Time for Tokyo

After a very long flight and a day or two to recover, I am now having a chance to post my first blip from Tokyo. There’s no getting around it--it’s a long trip to Japan. But, all in all, I seem to be handling the jet lag much better than the last 3 times I’ve come to Asia. And it is indeed a pleasure to be here. The Cherry Blossoms are in bloom (2 weeks early) and they are a spectacular sight to behold. For some reason, the traffic has not been, so far, as bad as I remember either. We don’t begin rehearsals for a few days which is a relief. I intentionally came early to give my body a few days to adjust to the change in time zones (13) and culture. Hans Sachs is a very difficult role to wrap one’s mind around even in the best of circumstances. As this is my first outing with the role, I need to have my wits about me during this short rehearsal period and during the concerts. We’ll give it our best attempt and see how it all comes together.

As always, this is a great time of year for a basketball fan--especially a basketball fan who has just seen his favorite college team (and alma mater) make it to the Sweet 16 in basketball. The Wichita State Shockers shocked a lot of people with their wins over The University of Pittsburgh and Gonzaga (I wasn’t all that surprised). I’m thrilled that they will now take on LaSalle in Los Angeles this coming weekend to try to make it to the Elite 8. I have a neighbor who is a LaSalle graduate. It’s probably best that I’m over here on this side of the ocean and he’s on the other (and with a continent separating oceans as well). We would probably be showing our school pride a bit too openly for the comfort of the rest of our neighbors. Personally, I think a giant Black and Gold WuShock would look great painted on his beautiful green lawn.

Yesterday was Palm Sunday and I rejoice that we have now entered into Holy Week. I find true inspiration and wonderful contemplation during these days each year. The journey from yesterday’s celebration of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem to Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil) and, finally, Easter Sunday, is always moving. May your journey through this week bring you reflexion, dedication, and peace.