Thursday Reflections: October 16, 2025

"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars."
– Oscar Wilde, Lady Windermere’s Fan

Today we honor a constellation of creativity — Oscar Wilde (born 1854), Angela Lansbury (born 1925), and Eugene O’Neill, whose words and artistry still echo through every theater that dares to explore the human heart. On this date in 1923, The Walt Disney Company was founded, shaping the imagination of generations. And in 1970, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber released the Jesus Christ Superstar concept album, rewriting what a rock opera could be.

It’s also Conflict Resolution Day, a reminder that progress begins when we choose listening over shouting, compassion over ego. And on Spirit Day, we stand in solidarity with LGBTQ youth — wearing purple, raising awareness, and choosing kindness over cruelty. Brittany McMillan began Spirit Day in 2010 to remember the lives lost to bullying and to build a culture where every young person knows they belong.

Ask yourself: What book made a difference in your life? Was it one that helped you see yourself more clearly or introduced you to a world you didn’t know existed? Share that book with the third name in your address book — tell them why it mattered, and invite them to share one of their own. Real connection begins with simple exchanges like this.

The word of the day is Uniqueness. Every person you meet carries a story that only they could tell. Today, celebrate the parts of yourself that don’t fit neatly into anyone else’s box. Your originality is your legacy.

Reserve your seats for Richard Skipper Celebrates on Friday, November 21st at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com, search Richard Skipper Celebrates, and use code RSC2025! for a special discount. No two shows are ever the same — and you never know who might show up or what might happen.

Reach out to someone you admire — a mentor, a former teacher, or an artist who’s inspired you — and thank them. A simple note of gratitude can spark an unexpected opportunity, conversation, or collaboration.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY

Tuesday Reflections: October 15, 2025

"A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both." — Dwight D. Eisenhower

Today is International Face Your Fears Day, Own Business Day, and World Standards Day — all reminders that courage and consistency are the twin engines of progress. On this day in 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was laid, establishing a foundation for leadership and legacy. And in 1975, Charlie Rich famously protested John Denver’s CMA win — an act that still sparks conversation about change, ego, and evolution in the arts.

Here’s your reflection: When was the last time the first name in your address book surprised you?
Surprise them today with a phone call — not a text, not a comment — a real conversation. Ask them: What was the greatest party we ever experienced together? Relive that moment and see how it reconnects you both to joy and spontaneity. Let me know how it goes!

The word of the day is Understanding — the bridge between perception and compassion. Seek to understand more deeply than you explain.

If you haven’t already, reserve your seats for Richard Skipper Celebrates on Friday, November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Visit RichardSkipper.com and click the banner for tickets.

Think about the person who first made you feel seen in your craft or calling. Reach out to thank them this week — whether they’re still in your life or just in your heart. Gratitude is the ultimate act of understanding.

Who or What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU Today?

Sunday Reflections
October 12, 2025

Freethought Day invites us to question with curiosity and act with courage. Alice Childress wrote, “Like snowflakes, the human pattern is never cast twice. We are uncommonly and marvelously intricate in thought and action, our problems are most complex and, too often, silently borne.” Let that be permission to honor your own design and give others the grace of being fully themselves.

Claim your power. Name one place you have been waiting for permission and give it to yourself. Take one small step that proves you trust your instincts.

Look at the eighth name in your address book. How do they make you feel? Call them today and tell them. Ask what they are famous for in your mind and share the answer. Let me know how it goes.

The word of the day is TRUST. Trust your craft by doing the reps. Trust your calendar by keeping one clear promise. Trust your relationships by saying what you mean and listening all the way through. Your actions are intentional and they bring you closer to your goals.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025 for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Start a Trust Tally. Each evening write one sentence about a moment you kept a promise to yourself or someone else. Three lines by week’s end will show you where momentum is building.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Friday Reflections
October 10, 2025

World Mental Health Day invites us to slow down, breathe, and name what keeps us steady. Take two minutes right now to visualize your passion project flourishing. Picture the room, the faces, the feeling when the lights come up and your work lands.

It is International Stage Management Day and Hug a Drummer Day—here’s to the heartbeat and the backbone of every great show. Powers of Ten Day reminds us to zoom out for perspective and zoom in for care. If there’s a Kevin in your life, it’s also Hug a Kevin Day, so give them a little extra love.

Arts and entertainment milestones: in 1935, Porgy and Bess premiered on Broadway and changed the American stage. Happy birthday to Helen Hayes, born in 1900, and to Harold Pinter, born in 1930, whose words still echo. Christopher Reeve said, “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.” Let that be your fuel today.

Spotlight to support the community: Singnasium’s Trailblazing Through the ’20s Gala is on the horizon—peek the details and consider cheering us on: https://singnasium.org/collections/classes/products/trailblazing-through-the-20s-gala-friends-of-singnasium-general-admission-copy

Call the sixth name in your address book and let them know they matter. Keep it simple and specific: one memory, one thank you, one way they’ve helped you carry the load. Tell me how it goes.

What’s something you did as a child that your parents retold time and time again. I would love to know—send a sentence or two. Those stories often point straight at our superpowers.

The word of the day is Success. Not trophies, but traction. Success is showing up with craft, consistency, and care. Define one result you can create by day’s end that moves your art forward one clear step.

Tune in live at 4 PM ET at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. I’m joined by five artists sharing their own stories of success in their art. Bring your questions, weigh in on today’s playful dilemma—would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button on your life—and join the chat.

Reserve your seat for Friday, November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Make a “Success Stack.” Each night this week, write three tiny wins from your day—a message sent, a rehearsal rep, a kind note, a minute of stillness. Small stacked wins build the momentum that makes bigger dreams feel inevitable.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

Wednesday Reflections
October 8, 2025

In This day in 1957, Jerry Lee Lewis recorded Great Balls of Fire in Memphis and the fuse he lit is still burning. Some art just refuses to sit quietly.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said you are the luckiest person in the world if you know what you really want to do, and even luckier if you can make a living from it. I am grateful for the yes that lets us do our work and share it.

Happy birthday to Sigourney Weaver born in 1949. Cats opened on Broadway in 1982 and changed what a musical could look and feel like. Big choices make big ripples.

It is National Hero Day and National Stop Bullying Day. Honor the helpers around you and be the person who steps in when unkindness shows up. A simple kind word can change the weather in a room.

Say yes to life. Say yes to being in a room where the arts are alive. Join us to see Judi Mark tonight at The Triad Theatre. Please join our party and bring someone who loves live performance.

Slow down and look around. Notice one sound, one face, and one small kindness you might have missed.

Call the fourth name in your address book. How do you define love between the two of you? What is the most exciting show you have shared? Have that conversation today and let me know how it goes.

The word of the day is tradition. Tradition is not a cage, it is a chorus. Keep the verses that still sing and write a new bridge where life has changed.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Start a Tradition Snapshot. Choose one small ritual you will repeat every show day this season a note of gratitude to a collaborator, a three minute warm up, a quick check in with a first time guest. Name it, do it, and let it anchor your art.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Tuesday Reflections
October 7, 2025

“They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night.” Edgar Allan Poe’s line invites us to bring our imagination into daylight and let it steer our choices, not just our fantasies. Mr. Poe passed on this day in 1849.

A shoutout for joy. Danny Gardner is opening Dancing With The Stars tonight as Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. May every step remind us that craft plus courage makes its own light.

What does success mean to you personally, not society’s version. Write three sentences in your own words, then capture it visually. Snap a photo, sketch a quick image, or build a tiny collage on your desk. Let your eyes see what your heart is saying.

Today’s observances are a gentle nudge toward kindness and care. National Flower Day, National Forgiveness and Happiness Day, National Fruit at Work Day, National Inner Beauty Day, and You Matter to Me Day. Offer a bloom, make amends, bring something bright to your workspace, praise the goodness you see, and say the words out loud: you matter to me.

Look at the third name in your address book. What havethey open in you that you didn’t know was closed? Call them and talk about it, then tell me how it goes. If you could share a favorite meal this week with them, what and where would it be? Extend the invitation today. Before you say goodbye, name their best habit and let them know you see it.

The word of the day is thrift. Thrift is not stinginess; it is stewardship in motion. Spend attention where it counts. Reuse a good idea in a new way. Save time by finishing one important thing before you start three others.

Reserve your seat for Friday, November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Make a Thrift List. Write five resources you already have that can move your art forward right now: a contact, a clip, a room, a story, a skill. Use one today and set the next in motion for tomorrow.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

Saturday Reflections October 4 2025

“Being an intellectual creates a lot of questions and no answers.” Janis Joplin’s line makes me smile because it nudges us to stop overthinking and start doing. Action clarifies. Today is Digital Scrapbooking Day, the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, Improve Your Office Day, International Frugal Fun Day, International Toot Your Flute Day, and World Card Making Day. Pick any one and make a tiny celebration of it.

How is your life yours to design? Name one area where you want more intention and sketch a simple plan you can live with. Structure does not box you in, it gives your talent a home to grow in.

What is your most powerful and vivid memory with the ninth name in your address book? Call them today and reminisce about that moment. Let me know how it goes.

