I always loved visiting these ancient theaters. This is another site I can't remember the name of at the moment!
My wonderful relative & host, Sophie (L), with Betsy (R) look down at Athens from the top of the Acropolis.
It’s Oscar time again, and I’m thinking about my recent trip to Greece and my discovery of who won the first Oscar for best actor. Luckily, I was guided by the wonderful, and effervescent Betsy Filiotis on my trips to the ancient ruins, a fantastically well educated volunteer at the Greek Archaeology Society. She made everything I saw come alive. And late one evening as we were losing the sun, we stopped at the site she was working on – the rural sanctuary of Dionysus. And she told me the story of Thespis…
The man, himself.
In the 6th century BC, history has it that Thespis became the first actor ever. Up to that point, there were storytellers, but one evening, Thespis got an idea… He disappeared to put a mask on his face, and then reappeared as – the character of the story! Oh, my God, could you imagine! The people sitting on the hillside must have been bowled over, and rolled down the hill!
There are clowns in every theater. Here's Sophie, Betsy, & me!
Well, Thespis went on to enter the first documented acting contest, and he won first prize. Capitalizing on his success, he got together a group of actors, and set up a wagon to tour and perform. And today actors are often referred to as Thespians.
I love it that since time immemorial, people have been telling stories, that in 534 BC, a big breakthrough in the acting art form came through Thespis, and then in 1911, there was the acting breakthrough with Stanislavski, then another with the Actor’s Studio…
Hey look, it’s said that there are only seven plot lines in all of storytelling, and those fit into only three main themes – Man against Man. Man against Nature. Man against Himself. And to this day, we are still fascinated.
For thousands of years our interest has never waned in developing and improving our storytelling and performing skills – from campfires to theaters to film, we still indulge in elevating, informing, and entertaining though this ancient, ancient art. And when it works, we, audiences, never cease to be surprised, delighted, and changed.
Ancient mask.
Bravo to all. And a special bravo to the thespians.
Here’s a fun video, titled “Trailer for Every Oscar-Winning Movie Ever” Love it!
Great offering here! I love history because it is always so current… thanks!
Ain’t it the truth? And the older I get, the more I understand it. I loved my trip to Greece. I’d like to write more about it later, but…. later… XXL
Lisa i think that Greece is so beautiful and i always dreamed of visit it there…. It must be wonderful to see a place like this . Thank you for new blog.
Many greetings and hugs to you
Hi Lisa
I love the 3 clowns you look as if you had fab time there,and loved the trailer brill!!!
Hope you cheered the Hornets on, I loved the pic with Cubby he is lovely,and a great guy to fly for his country I really do admire him for this.
Well just a few words of love to you God bless love Julie xx
Hello Lisa,
Thank you so much for your beautiful Story and for the amazing Pictures.
Greece is a beautiful country.
Love and Light
Simone
I always wondered why they used the term “thespians.” Now I know! Great blog once again! I love the little sun reflection by your feet in the first picture. I believe guardian angels are always around and they show up in photos like that. Do you believe in that kind of stuff? Yeah, yeah, I know it’s “just a reflection,” but my heart likes to believe, you know. Looks like someone else is standing there with you.
Debbie, I thought the same thing! Great minds think alike, right?
I thought the same thing as well, and… it’s purple!
Looks like a wonderful trip!
Well I guess it’s not just me, then! Oh, and Lindsay above, beautiful video you posted!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I always like little glimmers and flares in photos. Now I’ll be looking and thinking of angels!
Very interesting story, Lisa! And, beautiful pictures! Thanks for sharing. I will definitely keep this in mind as I watch the show. Speaking of red carpet fashion…do you have a favorite dress that you wore? Also, love the video! Any particular “Thespians” you want to see win tonight?
As always, much love to you!
PS. Best wishes to you at your speaking/signing event in AZ tomorrow (still hoping and wishing and praying you will come to NC or SC one day)!
I love finding out the origin of words (or sayings that we use everyday). Thanks for the history lesson. Greece must be lovely. I lived in Italy for a while and was always astounded that I walked where gladiators fought in the coloseum, or the beautiful artwork of the Cistine Chapel. I bet you felt the same way while in Greece standing in the theater. Thanks for sharing the lovely photos!
