Paul's Corner

Paul,

My kids are going to thier own parties this year as well. It will be the first time ever we weren't all together on new years. Strange.
Tom and I are having 3 couple over to welcome the new year in. We have never done this before so I am looking forward to it. A night with other adults!!

As for the no sleeping, it is 4am here in Michigan and I have yet to go to bed. Tom will be up in 15 minutes to go to work so I will crawl into bed then. (he was very cranky so I opted to read all night! haha)

I too am looking much more positiely about this coming year as I feel like my life and health are finally back on track and will get better and better. I actually can't wait to see what the weeks and months bring.

Funny how getting a new house can relieve stress, but it has! i don't feel that beckoning to not do this, or not do that, till we get a new house. I have my new house and will be here for a very long time. Only good times ahead.

HEY I almost forgot to tell everyone that Strickly Ballroom was voted 9th best dance scene of all time on the following website, Moviephone. Here is a clip!

http://movies.aol.com/movie/strictly-ballroom/7719/main

I also found a website that lets you see clips from all of Paul's movies. Even the smaller rolls. I will forward that as soon as I find it.

Hapy happy new year.

Kelly

Dearest Paul,

Your letter is so fabulous, so touching, so positive and so uplifting for all of us, young and old! What a message for this New Year!

In a few hours the New Year's excitement will first begin over Sydney Harbor, with that fabulous fireworks display!

(I have always been interested in anything Australian, moreso this year, and will tell you one day why this coming year may be so different from past years.)

We hope 2007 will bring you and yours happiness, good health, and good fortune in all your endeavors.

Ellie and I send all the PCers best wishes also for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Happy New Year Paul!

Well it is now 2007 in Australia and dont I feel smug that I got there first along with several million other people!!! But I just wanted to let everyone know so far so good, it certainly feels like a great year! Lets see how the journey unfolds.......

HAPPY NEW YEAR Paul and Family and all of the wonderful people out there in Paul's Corner of the world. I really enjoyed sharing thoughts, life experiences and lessons learned with all of you this last year. I really feel blessed to have had the opportunity to find all of you.

Paul, as always, a very inspirational post by you today. Enjoy the rest of your Holiday. I don't envy you letting that baby chickadee loose a bit. But considering her parents, I'm sure she has a great head on her shoulders. I'm sure I don't have to tell you that.

I got called into work today, but I'm getting ready to go home and crash. No New Year's plans for me this year. Laying low with a kitty that has been ill this past week. This was the healthy one, not the one with the thyroid issue. Oh boy. I'm definitely ready to begin 2007!

Best wishes to you all. Let us all hope and pray, and as Paul said, MAKE it happen in our lives this next year.

Love you all,

MaryS

Wishing everyone on PC a happy and peace-filled new year.

To Cat, Millie, Evelyn, Inn, Tim, Monika, Diane, Dhiana, Julie, Kelly, Abeth, Linda, deltalady, Beth Ellen, Marge...I wish you all the very best for 2007!

Sally, special new year wishes to you after a difficult stretch in your journey. I was so glad to hear that John is doing much better! I'm wishing for you that 2007 will be a year of positive and uplifting things for you & your family. Love to you, Sally.

To Michelle in Chicago & to Peter downunder, wishing you both every good thing for the year ahead. Love to each of you from this place.

And to Paul, thank you, as always, for the wonderful friendships I found here in your Corner. I wish you continued joy & all the positive change you could wish for, as you set out on the pathway of this new year.

Love to all,
Mary

Happy New Year Paul and to all the PCers!!

It's so nice to come back after a year or so and here you all are, still!! That's wonderful!

Paul, your letter for the new year was indeed happy, joyfilled and inspirational! The yahoo site sent me an e-mail with the article about your new home and the wonderful success you've had in the last couple of years! Goodonya! Hope I spelled that right. I've got a Kiwi friend that uses that phrase all the time, so I thought I'd try it out.

My oldest daughter, Mary, is 16 tomorrow(Jan 1). It's still early evening way out here in Southern California. She's got a bunch of girlfriends here to celebrate the new year and her birthday! They are having a terrific time in the moon bounce right now. I thought they were to old for such things. I'm still learning!

2007 looks very promising! So...Happy New Year to you, Paul, and your beautiful family, and to the family here at Paul's Corner!!

Margie

Paul, as it's already 2007 down under, Happy New Year to you and yours!

To those in other parts of the world where the year has turned - Happy New Year's to you as well!

I still have 37 minutes to go in 2006. I'm happy to say that I am finally feeling better (lots of ginger lemon tea with honey!). I am planning on being much healthier and happier in 2007! Bring on the new year!

I am happy to have found this little community here, and I want to wish everyone happiness and health in 2007. Happy New Year!

Glad to hear 2007 is treating those ahead of me right so far!
I've got about 30 minutes to go; my youngest is out with friends,too.
I spent this evening doing what I like to do New Year's Eve, clean out my files for the coming year. I know, life in the fast lane,lol, but it's such a fresh way to start the new year.
I'll add a little rum to my diet caffeine-free Coke and toast the year to come. My youngest is a senior this year, and that means changes aplenty. So I have a busy year with several milestones in the works.
HAPPY 2007 everyone!
smiles and hugs,
deltalady aka Sally

HAPPY NEW YEAR! and a belated Merry Christmas to all.

My son-in-law got to come home from Bahrain for Christmas. We didn't know if he was going to get leave or not.

Well, I was going to get a new computer for Christmas, but instead got a new 10 week old Pekinese Puppy. I named her Coco. She is what is called a party color, meaning she has some black, brown and a lot of white on her paws. My other dog Cricket pouted a little, but they are good pals now. They play a lot together.