The word of the day is Structure. Give your day three anchors. A start time you honor. A single must do you complete before noon. A five minute reset at dusk to choose tomorrow’s first step.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Build a Memory Shelf. Pick five small objects or photos that remind you who you are at your best. Place them where you begin your day so your structure starts with meaning.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?

How can I celebrate YOU today?

Friday Reflections October 3 2025

The Guinness Book of Records debuted on this day in 1955 and The Dick Van Dyke Show premiered in 1961. We celebrate Chubby Checker born in 1941 and Gwen Stefani born in 1969 and we tip a hat to Ashlee Simpson. In 1863 Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day and the holiday has been observed every year since. Let all of this be a nudge to notice what endures and what still feels fresh.

Today brings Kids Music Day, National Boyfriend Day, National Diversity Day, National Family TV Show Day, Look at the Leaves Day, and World Smile Day. Let music be playful, love be kind, families be seen, differences be honored, leaves be admired, and smiles be shared.

What would happen if you wrote down the story of the eighth name in your address book today? Do they lift you up or tear you down. How did you meet them? What life event can you not wait to tell them? Call them and have a real conversation and then tell me how it goes.

The phrase of the day is Service to others. At 4 PM I will host a live podcast celebrating five artists who serve others through their art. Tune in live with your own questions comments and suggestions and add your voice to the room.

Please reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Click the banner at RichardSkipper.com or visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

Start a Service Snapshot. Each day capture one sentence about a small way you helped someone or someone helped you. At the end of the week read them aloud and notice how service changes the tone of everything else.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today? 
How can I celebrate You Today?

Thursday Reflections October 2 2025

The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. Mahatma Gandhi invites us to practice the kind of strength that mends what can be mended and releases what cannot.

On this day in 1985, Rock Hudson passed on due to AIDS. His loss helped the world see the human face of a crisis and pushed more people toward compassion and action. Let remembrance move us to care for one another with clarity and courage.

We honor Gandhi, born on this day in 1869, designer Donna Karan born in 1948, and Thurgood Marshall sworn in as the first Black Supreme Court justice in 1967. Craft, conviction, and courage show up in many forms. Each reminds us that lives of purpose leave markers the rest of us can follow.

Today is Audiophile Day and Guardian Angels Day. It is also Yom Kippur, a day of reflection and atonement. If you are observing, may your fast be meaningful and your heart feel light by nightfall. If you are not, you can still join the spirit of the day with a sincere apology, a quiet walk, or a promise to do better where it counts.

What would happen if you wrote down the story of the seventh name in your address book? Call that person today and have a real conversation. Ask when and how you met. Ask about the first music or show you shared. Listen for the moment that still sparkles and tell me how it goes.

The word of the day is stewardship. Stewardship is taking loving responsibility for what is in your care, from relationships to rituals to neighborhoods. Choose one thing to tend today. Send a thank you, set a boundary, fix a small problem, or make a space more welcoming. Small acts done with care add up to a life you can trust.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today? 
How can I celebrate You Today?

Wednesday Reflections October 1st, 2025

Julie Andrews reminds us to work hard, apply ourselves, and be ready so when opportunity floats by we can grab it with both hands. That feels right today.

It is my 13th wedding anniversary and my heart is full. I am grateful for the love, the lessons, and the laughter that keep showing up.

We celebrate Jimmy Carter born in 1924 and Dame Julie Andrews born in 1935. Walt Disney World opened in 1971. Johnny Carson took over The Tonight Show in 1962 and changed late night forever. It is CD Player Day, International Day of Older Persons, International Music Day, Less Than Perfect Day, and National Book It Day. Let each be a small nudge toward curiosity, care, and play.

What is the fastest way you find calm? A slow breath, a step outside, a voice that steadies you. Look at the sixth name in your address book. If this person helps you find calm, call them today and have a real conversation. If not, you might make space by removing the contact and moving on. Tell me how it goes. Have you ever attended a show together? Plan one today and give yourselves a date to look forward to.

In what way was your childhood happier than others. Name a moment that still shines and share that story with someone you trust. Let the memory remind you who you are at your best.

The word of the day is status. Not follower counts or fancy rooms, but where you stand with yourself. Hold your head up. Be generous. Keep your promises. That is real status.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Tickets are at thebeechman.com, search Richard Skipper Celebrates.

Make an Opportunity Shelf. Write down two small chances sitting right under your nose and take the tiniest step on one of them before noon. Being ready is a practice, and today is a good day to practice.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Tuesday Reflections September 30th, 2025

The first volume of Little Women arrived in 1868 and still reminds us that courage can look like everyday kindness and steady work. Happy birthday to Sondra Lee whose spark continues to light stages and hearts. We also tip our hat to Truman Capote, born in 1924, who believed that art made to deepen understanding between people is an act of faith and an act of love.

Today brings Ask a Stupid Question Day, International Podcast Day, and National Love People Day. Let curiosity lead. Ask the simple question. Share a kind word. Record a short voice note if you feel brave. Small moves build real connection.

Do you know how to say yes? Look at the seventh name in your address book and say yes to a real conversation today. Invite them into your world and listen for what they are saying yes to as well. Tell me how it goes.

What is one thing you did that you wish you could do again? Name what you learned and bring that lesson into the next choice you make today.

The word of the day is stability. Choose one small habit that keeps you steady and do it before noon. A ten minute walk. A glass of water for every cup of coffee. A thank you to someone who made your week easier. Stability grows from simple promises kept.

Please reserve your seat(s) for Friday November 21 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Tickets are at thebeechman.com search Richard Skipper Celebrates.

Make a Yes Map. Write down one person you want to collaborate with, one room you want to play, and one small step you will take this week to move closer. Keep it simple and keep it visible.

Who or What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU Today?

Monday Reflections September 29

Broadway Musicals Day feels like the perfect moment to step off the worn path and try something bold. John D Rockefeller believed real success comes from striking out on new paths. Your presence is your power. Show up for what matters and let the next step teach you the rest.

Happy birthday to Madeline Kahn whose fearless wit still lights the stage. Blessings on Archangel Michael Day and Confucius Day. It is also National Coffee Day and a tip of the hat to Gene Autry born in Texas in 1907 whose songs carried heart and grit in equal measure.

What one thing would you like to learn more about with the sixth name in your address book? Call them today and have a conversation. Ask what they are learning now and share one small thing you are curious about. Let me know how it goes.

What is one daily action you can take to elevate your mental health and your physical fitness? Consider a brisk ten minute walk between tasks and a glass of water with every cup of coffee. Small choices compound into steady wellbeing.

The word of the day is Sportsmanship. Bring fairness generosity and respect to every room you enter. Cheer others on. Own your part. Leave things better than you found them.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Go to RichardSkipper.com and click the banner to reserve. You can also visit thebeechman.com and search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Invite one friend who loves live performance because no two shows are the same and you never know who might show up and what might happen.

 Coffee and a cast album. Each morning play one number from a favorite show while you sip your coffee and set your intention. Let the music set your pace and your purpose.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY

Sunday Reflections National Good Neighbor Day September 26, 2025

Today is National Good Neighbor Day, a gentle reminder that community begins one doorstep at a time. We also tip our hat to Ed Sullivan, born in 1901, whose stage introduced so many artists to living rooms across America.

What is grace to you? Is it patience under pressure, a kind word at the right moment, or the choice to forgive and move forward. Pick one small expression of grace you can offer before the day ends.

Look at the fifth name in your address book. Do they share that spirit with you. If yes, call them today and have a real conversation. If not, a deletion may be in order if the connection no longer serves your future. Let me know how it goes.

What have you bought that you love so much you would happily buy it again? Name the reason it delights you and look for that same quality in the next choice you make today.

The word of the day is spirituality. Let your daily choices reflect your inner compass in simple ways. Breathe, act with care, and let your schedule match your values.

Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Tickets and details are at thebeechman.com search Richard Skipper Celebrates.

One new talking point for the week ahead. Start a Good Neighbor List. Write the names of three people on your block or in your building and one small thing you can do for each this week. A hello at the mailbox, a shared recommendation, an invitation to coffee. Small steps build real community.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate You Today?

Saturday Reflections September 27, 2025

Babe Didrikson Zaharias reminds us that practice can be the most pleasant recreation ever devised. Treat the work as play and let joy do some of the lifting.
Today we honor Ancestor Appreciation Day, Morning Show Hosts Day, National Day of Forgiveness, READ in America Day, and Save Your Photos Day. Give thanks for those who came before you, forgive what is ready to be released, read something that lifts you, and save one photo that tells a true story you want to remember.
The word of the day is simplicity. Do one thing fully and let the rest wait. Clear a small space, choose a single step, and finish it with care.
What is your next right step. Call the fourth name in your address book and have a conversation. Ask how they are, share one bright memory, and listen without rushing. Let me know how it goes.
Your call to action for today builds on our recent work. Reserve your seat for Friday November 21 at 7 pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Tickets are at thebeechman.com search Richard Skipper Celebrates. Then post a two sentence invite on LinkedIn that names the show and the code and ask the 4th name in your address book to join you. You never know who might show up and what might happen.
Start a Practice as Play log. Each day write one sentence about how you turned a necessary task into something simple and enjoyable. Notice how often progress follows delight.
Who or What Are You Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate You Today

Friday Reflections

Create a foundation of success that feels sustainable and secure. Let today be a calm reset that favors steady action over hurry.

