BWW Blog: Neka Zang of Broadway's ROCK OF AGES - Travel and Theatre Life

Hello friends!

I have had another fantastic week! And today I'm gearing up for the weekend! As I mentioned in my last blog, usually on my days off, I tend to ""nerd out". Often I spend time at The American Museum of Natural History (and this Wednesday was no exception). On this occasion, I took my good friend and castmate Tessa Alves with me, and we headed straight to the Planetarium show. I have seen this spectacular exhibit three times, and each time I see it, I become re-inspired with life, and I always leave with a sense of inner peace and tranquility. If you like science or have interest in learning more about our Universe, then you need to see this show.

Being on tour last year really spoiled me. I was surrounded by wonderful friends, and I was always traveling so I could meet up with other friends in different parts of the country (and world). Now that I am back in NYC, I'm locked into my work schedule, and don't always have time for my adventures (or sometimes even my non-show business friends!) This has really been a mind game for me at times; I have never been the type that says, "Oh yes, doing the same show 8 times a week is easy." It isn't. In fact, it's a lot of work. But I love my work! I have never been so happy in my life. Rock of Ages is the most fun (and funniest!) production I have ever had the privilege to be a part of, and on top of it all, this is a cast of super talented people, who also have good hearts. They are like family to me!

I have made it a point this year to evolve beyond my daily theater lifestyle. Theater life often dictates staying up super late after work, sleeping in late, resting, and then heading to work. I am making the conscious effort to wake up early, head to Brooklyn (for example) to see friends that I have not seen in some time, disciplining myself to adhere to a daily routine with a physical workout so that I can stay in prime shape, and, going out occasionally with friends from out of town. This is a great "stretch" for me, and it helps to keep me on my toes, mentally and physically!

The only thing I am still trying to figure out with working 6 days a week is how to travel. I absolutely love travel and adventure. I know you are all saying, "Yes, Neka, but you get a full two weeks paid vacation a year.” While that is true, sometimes one or two weeks is not enough time to plan and experience some of the more exotic adventures I have in mind.

Which brings me to what has now become a recurring theme for this blog, my latest documentary film venture! Yesterday I stayed in for 4 hours watching "Long Way Round", a ten-part series following actor Ewan McGregor and friend Charley as they embark on an epic 20,000 mile drive across 12 countries in just 115 days. They also work with UNICEF along the way to help raise funds and awareness for children affected by conflict and HIV/AIDS. I couldn’t help but feel inspired and fascinated watching their adventurous mission touring the world. I am now figuring out a way to plan my own adventure next year...maybe to Thailand? Go watch this series...seriously.

My next trip will be heading to Los Angeles at the end of the month. Not quite a “travel adventure” since I lived there previously for years, but this specific trip is a very momentous occasion, as my sister is getting married and I am her maid of honor! This is my first bridesmaid experience (let alone being the MOH!) so I know nothing about this kind of stuff, or what I am supposed to do – I’m definitely treading into new territory! My adventure continues!!!!!

With good friends Pat Cole, Paul Mikschl and Phillip Spaeth

With Lissa Kassay and John Boag in Brooklyn

At the American Museum of Natural History