New computer next year.

We had a severe snow fall in early December, which froze. Lots of fender benders. No one was seriously injured or killed. A lot of people who move here from states that don't get snow think they can drive in it. We have LOT'S of hills here. TThe snow trucks couldn't keep up with it. The next thing we had was a wind storm which put about a million houses out of power. That's because a lot of big fir trees went down. We also made the national news with all the flooding this fall. We were fortunate that we didn't lose power. Some were back up in a few days and some were out for about a week or more.

PAUL
An e-mail friend recently sent me a world map that showed Australia at night. It was awsome! You could tell where all the big cities are, mostly on the east side of the continent. What was really facinsting was how much land was in the dark in the interior. Here and there, there would be one tiny pin prick of light in the inland.

Again Happy New Year and hope all is well and looking forward to the coming year.
Take care, Love to all
Marge

I have just spent the better part of an hour reading through old posts and feel inspired. I have been dreading returning back to work after a good amount of time off and thought to family, life, and work but your post about traveling with positive intention has given me a lot to think about.

Thanks for the pick me up.

I happened onto this site as a result of a Xmas give of Strictly Ballroom that lead me here. Interesting how things happen sometimes.

Happy New Years to All.

Hey all,

Ho was everyone's New Year!! Great I hope. I got sick new years eve ans have now lost my voice, much to the glee of the rest of my family, hehe. I went to doctor today and am on medicine so hopefully Thursday I will be feeling better. My resolution this year was "no more doctors" I blew it on the 2cd day of the year!!

oh well.

Paul, i was looking at old photos of the "edin" shoot and notice one with Iman and David Bowie.
Are they as cool in person as they seem on tv? I think they are both really cool. Not Paul Mercurio cool,of course but still very cool ;)

Gra;ndma Mill how are the Follies going?

Hey Mary!!

Love to all,
Kelly

Welcome Stephen, I am glad that reading some of the posts here has given you the pick me up you needed!

I often wonder if anything happens by accident. It would seem more likely to me that all things are connected in some way or another and that we are often offered help, support and guidance in the least expected of ways. It pays to keep an eye out and an open mind.

I came across your site whilst tracking down dance documentaries (for a project I'm working on).

I am really touched by the "gentleness" of your "blog community". VERY sweet!

I've been inspired to track down my copy of Strictly Ballroom and move it to the top of our "Family Movie Night" rotation.

Cheers!

Happy New Year to all of you in Pual's world. It has been busy on this end. I am glad for the time with my family and friends, but also, I am glad to slow things back down. Sometimes it's nice to get back to the normal "routine" of life.

Best Wishes to you all for 2007.

tracie

Hello and Happy New Year to Paul and family and all the "Mercurious" here at the Corner! Too bad this isn't the corner pub! I would treat you all to a celebratory libation! In it's place I will offer you all my best wishes for a happy and prosperous new year, full of blessings and trials to overcome that are no more difficult than mosquito bites. Follow your bliss and love will light the way.

With deepest affection,
Diane

I agree with Stephen and Rosie! This site has been so inspirational and supportive from the first day I ever "stumbled" across it.

I also agree with Paul in that it seems to be fated that we have all found our way to Paul's Corner.

I will go ahead and say that the "Strictly Ballroom" Paul is what seems to have been the initial draw for all of us and remains special to all of us. But could you ever have imagined it to lead us to such a deeper and greater find???

I feel so lucky!!!

Thank you Paul and Cat!!!

Paul and friends--

I just posted my wishes on the Paul's Christmas entry, but will repeat my wishes again for a wonderful new year to all of you!

A personal note to Paul concerning " . . . first time that she will be out partying with friends rather than being at home with us . . . "

My brother just experienced something very similar with my nephew back in November when he had his 17th birthday. My brother looked forward to seeing a movie with my nephew, and was disappointed when his son mentioned that he will be out with his friends for the evening. While it's sad, it's good to see maturity in action, and a new path starting.

She's still your "little" girl in your heart! :)

Again, all the best in 2007!

Melody
Chicago

Mary, your post is so nice! I actually became a real fan of Paul when I saw him dance live outside the Sydney Opera House on one of the morning shows (Good Morning America?). I was intrigued; you've got to have REAL talent (not to mention REAL guts) to perform on LIVE T.V.! So, by the time I saw the movie (already aware of what a fine dancer he was) I think I was more impressed with his solid (acting) performance. I've seen several of his subsequent movies and have remained impressed.

I picked "Strictly Ballroom" for family movie night" because my son is 11 years old and I'm not ready to explain "Exit to Eden" quite yet.

By the way, my boys (husband and son) loved the movie after some initial trepidation (A movie about WHAT?). I don't think Paul picked up any fans though - all they could talk about was Liz's "talent" (that's their "secret" boy code for "breasts") and Tina's legs (no code needed).

Boys!

Yes Liz's talent.... and Tina's legs - some days I just couldnt get my lines out proper!!

Yes Rosie, I did an interview on the steps of the Opera House and then in the add break ran around to another part of the forecourt of the Opera House where they had built a stage for me and I danced live to 45 million people watching across America all watching Good Morning America!! It was a huge buzz. I danced a duo that I had choreographed for a charity function a few months before.

It was high pressure stuff no rehearsal with the cameras and space just get up and do it!! Definately a highlight of my career (luckily among many!) Thanks for reminding me, that said I do like to brag every now and then about dancing live in front of 45 million people!!!

Paul,

Have you auditioned for any movies lately or any tv sots other than you r food show?