Television changed politics when Kennedy and Nixon faced off in the first televised presidential debate in 1960. T S Eliot was born in 1888 and taught us that imagination and discipline can live in the same line. West Side Story opened on Broadway in 1957. The Brady Bunch premiered in 1969. The Rocky Horror Picture Show hit U S theaters in 1975. The Beatles released Abbey Road in 1969 and reminded us how craft and collaboration carry a legacy forward.

Albert Einstein reminded us that life is like riding a bicycle and to keep your balance you must keep moving. Take a small forward step and let momentum do some of the work.

Today also brings Love Note Day and National Situational Awareness Day. Send a simple note of appreciation and pay closer attention to the room you are in, the people beside you, and the choices that keep you centered.

The phrase of the day is Self Discipline. Choose one promise you can keep even on your worst day and keep it before noon. That is how a foundation gets stronger.

Look at the third name in your address book. Ask whether this person triggers you. If the answer is yes and the relationship is not healthy, remove the contact and wish them well in your heart. If the answer is no, call today and have a conversation. Tell them about the best time you ever shared and listen for their memory. Let me know how it goes.

Tune in to RichardSkipperCelebrates today at 4 PM. I will celebrate five artists and how they create using self discipline. Join the conversation!

Create a Minimum Daily Standard for your art and your outreach. Name the smallest action that still counts, do it every day for seven days, and notice how much more stable your momentum feels.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate You Today

Thursday Reflections World Dream Day

Today is World Dream Day and I invite you to give your imagination some room. Let yourself picture the life you want and take one small step toward it before the day ends.

What a joy to share this note from Elana Polin after a recent night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. She wrote that seeing and hearing Richard Skipper was a joy, that he is a terrific storyteller and an overall wonderful human being, and that he makes this world a better place especially now when it so sorely needs to be. Elana Polin www.elanapolin.com

In 1970 The Partridge Family premiered on ABC. Christopher Reeve reminded us that a hero can be an ordinary person who finds the strength to persevere in spite of overwhelming obstacles. In 1957 the Little Rock Nine integrated Central High School in Arkansas and showed the courage it takes to move a nation forward. We also honor Barbara Walters born in 1929 whose groundbreaking interviews reshaped broadcast journalism and opened doors for so many. Today is also National One Hit Wonder Day, World Maritime Day (remember I am your Skipper!), National Open the Magic Day, and National Tune Up Day.

The word of the day is serenity. Serenity is the quiet strength that lets you choose your response. Take three slow breaths before you reply to anything important today and notice what changes.

Where would you most like to go in this world. Call the second name in your address book and ask them to join you on a future visit. Share a short list of positive moments you will never forget from your time together and listen for theirs. Let me know how it goes.

Reserve today for the November 21 show at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Use code RSC2025! for a discount. Tickets and details are at thebeechman.com search Richard Skipper Celebrates. More information is at RichardSkipper.com

 Start a Dream Itinerary. Write one place you want to visit, one person you want to invite, and one tiny step you will take this week to make it real.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY

Wednesday Reflections

The first Supreme Court was established in 1789 and the first episode of 60 Minutes aired in 1968, reminders that sturdy institutions are built one clear choice at a time. Author F Scott Fitzgerald was born in 1896 and Muppets creator Jim Henson in 1936. Jim Henson urged us to follow our enthusiasm, find the parts of life we enjoy most, and do what we enjoy doing. Today is a day to dream and to move one small step toward what you love.

From my guestbook at RichardSkipper.com a note from Donna Miele at The Sparkle Bookstore reads Richard thank you for appearing to interview Marcy Axelrod on her book How We Choose to Show Up. Your warm enthusiastic presence took the event a step above the usual. We had a great time and a stimulating discussion. Wish you could come in and interview every author. Find them at sparklebooks.store

It is National Bluebird of Happiness Day which feels like a nudge to notice what is bright and simple and already here.

What is the kindest thing you have done for the first name in your address book. Call them today and have a conversation and let me know how it goes. What parts of yourself are you too afraid to express and share. Choose one that is ready to be seen and give it a safe first outing before the day ends.

The phrase of the day is self respect. Self respect is the fit between your values and your behavior. Keep one promise to yourself before noon and tell someone you trust what you chose.

For the week ahead L The Bluebird Practice. When you notice a bluebird moment of unexpected joy pause for one breath, say thank you out loud, and write one sentence about what made it possible so you can repeat it.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate You Today

Tuesday Reflections Today Is a Day to Dream

The Prophet by Lebanese American poet philosopher Kahlil Gibran was published and it still whispers courage to anyone standing at a crossroads. In 1969 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid premiered in New York and reminded us that wit and wildness can live side by side. Musician Ray Charles was born in 1930 and his truth still guides the artist in all of us. “Soul is when you take a song and make it a part of you, a part that is so true, so real, people think it must have happened to you.”

Innergize Day arrives the day after the start of fall. It was founded by Michelle Porchia to help anyone who says they do not have time to care for themselves. Treat it as permission to pause, play, and restore. Think fun and games and honest self improvement and self care. Use the tag if you like, #InnergizeDay, and give yourself at least twenty minutes that belong only to you.

Rosh Hashanah takes place on the first day of Tishri, the seventh month in the Hebrew religious calendar. To all my Jewish friends, Shana Tova and happy new year.

The phrase of the day is self reliance. Ask yourself what is sacred to you right now and protect it with your schedule, your attention, and your actions. Notice how often you say I am sorry when you have done nothing wrong and practice replacing reflex apology with clear respect. Name two personal rules you refuse to break and keep them today.

When was the last time you spoke with the ninth name in your address book. Either call them today or delete the contact. Make all of your contacts worthwhile and tell me how it goes.

Start a Dream Lab by setting a daily five minute appointment with yourself to capture one idea you will test before the day ends. The point is not to be right, the point is to be alive and learning.

Check out upcoming events at https://www.RichardSkipper.com

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY

Monday Reflections Hello Autumn

Yogi Berra liked to say that when you come to a fork in the road, take it. The grin hides real wisdom. Choice is movement, and movement is life. If a door is open even a little today, walk through and learn on the way.

On this date in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, a reminder that words backed by action can reset the moral course of a nation. We are also marking Dear Diary Day, National Online Recovery Day, International Day of Radiant Peace, and Family Day. To all my Jewish friends, Shana Tova and happy new year as you celebrate Rosh Hashana.

The phrase of the day is Self Expression. Say the thing that honors your values and your relationships, and say it in a way that someone else can receive. What is sacred to you right now. Name it, protect it, and give it room to breathe. Call the eighth name in your address book and have a conversation. Get something off your chest in a loving way. Let me know how it goes.

Confirm your voter registration and invite one friend to do the same. Thank someone who lifted you this week and tell them exactly how. Finally, share the November 21st Laurie Beechman Theatre link with eight people who love live performance because no two shows are the same. https://www.showclix.com/event/lbt25-rskipper-CelebratesNov2025

Start a Fork In The Road Journal and each day capture one choice you made that moved you from talk to action, what you learned, and what you will try next.

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today. How can I celebrate You Today?

Sunday Reflections Goodbye Summer

International Day of Peace and National Neighborhood Day arrive alongside Pause the World Day and World Gratitude Day as the season turns. Peace begins small at the scale of a single breath a single block a single thank you, and gratitude steadies us when the calendar accelerates.

In 1985 George Clooney made his Facts of Life debut. We also honor imagination and courage with H G Wells born in 1866, the publication of The Hobbit in 1937, Bill Murray born in 1950, and the 1981 confirmation of Sandra Day O Connor as the first woman on the United States Supreme Court.

Eleanor Roosevelt reminded us that it is not enough to talk about peace and it is not enough to believe in peace, we must work at it.

The word of the day is Security. Real security is the fit between your values and your behavior. Choose one small habit to carry for the next thirty days that builds calm strength in your life. It could be a two minute daily gratitude note, a ten minute responsibility sprint to close an open loop, or a weekly check in with a collaborator you rely on.

Who do you need to forgive? Call the seventh name in your address book today and have a conversation. Ask how they are, share the best thing about them that still lives in you, and listen without rushing. Let me know how it goes.

Confirm your voter registration and invite one friend to do the same.  Share the November twenty first Laurie Beechman Theatre link:  https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-CelebratesNov2025 with eight people who love live performance because no two shows are the same. Thank one person who supported you this week and tell them exactly how it helped.

Create a Security Circle by inviting two neighbors to a short doorstep or phone check in before next Sunday and have each person name one small action to strengthen peace on the block, then report back in a week.

More about  my shows and upcoming events are on RichardSkipper.com

Who or What Are You Celebrating Today. How can I celebrate You Today?

Saturday Reflections

In 2011, the policy known as Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was repealed. That change did not just alter military rules. It affirmed dignity and truth telling as daily practices.

Reputation is what others think about you. What is far more important is character, because that is what you think about yourself.
Billie Jean King

Actress Sophia Loren was born in 1934. She reminds us that grace and grit can grow together for a lifetime.

