For those of you who don’t know, my friend and Director of the School of Theatre and Dance, Paul Favini, passed away this week after a long battle with cancer.  In September of 2009, my Creative Process class had the privilege of hearing Paul speak about his own creative process and how he approached his work.  This was one of the more memorable sessions of the semester, and I know my classmates will agree with me.  Paul was always even keeled, warm and FUNNY!  Paul had a gift of gab in addition to his many other notable talents and I am pleased to share what I took away from Paul’s lecture on that September day so that others may catch just a glimpse of the kind of man Paul was.

Paul Favini, September 17, 2009:

On costuming dance shows: “It’s important to watch rehearsal.  Listen to what they are saying about the movement.  That’s what the piece is about.”

“Costumes help tell the story.”

“Understand FIRST, then RESPOND.”

On musicals: “It’s important to come in with ideas.  Chorus members are INDIVIDUALS.”

“Own your work.  Even if the director insists you do something, OWN IT.”

“You can’t buy kids vintage clothes.  They just wear them out.”

“Panic never helps anyone.  Neither does anger.”

“I can’t always make you look good, but I can make you look RIGHT.”

“If it stays locked in your head, nobody can see it.”

“It pays to be nice.  Not a pushover, but you can certainly be accommodating.”

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