Kelly

WOW, 45 MILLION (with an M?)!! Brag now and then? If I had that kind of credit, I believe I’d start every sentence with that – “I danced live in front of 45 MILLION people; nice weather we’re having”; “I danced live in front of 45 MILLION people; can you pass the salt”.

All the more impressive given the conditions (thanks for the behinds the scene peek) – yeah, I think bragging is in order!!!

I became a fan of Paul's after watching the TBN program "Joseph" on television last fall. I was so struck by his strong yet sensitive portrayal that I requested TBN Bible movies for Christmas based off the strength of this one movie. I've long known the story of the Biblical Joseph, but had never, never seen a character representation of him that I found compelling. Paul's portrayal was so much so that I was drawn back to the Bible to research the real man and the meaning of his life's story.

Thank you, Paul. The other actors were good and played their parts well, but your Joseph had the qualities of brilliance that spoke to my soul.

I have not had the pleasure of seeing "Strictly Ballroom" or any other of your movies yet. I've asked for them at my local video stores, but no luck here in Oklahoma USA. I'm guessing I'll have to request them as birthday presents and have them ordered online.

I've much enjoyed my visits to Paul's Corner. I agree that this is a very sweet site. Thank you all for making it a pleasant place. I never miss an opportunity to stop in and "visit" with you each time I access the www.

Marian

Marian
I too have seen Joseph. Paul should have had an acadamy award nomination for his role. I love SB, but I think his best role was Joseph.

Take care & love to all
Marge

I'm so glad someone brought up "Joseph"! I put it on my Netflix queue and was incredibly impressed with the entire production. So much so that I bought a copy. :o) One question for Paul though: I noticed someone (or some team of people) decided that body hair was out for the production and "scalped" you... what was the purpose of that? (Please humor me, my perverse mind has been dying to know.)

Marian, if you're having a problem finding Paul's films at local rental stores you might want to try Netflix. I live in a very rural part of Virginia and have been using them for nearly a year and love them - plus their selection is great. :o)

Dear PC friends, I've had a rotten day. I went to the doctor this morning as a follow up to my respiratory infection and migraines... only to be in my first ever (as a driver) auto accident on my way home. I was not injured (nor was anyone else), but I am still a bit shaken up. I'm also starting to feel a bit sore from where I was jostled about a bit in the car. Unfortunately my Jeep did not fare as well as me. :o( Tomorrow I should have a rental car so I can at least get around and be able to return to work. What a way to start the new year! LOL

Happy New Year to all on PC--a bit belatedly! I guess I took my break time quite seriously as break away from the hectic routine, away from email and things that would have interfered with solitude, which I really needed, time to reflect, regroup and put things into perspective and release some anger and pain and simply process what happened last year. It was a very full year in so many ways, both exhilaratingly and painfully frustrating. I needed some serious time of letting my soul dangle, as we say in my native language (dangle in the sense of what you do with your legs while sitting on a swing gently rocking back and forth). And I have to say that I feel rejuvenated, re-energized and more positive. I had read your post earlier, Paul, and thank you for your thoughts and your loving attitude towards life, your passion for it and the positive intentions that you described in your first post. It touched me deeply and shifted my focus, helping me release frustration and anger that clearly was holding me back, and also reminded me not to judge myself too harshly by external standards but to believe in myself, to listen and make changes and move forwards and onwards.

A special hug to everyone here at PC.
Evelyn

Sarah very sorry to hear about your "prang" as we call them in Oz. I am glad to hear you and the other persons involved are fine - sorry bout the jeep and I hope it isnt too bad or expensive to fix.

Hairless??? Yes, the Egyptians didnt like body hair and the slaves were made to remove all their body hair back in those days.

Marge, Joseph won an Emmy award for best TV miniseries when it was released, it is always good to be in a production that has recieved awards as you know you contributed to the quality of the show and therefore the awarding of the award.

Evelyn, glad to know you have been off the radar for a bit but equally glad to know you came back on to get a bit of a leg up on some of the stuff you were hanging on to! Here is to both of us moving forward!

HELLO PC FRIENDS,

A belated Happy New Year to the "old" friends here as well as the new!

My baby, Bethany, turns 2 today. Oh, where have 2 years gone to? I don't want her to grow up. Considering her difficult introduction into this world-she's such a joy-I've got a lump in my throat. I've got a little bit of baby fever going on but having anymore just simply is not possible.

My other 2 daughters have certainly brought an equal amount of joy into my life. My oldest has lost 6 teeth and my middle has Middle Child Syndrome-I didn't know it really existed-I'm so naive!! My mother says she's just like me-hell-this town can't handle two of us.

My New Year's resolution-if you want to call it on-is to continue to find ways to be the mom that I can be, be the best wife that I can be and to get back on track.

I've got myself involved in some extra activities/hobbies. A good thing this is because I found that I needed a little life of my own so that I had a sense of fulfillment.

HUGS!
Abeth

Sarah--sorry to hear about your accident--what a horrible way to start off the year. Just glad you and everyone are all right!

As discussion came up on Joseph, I didn't have cable at the time it was first on TV, so I rented it when it came out on video and recall it a strong production with an international cast. Also because Paul was cast as Joseph and I was impressed with the sensitivity he gave his role in SB, as well as his dancing.

Like Marian, I tend to have problems finding things, but we have multiple Blockbuster stores in our vicinity, so if one doesn't have it, another may. I have friends that use Netflix and they swear by it. Marian, I hope you see SB soon.

Paul, I didn't know you were spotlighted on Good Morning America--I didn't watch it regularly back then, so obviously missed a good thing. Not many dancers can claim that! Awesome!

Wishing all of you a good week!

