EAST COAST PREMIERE OF "Stepping On a Few Toes"

“Stepping On a Few Toes” Has East Coast Premiere In New York

College of Mount Saint Vincent Hosts a Special Showing of “Stepping On a Few Toes”

NEW YORK, NY – February 25, 2013  – “Stepping On a Few Toes” will make its east coast premiere on the campus of College of Mount Saint Vincent on March 6, 2013.    This private showing is for students only and will be closed to the public.  The show will be held at 6pm in Smith Hall.  Students should contact the Office of Student Activities for additional information.  Campus contact information:  6301 Riverdale Ave., Riverdale, NY 10471, ph: (718) 304-2738.

“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.

Jasmynne Shaye has recently relocated to the New York to continue to spread her message and grow the show’s audience.  She is looking forward to the many opportunities that the Big Apple brings.  As she works to build a solid foundation for the show on the east coast she continues to operate as nutritionist at Day One Nutrition (www.dayonenutrition.com), a company she began shortly after graduating from college.  She is also owner and founder of Sassy J Designs (www.sassyjdesigns.com), a line of fingerless gloves that are featured in the original webseries “Wind In the Willow Tree.”

Director Jaimyon Parker, a NAACP National Theatre Award nominee for Best Local Playwright for "James and Joseph" in 2009, left Houston for Los Angeles in 2004. He's since starred in several award-winning independent films including "Sweettooth" - a Telly Award winner and pick for HBO's Latino Film Festival, "Bar Moments" and "How Shaw Parker Fell in Love." He has directed four independent films, and performed on many stages in Los Angeles, including the prestigious Stella Adler Theater.

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In a Heartbeat

Well Saturday’s show was, indeed, a success.  I had no idea how it would turn out as I’d been unable to completely ‘center’ myself all week, and as of Friday night’s rehearsal I wasn’t at the top of my game. 

I’ve been told that my show is fairly ‘tech-heavy,’ and I was a bit saddened to know that I’d be doing the show without the use of any of our designed lighting ques.  The event was held at 12N and though we closed the blinds as best we could, the space remained pretty bright making the use of lights insignificant. 

But the biggest challenge of all didn’t hit me until I got on stage…the audience.  Wow.  Crying babies, fidgeting children, sleeping adults, running in the hallway, laughter in the restroom, and noisy cell phones (even though we expressly asked that they be turned off).  Oh boy.  All I could think was, “What have I signed up for?  What have I gotten myself into?”  But my biggest question was, “Can I do this?”  As I took the stage and I got through my first paragraph of dialogue all I wondered was if I’d make it to the end of the show.  There were so many distractions I felt as though I was a single act in a three-ring circus.  “They’re not even listening.  Why am I here?”  As I went from page to page of my memorized script, my focus went to just getting through it.  “If I can just make it to the end, and not stop, and not complain, and not yell at anyone.  All I have to do is finish – make it to the end.”

And finally the end came.  When I saw it on the horizon, I ran to it with open arms full of glory, passion, and thanks.  I breezed through curtain call, then took my seat for the Q&A session.  And holy smokes!!!!  They WERE listening.  They WERE paying attention.  They DID get it.  I was shocked!  The comments they made post show blew my mind because I seriously thought not a soul (other than Vince) was with me.  I was certain I was up on that stage making a stone cold fool of myself.  But it was just the opposite.  They were affected on a monumental level and I truly believe that lives were definitely changed.  I’m still floored at the response.  Just floored.  The moments I shared with the audience after the show were worth all the headache of the performance.  It was worth it.  And under the exact same circumstances (stress and all) I’d do it again.  I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Thank you to Rare Woman for giving me the opportunity.  Thank you to Jackie Wilson for joining me on stage once again.  You and your song continue to be a blessing to me.  Thank you to Jaimyon Parker for never leaving my side.  I love you more than Snickers.  And for those that missed it this time around…well shame on you (but I love you anyway).