Ingrid
Hey Lisa, did you know that a Thespis Award exists? Look http://homepage.m:ac.com/fotonick/Thespis%202010/
Everything has a beginning, funny that we sometimes don’t think about that…. We take some things for granted, but we shouldn’t forget that in the past a lot of history has happened and a lot of people have developed it. What would we do if no one would ever have invented theater or film? This would be sad Saturday Evenings…. No first dates in cinema where you have something to talk when you get to know someone… I mean, who talks on a first date about really serious things? Thank you Thepsis for getting it on!
People are fascinated by stories, my children ( in the kindergarten) want me to read over and over again, sometimes I end up one book and they say: “Please read it again!” So I spend a lot of my day by reading for them, for some stories I don’t even need the book anymore….
What they love more than books is the puppet theater, also a part of my job. When we play it, they can’t see us, but sometimes you can get a glimpse of them: They feel so for the puppets, their eyes are open, their mouth too – even children who have a problem to concentrate are absolutely in the story. It takes them away and when books are cake, so the puppet theater is the cherry on the cake!
I’m really excited about who is winning an oscar- unfortunately the show starts when I go sleeping and ends in the morning when I have to go to work…
But my beloved smartphone (finally I own one – hah! ) will show me everything while I have my pause 
Will you be on the Award Show tonight? If yes: Take a lot of pictures and show us what normally is not seen, because sometimes (or always?) the most interesting things are behind the mask!
Tani
Hi Lisa
How interesting was this! Now I know where the term Thespians comes from.
I had a bit of a mad moment yesterday, which I thought I’d share because it brought a smile to friends faces when I told them.
I was getting ready to go to a friends evening wedding reception and was running behind time (as usual). I needed to use the bathroom (sorry!) and thought it would be a good idea to paint my nails whilst sitting on the toilet. Problem was I then had to sit there for ages waiting for my nails to dry before I could complete the procedure! I obviously didn’t think it through properly and didn’t end up saving any time whatsoever. Won’t be trying that one again!
On a more serious note, you are a beautiful person inside & out. Sharing your feelings so honestly is a wonderful thing to do and must help so many people. Thankyou for being so unselfish. I lost a younger brother three years ago and there were days where I literally howled with the pain of grief and thought life could never be the same again. But that pain has now become more bearable and when I think of him now, it’s with a smile on my face. When I experience something new, I try to experience it for the both us and so get double the pleasure. I am waiting to read The Time of My Life and Worth Fighting for. I am sure this will be a positive if poignant experience.
Thankyou once again,
with love & respect to you and Patrick’s memory
Geraldine xxx
I’m glad to hear that the thought of your brother now puts a smile on your face. They say as time goes on, that the memories that use to hurt, will start to make you happy and comfort you again. I’m starting to find this is true. And it’s a very, very good thing!
ps. & thank you, I won’t be trying your nail polishing trick any time soon!
Thank you Lisa for sharing your trip in Greece and … in the past.
(Tonight, in France, all eyes turn towards Hollywood (I wonder why……))
You pay tribute to Thespis and Stanislavski (the first wore a mask, the second took off it), I like these two stories, these two characters because i think , in life, we are both alike.
Je vous embrasse.
Clementine
Dear Lisa,
Please i wrote to you, for your new book, (and The time of my life), is possible in portuguese? Please wrote to me… I´m waiting ansious…
Stay with God! Very kisses in your heart…
Thank you very much!!!!
Ah! Don’t know whether, or not, Worth Fighting For will be translated into Portuguese. I hope so! I’ll certainly let you if it does.
Hello Lisa!
Thank you for sharing this beautiful and instructive story.
And thanks for the photos!
Big hug;
sincerely.
Nadia.
Lisa, I came across an inspiring video this morning on gratitude, happiness, and the gift of life. It was so beautiful and touching, I wanted to pass it along to you. It reminded me so much of when you said that you and Patrick began to appreciate each moment of every day after his diagnosis. Hope you don’t mind me posting it here! Have a great day! XX
Hi Lindsay,
“Life is what happens while we make other plans…” So true, we plan to much and live not enough… Thank you for the video, it is really beautiful!
How many work is behind the flower photos – incredible – I have never seen so beautiful orchids!
You’re welcome, Tani! I loved it so much, I just had to share it with Lisa and everyone else on here!
Finally got a chance to see this. It’s beautiful. XXL
Glad you enjoyed it, Lisa. I came across the link to it on twitter. And, after I watched it, I thought it was too beautiful not to share with you. XX
Hi Lisa
must say I just love this post Lindsay has put on your blog it’s just beautiful, it touches you deeply the pics are just stunning and the whole thing is put together beautifully well done Lindsay I love it, its just touching heaven in a enlightened stunning way God bless you love Julie xxx
Glad you liked it, Julie!