Melody
Chicago IL

Happy New Year to all! Paul your positive outlook on the new year is such a sweetness I just want to take a big bite out of it and savor the taste. To you and everyone here I raise a glass of bubbly (it's wine though tonight - I work in the morning) and wish all of you the very best. Tea

The computer ate my homework!!!!!

I had a nice note all ready to post when my computer ate it!!! I'll try to reconstruct.

Paul, I would also like an answer to the question about other movies or TV programs that you might work in. Are there any possibilities for anything that will air in the US? I'm a huge fan of "So You Think You Can Dance". Any chance that you could guest judge or choreograph in the one here in the states?

Melody and Sarah, thank you for the ideas to find more of Paul's work. I'll call the Blockbusters in surrounding cities. Perhaps one has something. I'm not currently subscribed to Netflix, but that is a future possibility.

I agree with the assessment that Paul's work is superbly sensitive. It was exactly this which drew me to his Joseph character. Paul portrayed him as so manly (strong and competent), yet with such compassion, self-discipline, and tender love for his family -- of course delightfully mixed with a longing for revenge against his betraying brothers which he had to struggle against. I have watched "Joseph" multiple times since October and can hardly wait to see other of Paul's works. I especially want to see SB as I love, love, love dance movies.

Some time ago someone suggested a Paul M. and Jackie Chan partnership. How in the world could we arrange that? Paul's people need to call Jackie's people and get something going!!!! ;)

Finally, thank you Paul and Cat for making Paul's Corner available to us all. Paul, I appreciate the thoughts you share with us and this window into who you are. Thank you to all visitors to the 'Corner' who write such kind and generous responses. I find myself looking in more and more often to see what is new. Thank you all.

May God bless you all in the New Year that is before us.

Marian in Oklahoma, USA

Wow, so good to have so many lovely "newbies" on PC, who are so interested in Paul's career and some just beginning to get acquainted with his
work, especially my all time favorite, "Strictly Ballroom"

I always claimed that my husband and I are the oldest and most ardent fans of Paul and Tara Morice, (I'll be 74 soon) and I'm still showing SB at least once a year in my film nights called "Mildred's Great Movies" in our
retirement community and some folks have seen it
muliple times.

Kelly, sorry I didn't answer you about "Follies, 2007".

It opens the second week in February, in time for Valentine's Day, and I have named it "A Musical Valentine." We are almost sold out the two nights that we perform for the residents.

The Theatre seats 950 people each night, so the excitement is rising, the cast numbers 50, and after 5 "Follies" since 1997, this is my biggest and best.

To all the newbies: Exactly 2 years ago, in 2005, 9 PCers came to see my "Follies 2005", to meet me and my husband, and to meet each other.

These lovely people came from Ireland, Holland, California, Minnesota, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Florida, and "they came as strangers and left as friends."

We've stayed in touch since, and I called it "The Strictly Ballroom Convention" when I booked the Marriott rooms back then. I recently had an occasion to speak to the manager of the Marriott and she remembered us!

Evelyn took fabulous pictures and video, and it was certainly a memorable time, thanks to Paul and Cat who brought us all together!

Now, with February coming again, and "Follies, 2007" opening soon, I am showing movies on my movie nights, calling it A "Salute to Australia", month, for I am showing "Shine" this month, "My Brilliant Career" and "Strictly Ballroom" all Australian hits, in the coming months.

In the meantime, good health and happiness in this New Year!

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Grandma Mil--looks like I missed a prior note as to where you hold your follies--I'm in Illinois--how close or far?

Melody

Melody, the Follies are in Southern Florida, a wonderful time for February, esp. if you live up North, as I did two years ago. It was a lovely winter escape, but meeting some of the people whom I had befriended here on PC in person was truly and utterly amazing and the Follies were fantastic!!!! Wish I could go again this year, but unfortunately I can't. Have to go to AZ for a professional conference. This will be interesting. I just found out literally 4 minutes ago, that I'm in a panel with someone who can't stand me and doesn't even acknowledge my existence. I hope he doesn't attack me too much, but he's known to do that and has done so in the past. Crap ...
Well, perhaps it's a learning experience.

thanks Paul for your kind words, yes, travelling on and being positive. Had plenty of opportunities this week to put it into practise. So far so good!

Love to all,
Evelyn

I think I missed posting a day or so ago...I must have started it and never finished it? lol. Who am I? Where am I?

I was mentioning that it's so cool to hear how we all discovered the wonderful talents that Paul posesses and how they all lead us to this site! Maybe I'm missiing that the post made it to the site...if not..that's what I was sayin! ;)

Happy 2007 to Paul and all the wonderful friends here! I am so ready for this year and I thank you, Paul, for setting a lovingly positive tone as we begin the new year.

Like Evelyn, I've spent the last 4 weeks trying to rest and recover from last year. Business has increased, but I'm not sure I can continue with it. It's great helping students, but I'm not sure my business model works and, even if it could, I don't know if it's right for me. Allan is busy re-igniting his entertainment career (more about that in a minute) and he needs to commit his time to that, not to our tutoring business. After a few weeks of relative calm, I'm finding it really hard to get excited about the next semester.

On the other hand, people are now asking me to run for city office. That's a positive turn of events. Despite the consistent, nagging feeling that I need more education on city issues and politics, and my seemingly neverending sleep-deprivation, I am definitely excited about the possibilities. Problem is, it only offers a stipend — not a salary. (I guess this is where I'm supposed to take that "leap" of faith and follow my heart, yes?)

Allan is performing with Brian Henson's "Puppet Up" Improve group. They had standing-room only attendance when they performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland last August. This March, they'll perform in Sydney and then go to Melbourne in April. You can find out more in the blog section of Allan's website at . You can also find an article about the group and their upcoming appearance at: http://www.smh.com.au/news/arts/fluffy-floppy-filthy/2006/12/18/1166290528048.html (Yes. This is adult stuff.)

