I HAVE to see this show!” Now I’m sure some have good intentions. I’m sure they do. But either way, after three years of hearing the same stuff I’m just plain old tired. Perhaps I could understand if I badger people about coming to every little thing I’m in – but I don’t. Maybe I could understand if STEPPING ON A FEW TOES was drivel – but it’s not. Maybe I could understand if you and I weren’t all that close – but naw…that’s not the case. And the interesting part is that the perfect strangers always show up! The ones I meet in passing and extend an invite to? They ALWAYS come. Ok, so maybe I’m ranting a little. I had a late night convo with a friend about Charlie Sheen last night, sue me. But this is it guys. This is it. I’m done. This will be the final performance of STEPPING ON A FEW TOES in Los Angeles that is open to the general public. Show up if you want to. Stay at home watching Idol or whatever other brilliant programming is on on Thursday night. I’m done reaching out. “What’s the big deal, Jaz? It’s just a play!” The big deal is that it’s not just a play for me. It’s my life. And if I’ve ever invited you it’s because I want YOU to know who I am…what makes me tick…it’s because I honestly want YOU to be there. That’s it. Stick a fork in me because I’m done.

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

It’s Behind Me Now

Ok. Can I just start my saying kudos to me? Kudos to me for sticking to my plan to post every Tue/Fri. If no one else wants to pat me on the back, I don’t have a problem doing it myself. I’ve gotten quite good at that over the years. So good that I don’t even mind the sore shoulders anymore. So congrats to you, Jaz! And thank you for keeping your promise to post every Tue/Fri. Job well done!

Yeah, I know. Enough of that. It was beginning to sound a bit ridiculous and overdone. So I had a conversation with a dear friend last evening and he said something very simple, yet very profound. We were discussing some challenges he’d been dealing with and he mentioned that he was still dealing with them, but his response was, “…I’m just putting it behind me.” Those six words said so much to me, but most of all it screamed the word ‘choice.’ Though he was still dealing with some pretty crappy stuff, he’d made the choice to put it behind him, move forward and not dwell. Boy, oh boy…that’s a phrase that’ll be going up on my refrigerator for sure. Not even to get all “Tony Robbins” on you, but we’ll all get thrown some curve balls probably more often than we’d like. The questions have always been: 1)What do you with the curve ball? 2)How does the curve ball affect your mental wellbeing? My comrade has shown be very clearly that making the deliberate decision to put the curve ball and all it’s nonsense behind you delivers unimaginable benefits, and I’m sold! You can’t see me, but I’m waving a firm finger to all of my “junk,” I’m putting my foot down, and I’m moving on. Done and done.

What does any of this have to do with STEPPING ON A FEW TOES, you ask? Well if you’ve seen the show, you know very well what it’s got to do with; if you haven’t…well…ummm…you gotta see the show. But I’m not in Los Angeles, Jasmynne! Ohhhh, stop complaining. We have show supporter packets available to any and all who want them. For a small donation of $20 we will happily have one sent to you asap. Mail us a check or use our Paypal account and you’ll be days away from experiencing everything this show offers. For more info on how to get your packet send Noelle an email, and she’ll get you sorted out (soft_noelle@yahoo.com).

Yes, I’m aware that I’ll be on stage Thursday. Yes, I’m overwhelmed. Yes, I’m having a hard time focusing. Don’t judge me.

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

A Week Away

It’s Not Like Riding a Bike

Good news to report: the show WILL be going to Barbados! STEPPING ON A FEW TOES will officially be an “international sensation!” (Isn’t that what they call it?) This is extremely exciting news, but the real ‘work’ starts here. They will handle travel and accommodations, but I’ve got to figure out the logistics of getting the costumes and props shipped over there. I’ve also got to begin to get some media contacts out there as well so that there’s sufficient coverage of the event. You certainly don’t perform in Barbados without having press/media coverage. That would almost be a waste, so I’ve really got to get on top of that.

I’m still working with Catherine Hooper and she’s doing the best she can to beat some sense into me on all things ‘online.’ I had no idea that there was so much that I wasn’t aware of. I mean, my goodness, I’m online all the time. I Facebook… I Tweet… But she’s teaching me that having a strong online presence is about so much more. Like: “There’s an app for that.” So the rest of this week will be spent schooling myself and trying to tackle the assignments she’s given me. I feel like she’s forcing me to ride a unicycle perfectly on my first try. No big deal, ‘cause I love a challenge.

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

Social Media Attack

Today is Friday the 13th, and I’m calling it a day of luck, fortune, and new beginnings. I had the opportunity to meet with Catherine Hooper today, and best I can tell she’s a social media genius. She’d probably never call herself that, but that’s ok. She was kind enough to give me about an hour of her time to see how we can shake things up a bit for the web presence of STEPPING ON A FEW TOES, and I’m excited. Right off the bat she had some excellent ideas, and she seems to get my vision for the overall branding of the project. If God and the universe continue to smile on me Catherine will come on board as a permanent member of the STEPPING ON A FEW TOES team – and that just makes me want to do the happy dance.

Also on today (I hate when people say “on today.”) in a land far, far away – called Barbados, my liaison hosted a private screening of the show for potential sponsors. I will find out how everything went tomorrow and I’ll surely keep you posted. We’re actually looking at the possibility of expanding Barbados to a three-city tour as opposed to a single show. Yes, exciting.