Here is a quote from President Theodore Roosevelt that feels urgent today:
TO ANNOUNCE THAT THERE MUST BE NO CRITICISM OF THE PRESIDENT, OR THAT WE ARE TO STAND BY THE PRESIDENT, RIGHT OR WRONG, IS NOT ONLY UNPATRIOTIC AND SERVILE, BUT IS MORALLY TREASONABLE TO THE AMERICAN PUBLIC.

Phrase of the day: Risk Taking
Choose one place where you have been careful for too long. Name a single small risk you can take today that would honor your values. Take the first step and write down what you learned.

Locate an old friend Day
Call the sixth name in your address book. Ask how they are, tell them the best thing about them you still carry with you, and listen. Let me know how it goes.

Are your actions aligned with your intention today? If not, adjust the next hour, not the whole week.

Join me in Sparkill at 5 PM at Sparkill Bookstore as I celebrate Marcy Axelrod and How We Choose To Show Up. Bring someone you want to reconnect with and make tonight your first step toward repair.

Start a risk ledger for the next seven days. Each day record one meaningful risk you took, why you took it, and one sentence on what it taught you. Bring your favorite entry to our next conversation.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Hello,

Friday Reflections

“Being young isn’t about age; it’s about being a free spirit.” — Lesley “Twiggy” Lawson

Today we celebrate British cultural icon Twiggy (born 1949) and late-night dynamo Jimmy Fallon (born 1974). Birthdays are reminders to keep our sense of play alive, to try something new, and to give ourselves permission to evolve.

On speaking plainly

Kirk’s death is a tragedy on many levels. But there is no denying he was a hate monger and far from a saint. I said when he passed that this was bad for a myriad of reasons beyond the obvious. Who runs Sinclair? He has a right to run a tribute to Kirk. I also have the right to watch Kimmel and should not be dictated to by any media corporation. Every artist should be outraged by the actions of the President. If licenses can be revoked because the President does not like something, his presidency can be revoked because we do not want him. VOTE.

What is saving your life right now?

Is it discipline, friendship, music, or a simple daily walk? Could it be the fifth name in your address book? Call them today and have a conversation. Be specific. Give them the credit they deserve.

Word of the Day: PRIDE

Pride in our artistic freedom means we keep creating even when it is inconvenient, unpopular, or misunderstood. It means telling the truth with the tools we have and inviting others to do the same.

Join me live today at 6 PM

Please join Richard Skipper Celebrates today at a special time, 6 PM. I will be joined by five artists who have a lot to be proud of in their work. Tune in live at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com and please share with a friend or two.

• Confirm your voter registration and invite one friend to do the same today.

• Repair a relationship you have put off. Make the first move with a short call.

• Share this weekend’s Sparkle Bookstore event with at least five people.

• start a Pride In Your Art list. Write down three moments from this week when you showed up with integrity. Bring one of them to the live at 6 PM and share in the chat.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Hello,

Thursday Reflections

“One lives not just for oneself but for one’s community.” — Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Conference of Chief Justices
On this date in 1793, George Washington laid the first cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol—an act of building that was as symbolic as it was literal: a foundation for disagreements conducted within a shared house. U.S. Senate

In 1851, The New-York Daily Times (now The New York Times) was founded, underscoring how a free press helps communities examine themselves in public. Roper Center

And on September 18, 1974, Doris Day won a $22.8 million malpractice suit against her former lawyer—a reminder that agency and accountability can reclaim a life’s narrative. HISTORY
Questions for the day
What narrative are you willing to question—even if it changes everything?
How do you view success? Call the 4th name in your address book and discuss it for five focused minutes.
What does being strong mean to you—today, not in theory?
National Respect Day
Respect is where responsibility begins. Take one small, observable action that shows respect to someone in your orbit—then note what it changed in you. National Today
Word of the Day: responsibility
Name it: Write down one commitment you’ve avoided.
Right-size it: Reduce it to a 20-minute first step.
Report it: Tell one person you trust that you started.
Civic check: If you haven’t yet, confirm your voter registration and invite one friend to do the same.
Repair & show up: Personally invite one person you want to reconnect with to Saturday’s conversation with Marcy Axelrod at The Sparkle Bookstore (5–6:30 PM, Sparkill). Make the evening your first step back to each other.
Start a “Responsibility Sprint”—one 20-minute block each morning to close a loop you’ve left open. Track your streak for seven days and tell me what shifted.
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Hello,

Wednesday Reflections

In 1983, Vanessa Williams became the first Black Miss America—an historic milestone that continues to echo in conversations about representation and grace under pressure. In 1996, Oprah launched her book club and changed the way a nation reads, discusses, and discovers authors. The Rockettes mark a century at Radio City in 2025, a reminder that discipline plus joy can sustain an institution for generations. Today also holds two powerful touchstones: in 1849, Harriet Tubman took the first courageous step toward freedom, and in 1931, Anne Bancroft was born—an artist who taught us as much about restraint as about fire.

Time’s Up Day

Time’s Up Day asks us to stop waiting and start repairing. Tomorrow someone may be gone and it will be too late. If there’s a rift you’ve let linger, let today be the day you reach out with humility and heart. You don’t have to solve it all—just open the door.

Word of the Day: RESPECT

• Self-respect: Keep one promise to yourself before noon.

• Respect for others: Listen without preparing your reply.

• Respect for time: Put a start and end on the task you’ve been avoiding, then begin.

Two Reflection Questions

• Does that person you’re thinking about truly fit into your life as it is—and as you want it to be?

• Where are you placing blame unnecessarily for something that happened in your life? What happens if you replace blame with responsibility for the next step only?

Action Prompt

• Gratitude call: Find the third name in your address book and tell them what they mean to you. Be specific. Let them talk.

1. If you didn’t do it yesterday, confirm your voter registration—then encourage one friend to do the same.

2.  Join us this Saturday, 5–6:30 PM at The Sparkle Bookstore (Sparkill, NY) for How You Choose to Show Up—my conversation with award-winning author Marcy Axelrod about practical ways to “show up” with clarity and ease. Bring someone you want to reconnect with; make the evening your first step toward repair.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

Hello, friends—

Tuesday Reflections

Happy Birthday, George Chakiris—forever our electrifying Bernardo from West Side Story. And today, we also mourn the loss of Robert Redford. What a life of artistry, activism, and generosity he shared with us—from Butch Cassidy and All the President’s Men to founding Sundance and championing generations of independent filmmakers. His impact will keep rippling through everything we make and watch.

On this date in 1977, the incomparable Maria Callas took her final bow. Her recordings remain a masterclass in risk, rigor, and emotional truth. And further back, in 1620, the Mayflower left England, carrying a complicated mix of hope and consequence that continues to shape our national story.

Birthdays today also include Lauren Bacall (1924) and B.B. King (1925)—and with the latter’s wisdom in mind: “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” Let’s let that line set our tempo.

Word of the Day: resourcefulness

When plans shift, resourcefulness is the bridge between intention and action. Try this:

• Identify one constraint you’re facing today. Name it plainly.

• List three ways to work around it using tools you already have.

• Take the smallest next step—then note what it taught you.

Action prompts

• Gratitude call: What is the most thoughtful thing the second person in your emails has ever said about you? Call them and thank them—specifically and briefly.

• Say-Yes audit: Take a moment to get clear on the future you’re saying “yes” to with your actions. Write down three current habits and the futures they’re building.

Civic note: National Voter Registration Day

Today is National Voter Registration Day. Take two minutes to confirm your registration or update your address. A quick check today saves stress tomorrow. Nonprofit VOTE+1

1. Check your voter registration right now.

2. Share a story: Tell me your favorite Redford performance or Callas aria—and what it taught you.

3. Start a personal “Resourcefulness Kit.” Include three go-to items you can reach for when things go sideways—an index card stack for rapid planning, a 10-minute focus timer, and a short gratitude script for reconnecting with collaborators.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?

—Richard

Monday Reflections: Someday Is Here

“The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.”
— Muhammad Ali

Today, trade “someday” for “today.” Paint one wall. Make one call. Start one habit you’ve promised yourself.

On this day in arts & culture

• 1890 — Agatha Christie is born.

• 1954 — Marilyn Monroe’s famous “skirt” scene is filmed.

• 1955 — Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita is published.

• 1959 — Bobby Darin releases “Mack The Knife.”

• 1962 — The Four Seasons earn their first #1 with “Sherry.”

• 1997 — Google.com is registered (Happy Google.com Day).

Observances

International Day of Democracy • National Online Learning Day • National Thank You Day

Try a three-step celebration: learn one new thing, thank one person by name, and act on one value you’d vote for in your daily life.

Two prompts for your morning pages

• In what ways are you waiting for your “real life” to begin?

• What single action would prove—today—that it already has?

Make the call

Call the 1st name in your emails and have a real conversation today. Ask how they are, share one update, and make a clear plan together.

Start a journaling practice

Five minutes, same chair, same time. Use it to notice what you feel, not just what you did. Reliability begins with telling the truth to yourself.

Word of the day: Reliability

Keep one promise you’ve been postponing. Then tell someone you kept it. Repeat tomorrow.

Save your seat for my return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Fri, Nov 21 at 7 PM: Richard Skipper Celebrates! Stories, Songs, Surprises… And So Much More!
Reserve today and use code RSC2025! for savings. If you’ve seen the show, please add your thoughts to my Guestbook at RichardSkipper dot com—it truly helps the work find its next home AND audience!