Paul, if you and Andrea would like to attend a performance, let us know. We don't know what the comp policy will be, but we'll let you know if we can get you in. Same for Peter and our other friends downunder. It's really a very clever concept and much more difficult that it appears — a bit like that incredible dancing Paul does that looks so effortless.

So may the Master of Creation bless you all this year. I hope it will be a happy, healthy, prosperous year for Paul and his family and for all of you beautiful people who grace this site. Let's make the world a kinder, gentler place for all.

With love,

Diane T

Paul and friends--

While this is not about Paul, it's a photo done by an Australian photographer that is currently mounted in our newspaper website (Chicago Tribune). He has three photos--one of our Chicago skyline, one of Sydney's, and this one of Machu Pichu in Peru. You can click on the individual pictures on the links below the photo. All three are beautifully shot.

The photographer is Scott Howard.

Happy weekend all!!

Melody

http://www.docbert.org/MP/

Wow. What a beautiful shot of the Sydney skyline. Those were cool. Thanks Melody.

P.S. abeth: Happy belated birthday to baby Bethany. I was a middle child too. The middle of 5 kids. What a wild household it was. You sound like a great mommy!

Have a great weekend everyone! It's currently 1 degree F. here in Colorado. We're going to have below 0 low's this weekend. Anyone want to come visit? lol

To all:

Joseph brought me here to the site. I needed to know who could have portrayed him with such sensitivity. It was like following a butterfly over the crest of a hill and finding a beautiful vista spread out for miles. I have been reading this special blog for months, and this community has unwittingly sustained me thru these dark, dreary winter days.

I am an artist and a musician.Thank you Paul for sharing your struggles to express yourself to the fullest, to grow without fear or self-doubt, all the while fulfilling the role of husband and father. You have no idea how the latter has impressed me, as my family has been so affected by my now ex-husband who felt that life with children was too dull and banal for his taste; who abandoned his three young children to "see the world". It is wonderful to hear of your love and dedication for your family. And your attitude... very very contagious.

Thanks to all!

Marcy

Marcy--I agree with your comments on Paul's dedication to his family and sustaining the ups and downs of an artistic career. After seeing relationships break up or transition badly in our local dance community, it can be really tough--bravo Paul!

MaryS--I forgot to mention that you can click anywhere on these photos and zoom further into the city skyline. You'll be amazed how far in you can see--tourists at Machu Pichu, offices of the Chicago buildings.

Chicago celebrates the Bears winning and getting closer to the SuperBowl. For myself, I barely got into Orchestra Hall to see Rafael Frubeck de Burgos conduct the CSO in Albeniz' Suite Espanola. I've danced to his recording of Asturias for years and to hear it live was incredible. Will make a difference when I perform it again. They finished with Respighi's Pines of Rome and it was fantastic.

Nothing beats the power of a live performance, and with that thought, Paul must have been awesome in concert!

Melody

Hi everyone. Hope you are all well.

Melody. Thanks for the additional info on the great link you sent. That's so cool!

Diane, it's good to hear from you and to know that everything is going so well for you. Following your heart is a good compass to go by, I think. I'm wishing you lots of energy for that leap across!

A special day calls for special wishes...

Happy Birthday Peter!!

I wish you the purlest of days and all good things, today and always.

Love to all,
Mary

Hi All! Sorry to disappear after all the good wishes on feeling better after my "prang." (Thanks, Paul. I like that word.) The verdict is in and my Jeep has been deemed a total loss. You can click on the link in my name for a photo of the damage. Its not a pretty sight. I did end up going to the doctor as my left shoulder kept bothering me and I've been suffering headaches. It seems I did suffer some mild muscle trauma, but nothing to be overly concerned with. I'm just happy to have walked away. The good part of all this is that I've discussed everything with my father and in April I'm going shopping for a brand new vehicle! No more used vehicles for me!

Abeth, belated birthday wishes to your little one! Grandma Mil, Follies are nearly here! I'm sure you must be excited! Diane, I need to check out that link to the adult puppets... I am intrigued.

Oh, Paul, thank you for the information on the Egyptians. I will have to do some research to answer the 101 other questions that now burn in my mind. The trick is to now find the free time to do so!

I hope everyone is well - and for those in Europe, I hope you were unaffected by that storm that hit!

Sarah--clicked on that picture-ouch!

I had a minor incident where someone slid into me from behind. (Only scratched the clear coat on the bumper.) I didn't think it was enough to cause muscle spasm, but it did. I see a chiropractor monthly, so some massage and a few karate chops to the neck and shoulders helped alleviate it.

It's good it wasn't anymore than that for you considering the photo. On to a new year and new, safe vehicle for you!

Melody

Paul,
Silly as it sounds, when you worked on the set for the movie Joseph, did you know that you were to be half-naked in a linen cloth? I'm kinda feel embarrassed.

Thanks, Melody. The officer at the scene said someone was looking over me, and I do believe that. I know it could have been much worse.

I'm definitely looking forward to a much safer and healthier 2007 from this point on! :o)

Dearest Grandma Millie,

hope you are celebrating in style yet another one of your birthdays! I wish you all the very best, happy celebrating and I'll have some sort of toast in your honor this evening (convenient that I'm invited to a dinner party already :-))

Ps. same a little late for Purle suit Peter, Happy Birthday and all the very best to you too!

Sarah, I'm glad you didn't get injured more with that accident. Looks nasty!

Be well everyone!
Evelyn

Mr Paul Mercurio,

I think you are fabulous (and honestly, that is a fair compliment from a 16 year old). That's all I really felt the need to say.

