fbhjr

The good news is that right now the weather forecast for Florida next
weekend is warm and sunny. 9-10 days out, I still don’t trust it. But,
for now I’m happy to see it.

The bad news.
All of the folks we had planned on meeting us from the Midwest to help in
the show have now cancelled.
I’m still holding out hope for the 1 from New Orleans. But, he wasn’t a
firm yes in the first place so it isn’t much hope.

So, instead of having more than a dozen people, right now we’re at 7 with
maybe one extra if we’re lucky.

I can’t complain. We aren’t paying them to be there. We cover travel
expense, hotels and food while they are there. But, nothing extra for
their pockets.
And, if they need to work, they need to work. It’s that simple.

There are only 7 rules to Phoenix Swords. And, #7 is:
As professionals, troupe members and employees shall determine their own
capabilities and comfort levels at our practices and performances. No
troupe member shall be forced to do any performance, act or action that
they do not feel comfortable doing. They are responsible for communicating
their objections as soon as possible so other plans can be made.

I wrote that rule 11 ½ years ago for just such situations.
People’s lives are more important that our sword shows. I need to remember
that. And, this rule is to remind me that it is always option for people
to show up and I should be very appreciative when they do.

Of course I do wish it was the day before I sent in the contract with their
names on it committing us to a certain level of people instead of the day
after.
But, they had no way of knowing that.

There is a penalty clause for not meeting contract, but I doubt it will
come into play. As long as we put on our shows and people like them the
organizer is unlikely to even notice how many people are with us, much less
penalize us for it.
And, worst case if he does, the money I save on the hotel room, gas and
food will probably off set it.

None of the people who have canceled are critical to the show. Having them
there would have made it easier, but only in the areas not show related.

I just hope no one else drops. Now we’re down to the bone.