The Someday Audit: list five “someday” items you’ve carried for a year. Circle one. Do a 15-minute starter step before noon—and report back.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

 

Saturday Reflections: Roses Through Concrete

“Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else even cared.”
— Tupac Shakur

Some days are built for grit and grace. If you’re pushing up through concrete, let this be the day you notice how far you’ve come—and who helped you get here.

On this day

• Actor/producer Tyler Perry was born (1969).

Today’s observances (pick one to honor)

• Fortune Cookie Day — Write your own fortune in ten words.

• National Defy Superstition Day — Do the helpful thing, not the fearful thing.

• Positive Thinking Day — Replace one doom-thought with one do-thought.

• Programmers’ Day — Thank the person who keeps your tech humming.

• Roald Dahl Day — Read a page aloud to someone you love.

• Supernatural Day — Trust the unexplainable nudge that says “begin.”

Two prompts for your journal

• What is the most powerful word—and why? Choose one to steer today.

• What’s the one thing you just can’t let go? Name what would need to happen for you to release it forever.

Word of the day: Recognition

Call the 8th name in your address book today simply to acknowledge them. Be specific about one way they’ve lifted you. Let me know how it goes.

Right now

Today is a good day to streamline how you move: one small system, made simpler—your calendar blocks, your notes, your pre-show routine.

• This Tuesday, Sept 16 at 7 PM — Join me for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers.” Bring a friend who needs a lift and ask to be seated at my table so we can cheer together.

• Nov 1 — Be in the room at Kings Theatre for the CLUE 40th Anniversary conversation I’ll host with Lesley Ann Warren after the screening.

• Nov 21 at 7 PM — My return to the Laurie Beechman Theatre: Richard Skipper Celebrates! Stories, Songs, Surprises… And So Much More!
  Have you signed my Guestbook at RichardSkipper .com? Your thoughts about your experience help the work find its next home.

Recognition Ripple: name one “rose through concrete” in your life—a person or venue that bloomed against the odds—and tell their story in three sentences. Share it; let the ripple travel.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Friday Reflections: The Best Within Us

“The road to the Olympics leads—in the end—to the best within us.”
— Jesse Owens

Don’t lose sight of how far you’ve already come. Take one deliberate step today that your future self will thank you for.

On This Day
• 1609 — Henry Hudson begins exploring the river that will bear his name.
• 1944 — Singer Barry White is born.

Days to Notice
• National Day of Encouragement — Send one specific, earned compliment to the 7th name in your address book.
• National Hug and High Five Day — Offer the human version (or a note) with consent.
• National Just One Human Family Day — Do something that shrinks a distance.

Question of the Day
What risk paid off for you this week? Name it, and note what you learned.

Make the Call
Call the 7th name in your address book and share that win. Ask how you can use your skills to empower them today. Let me know how it goes.

Word of the Day: Peace
We’ll explore how five artists find peace in their art on today’s live podcast.

CTA — Join Me Live (Today, 5 PM ET)
Watch at: RichardSkipperCelebrates.com
Theme: “Finding Peace in Our Art.” Bring one 60-second reset that calms you before a performance or meeting—we’ll build a listener toolkit.

Tickets — Next Live Show
Reserve for Nov 21 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre:
www.showclix.com/event/lbt25-rskipper-CelebratesNov2025

“Digital quiet”: What does respectful, phone-free presence look like in your creative spaces—and how do we invite it with grace?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Thursday Reflections: Don’t Lose Sight of How Far You’ve Come

Word of the day: Pride—the quiet kind you earn by showing up, learning, and doing the next right thing.

In 1971, Donny Osmond hit #1 with “Go Away Little Girl.” A reminder that one song, one moment, can define a season—yet every chart-topper is built on years of scales, rehearsals, and tries. Today, notice how far you’ve already traveled. Then take one deliberate step forward.

A day for service, memory, and clear eyes

“So many names, there is barely room on the walls of the heart.” — Billy Collins
We remember the coordinated attacks of 9/11—2,977 lives lost and more than 6,000 injured. It’s National Day of Service and Remembrance; do something useful in their honor. I’m also holding close the memory of my dear friend Gene Clark, gone 24 years today. I can only imagine what 24 more years would have added to our lives.

IN MEMORIAM
Polly Holliday—Flo from TV’s Alice and a Tony nominee for Cat on a Hot Tin Roof—has died at 88. May her work continue to ripple.

One act, one invitation

Do a single act of care, courage, or connection—big or small—share it, and invite the 8th person in your address book to do the same. Tell them why you chose them.

Right now

Right now is about clear-sighted thinking and improving efficiency. Choose one system to streamline: your inbox, your calendar, or your rehearsal notes. Give it 10 focused minutes.

Today’s observances (choose one to mark)

• I Want to Start My Own Business Day — Define the problem you’ll solve in one sentence.

• Libraries Remember Day — Return, renew, or donate a book; thank a librarian.

• Make Your Bed Day — Start with the corner you can actually fix.

• National No News Is Good News Day — Take one hour off the feed and do something human.

Three prompts to journal (or discuss on your call)

• How do you show up on a hard day?

• In what area of your life are you playing too small?

• How can you expand your comfort zone—today, by one inch?

Choose at least one of these before noon:

• Sept 16, 7 PM — Join me for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers”; ask to be seated at my table and bring a friend who needs a lift.

• Nov 1 — Be in the room at Kings Theatre for the CLUE 40th Anniversary; I’ll interview Lesley Ann Warren onstage after the screening.

• Nov 21, 7 PM — Save the date for my return to the Laurie Beechman Theatre: Richard Skipper Celebrates! Stories, Songs, Surprises… And So Much More!

• If you’ve seen my show, please sign my Guestbook with your thoughts about your experience; it truly helps the work find its next home.

Service Stories: Tell me about one person you served—or who served you—on a hard day. What changed because of that moment? I may share a few on the next show.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Wednesday Reflections: Plant the Seed, Share the Power

“Young people will have the seeds you bury in their minds, and when they grow up they will change the world.”
— Jack Ma

Would you win an Oscar for the way you live your life? Not for perfection—for choices. For what you amplify, what you protect, and who gets a seat at your table.

National Swap Ideas Day
Call the 5th name in your address book today and swap ideas. Ask: “What are you building this fall, and how can I help?” Offer one concrete thing. Receive one in return. Then set a ten-minute follow-up for next week.

What if…?
What if the next person you encourage becomes the reason a room fills? What if one brave sentence you say today is the seed someone else needed? What if your best move is simply to ask a better question?

Do they know the real you?
Tell one person who thinks they “know” you about this post—about the seeds you’re planting and the standard you’re aiming for. Ask them what they remember you doing when you’re most fully yourself.

Word of the day: Power
Power is attention, aimed with care. Use yours to lift a voice, credit a helper, or open a door. Three places to aim it today:

1. A younger artist who needs a nudge.

2. A peer who’s quietly doing excellent work.

3. A venue or program that makes room for discovery.

Journal cues (five minutes total)

• What seed was planted in you that still grows?

• What seed can you plant in someone else today?

• If the camera stayed on you between scenes, would your choices still win the award?

Reserve seats for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers” (Sept 16, 7 PM; ask to sit at my table), or pledge to be a Table Captain (bring 4–6 friends) for my Nov 21 return to the Laurie Beechman Theatre. One clear yes keeps the momentum real.

Seed Ledger: keep a simple list of three people you’re “planting into” this month—note one concrete action next to each name (introduction, resource, ticket, encouragement). Review it every Wednesday.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Tuesday Reflections: Build and Cherish

“It has always been easy to hate and destroy. To build and to cherish is much more difficult.”
— Queen Elizabeth II

On this day: in 1956, Elvis Presley made his first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. In 1939, audiences were surprised with an early preview of Gone with the Wind. Two reminders that bold debuts and unexpected reveals can change a season.

Care Bears Share Your Care Day and Wonderful Weirdos Day both nudge us toward kindness with a wink. Lift someone up in a way only you can.

Word of the day: Playfulness. Bring a lighter touch to one task you’ve been overthinking. Try a first take, not a perfect one.

How can you lift someone up? Call the 4th name in your address book today and tell them why they matter in your life. Be specific. Then listen.

Choose a new skill you’d like to master and spend ten minutes investigating how you’ll learn it. Name the resource and the first step, and put it on your calendar.

Stop questioning a past choice and focus instead on one you have no doubts about. Take a concrete step before dinner and let me know how it goes.

 Join me Tuesday, September 16 at 7 PM for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers” at 54 Below. Bring a friend who needs a lift and ask to be seated at my table so we can cheer together.

What’s a “first spark” performance that made you feel seen—onstage or in the audience—and why does it still echo today?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Monday Reflections: A Universe of Possibilities

Autumn is here. I’m choosing to believe, as a daily practice, I exist in a universe of possibilities—and so do you.

A small shift for today
Stop interrogating an old decision. Pick one choice you have no doubts about and take a step toward it before noon. Then tell me how it goes.

On this day in Arts & Entertainment

• 1504 — Michelangelo’s David is unveiled to the public.

• 1907 — Gertrude Stein meets Alice B. Toklas.

• 1966 — Star Trek premieres.

• 1986 — The Oprah Winfrey Show goes national.