Happy New Year.

Allie

PS. Don't worry about your daughter - parties are fun and harmless enough as long as you have some friends who will look out for you in a bad situation.

Thank you, dear Evelyn, for the birthday wishes!

I don't mind bragging that Ellie I are the oldest and most ardent fans of Paul and Tara in the world!

I also don't mind divulging my age...39...(whoops, watch it Grannie, you're having a senior moment)....well, okay, 74!

The other day we were blessed with the birth of our 9th great-grandchild in Israel. Now, that was a wonderful birthday present!

"Follies 2007" opens on Febr.12th, 13th and 14th amid much anticipation and excitement!

It promises to be the biggest and brightest "Follies" of them all, and I've directed 5 of them in the past!! The cast numbers
50 on stage, with others working backstage.

I extend my wishes for good health and happiness
to all my "chickies" and to all the newbies, and of course to Paul and Cat who started it all!

Shalom (peace) and love,

Grandma Mil

Happy Birthday Millie!

I wish you a wonderful celebration and a year filled with all that is good.

With love to you,
Mary

Wow!!! Millie!! Happy Birthday!!!!!!!!

I hope that you and Ellie are doing something wonderful today!

Did you get talk to your family in Israel? And are you Great Grandma and Grandpa to a boy or a girl? Many happy thoughts for such a blessing.

Love you!

Margie

Interesting. My family was a big fan of the movie Joseph when I and my siblings were growing up. Unfortunately we lost the VHS and my sister purchased a new copy over the holidays. Just finished watching it right now and I loved it all over again! So thought I'd look you up and here lies your website. God bless,
Joy
www.joyike.com

Hi ya paul, how's are ya? Happy new year, sorry it's late. I was just wondering when your new movie Razzel Dazzel is coming out on DVD. I'm Itiching to see it and the suspence is killing me. How was the reunion with Tara Morice? I bet you two had a lot to talk about see'n as you haven't seen each other for so long. I hope this year will be a cracker for you and your family and I will be seeing you sitting behind that judges desk on DWTS. Hey, you might think this is a wierd question but have you ever thought of becoming brothers with Mark Wilson? You guys do actualy look alike and it would be great if you two became brothers. Just a thought.
See ya. Hugs and kissess from a huge fan who loves Paul Mercurio to bits.
Becky.

Happy birthday Millie!!!! A youg chickadee you will always be! Lots of love yo you and I hope Ellie made you breakie in bed!

As for Peter of the perle suit...best wishes to you also, miss you a bit but know you are well, and I wish you the very best!

Sara W nothing wrong with being naked, that is the way we came into the world and I am planning on going out that way also. Mind you I sleep naked - hate wearing clothing to bed cant sleep,way too uncomfortable - nude aint rude its part of the truth of who we are.

If you dont like who you are when you are naked how can you like who you are when you are dressed?

HELLO PC FRIENDS,

MY DEAR MILLIE-Another "39th" birthday? I'll be 39 in April!! Congratulations on the newest great-grandchild!!

HUGS!
Abeth

Naked? No, I hate being naked now!!! It reminds me that I should be spending A LOT MORE time on the exercise machines!!!! ;) And clothes lift, support, and hide!!!! ;) I also need those PJ's as my nine-year-old son forgets to knock when practically sleep walking in the wee hours of the morning!! Besides, it's much easier for a man to stay decently covered when surprised by the kidlets!!!

Happy Birthday to all the January birthdays. To all who claim their age and those who dream of another. :) I'll be 38 on the 27th (yes, actual age) and am pleased to celebrate with the wonderful folks here at PC!!!

What's this about Razzel Dazzel?? When and where was it released? Will it be available here in the USA?

Thanks to all of you who posted about "Joseph". I'm glad to know what others thought of it. I still maintain that Paul should have personally received an award for his portrayal!!! HE WAS ROBBED!!!!

God bless you all,

Marian

Hard to believe that we're 22 days into the new year already!!!

A very happy birthday to you Grandma Mil, and another wonderful year to you.

Paul, good thought about liking oneself naked.

Melody/Chi-town USA

Thank you all for your birthday wishes!

Paul,I love myself when I'M dressed! When I start my very early day, I get fully dressed, even with makeup, in case a talent agent is lurking in the bushes outside!

Abeth, I once was 39...I can barely remember those days, but we have pictures to prove it!

Margie, our new greatgrandchild is a boy.

That makes 4 boys and one girl for our eldest granddaughter and husband! They live in Jerusalem, and run a computer school for women. They have teachers who teach computer skills in many areas.

Had another "Follies" rehearsal today...things look good, for people have been coming in to
watch, and without costumes and the band, we are still getting raves!

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Paul – you have a very “theatrical” take on nudity, your body, etc… which a lot of people have a hard time understanding. I constantly get heat from my husband and son for what they perceive to be my complete lack of modesty. As a dancer (actress, whatever) a lot of what you do is about your body, and you necessarily become attuned to it, comfortable with it and appreciative of it.

Oh, and then there’s that quality that makes you need to perform in the first place, which is pretty much the polar opposite of shy and modest –but that’s a discussion best had with your shrink ;)

Peace.

Rosie, I would have never considered Paul's thoughts on nudity to be of a "theatrical" nature. I believe as he does... and then it hit me... Oh my! I'm a singer and an actress! LOL But seriously, one of my very close friends is not and she's about the closest people I know to a nudist that isn't actually one. So, she might be a glitch in that theory. I actually think society makes "us" (I'm using that as a general term) believe that nudity is a bad thing, and that is why so many people are uncomfortable with it.

