21 Comments
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kristinoel ludwig's avatar

Oh Tanya! I was there in the living room with you as you sang and danced your young heart free. A relatable tale! My mama Aggie loved me the same stubborn intense way that dear Vati showered love on you. If it's ok, I'd like to send a relating of my own..So many deep thanks for the Wed. morning storytime with you and fellow scribes♡

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thanks so much, Kristin! Absolutely, send away. And weren't we lucky to be so loved? ❤️

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kristinoel ludwig's avatar

for me, being loved so deeply by Mama Aggie was the antidote to an absent, abusive and womanizing father. I have dealt with what is called Father Hunger and have realized i can father myself, seek examples of guidance and strength within. And from wise and gentle men in my life really helps!

I have sent you some writing about my childhood. A rich vein of stories we have inside to be excavated.

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Ellen's avatar

Dear Artful Dodger, This is a beautiful piece about you and your musical acting journey and your Vati.

With much admiration , the Strawberry Seller

PS Wait, who acted Ado Annie?!

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you, dear Strawberry Seller! Nancy Griffin played Ado Annie!

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Ellen's avatar

That’s what

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Lori Rosolowsky's avatar

I'm going to enjoy reading all these pieces. Thank you, Tanya!

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you, dear Lori! ❤️

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LINDA AYRES FREDERICK's avatar

Beautiful writing and vividly told. I can certainly relate to your love for your father and his for you! The trials and tribulations of being in theatre. And as parents how hard it is to see our children suffer any part of life at all! Thanks so very much for your incredible talent and words to make it all come alive!

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you so much, Linda! I thought you might be able to relate to this one. 😀 So glad you enjoyed it. ❤️

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JPL's avatar

Your writing flows beautifully. : )

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you!

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Jennifer Heitler-Klevans's avatar

Great piece, Tanya! I had to look up that song and then it sounded familiar. It's fun to learn your backstory. You are a star in my eyes!

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thanks so much, Jenny! So glad you enjoyed it! Perhaps I should add a link to the song.

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hans lehmann's avatar

Dear Tanya,

You were a star and still are a star. And I love your honesty. Such as "The first time I lost a role, it was a crash course in humility." Keep it up. love, Hans

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you so much, Hans! Much love.

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Jeff Greenwald's avatar

I loved this piece. I'm now on the other side of the bell curve, sliding away from my life's performative highlights, but still love the challenges and rewards of the theater. I'll be reprising "108 Beloved Objects" on May 31st and June 1st... wish me luck!

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thanks, Jeff! I wish you all good things, and I hope to be in the audience!

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Roz Brumfield's avatar

I enjoyed this Tanya. It resonated with me. You are so lucky to have been loved so sincerely.

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Tanya Shaffer's avatar

Thank you so much, Roz! So glad you enjoyed it. And you're right—I was lucky. ❤️

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Ellen's avatar

Oops, That’s what I thought you were saying- amazing!

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