Maybe Secretly We're All Terrific Whistlers Or Something

 Me Channeling Holden 

Since 1998 I've been visiting English classes in the school I teach in and reciting a chapter of Catcher in the Rye, in character, as Holden Caulfield. It started with Mr. Conant, who was an actor in his youth (Summer of 42) and might have made it big had he not lost been beaten out by Randy Quaid for a starring role inThe Last Detail.  I remember well how we broke new ground, a great moment in integration.  After I recited my piece as Holden I answered questions from the teacher and the students.  There was excitement in that classroom and a tradition began.  I went on over the years to perform and dialogue with teacher and class in the rooms of Mrs. Weiner, Mr. Sosland, Mrs. Feldblum, and most often of all, in the circle in the square theater that is Dr. Berkman's domain.

It is exciting as each teacher and class (along with the timing and my mood, etc.) make it different and uniquely meaningful each time. I must have done it about 40 times in school and it's always a great event.  This year's appearances took place on Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving. Dr. B. wore her Catcher in the Rye shirt. I improvised my Holden costume and channeled him as best I can. I acted out the piece and then took questions, first as Holden, then as me.

I starting this post right after the performance.  It's been sitting in the draft pile and came to my mind tonight. So here it is for you, whoever you may be.