• 1993 — The Joy Luck Club premieres.

• 2003 — Recording industry begins suing individual MP3 sharers.

“When you start a new trail equipped with courage, strength, and conviction, the only thing that can stop you is you.”
— Ruby Bridges

Today’s observances

• I’m on Top of It Day: Do a 10-minute “top-of-desk” sweep. One surface, fully reset.

• International Literacy Day: Read one chapter outside your comfort zone; share one idea with a friend.

• National Actors Day: Thank an entertainer who taught you something about truth.

Connection prompt
Is the 3rd name in your address book someone you’ve been avoiding? Reach out today and reconnect. Ask: What do I love most about them? Say it out loud.

Phrase of the day: Personal Fulfillment
Not a finish line—an everyday alignment. Do the next kind, useful thing that matches who you say you are.

CTA (pulling from the last three days)

• Sept 16: Join me for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers” at 7 PM; ask to sit near my table and bring a friend who needs a lift.

• Nov 1: Be in the room at Kings Theatre for the CLUE 40th Anniversary—I’ll interview Lesley Ann Warren onstage after the screening.

• Nov 21: Save the date—my return to the Laurie Beechman Theatre: Richard Skipper Celebrates! Stories, Songs, Surprises… And So Much More!
  And if you’ve seen my show, please sign my Guestbook with your thoughts about your experience; it truly helps the work find its next home.

Backstage Thank-You Project: Write a three-sentence note to a behind-the-scenes pro (musician, tech, box office, usher) who made your last night out possible. Send it today. It matters.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Sunday Reflections: 108 Shopping Days to Go

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”
— Frederick Douglass

It’s National Feel the Love Day and National Grandparents Day. I miss my grandparents every day—their steady hands, their stories, their unhurried time. If you can, honor a grandparent today. Read a page aloud in their name.

On this day

• 1936 — Rock ’n’ roll pioneer Buddy Holly is born.

• 1943 — Gloria Gaynor (“I Will Survive”) is born.

• 1968 — Protesters disrupt the Miss America Pageant, challenging what “ideal” should look like in public life.

Superhuman Day

No cape required. What did you not know how to do in January that you now know how to do? Name it. That’s proof you can learn the next thing too.

Two quick prompts

• What is your favorite quote—and why now?

• What’s the best advice you ever received? Write it in twelve words or fewer.

Make it communal

Call the 2nd name in your address book and ask them to help you with one challenge you’re facing. Let someone else be strong for you today; return the favor this week.

Word of the day: Perseverance

Perseverance is patience in motion—small, repeated steps in the direction you say matters. Choose one step you will take before dinner.

Reserve your seat for Avery Sommers’ “Showstoppers” on Sept 16 at 7 PM and ask to be seated near my table so we can cheer together. Bring a friend who needs a lift.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Saturday Reflections: Equal Respect, Real Action

“Civilization is a method of living, an attitude of equal respect for all men.”
— Jane Addams

Word of the day: Patriotism.
Not a slogan—an everyday practice. Hold the door, hear someone out, give credit by name. Small, steady courtesies are the bricks of a civil society.

Fight Procrastination Day
Pick one thing you’ve been avoiding and shrink it to five minutes. Set a timer, begin, and stop when it rings. Momentum beats perfection.

National Read a Book Day
Read one chapter outside your usual lane. Choose something that stretches your lens—craft, history, memoir, or a play. Then share one idea with a friend before dinner.

Two prompts
• What is your favorite quote—and why now?
• What’s the best advice you ever received? Write it in 12 words or fewer.

Make it communal
Call the 1st name in your address book and ask if they subscribe to my newsletter. Do YOU? Go to RichardSkipperCelebrates dot com and sign up; it will be waiting in your inbox Monday morning.

Join us live
We’ll be celebrating inspiration, artists, and community all week. Pick one of the artists featured next week—C. Stephen Foster, Avery Sommers (Sept 16 at 54 Below), or Goldie Dver (Crazy Coqs, London, Sept 8)—and choose an upcoming show to attend. Bring a friend who needs a lift.

Close the day
Name one act of respect you offered today. Then plan tomorrow’s five-minute start.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Friday Reflections: Inspiration In Our Art

Happy Birthday, Carol Lawrence!
A toast to a Broadway original. If you’d like a throwback read, here’s a piece I wrote about her years ago:
richardskipper.blogspot.com/2012/03/carol-lawrence.html

On This Day
• 1836 — Sam Houston is elected President of the Republic of Texas. Houston Alred, a direct descendant, was the FIRST to get me up to perform as Carol Channing at a piano bar in 1981. That one gesture changed the trajectory of my life.
• 1940 — Actress Raquel Welch is born.
• 1946 — Freddie Mercury is born.
“Success has brought me world idolization and millions of pounds. But it's prevented me from having the one thing we all need: a loving, ongoing relationship.” — Freddie Mercury
Days to Note
• Bring Your Manners to Work Day — Lead with grace: clear subject lines, on-time arrivals, and “thank you”s that name the specific help.
• International Day of Charity — Give something today: time, ticket, testimony, or treasure.

Word of the Day: Inspiration
Inspiration often arrives after we move. Take one small action that honors the artist who opened a door for you. If you can, tell them.

Today’s Live Conversation (4 PM ET)
We’ll be discussing “Inspiration In Our Art” on Richard Skipper Celebrates — an inspiring panel and a lively, real-time chat. Watch LIVE today at 4 PM ET:
RichardSkipperCelebrates.com

Community Prompt
Call the 9th name in your address book today and let them know about the podcast. Ask what would make a difference for them this week, and do one concrete thing.

Two Journal Questions
1) Have you ever wanted to change your life? What would the very first, smallest step look like today?
2) What is your life trying to tell you right now — in ten words or fewer?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

 

Thursday Reflections: Have you ever wanted to change your life?

Some days the answer is a whisper; other days it’s a shout. If you’re ready for a shift, start with one honest sentence about what you want to change—and one small action you’ll take before dinner. The big moves begin with tiny, repeatable steps.

In Remembrance: Joan Rivers (1933–2014)
“I succeeded by saying what everyone else is thinking.” That line is a masterclass in courage and craft. On the day we lost her, remember: clarity plus bravery can change a room—and a life.

Save the Date
I’ll be interviewing Lesley Ann Warren live on stage after a screening of CLUE at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn on Saturday, November 1. Details: kingstheatre.com/events/clue-the-movie/

National Leadership Day
Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a practice. Ask: Who needs encouragement, clarity, or an introduction today? Offer one of those and call it leadership done right.

Two questions for your journal

1. What is your life trying to tell you right now? Write the message in ten words or fewer.

2. If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be—and why that place, in this season?

Make one call
Call the 8th name in your address book today. Ask what would make a difference for them this week, and offer one concrete help. Let me know how it goes.

Word of the day: Patience
Patience isn’t waiting around; it’s active steadiness—doing the next kind, clear thing while the larger changes catch up.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Wednesday Reflections: Happy Back to School — or is it?

For some, “back to school” is a sharpened pencil and a clean slate. For others, it’s a knot in the stomach. Wherever you land, treat today like a gentle reset: one small thing to learn, one small kindness to offer, one small habit to begin again.

I’m excited to return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Thursday, November 21 at 7 PM with a revamped version: Richard Skipper Celebrates! Stories, Songs, Surprises and So Much More! Please save the date—and please tell your friends.

“It’s those who lie outside ordinary experience who have the most to teach us.”
— Malcolm Gladwell

Global Talent Acquisition Day feels like an odd holiday until you remember how many lives changed because someone took a chance on a voice, a story, a style that didn’t fit a template. If you’re in a position to open a door for someone different from you, do it. If you’re the one outside the ordinary, keep knocking—your timing and your tribe are closer than you think.

What are you grateful for right now? Name it in one sentence and send it to the person who helped make it true.

A 7-minute practice for today: define “being a good person” in your own words. Set a timer for seven minutes, write nonstop, and don’t try to sound wise—be honest. When the timer ends, circle one behavior you’ll practice before bed.

Call the 7th name in your address book today!

Word of the day: originality. Originality isn’t weirdness for its own sake; it’s the precise shape of your truth, told clearly. Ask yourself: what small choice would make this email, this rehearsal, this conversation more “me”—and more useful to someone else?

If today feels like “back to school,” consider this your first assignment: learn one new thing, credit one unsung helper, and make one invitation that could change someone’s season.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Tuesday Reflections: Back-to-School Energy and the Gift of Order

In 1995, Michael Jackson earned his 12th—and final—solo U.S. #1 with “You Are Not Alone.” A reminder that seasons change, chapters close, and the work still travels.

As this new school year starts for so many, I realized I’m entering my 58th grade. What grade is it for you? What are you still learning? What are you majoring in this year—Craft, Courage, Visibility, Patience? Name it. Write it at the top of today’s page.

“May your future be limited only by your dreams.”
— Christa McAuliffe

Another Look Unlimited Day invites us to lighten the load—responsibly. Do a 12-minute sweep of one drawer, one shelf, or one corner. Sort three ways: Keep (use now), Give (friend or charity), Repurpose (fix or new use). Deliver one item today. Momentum loves a starter win.