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

See For Yourself

Today is the day before my show and I don’t have a lot to say, nor do I really have the time.  I’ll leave you with this, and I hope to see you at the show!  Seriously…you just need to see it for yourself…

::::  ABOUT THE SHOW  ::::

STEPPING ON A FEW TOES is an autobiographical one-person show written and performed by Jasmynne Shaye.  It 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.

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

Rare Woman Presents...

Searching For Answers

My first posting for April and I am excited to report that things are already on the move. I have been invited to participate in the production of a short film to be shot later this month. I will join the team as first AD & Production Coordinator. The film is a spoof of Paranormal Activity taking a look at how the plot would unfold if it were the home of an African American family. This project teams me back up with Jaimyon Parker which is always exciting. Expect more updates as the month progresses.

It looks as if STEPPING ON A FEW TOES will be appearing in LA in May!!! ==and the crowd goes wild== Rare Woman, the organization that had me as a guest on their radio show, really wants to sponsor a performance of the show and I believe they are looking at some dates in May. Very exciting news, of course, and as more details come out, I will certainly keep you informed.

That’s really about it. I had an awesome conversation with one of my besties last night that really gave me some perspective. I’m sure you’re about tired of hearing talk about the almighty ‘perspective.’ I’m tired of hearing me talk about perspective, but that’s kind of where I’m at right now. Still on the battlefield. Still suited up (Barney Stinson would be proud) [raise your hand if you watch How I Met Your Mother]. And still searching for answers.

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

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

Today I type with pride as I seem to be back on shed-ule. Yes, I said shed-ule. I’m a snobby Brit in my head and it comes out in my speech from time to time. Don’t judge me.

OK, so there is lots going on. Never mind that I’m a bit out of sorts because they are re-flooring the kitchen/dining area in my apartment. Why out of sorts? Well because that area is home to my computer and work desk. So it’s been moved, disconnected, and placed elsewhere until the work is complete. And I’m such a dedicated writer (stretching it a bit, I know) that today I blog to you from a friend’s PC (I’m a PC). Forgive me for piling on the unrelated info, but I just wanted someone out there to know that I’m going the extra mile today.

Moving on…I had a great meeting with Catherine Hooper yesterday, and now the ball is in my court to write up a script for this Rihanna pitch video we’re trying to do. If I can pull this off, and actually get the thing done, it’s actually gonna’ be pretty cute. Funny even. So to all those sending me good vibes, please keep it up as I’ll be needing an extra dose or two this week.

I’m beginning to feel the noose tighten around my neck a bit… This is the final rehearsal week for the Black History Month tribute show to be held at Justin Key’s church this coming Sunday. Translation: we’re down to the wire, tying up loose ends, trying to complete these last minute tasks, and feeling the pre-show panic. Meanwhile I have to prepare for Barbados. Jaimyon Parker has brought me on board for a new project he’s developing (that is really kick-a$$), and I’m helping him out with some of the preliminary details. Meanwhile I have to prepare for Barbados. I’m waking up everyday and going to work, not necessarily with a smile on my face, but I’m going. Meanwhile I have to prepare for Barbados. And I’m trying out this new thing in 2012 where I actually make an earnest attempt to have a social life. Meanwhile I have to prepare for Barbados. I’m even going so far as to try this thing where you “enjoy the moment.” Hahahaa!! Hahahaa!! Now doesn’t that just sound like a crock?!? I know. I thought only crazy, lazy, unambitious, procrastinators “enjoyed the moment.” I’ve always believed it to be such a care-free, irresponsible way to live, but I’m slowly taking baby-steps to change that methodology. And, personally, I think it’s about the hardest thing I’ve ever tackled. It just goes against everything I believe in, and everything I’ve been taught. I’ve always been a “plan for tomorrow” kind of gal, and never a “live for today” person. God no. The phrase alone makes me want to slap some sense into someone. (I told you this is hard for me.) But I’m trying. I’m making slow attempts, and I’m giving it a whirl. I am so out of my comfort zone that it makes me want to spit, but onward and upward I go. Ya’ll keep your fingers and toes crossed for me on this one!

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.

