Abel Brainz Digest, Vol. 30 - November 28, 2023

Hey all!

Let's get right to it

Cool movie stuff

I rewatched A Most Violent Year. One of my recent (holy shit, nine years ago) favorites, and not just because the main character is also named Abel. This line is also a great way to approach improv. And if you want to make a movie, just put this classic in a montage or scene , and I'll love it forever. 

Cool improv stuff

Like I said, this line is a great approach to improv. Before you second guess your choice, do it, say it, commit to it. Trust it. If we're present, and paying attention, we're already improvising. 

Take this chunk from The Creative Act: A Way of Being:

The gift of awareness allows us to notice what's going on around and inside ourselves in the present moment. And to do so without attachment or involvement... The universe is only as large as our perception of it. When we cultivate our awareness, we are expanding the universe. 

To sum it up even more succinctly, there's this gem by Yankees great Yogi Berra:

You can observe a lot by watching.

Cool music stuff

I was revisiting my good ol' 'starred' playlist on Spotify and made a shorter version. I wouldn't expect anyone to listen to over 2 days worth of music I've liked since 2012. 

Cool shameless self-promotion stuff

I'm in a show! Y'allmark Christmas: An Improvised Holiday Movie at The Horizon Theatre. Here's a list of the dates I'm performing:

Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 17, 18 (2pm matinee) 19, 21, 22, 23

All the shows are at 8pm, except the matinee on the 18th.

Let me know if you plan on making one. It should be some ridiculous heart-warming fun. 

That does it for me

Click here for all the past volumez. 

And remember, this labor of love is handcrafted and distilled every week. Click here if you want to show some love and "subscribe." And even if you don't, I'll still send you the newsletter :) 

Much love, 

Abel