Grandma Mil, happy belated birthday to you - and congratulations on the birth of your newest great-grandson.

Happy birthday to all the other January babies as well!

I'm excited because we got snow yesterday! First snow of Winter for us!

Sarah, of course you're right you don't have to be "theatrical" to be comfortable with and accepting of your body, but conversely it's nigh on impossible to BE "theatrical" and NOT be comfortable with, and accepting of your body.

And it's absolutely IMPOSSIBLE (or at the very least really DUMB) to be nude in the snow (me too first snow yesterday) so I'm writing this all bundled up, but wishing it was August and I was embarrassing my boys!!!

Again, thank you for your kind wishes on my birthday!

Our new great-grandson was named in Israel yesterday, and his name is Hillel Judah. Right from the Old Testament, naturally! He weighs 9 lbs. and has a full head of black hair!

Shalom and Love,

Grandma Mil

Rosie you are absolutely correct - I think that it is a dancer thing for we are all about expressing ourselves through our bodies - which are also an extension of our minds and our spirit. As a dancer there are not really any out of bounds areas - in partnering as a contemporary or classical baalet dancer often arms, hands and in deed groups touch, caress and partner bits that most people would find a little on the personal side. It is part of the magic and sensuality of dance. I wont go into how many times I have actually performed nude - a very liberating experience but one in which nudity is worn as a costume and is by no means gratutious. It is about the story not the nudity.

I will also not go into the number of times I have decided to do a streak down the main street after a party, a few drinks and a bit of fun. The body is to be respected and worshiped - I have a healthy sense of that and I put that down to my career as a dancer. Nowadays I am not as ready to do a streak down the road but a quiet wander around the back garden at night???? Why not :)

Why not indeed!?! Mind you, I mostly get in trouble with my kith and kin for the “little wanders” I have during the DAY (apparently what I do in the dark is o.k. – or they’ve just given up on me – probably that, actually) :)

Nudity as a costume? (Did mention I that your attitude was theatrical? LOL) While I understand , and actually have lived (albeit in the mists of time) that concept – that’s a really TOUGH sell. Body as tool, artistic expression, extension of mind/soul – pretty high flown stuff!!! I won’t ask how many times you have danced nude ;) – but how many times did the audience get it? In my personal experience (and hopefully yours was different), no matter how lofty my aspirations as an “artist” clad in my, um, “personal costume”, the reaction, even from audiences which should have been fairly sophisticated (cat calls, wolf whistles, giggling) have left me feeling more like a stripper (not that there’s anything wrong with being a stripper!) than an artist!!! That of course goes back to Sarah’s point (well and truly valid) about societal conditioning and all that REALLY HEAVY stuff and sadly I can’t change the entire world – so I’ll just keep strip… er, ah – I mean, DANCING in my own costume and hope I wear down just the people in my own HOUSE!!!

A much happy belated birthday Millie. May this be the best year of your life (and many more best years to come). I"ll call soon!

I haven't been on the corner for awhile and of course that's when all the interesting stuff happens.

all my best to everyone and the Kahoona,

Julie

Wow, I haven't been in this chat site for a while. And I come back to streaking and nude yard wandering. LOL. Good stuff.

I am getting ready to leave my somewhat warm Northern California temps for Boulder Colorado. I think MaryS lives there. I recall talking to you about wine country, as I think you used to live in the Berkley area.

So how cold is it really there? I'm half Hawaiian, and I am not a cold weather person. I'm kind of dreading this. But my husband really wanted to ski. So here we go!

Hope you all have a good night.

tracie

Hi ya friends and Paul, How's are we? I'm felling alittle board at the moment cause the DWTS (oz version) chat room is closed still and I needed someone to chat to so I thought well why not go and chat to Paul and his other fans. And here I am. Paul, I'm glad you sleep in the nude. Your wife must love that. It actualy reminds me on myself on a summers night when it's 20+ degrees and it's so hot that you can't stand pjs. Hey Paul,have you read my last post yet? I'd love to hear from you.

Anyway I'll be loving you and leaving you for now.
Hugs and kisses to my fav dancer (tha's you Paul) Becky.

Hi Paul,

I'm writting you from the south of Chile.I don't know why,but I was looking for this movie you did years ago (Joseph).I wanted to find something about it, since I still remember it.May be because I love Joseph story.

Anyway, I wanted you to know that movie and how you made Joseph so real to our generation really impacted my life.

May the Lord of him (Joseph) keep blessing you and your family this year.Also remember, his God is real and he cares about you...as He did with Joseph the dreamer.

Gladys

Paul, I'm reading through the archives and found this:

Remind me to talk to you about moments and
nothing.

Paul Mercurio | 08 Nov, 2001 18:17

I'm through the next two years and haven't seen a post about this yet. I would be interested to read your thoughts/musings.

Marian

Paul/Rosie--

I have a friend in Amsterdam that performed au naturel, though I haven't. The closest I've been is dancing in Guys and Dolls and doing the "Take Back Your Mink" number where we stripped down. That was rather fun--it was the costume for "Bushel and a Peck" that left us rather embarassed--mini bushel baskets on a skin tone strapless bra (they were filled with little peaches), and checkered aprons covering very little over skin tone trunks and black fishnets (more like checkered loin cloths . . . ). Still roll my eyes on that design!

One thing, no matter how long any of us have danced, is continuing to check the line in the mirror, especially how flat is our stomach, and griping on how fat we look . . . does that ever go away??? (sigh)

Melody

Melody, a gypsy? Me too, but don’t tell anyone ;)

Sometimes I think even gratuitous nudity would be better than suffering through some of those costumes, huh? Love, love, love all of Adelaide’s numbers, what fun!!!