A Copy of a Copy

To the two or three people that bother reading this blog, I’m sure you were just all to pieces when I didn’t post yesterday. I bet you blurted obscenities, and punched walls. I know… I felt horrible about the whole thing. Believe me, I’m going to do all I can to make sure such a mistake never happens again (please don’t hold me to that).

Things are still progressing nicely. I’ve settled in on a logo for my name – and it’s pretty awesome! Many thanks to Brandon Toon for his amazing work. I’ll be sharing it with you all soon, just waiting to receive the final package from him. I’ll be sending out the first packet of info to an interested university in the morning. Peet and I will be making some phone calls tomorrow, and I still have those outstanding tasks to complete: 1)get a passport … 2)get some SOFT website info to Jaimyon … 3)learn my lines for Willow Tree (filming on Nov 26th) … 4)get someone to complete the design of my brochure 5)duplicate show DVDs … 6)get an 800# for Tasty Chuckle … 7)begin following up on the UK leads.

Yes. There is still much to be done (and there will probably always be). If only there were more hours in the day, or I had like two more hands (or a whole ‘nother brain). Or what if I were a twin, and the twin was my indentured servant? Now I’m just talking crazy… Or am I??? Wasn’t there a movie about a guy that was copying himself? But he started making copies of the copy, and then that new person was just worthless. Well, you see my point…

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

He Said “Yes”

Yesterday wasn’t all bad. I was semi-productive. My meeting with Jaimyon went well. We’re (when I say “we” I really mean “he” in this case) looking to have the updated SOFT website up and running within the next 30 days. JasmynneShaye.com will be the next one we tackle, then on to SassyJ.com. Little by little…bit by bit they’ll all get the face-lift they need. I’m excited.

More good news to share: he said “yes!” Peet Montzingo (http://peetmontzingo.com) is now a part of my team! Peet is a special, special guy, and I can’t wait to work with him. Our ‘chance’ meeting seems all too strange, and I knew it was a sign. He’ll come on as Production Assistant, and will attend the welcome meeting I’m having this Sunday. Very, very excited – I can’t even tell you.

I STILL have a lot of administrivia to do before tomorrow’s meeting, and it will get done, I just may have to burn the midnight oil a bit. So that’s my big push for today – getting everything ready and prepared for my new folks. That’s really about it. Not a whole lot to say… I reached out to the UK contact I was given, so I’m waiting to hear back from her. Which reminds me…I need to get my passport like yesterday. Won’t be much of a tour if I can’t even get out of the country.

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

Happy, Happy – Joy, Joy

People always make such a big deal about Friday, TGIF and so forth. I’ve never really gotten into it myself, but I am feeling awful grateful this morning. I got a voice message from a dear friend, Justin Key (www.justindkey.com), this morning, and it was just the surge of energy I needed to do what I have to do to finish up this year on the right track. I’m still sitting here incredibly happy for him, and the whole thing reminded me just how important it is to surround yourself with like-minded individuals – whatever that means for you. For me it means I MUST be around other go-getters. Other people that have ridiculously big dreams. Other people that aren’t afraid to stand for something even if that means standing alone. I am most centered and most productive when I’m spending the bulk of my time with those sorts of people. I just had to check myself, that’s all.

Anywho, there is some good news. Barbara Joas will be joining my team as Marketing Coordinator! Yaayy!! I am very excited about this new addition! She was one of the folks that submitted for the PA position, and she possesses a skill set that I just couldn’t pass up. Welcome, Barbara! I am very excited to begin working with you!

Other good news: I’ve been given a contact in the UK to begin conversations on how to get my show there. This is huge. It’s been a dream for me to perform all over the world, and with Barbados and the UK as possibilities for 2012, I may well be on my way. I very excited to how this unfolds.

Back to the administrivia…I have to draft my Employment Contract (I finally settled on one), a Confidentiality Agreement, Time Sheet, Workflow Log, and a Duties and Responsibilities document among other things. I’ve got a meeting scheduled with Barbara this Sunday and there is much work to do between now and then. But it will get done.

Now I’m off to finish those last minute things before my meeting with Jaimyon later today, and I think my weekend is officially off to a great start. Happy, happy – joy, joy!

