Jim Grisham has let B J Machalicek know that he won't be able to speak at Jim's Memorial. This really bothers me. Jim and Jim were the powerhouse duo at the Sam Bass Theatre through the 80s. They worked together doing construction and renovation jobs and worked at the theater, building sets, directing, acting...a good time was had by all. When Jim Grisham moved out to Jarrell, the friendship sort of went on the back burner, but they were still close.
Jim Grisham taught theater at C D Fulkes middle school, and all three of my children were in his class. He retired this year.
For him to tell B J that he can't deliver a speech at my husband's Memorial says to me that he is affected far more than I had thought. Jim is a teacher and an actor. He is never at a loss for words, or for control in the delivery of them.
Jim, I'm so sorry that you can't do this. I'm sure you feel awful about it, and I would not add to your pain for anything.
Do you remember the fun the two of you had with your keystone cops routine as the furniture movers in "Father of the Bride?" Or the brilliance that ensued when my Jim directed you and B J in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest?"
I do, and such memories will be in my heart forever.
This must be really tough on those who were close to Jim, Ronni. It's good that you understand his friend's pain.
ReplyDeleteJim Grisham could read the phone book and make a person cry.
ReplyDeleteI spoke at my sister's memorial, and I hate to admit it, but I had to have a stiff drink first.
ReplyDeleteBefore the memorial, I rode my horse Nacoma, ponying Sharon's horse Ruby, adorned with a beautiful floral neckpiece, with about 25 riders behind us coming down the hill by Sharon's home to the camping spot on their property she loved so much.
After I spoke, we played Bette Midler's Wind Beneath My Wings and a friend released 2 dozen white homing pigeons into the sky.
I can remember it like it was yesterday, and I understand how it would be too much for Jim's friend Jim.
I may carry a little flask to the Memorial.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely one you had for your sister!
I remember Cuckoo's Nest very well. When Jim asked me to Assistant Direct, I was so proud. Trying to wrangle the 'lunitics' backstage was always too much fun. What a great show! Jim did such a wonderful job (as he always did) directing it. He had such a wonderful touch with actors and always knew just what to say to make the light bulb come on in your brain.
ReplyDeleteI was going through a personal crisis during Cuckoo's Nest and one night backstage I finally broke down. Jim put his arm around my shoulders and, I can't remember what he said exactly, but it made everything okay. He could always do that...
"Receive what cheer you may:
ReplyDeleteThe night is long that never finds the day."
I've always had a soft spot for Jim Prior as he cast me in Cuckoo's Nest, my first of several shows at Sam Bass. I played a floosy who had like 2 lines and I sat on Jim's lap throughout my one and only scene.
ReplyDeleteI've always been grateful to Jim for that first chance and I always looked up to him for his expertise and so valued his opinion. After doing Midsummer, Jim came up to me and so sincerely complimented my work... from him that praise meant everything. His smile is forever etched in my heart.
From the support he gave me, I can only imagine what he did for so many students over the years. Jim was truly a blessing to those fortunate enough to know him.
Thank you God for Jim Prior.
Bev, you rock! Thank you
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