Two Weeks Left in Europe and Lots on the Lap

I've been in Europe all summer, living mostly in Muenster, Germany, leaving town for places like Berlin, Duesseldorf, Hamburg and Cologne, but also traveling to countries surrounding and beyond: the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Denmark.

Next week? France.

This week, however, I'm staying put in Muenster, taking advantage of all it has to offer, all the while researching for my production company's future Germany projects.

Last night, for example, I went to this incredible spa, complete with four different kinds of saunas, steam baths, hot tubs, cold pools, a solarium, and lounge chairs galore. A real paradise... for 17 euros. I'm not kidding - 17 euros. That's a steal for Americans, and as the former Assistant to the VP of Development at Mandarin Oriental in New York, I can tell assure you that I know what I'm talking about.

The only odd thing - for me, as a puritanical American - was the small fact that you were supposed to go "au naturelle," covered only by a towel.

Gosh, as liberated as I'd like to think I am, this was tough. And how do you NOT look, for heaven's sake?

Still, there was nothing kinky about any of it. In fact, the only weird one there was I -- I just couldn't get over the very obvious lack of interest in my naked body. Hey, the people weren't there for a strip tease, they just wanted to be healthy and chill.

So much for the idea that it's all about sex.

Prague, "The Beggar's Story" and My Role in the film

I'm back from my trip to Prague, where I took on the role of the Neighbor Elisabeth in Lucie Groene's film "The Beggar's Story."

As many of you may know, I’m living and working in Germany for the summer, writing my scripts, developing various productions, acting when the opportunity arises and enjoying the summer amidst cobblestones, castles, cafes, bicycles and biergartens.



For “The Beggar’s Story,” I took the train from Berlin to Prague and was picked up personally by the director, her self. We drove to the beautiful, tiny village of Zelenice, where the only other language the locals spoke was Russian, and I couldn't help but feel as if I had been transported 100 years back in time.

Filming with a Czech crew is like nothing I've ever experienced. The professionals on set were top-rate, but they sure do like their cigarettes and beer. Unlike in the States, where no one breaks until the official announcement is made, the Czech crew seemed to have just stopped for lunch and a beer whenever they felt like it.



The craziest moment was when we were all set for shooting the final scenes for the day. Everything was set up -- lighting, perfect, camera and crew, prepared, the director and supporting actors ready to go -- except for the main character, the shopkeeper. His name called -- no response. He was no where to be found.

And then, finally, after the Czech A.D. went on a search throughout the village, our actor was found. He had decided to go the local pub for another drink.

I couldn't help but laugh and shake my head.



Still, that being said, I was impressed by how well they all work together, how relaxed the atmosphere on set was, and how much we were able to accomplish in a short amount of time.

The biggest lesson learned? Tolerance and openness is part of international film-making. One person's beer is another's water.

Introducing: Quote of the Week

My Blog will now be featuring a "Quote of the Week," by individuals both well-known and unknown. The idea and thought drives.

Enjoy!