Telephone Tuesday is historically one of the busiest call days of the year. Perfect timing to call (not email) the 6th name in your contacts. Try: “I’m declaring my ‘major’ this year as ____. What’s yours? What’s one thing I can do this week that would help?” Then listen all the way through.

What stereotype do you live up to? The organized one, the last-minute sprinter, the peacemaker, the diva, the helper? Choose one. Decide to keep it, refine it, or retire it. If you keep it, make it intentional. If you retire it, write a one-sentence replacement you’d be proud to grow into.

Word of the day: Order. Order is kindness to your future self. Do a 10-minute order sprint: clear the nearest flat surface; put every loose item into its home or a labeled tray; block 15 minutes on your calendar for your “major” tomorrow morning. Small order, big relief.

Journal prompts for tonight:

1. What are you still learning—specifically—in this season?

2. What’s the one thing nobody knows about your current chapter (yet)?

3. How will you measure progress in your “major” by month’s end?

Close the day with one tiny action: write a two-sentence note to someone who helped you learn this summer, then take one step in your “major” before bed—a paragraph, a call, a list, a plan.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Monday Reflections: Happy September

Happy Labor Day. Here’s to the makers, movers, helpers, and hands behind the scenes—the people whose steady work keeps the curtain rising and the lights on. If someone’s effort made your weekend smoother, thank them by name today.

“No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change this world.” — Robin Williams
Let’s test that this month.

Word of the month: Optimism
Not rose-colored glasses—clear-eyed courage. Optimism is a decision to meet reality with agency. Try this: before you open your inbox, write one sentence that begins, “Today I can improve ___ by ___.” Then do the smallest step.

A note from history
On this day in 1850, P. T. Barnum brought European star Jenny Lind to New York. Beyond the music, it was a master class in invitation and anticipation—clear purpose, generous storytelling, and a community primed to listen. Let that be our September posture: make the invitation, set the table, and sing with integrity.

National Forgiveness Day
Choose one weight to set down. Forgiveness doesn’t rewrite the past; it releases your attention for the future. If a direct note feels right, keep it simple: “I’ve been carrying this. I’m choosing to let it go. Wishing you well.”

World Letter Writing Day
Send a real note—three sentences, one truth.

1. Something you appreciate.

2. Something you remember.

3. Something you’re hopeful about.
   Seal it and imagine the moment it’s opened. Words and ideas, changing the world one envelope at a time.

How can you find your way back to the present moment?
Try a one-minute reset you can do anywhere:

• Feel your feet; soften your jaw.

• Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6.

• Name out loud one thing you see, one thing you hear, one thing you feel.
  Then ask, “What is the next kind thing I can do?” Do that.

Make it communal
Call the 5th name in your address book and share your one-minute reset with them. Ask, “What would help you return to the present today?” Offer something concrete—a quick intro, a listening ear, a ride, a ticket, a prayer.

September starter list

• Thank one worker whose labor you rely on.

• Forgive one thing.

• Write one letter.

• Take one breath you can actually feel.

• Do one small act that proves your optimism.

Here’s to a month of useful words, brave ideas, and work that lifts the people around us.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Sunday Reflections: Openness and the Big Picture

“When you win, nothing hurts.”
— Joe Namath

Some days the scoreboard is the story; most days, the process is. Winning feels like a painkiller, but craft, consistency, and community are what keep us moving when there’s no confetti. Looking at the big picture may be more crucial than ever. Ask: what am I building that will matter in a month, a year, a decade?

On this day in 1928: The Threepenny Opera premiered in Berlin. Brecht and Weill set streetwise satire to music and reminded audiences that form can be entertaining and still tell the truth. Legacy often comes from widening the lens—using the popular to say the profound.

National Matchmaker Day
Celebrate the connectors. Make one introduction that could help two people thrive. Be specific: “You both care about X. Five-minute hello?” A good match is a small act with outsized returns.

We Love Memoirs Day
Write a paragraph you wish someone had written for you ten years ago. Memoir is a service when it leaves breadcrumbs for the next traveler. Your lesson may be the map someone needs.

Sacrifice Our Wants for Other’s Needs Sunday
Choose one want to set down so someone else’s need can be met. It might be your preference for the agenda, the last word, or the spotlight. Service sharpens vision.

Two questions for your journal
What are you not saying YES to because it’s inconvenient, unfamiliar, or humbling—and what would saying yes unlock?
How can you become a better role model this week—in what you practice, what you permit, and what you praise?

One call to make
Call the 7th name in your address book today and make a difference in their life. Offer a concrete help: an introduction, a testimonial, a ticket, a listening ear. Then let me know how it goes.

Word of the day: Openness
Openness is not passivity; it is an active posture—curiosity before certainty, listening before fixing, breadth before bias. Try this sentence in your next conversation: “Tell me more; I might be missing something.”

A five-minute practice to close the day

1. Name one win (small is fine).

2. Name one lesson (what the big picture asks of you).

3. Name one person to thank—and do it.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Saturday Reflections: National Beach Day

National Beach Day meets National Kind Words Saturday—two gentle invitations to soften your edges. If you can’t get to the water, bring “beach energy” to your day anyway: widen your horizon, breathe deeper, let the small waves of kindness lap at everything you do. (The postcard is from where I was at 6 years of age. I grew up just outside of Mytle Beach, SC!)

Letting your friends see a new side of you can be worth the trouble now. What would it look like to risk a little more honesty, or a little less performance, with someone you trust?

“The Church is the Church only when it exists for others…”
— Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Letters and Papers from Prison
Whatever your tradition, that line points to a bigger truth: we become ourselves by showing up for one another. Service clarifies purpose; generosity clears the view.

What’s the one thing nobody knows about you? Does the sixth name in your address book know? Have a conversation with them today. Tell them one true thing, and ask for one in return.

Are you comfortable expressing your uncomfortable emotions? Try this simple script the next time your nerves kick in: “I’m feeling [name it] and I want to stay in this conversation. If I go quiet, I’m just finding words.” Then keep breathing until the words arrive.

Word of the day: Nature. Step outside and touch the world that doesn’t need your approval to be beautiful. Six minutes on a porch, a patch of shade, the sound of leaves or traffic as weather—let it recalibrate you. Notice one color you usually miss. Carry that color into your next conversation.

A small practice for tonight: write a three-line beach of gratitude—three short lines, one for someone, one for a place, one for a lesson. If it feels right, send one of those lines to the person who needs to hear it.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Friday Reflections: Happy Chop Suey Day!

How can I use my experiences to inspire others?
Start here: name one lesson you earned the hard way, and offer it to someone who could use it today. Wisdom multiplies when it’s shared.

On this day
1958 — Michael Jackson is born. Whatever your lens on his legacy, his impact on stagecraft, recording, and performance is undeniable.
1982 — Actress Ingrid Bergman dies on her birthday. She once said, “Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better!” Let that be permission to keep climbing—breathless and grateful for the view.

Happy Chop Suey Day
Tonight, make a “mix” of influences: a favorite song, a page of a book, a story from a mentor. Stir them together and serve them forward. Legacy is a recipe we adapt and pass along.

Forgive Your Foe Friday
Release one grievance. Send a short note: “I’m letting this go and wishing you well.” Forgiveness doesn’t excuse; it unhooks your energy so you can use it for good.

A small act you can do right now
Reach out to the 5th name in your address book and tell them something you appreciate about them. Be specific. Small gratitude, big lift.

Word of the day: Legacy
Legacy isn’t a statue; it’s a series of living exchanges. What will you pass along today that someone else can use tomorrow?

Join us LIVE at 5 PM ET
Today on RichardSkipperCelebrates.com, I’m hosting an incredible panel to discuss Legacy In Our Art. Bring a question, a story, and your best listening. Let’s build something that lasts—together.

Write a 25-word “legacy sentence” that begins, “Before the year ends, I will pass along…” Bring it to the 5 PM conversation and read it aloud. Let’s make it real.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Wednesday Reflections: Willing-To-Lend-A-Hand Wednesday

“Now is the accepted time, not tomorrow, not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done.”
— W. E. B. Du Bois

Today is about action in real time. Not when the schedule clears, not when the stars align. Now. If there’s a door you’ve been meaning to open for someone—or for yourself—turn the handle.

Word of the day: Mastery
Mastery isn’t magic; it’s repetition with attention. Choose one small skill you will practice with care today. Ten focused minutes can shift an entire week.

A moment of remembrance
In 1964 we lost the incomparable Gracie Allen—vaudevillian, radio and television pioneer, and a master of timing. Her partnership with George Burns reminds us that generosity and listening are part of great craft. Laughter, offered at the right moment, is a service.

It’s time to thrive
Thriving begins with a simple exchange: offer value, receive connection. Ask for what helps you grow, and give something that helps someone else grow, too. Do both before dinner.

Your action prompt
Who is the third name that pops up in your emails today? What is the nature of your relationship? Call them. Ask how you can help, and offer one specific thing—a warm introduction, a concise testimonial, a ticket link, a date to collaborate. Then listen.

Questions for your journal
What can you do today that future-you will call a turning point?
What will you practice—specifically and measurably—to move closer to mastery?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Tuesday Reflections: Touch A Heart Tuesday

It’s Touch A Heart Tuesday and Make Your Own Luck Day—a perfect pairing. Kindness opens the door; action walks you through it. If there’s someone you’ve been meaning to reach, today is the day to act with warmth and follow-through.