I kind of regretted using the “stripper” analogy in my post, because truth be told I’ve done loads of stripper numbers (like the one you described – but alas, not that one, DRAT!) that were VERY satisfying! I guess I’m still bothered by the fact that I put so much emotion into a performance, which although I am ballet trained, was my one, only and never again professional classical pas de deux, partnered by a Russian trained American dancer who was technically amazing. I was outclassed and overwhelmed, but I hung tough (as did he, poor thing!) and the reception was just NOT what I/we expected. Of course the fact that the entire show, top to bottom was dreadful might have been a factor. And of course none of that had anything to do with the costume (or lack thereof) so my theory was flawed, premise wrong and oh well, I can’t believe I’m STILL whining about this, really need to put this on my list of things to LET GO!!!

Checking my lines – how about the meat counter at the grocery store!!! Sometimes, somewhere behind the rack of lamb and the standing rib roast I can still catch a glimpse of that leggy babe – and then the lights come back on – LOL!

Rosie, you really are giving me a good chuckle. :o) Paul often makes me laugh, so its nice to have someone else here putting me in fits. Especially over the topic at hand.

I'm a bit at a loss here because I am in no way, shape or form a dancer. Never was. I started out as a singer and then moved on to dancing. I certainly wouldn't call what I've done in productions dancing - and neither would the choreographers. LOL (Ok, they might grudgingly admit that I have some movement ability... only to then look up and witness me tripping over my own feet...)

Despite the fact that I've had a weight problem nearly my entire life I've never had an issue with the fact that dressing rooms were full of bodies and usually mixed sexes. I had friends who I knew would never survive in the theatre because they couldn't change in front of the same sex, let alone the opposite. (That led me to wonder how they'd eventually procreate, but that's another discussion entirely. LOL) I'm not even sure if I'd have a problem performing nude. I know its a part of life and if someone else has a problem with it, then they can close their eyes.

And yes, snow makes it too cold to run about au natural. And although we do not have snow right now in my part of VA we are experiencing our coldest night yet this Winter and I will admit I am bundled in my flannels - and I'm still freezing!

Warm wishes to everyone in cold climates - and cool ones to those in the heat! (And rain to those in drought areas!)

Sarah, or should I say neighbor; is that N. VA? Love your attitude – and REAL women are really IN – just ask Jennifer Hudson!

As for being a dancer – do you HAVE (and I mean JUST HAVE) to move when you hear music, or a clock tick, or the wind blow?

If the answer is YES – then guess what? For me being a dancer is the most organic thing that I am; yes, I was also a “professional” dancer, which is a VERY different thing (think Olympic dancer) – but that thing that makes me HAVE to move, well, in my humble opinion, that’s what really makes me a dancer.

If the answer is NO – well, actually, don’t do that to me Sarah, because if I stop waxing poetic too suddenly I get a migraine, so for the sake of my health, let’s just say the answer IS yes.

As for tripping over your feet – if tripping over your feet, falling off your heels, smacking into your partner (actually, more fun that smacking into a wall - done that too!) or any of the million other klutzy, clumsy missteps that happen to dancers every day, meant that you weren’t a dancer – well, I personally wouldn’t know ANY!!!

And now, I must be off, because that cold, ill wind is tinkling the wind chimes outside the window and I MUST DANCE! That is, if I don’t trip over the Pilates machine and break my neck on the way to open floor ;)

Rosie/Sarah--

Pretty cold here in Chicago, too. With the way our wind gets here, right through the heavy clothes into the bone marrow, no au natural here!! ;)

Rosie--do you use a reformer? I've done mat work, but nothing on reformer as yet.

I'm really a flamenco (also classical Spanish) dancer. After ballet, theatre, and other character work, Spanish classical and flamenco won out.

Deep down we are all dancers at heart moving to the heart rhythm of life! :)

(As to tripping over one's feet, as they say, you can tell a dancer because of how *UN* coordinated off stage he or she is . . . )

Melody

Ah yes dancing naked in the snow.... I have pictures to prove it!

Rosie, not quite NoVA - the Fredericksburg area. :o)

Paul, the thought of naked in the snow has me FREEZING (again).

Why am I so cold all of a sudden? Dunno... Rosie, I do love to move when I hear music - and sing to it as well. Although the moving portion might not be a real pretty sight. LOL

Melody/Sarah (the Dancers)–

Wasn’t sure where to post back to you – since Paul seems to have moved into the “metaphysical” ;), so I’m taking a shot and staying in this thread.

Sarah – I’m in D.C., not THAT far, but I never get down your way – 95 is just such a MESS!

Melody – Flamenco? WOW, lucky girl! Reformer? Yes, but I would recommend staying on the floor unless you’re working an injury. The machine tends to make you lazy (form wise) – nothing better for rehab though.

Stay warm (naked snow dancing – REALLY!!! – LOL)

Paul--I just came back from teaching classes this afternoon and our temps are dropping as I type. We have had very little snow this month, but we are going into the teens (F) for tonight. The idea of snow dancing--brrrrrrrrh!!! Of course, you're in summer down under, that might a refreshing thought!

I was at a party long ago (was not quite 18 yet) and we had some good Chicago snow, and as usual, the temp dropped below freezing after the snow fell. A few of us, (yes, 'self included) went outside without coats and started dancing (the music was so blaring, so easy to hear out there). I'm still trying to figure out how I managed to drink so much that night (as anyone would tell you "Melody doesn't drink") and not have a hangover--let alone pnuemonia . . .

Rosie, was always curious about the reformer--thanks for the note.

Other than that, hope Paul and family, Cat and all PC friends are ending January nicely! :)

MV