As the holiday season comes to an official ‘close’ of sorts, we will be back in full swing on Monday contacting potential venues to host the show and I’m ready to really dig in like my life depends on it (‘cause it kinda’ does).

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

Tag: I’m It

The marketing and promo continues, and is proving to be successful. But I’ve been doing this for three years, and I’ve learned that you promote right up until you hit the stage. The day of the show there seems to always be a frenzy of activity from last-minute supporters. And trust me, I’m always thankful for it, it would just be nice to not have to be the one dealing with said frenzy. Show day I like to spend my time with me. Thinking…praying…preparing…that’s a perfect show day for me, and I have yet to experience one like that. For the past three years right up until I take the stage I’ve been the “it” person. Overseeing…managing…organizing… Definitely one of the draw-backs of self-producing a solo show: you’re it. You are the beginning, the middle, and the end. If it has to get done at the end of the day you are the one that has to do it. It’s all a part of paying your dues right? That’s what I heard someone say once, not sure if I believe it or not…

I got communication from Barbados, and things are looking hopeful. My liaison is trying to turn the trip into a three-city tour – which, of course, would be awesome. As I learn more I’ll keep you posted.

I will be teaching a new class this year: BUILDING YOUR ONE PERSON SHOW. Classes will begin in February, and I’m hosting a free orientation on January 30th for those that want to come and get some info. I’ve got a One-Month Beginner’s Class as well as a Three-Month Advanced Intensive which is geared toward those that are seriously trying to write and mount a solo show. I’m very excited about the new class sessions. So many have been asking me to teach a class on this for some time now, and I’m looking forward to the fun we’ll be having. That’s it for today!!

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

My Marketing Strategy

OK, we’re about a week into this 2012 thing and I’ve got mixed feelings. This blog is neither the time or place to vent and go into what’s causing my ill feelings, but just know that I’m still getting my footing over here.

I’m wanting to get some “behind the scenes” video footage on Jan 26th, and I’ve had someone offer to do the filming. Though this person is eager he hasn’t been the most reliable of folks in the past so I’m not holding my breath. I will, however, continue to ask around to see if I can get someone (or more than one) to commit to capturing some footage for me. I think it’s probably the best way to give those that are interested a real taste of “the process.”

That’s really about it. I’ll be living in the town of Promote until Jan 27th. It’s a small, quaint place filled with smiling faces, warm handshakes, and parade floats. Everyone is a salesman here, and every product is the “next best thing.” Keep your fingers crossed that I can convince them all that they will die if they’re not at the Whitefire Theatre at 8pm on January 26th…

My name is Jasmynne Shaye, and this is me STEPPING ON A FEW TOES.

Stop the Press

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Noelle Ryan
Phone: 323/347-8554
Email: soft_noelle@yahoo.com

Jasmynne Shaye Returns with “Stepping On a Few Toes”
Show Will Be Featured in Solo Show Festival Presented by Whitefire Theatre

LOS ANGELES, CA – January 2, 2012 – “Stepping On a Few Toes” will be featured in the Solo Show Festival presented by Whitefire Theatre. The festival will feature a wide variety of over twenty solo shows performed by actors from all over the world. Each performer is given a single night to showcase their piece, and Jasmynne Shaye’s evening to shine will be on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 8pm. The Whitefire Theatre is located at: 13500 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423. Tickets are $20 if purchased online (http://www.steppingontoes.com/) and are $25 at the door.

“Stepping On a Few Toes” is a dramatic autobiographical play that has been wowing audiences since it premiered in 2009. Written and performed by Jasmynne Shaye, the piece is an honest story of survival that follows the journey of a young child desperately searching for love and acceptance. This journey leads her to many dead ends forcing her to constantly retrace her steps and in many cases begin at square one all over again. Treading with much frustration and hopelessness, she somehow manages to cut a clear path. She finds delivery from the rainy days to which she’d grown accustomed and her new path leads her to the warmth and sunshine she’d always longed for. During the show Jasmynne shares with us her struggles on the often times rocky road to self-acceptance as she finally learns the real meaning of loving herself for herself. The show is a powerhouse of entertainment and was recently nominated for Best One Person Show by the National NAACP Theatre Awards.

Authentic…vivacious…and passionate… Those are just a few of the words that have been used to describe Jasmynne Shaye. Jasmynne is a North Carolina native and graduate of NC State University, where she studied Food Science and Nutrition. She is truly a multi-talented artist who has appeared in film projects produced in North Carolina, New York City, and Los Angeles. She has also been performing on the stage since age five, and is currently a member of Write Act Repertory Theatre Company in Hollywood, CA. She has written and produced her story for the stage in this fascinating autobiographical piece, “Stepping On a Few Toes.” Among her accolades, Jasmynne has been compared to academy nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe for the way she is able to completely transform herself and shed her true nature to take the audience on a ride down a, at times, very dark and frightening road.

Currently, Jasmynne can be found playing the role of THERESA in “Wind in the Willow Tree,” a new webseries written and directed by Jaimyon Parker. The webseries had a private screening last year, and is expected to go live later this month. Jasmynne is also developing a line of fingerless gloves through her company, Sassy J Designs (http://www.sassyjdesigns.com/) and she also works professionally as a certified nutritionist at Day One Nutrition (http://www.dayonenutrition.com/), a company she started shortly after graduating from college. As you can see, Jasmynne Shaye is a force to be reckoned with, as there really isn’t much she can not do.
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