Wow! That was amazing – I love the line where he says live each day as if it’s your first and last – makes me feel very humble. Thanks, xxx
Geraldine, that was my favorite line as well. And, so true! Glad you liked it!
Hi Lisa – so very pleased I found this blog site as just finished reading your book ‘Worth Fighting For’ and loved it so much! What an incredible story and an amazing,strong,beautiful man Patrick was in so many ways (as a 15yr old watching Dirty Dancing when it was first released I have been a huge fan ever since).
I loved your honesty and bravery when recounting his last moments on earth and how even though it was a terribly difficult time, it also held such a beautiful love. I also thoroughly enjoyed learning so much more about your lives, knowing it was all truthful, accurate information. Your strength and resilience is inspiring and you can be sure Patrick would be so proud of the way you are moving forward and continuing to live your life (despite how difficult it must be at times). I have heard grief described as ‘a hole that never goes away, our lives simply grow around it’ and I believe this is so true.
Those we love will always remain in our hearts and memories and even though they are no longer physically present they will always be present on another level, guiding and supporting us in all that we do. Very pleased to have been reading your comments and see that you are finding the memories of Patrick now bringing you happiness. Grief does become easier to bear once you reach that stage I have found.
PS – loved the boots story! A great pair of shoes can be very therapeutic & what fantastic girlfriends you obviously have.
Mel
(Australia)
Can anyone please tell me what the endings xxx or xxl mean? Some things you can’t learn from a dictionary and now it drives me crazy not knowing it and not beeing able to find it out by myself….. Sorry and thank you
Tani
Ha, ha. It’s kinda silly actually. It originates from how little girls use to sign their letters with “x”s and “o,” like XOXOXO – It means a kiss (X), and a hug (o). I just started using the “X’ as an affectionate gesture, and my initial “L.” But also for me…”XL”, stands for the word “excel,” and one thing’s for sure, I always try to do my best! So, it means both for me.
ps. So, “XXX” would mean,”with affection, affection, and more affection!”
Ah! Now I understand – Funny that only one letter can have such a meaning!
Now I can let it go, I’m in peace again…
It made me crazy and sometimes I’m a little impatient with myself…
Thank you and XOT
XOT. Sounds like a futuristic super-hero.
Hmmm…? Maybe I’ll be one day a heroine
I like the thought ” Tani saves the world – stay tuned – XOT”
Episode 2: ” The world is not enough – Tani enlightens the dark universe with XLs help”
A blonde and a brunette Hippie Superhero-team! As superpower I’d like to have deathly eye-sparkle! And you could be like the Street fighter character Canny, with the cool fighting moves!
Haha, funny, all started with an X
Tani
Lol. Pretty funny!
Dear Lisa!
I see your block for the first time and read your many stories. It’s nice that you have so many friends.
I’m from Germany and was born in 1973. I was a young girl, as I’ve seen the movies Dirty Dancing and Ghost.
2 weeks ago I happened to film One Last Dance at a shop here found. I was so moved. I see your love for Patrick and Patrick’s love for you. The story is more than can be seen. I’ve watched the movie very often. You were both so wonderful dancer.
Last weekend I read the book, Time of my life. Your life was an adventure. Patrick was a great man and it was good that you were at his side as his wife. It is very sad that he had to go, but he is watching over you.
I wish you all the best of this world and I hope you dance still sometimes so beautiful.
Dear Lisa, dear All
How can I tell you how much I admire you?
it’s not easy for me to express myself because i’m a shy person and i’m afraid of being clumsy.
I’m very touched by your stories, i fell involved by them … and sometimes when i fell nostlagic or melancholic, i come here.
Patrick and Lisa, you mean a lot to me : you’re a great couple of lovers and dancers. I think about you when i discover a wonderful palce – when i watch Eiffel Tower twinkling – when i’m at a beautiful ballet.
From now an, i will include in my thoughts all the angels appear here.
Je vous embrasse.
Clementine , France
She is called Cammy, not Canny…
I will vote for you Tani for next Oscar!!
By the way, no comments about “The Artist” or Jean Dujardin?
Has anybody seen this movie?
