We were in Pittsburgh this week and I got to see an impressive production of August Wilson's TWO TRAINS RUNNING at the indomitable Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre. The production featured Sala Udin, a personal friend of Wilson's, and I get the feeling that this is August as he should be - first-hand, focused, intimate, relaxed. His griot roots were given ample room to stretch throughout the evening, laying an intricate groundwork of language and images that brings the audience into a deeper understanding of the characters and themselves.

I have decided to treat myself to some focused time and attention for my writing. Earning an MFA degree seems to be the way to go. And by the hand of God, it looks like I'm going with Carnegie Mellon and their well-respected dramatic writing program. I got the chance to talk with quite a few students during the decision process, and I feel like I got their honest, critical assessment of the program. (Highly recommended for you kids thinking about grad school.) I'm sure there's a lot to write about getting a degree in writing, but I'll skip that for now. I'm busy enjoying the excitement / anxiety / anticipation...