Monday Evening in Lithuania

Already it has been quite a trip. Yestarday was our first full day in Siauliai. We were greeted by our "guides". Erica and Aldagus. They are both very nice and speak very good English. We watched a dance performance of Romeo and Juliet. It was fun. That said, Romeo and Juliet should perhaps not be "fun". They spoke some dialogue in Lithuanian and danced to all American songs. Including some Elvis, a little Backstreet Boys and the most dramatic moment to Endless Love. Yes, that's right....Endless Love. Then Romeo didn't die- which was a little confusing, but it was fun!

Last night we went to the Student Club. Could you imagine a venue for music that was run by the University. It was great. The band was great, our new Lithuanian friends were great- we danced, we had a great time....What was not so great were the bathrooms. Apparently the building was one build by the Russians and therefore the toilets were holes in the ground. Big holes- like a toilet seat, but that's it. You had to pop-a-squat and hope you had good aim. And there was no toilet paper. Luckily Kathleen had some kleenex's so we survived, but next time I may just hold it!

Today we went to the Hill of Crosses- which is this sort of incredible place right outside of Siauliai. It was a small hill where people for decades have placed crosses. During the time when Lithuania was under Soviet ruling they tried to tear it down, but each time the Hill of Crosses returned and with more vigor. It is not so much a religious spot (in spite of the countless crosses and Jesus's) but a place that represents faith and suffering.

We had a 4 hour rehearsal today. We are all tired, so it was a little rough going, but we know what work we need to do and I know we will get it done. This really is an incredible group of actors, so I am not too worried. We perform on Wednesday which is a little earlier than we had originally thought, but it will be ok! In general I would say Siauliai is great. There are parts of the city which are very nice, but like Vilnious there are parts of the city which are very run down. Not as much graffiti, but worn out.

Tomorrow we are headed to the Baltic Sea. Very Exciting!!