I’m glad you enjoyed the post, Jan!
Angela Laurier’s passing is such a sad loss; she was bringing so much depth to her performances.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and your connection to Cirque!

Thank you so much, Alexa! I really appreciate your kind words.
I had no idea you worked in the service industry, but then you know firsthand how tough it can be.

I’m glad you connected with Angela Laurier’s story too. Yeah, no matter how magical the performance might seem, there can be so much struggle beneath the surface. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and for connecting over both sides of the story!

Thank you so much, Alan.
I’m truly grateful that the article resonated with you.
It’s always difficult to grasp the pain someone must feel to make such a decision, and it leaves us with so many emotions — sadness, confusion, and a strong reminder of how important mental health is. I’m glad if this piece could spark some reflection.
Your kind words mean a lot, and I really appreciate the well wishes. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!

Thanks for sharing your story, Michael!

Restaurant work can definitely be fun! There are entertaining moments that lift up the spirit, and also many to learn from.

But I almost envy those 8-hour shifts you had. Waiter’s standard overhere during the season is more like 50-60 hours a week, or even more, if one has to work every day. So tourist season practically forces you to have a vacation afterwards (if not a sick leave!).

But yeah, in your case, working any number of shifts while juggling studies could not have been a recipe for a great success. It’s understandable you couldn’t give the best of your game. But you survived to tell it all!

Thanks again for sharing your experience!

Thank you so much, Kelly.

It’s definitely a sad story, and I appreciate your kind words about how I shared it.

Restaurant work has its own unique set of challenges and, in current circumstances, it felt like the right time to step away.
I really wanted to be around important people who were going through difficult periods (more difficult than my, for sure), and I haven’t seen them for some time.
So walking away felt better. Which doesn’t mean I won’t come back when the time comes 😉

Thanks again for your comment!

Thank you, Heather.

It truly is heartbreaking when we lose so thought-provoking artists. Despite the pressures in the performing world, I think that here it were other, off-stage inner battles that made this exit feel like the only option.

And yes, despite the heavy topic, the sheer talent of performers like Angela is awe-inspiring.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and connecting on both sides of this conversation.