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

It’s a Marvelous Monday

Today is a good day (thank you, Cube). I woke up on the right side of the bed, and my outlook is positive. I spent most of yesterday doing phone interviews for a Production Assistant. I tip my hat to anyone that works in HR and interviewing is a major aspect of your job. WoW. I guess it's equivalent to casting in my world...not an easy task, that's for sure. But you talk to enough people and the "greats" easily separate themselves from the "mediocres." I've got two awesome candidates from yesterday's interviews, and I'm hoping to finish the others today.

I was feeling very overwhelmed yesterday, but today I'm feeling revived and hopeful. I'm having to make some team member changes -- and I know it's a little late to be doing so, but I've got to go with my gut. The suckie part (and best part) of self-producing is having to make all the decisions by yourself. If it works: I get all the credit. If it flops: I'm to blame. I'm getting no expert advice from trailblazers that have gone before me... I don't have a business degree... I didn't study marketing and public relations... I'm a heath-nut that loves being creative. I'm forging my own path, and praying to God all the while for guidance (‘cause I certainly don't know what I'm doing).

Goals for this week are to hire a PA, meet with Jaimyon to get my websites updated, and settle on a new logo for my name (which is coming very well). It's gonna be a busy one, but hopefully a very productive one. I've got my fingers crossed!

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

Push, Push, Push…Breathe

So what most don’t realize is that when you self-produce a project you are the beginning, the middle, and the end. In the case of STEPPING ON A FEW TOES I am the writer, the talent, the financier, the project manager, the casting director, the production assistant(s), the artistic director, the props manager, the wardrobe coordinator, the publicist, the booking manager, and I’m in charge of promotions and marketing. Jaimyon Parker is the director. Thankfully I did not have to direct myself – I can’t even imagine. Rane Laymance is the Production Manager. He handles the duties of a Stage Manager plus some. He’s ran lights and sound for the show for the past two years, and helped me creatively along the way as well. But other than these two gems, it’s me rolling solo in the trenches, and it can be really tough. I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed today because there is so much work to get done before year end to solidify tour dates for February 2012 – and I can’t do it alone. I can’t. I’m burnt out as is, and I’m emotionally fragile (a by-product of performing this show). Simply put: I need help. I posted an ad yesterday looking for a Production Assistant, and immediately received about 10 or so inquiries. So as opposed to getting my things together to begin contacting schools this week, I need to carve out some time to review these applicants, settle on someone, and quickly get him or her up to speed on everything so they can begin asap. I’ll lose a week of work in the process, but if I find the right person I’ll gain in the long run. Ugh…there really isn’t enough time in the day.

I’m also in the middle of updating my website (http://www.jasmynneshaye.com/), the show’s website (http://www.steppingontoes.com/), and the Sassy J Designs site (http://www.sassyjdesigns.com/). They have to be complete by the first of December and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Jaimyon can squeeze it all in. Yes – he is not only my director, he’s also my webmaster. I’m also working with a graphic artist to design a logo for my name. As I push forward branding is so important, and it needs to start now. I need clean, clear recognizable symbols for me, S.O.F.T., and Sassy J Designs. Sassy J? It’s a line of fingerless gloves I’m working on. They are featured in WIND IN THE WILLOW TREE (http://www.windinthewillowtree.com/), a new webseries written and directed by Jaimyon. I act in it, and I’m on the production team as well. Do you see?? Full plate doesn’t even begin to describe my life (or Jaimyon’s for that matter). It really doesn’t. But even now, when it’s hard as hell, and I’m tired as all get out…I know in my heart of hearts that all the work and effort is worth it, and that it will pay off. There aren’t many that would do what I’m doing, and that doesn’t make me a hero -- I just know that when you work harder than most, you get a return that most will never experience. I always keep my eyes on the ultimate goal(s), and I do my best to never stray. It can be tough, but even when I fall off the path I’ve gotten good at snatching myself by the collar and dragging myself back in line. That’s been my story for the past few years: push, push, push…breathe… push, push, push…breathe. Kinda’ sounds like labor right? I don’t know of any other way.

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