Last night was the last night for a dear friend of mine. A send off night as he departs for LA to pursue professionally this craft we all take part in. I’m not always one for being sentimental but on occasions such as these I cannot help but be. This man was a great inspiration, friend, colleague, artist, mentor, and so much more to me.
When I came into acting nearly 2 years ago this man was already considered a veteran to newbie actors such as myself. He was a force to be reckoned with and filled whatever room he entered with his aura and charm. He commanded respect and was gentle and warm to new actors who stuck it through. He was all these things and still is.
He can make you laugh on the saddest days and he can move you to tears with his performances. He can talk your ear off endlessly. My greatest regret is that I never had the great privilege to work with him on a scene in method class. Although I am very blessed to have witnessed his work and artistic growth these past years. A conciliation prize that is more than I could have asked for.
I’ve watched him struggle and I’ve seen him push past barriers. There is a brotherhood formed between fellow actors who go through such a training. It is a personal window and connection into one’s soul that even family members don’t often get to see. I am thankful to him for all his work, all his bravado, courage, failures, triumphs, and perseverance through it all. He is an inspiration.
He will be sorely missed and a gap is felt. Those of us that are left must rise to what is leaving. This art is not beholden to any one person but humanity as a whole. New energy will have to rise out of the remnants and we will move on to continue this birthing of artistic beings. Anthony, my friend, you go forth as the Vanguard. Courageously leading the charge into the frontier. Others have gone before you but for me you are the Vanguard. I hope to see you on the front lines soon brother.
May we always revel in our art Anthony – best of luck in everything you do and achieve!