Nearly a year ago when David Budbill asked me to be on a board to revive A FLEETING ANIMAL after a 15 year hiatus, I said  that I had been a huge admirer of his work for over thirty years and gladly accepted.  What a year!  It has been a privilege to get to know and admire Erik Nielsen. I have had the opportunity to work with an incredibly diverse board with respect and excitement as we set about meeting somewhat lofty goals.  AND we are doing it!  Our venues are secured; fundraising, though often challenging, is moving forward; musicians and cast members are being hired;  and a documentary chronicling our progress is being filmed.  Each monthly board meeting seems to end with even greater energy and enthusiasm as we move forward.  All of this is enhanced by the positive response from those we approach and add to our A FLEETING ANIMAL community.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of bringing this Opera from Judevine back into the public consciousness dealing with issues which, unfortunately, are as pertinent in today’s world as they were fifteen years ago.  Perhaps with this production, there can be a further awakening to the needs of suffering individuals all around us which are too often ignored.

Back to the A Fleeting Animal.