The Story I Love by Angel Lexi

You didn’t think Blogville could get away with telling about favorite stories without me, did you? After all, I starred in my favorite story.

That’s me, way over on the right in Candice Dorothy’s arms. I am watching Mom for my next cue.  This was in Georgia, my birth state, at the second WOZ production I starred in.

I was Toto is three different productions. The first time was at the Chattanooga Theatre Centre and remains my and Mom’s favorite. It had the best crew and best director and biggest attendance. Over a period of six weeks seven thousand people came to see me perform. It was my first time as a thespian schnauzer. As soon as I hit the stage in front of an audience the first night, I knew I had found my passion. I was called a ham and a stage hog. What is it with the references to pigs? Could I help if I was enthusiastic during every scene, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, as well as during the afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays? Could I help it if I danced back and forth on the stage with the Tin Man during one of his “solo” performances? OK, so maybe I could have helped that one. That’s the time I got called “that dog.” But I had been watching him for several performances and I knew the steps to the dance!

Mommy, thank you for helping me be the best Toto ever; for all the rides and treats and training and prompting and encouragement when I got tired, especially during my last performance. I remember how you held me and explained to me that it would be my last time on the stage, ever. You said you knew I was 11 years old and exhausted after performing once already that day. And you asked me to give it my all, my best, one last time. And I did. I shone. I performed like my life depended on it. I gave it everything I had, and you knew that. You were so proud of me, and that made me happy. I was your star.

As you remain, my dear Angel Lexi-Toto.

You can go to the Blogville Arts and Entertainments page to read more stories by more of our friends.