(I’ve liked it very much!)
clementine
A NEXT Oscar would be great – one is really not enough and stands lonely on my chimney…
Now there’s only one little problem: I have no producer… does anybody know if Spielberg is available this year? Tell him to call me back immediately, it’s urgent! And I need Patricia Field for the hero-costumes..and Christian for the Loubous… Haha: free shoes for the heroines!! Free costumes, Bobbie Brown Makeup, jewels, couture dresses (no more H&M)… I love this Oscar thought more and more… What will I wear on the red carpet, who will do my hair ? Questions over questions and I still miss the Spielberg call ( why do men never call back?) :-/
I will use the time till he calls with preparing my speech… Of course I will be absolutely surprised by winning the Oscar… and I’ll have no idea who wrote my 3 page “Thank you all sooo much….” speech….
And BTW: I will cry now in front of my mirror, because I want to know which way to cry in front of the audience looks sweet and pretty. I mean, I will be the headline on the papers, it has to be PERFECT!
Two hours later: I cried and I wrote my speech, have an idea about my Oscar outfit: I’m ready! Let’s start the project! Hmmm, I have a mention that something is still missing… What the hell is is…?
Now I know it, there’s still my well-known problem: Men never call back, not even Steven… Damn, I think my lonesome Oscar won’t have a twin-friend so soon….
Tani won’t save the world… not yet, but she’ll be back
Reply nr 2: Thank you for voting me!
And I didn’t see the artist, not yet, but I will!
Bonne nuit!
Ps: Tu es francaise? J’ai passé mes vacances chaque année à St. Girons – tu connais?
L’Atlantique est fantastique, mais cette année je vais passer mes vacances à Grèce ou en Espagne… Je sais pas exactement en ce moment.
Tani
Hi Lisa
Just looked up on line the tonight broadcast, they did this very well, love your horses you were petting what are their names? They are just beautiful.
You looked very lovely and very well,and the interview was brilliant.
Your strength just shines out of you, you are helpping many people with your work and with these lovely blogs, as your other followers are also writing beautiful stories about themselves and it makes me feel close to many of them also, as now it helps to know I was not the only one with these feelings after a loss.
Also Lisa I also heard my husbands voice too, its strange but also comforting to to have such experiences as this.
Life is special and take time for yourself and enjoy God bless Lisa take care love julie xxxoxo
Tani, I’ve just called Steven and unfortunately, he’s not available (he’s shooting a movie with two great and beautiful actresses named XOT and XL…)
As for Woody, he’s too busy (he meets her psychoanalyst nine a week now)
We could get in touch with Pedro.
Your French is very good Tani and if you mean ST Girons in Landes (Atlantic coast) it’s funny cause i ve lived five years near this place.
Have a good day!
Clémentine
Hi Clementine,
Yes, I meant St, Girons a Landes! Its a beautiful place to be and what I like most is this smell (a mixture of the sea and the large Pines). It’s a magical place….hmmmm maybe I should spend my holidays there this year… It’s not easy, too many beautiful places and only two weeks of holidays… Life is impermanent and I wanted to see as much as possible of it…
Thank you for getting in touch with Pedro!
Have a nice day and say Hi to my beloved Eiffeltower, I’ll meet him again!
Tani
Hey Tani, here my e-mail if you ‘d like to exchange a few words with me : tartelette.framboise@gmail.com
Have a nice day !
Clémentine
Hi Lisa,
My name is Jamie and I am not sure if you read the comments posted, but I am hoping to make you aware of the organization I work with. Animal Recovery Mission is located in Miami, Florida, and we are a non-profit animal investigations group. One of our main areas of focus is horse slaughter and the black market, although we investigate so much more. Most people have no idea that Miami is a hotbed for selling horse meat. Most of the animals are pets stolen while others come from the local racetracks. They are either starved and killed in illegal slaughter farms or butchered alive and left on the side of the road. ARM works with local and state government as well as USDA to build cases so that we may prosecute. You are who comes to mind when one thinks of public figures whose love for horses is an inspiration to others. I hope you will look at our website, animalrecoverymission.org. Thanks so much for all you do and for this moment to share!
Hi Lisa,
Warm regards from Germany! Nice to see that you enjoy life, just thinking of you a lot because of reading your book. I have often wondered how you are. My husband and me are spending our holiday in Naxos in June for two weeks and looking forward very much! Were already in Crete 2005. Greece is wonderful! If you like to spend a holiday in Germany, I would be happy to show you our area, it is very nice (http://www.ahrtal.de/).
I send you a hug and wish you all the best!
Melanie