initial thoughts in Bratislava

So here's the thing.

I expected Prague. In many ways. I expected the same architecture; an older and less capitalistic demographic; fewer blondes (the importance of which will be discussed later). I expected a sort of serenity in the area, at least in Old Town, and a more religious presence. Piety might be the better word; old religion meets old tradition. And I expected a sense of wonder in myself, a joy of traveling. I expected newness.

Of all these things, only the first is true. The buildings are the same, but the environment is not, Bratislava is not quite London, but its definitely not Prague. More upper class than I might have through. Almost no one of color or even slightly colored (again, the significance of which will come later). Modern in terms of atmosphere, technology, worldview. There are even American cars around (who in Europe uses American cars?) There is definitely less driving here than in America, and it is also true that Slavs are slightly more reserved in social interaction. There is less smiling than in America, and people tend to speak softly even in large social situations.

And maybe I liked my romantisized version better.

I also expected the comraderie I experienced in 2004 when I came to East Europe with my choir. I was an emerging leader in my section and the people I roomed with some of my best friends. And here - I certainly know most of the DAT members, but I am once again the youngest, and the only one not pursuing the arts professionally. I am often more comfortable in such a small group, but something seems missing. Again, I probably only feel this way because I was expecting Ecuador.° And, too, were all working on our own individual projects, whereas in Ecuador each cast worked to create tits own piece of theatre.

I am also feeling a lot pressure to "do" something. To leave feeling capable of writing much better than I do now. That said, I know the only thing to do is to go at my ekprhasis project and see where it takes me.

And learn to let the expectations go.


°rather, the trip I took to Ecuador