Nando & The Tin Man

I found this old blog post on another site that I wrote in 2004. Wow, how my perspective on life has changed. Enjoy!

My friend Clark dropped by my work (United Staffing) yesterday. Clarky just has the stuff! He's been in NYC for 6 years, and has NEVER held a full time job! EVER! He makes a living by doing stand-up comedy, commercials, theatre....He invited me to join his stand-up comedy class.

That sparked something in me. I felt the rush! I needed to pursue my career as an actor. I could feel the heat of the spot light shining on me....or was that just the broken street lamp in my face?

I immediately went to the computer, and went online to the Craigslist website!
Inspiration had hit and I needed to make the best of it! I found an acting course.
I spoke to Etienne, proud owner of Tin Man productions. I was excited, UNTIL he started to speak.


TinMan: I just let anyone in my classes, see. This is not about the money, see. It's about an art, see. Do you follow? I can hear it in your voice that you want to be a star. What's your name again kid?
Nando: Fernando
TinMan: What? Fer What? Alright listen, the name is not important....what's    important is the talent. Am I right? By the way, All this that I'm telling uou....I charge people for this....for you - FREE!

Was this guy for real?

TinMan: Passion! That's what it takes, you just said the magic words, see. I don't just tell everyone this, but I can' hear it in your voice that you got what it    takes, see. Okay, let me think about it for a minute.....You're in! I only allow 15 students per class, but I'm gonna make an exception for you "Frank" because we're on the same level.

Did he just call me Frank?

TinMan: Have you ever heard of Tim the "Greek-Man" Gonzales? I acted with him
in an off-off-off Broadway show many years ago! He's what dreams are made of! Yeah!
Okay, so no more busting your balls Freddy, come by Friday with a money order for    $585.00 and we will take it from there."

I hung up with an empty feeling in my stomach. Dissapointment took over and I decided to do the only thing left for a man in my position could do--I headed for the nearest Tasty D'Lite for a hot fudge triple Decker 3-tier banana-chunky-monkey (please add extra chocolate chipsand I'm gonna need help carrying this to my table) Sundae.

Needless to say, "I feel better." but I will have to buy a bigger pant size
this weekend. Nando aka Freddy, Frank, LOSER.