National Dog Day reminds us that love often arrives on four legs and a wagging tail. If you have a rescue story, share it with someone who needs a smile—or better yet, take a quick walk with a neighbor’s pup and let simple companionship do its work.

Born this day, 1910: Mother Teresa. Her life suggests a durable practice: small things, great love. When in doubt, choose the smallest helpful action and do it with attention.

Chart notes, 1978: Around this week, the Grease movie soundtrack notched its second No. 1 single—proof that joy, craft, and a great hook can echo for decades. Let that be a reminder that consistent, heartfelt work finds its moment.

Hello, Lyndon! On August 26, 1964, Lyndon Johnson received the Democratic nomination. However you feel about politics, milestone weeks like this one underscore how choices—and the stories we tell about them—shape a nation.

Two questions for your journal:

• What do you know for sure? Name one truth you can stand on today.

• When you pass on, what do you wish to be remembered for? Write one sentence you would be proud to leave behind.

Phrase of the day: Making a Difference.
Call the second name that pops up in your address book and make a difference for them today—offer help, make an introduction, buy their ticket, or simply listen without fixing. Luck loves a generous accomplice.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Monday Reflections: What You Fight For

“In the end, it matters less that you can fight. What you fight for is the real test.”
— John McCain

Kiss and Make Up Day arrives with a simple invitation: choose repair over rupture. If there’s a conversation you’ve been avoiding, today is a good day to try again with humility and heart. Strength isn’t stubbornness; it is the courage to protect what matters.

On this day in 1939, The Wizard of Oz opened nationwide in U.S. theaters after a string of August premieres and previews. A leap of imagination, color, and craft, it became one of the best-loved films in history and still reminds us that home is both a place and a promise. In 1962, Little Eva’s “The Loco-Motion” hit number one, proving that joy, rhythm, and a catchy hook can carry a moment straight into the canon. And in 1984, we said farewell to Truman Capote, whose language cut with precision and whose storytelling reshaped nonfiction forever.

From the weekend, a few words I’m carrying forward:

“I had a wonderful time attending your show at Laurie Beechman Friday 8/22/25. It was an enormous lift in the midst of the many things happening in our troubling world at the moment. I loved the stories and the songs interspersed so beautifully and the way you sang and told the stories. I took home the love and heart you shared that night. So glad I got to give you a hug and talk with Danny before the show too. As you know, I am a huge fan of your interviews on Richard Skipper Celebrates. I hope you were aware of the many smiles in the audience that were touched by your performance. Here’s to many more wonderful times ahead.”
— Henry Dee

“What a special, heartening evening. Richard imbued the crowd with beautiful, positive energy and reminded us of the power of love, storytelling, and staying true.”
— Emily Marie Seibert, Yonkers, NY

Two questions to start your week:
What is your greatest spiritual awakening?
What is something you have learned about yourself this August?

Call to action for today: call the first name that pops up in your emails and share one honest sentence about where you are and what you’re fighting for this week. Ask them the same. Let me know how it goes.

Word of the day: Loyalty. Not blind allegiance, but the daily practice of standing by the people, principles, and promises that deserve your care.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Sunday Reflections: Love, Light, and a Moving Picture

In 1891, Thomas Edison filed a patent for the kinetoscope, an early motion-picture viewer that turned slivers of light into moving stories. I love that image today: a little light, carefully focused, becomes a narrative that moves us.

Last night I actually saw a shooting star. On Shooting Star Day, no less. It felt like a reminder to notice the brief, bright moments that pass overhead—and to make a wish with intention.

What would younger you like about present you? Take sixty seconds and answer that plainly. Then call the 9th name that pops up in your emails today and have a real conversation about it. Ask them the same question. Let it open a door.

Step away from your social media feed today. Escape your echo chamber and widen your mix of viewpoints. Read one article you would normally skip, listen to a voice you don’t usually hear, or simply sit with someone else’s story without trying to fix it.

Word of the day: LOVE. Love as attention. Love as patience. Love as the courage to let another person be fully seen.

Newsletter update: the new edition is essentially done and will land in your mailbox tomorrow morning at 1 AM. You can still subscribe at RichardSkipper.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsoring the next newsletter, please contact me by 5 PM today.

If you could capture a single 10-second “kinetoscope” of your life today, what moment would you choose to show love in action—and who needs to see it?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Saturday Reflections: Without goals, training has no direction.

“Without goals, training has no direction.”
— Natalie Coughlin

Thank you to everyone who attended last night. Your energy made the room sing. We are looking at a November return. Stay tuned.

Word of the day: Leisure
Leisure isn’t laziness; it’s purposeful restoration. If you want your voice, your work, and your relationships to grow, give them oxygen. Rest with intention today so you can aim with clarity tomorrow.

National Sponge Cake Day
Light, simple, and quietly celebratory—exactly the spirit I’m choosing for this weekend. If you find a slice, share it with someone you love and savor the pause.

What is the story you’re telling yourself?
Is it a story that opens doors or closes them? Rewrite one sentence of your inner story so it better reflects who you are becoming. Speak it out loud.

Call the 8th name that pops up in your email and share that new sentence with them. Ask how you can support what they’re building, and invite them to join us next time.

Read a book that’s outside your comfort zone today. Ten pages is enough to nudge a perspective and start a new conversation.

What is one small “leisure practice” you will schedule for 20 minutes today—walk, stretch, quiet listening, or simply doing nothing—and what boundary will protect it?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Friday Reflections: It’s Showtime!

I’m looking forward to those of you who will be celebrating with me tonight. There is still time to get tickets and join us.

Today is Be An Angel Day. Consider the smallest generous act you can offer someone before curtain time. A kind word, a quick introduction, an invitation to share the night with you. Angels change outcomes.

“There's a hell of a distance between wise-cracking and wit. Wit has truth in it; wise-cracking is simply calisthenics with words.”
— Dorothy Parker

Happy Birthday, Dorothy Parker. Your line is a perfect reminder for what we’ll share this evening. Wit is welcome because it carries truth. That is the spirit of tonight’s conversation with the audience.

Do you know how to ask for help? Try this exercise today. Call the seventh name that pops up for you and ask for what you need. While you are at it, invite them to join you tonight. You never know when a maybe will become a yes.

What’s the best job you’ve ever had is one of the questions you can ask me tonight. The show is driven by questions from the audience, and your curiosity is the engine. Bring your questions, your stories, and your friends.

Word of the day: Learning. I learn something new every time we gather. Tonight, let’s learn from one another.

Tonight’s details
Friday, August 22 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre
Tickets at RichardSkipper.com

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Thursday Reflections: National Senior Citizens Day

“Worrying gets you nowhere. If you turn up worrying about how you’re going to perform, you’ve already lost.”
— Usain Bolt

On this National Senior Citizens Day, I am reminded of the extraordinary resilience, wisdom, and joy that comes with age. It is not about worrying, but about showing up, giving, and receiving with an open heart.

Aloha! 1959
On this day, Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States. The word “aloha” means far more than hello or goodbye—it is a way of life rooted in love, compassion, and respect. Aloha reminds us to live with presence and appreciation.

A Reflection from the Audience
Last Thursday night, I had the privilege of sharing my world on stage, and I was deeply moved by the response. Laura Pesanell of Sparkill, NY, wrote:
“I saw Richard Skipper's show last Thursday night with a group of friends. We laughed and we cried and basically could not wipe the smiles off our faces!! You could feel the love in the room not only generating from Richard, but from the audience as well. Thank you, Richard, for allowing us into your world and for making us smile. You are a true talent and I can’t wait to see you again.”

Those words remind me why I do what I do—because when we connect, when we celebrate together, the room becomes alive with joy and shared experience.

Do You Have Your Tickets for Tomorrow Night?
Take a moment today: call the 6th name in your database and ask them to join you. Sometimes, all it takes is a personal invitation to turn a maybe into a yes.

A Thought for Today
A conversation with someone may open new perspectives you haven’t dared to consider. Take that risk. Listen, reflect, and share.

This Afternoon at 3 PM ET
I invite you to join me LIVE at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com for what promises to be a thoughtful, inspiring, and deeply human conversation. Our theme is “Justice In Our Art.”

Reflect with us:
In what ways can art not only shine a light on injustice but also serve as a blueprint for building more equitable communities?

What is your prayer today?
Perhaps it is to explore a path to mentoring—particularly in a space or subject where you have a special skill to share.

And remember: the word of the day is Justice.

Wednesday Reflections: Leadership in Connection

"When you're climbing Mount Everest, nothing is easy. You just take one step at a time, never look back and always keep your eyes glued to the top."
— Jacqueline Susann, Valley of the Dolls

Today we celebrate the birth of Jacqueline Susann (1918), the brilliant author of Valley of the Dolls. Beyond her novels, Susann was a masterful self-promoter—her marketing skills were unparalleled. I like to think I’ve taken a page or two from her playbook, weaving persistence, creativity, and connection into my own journey.

It also happens to be National Lemonade Day. As I sit here with a tall, cool glass of lemonade, I’m reminded of how small pleasures can fuel our biggest climbs.

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Acknowledgment Matters

One lesson that took me far too long to learn is the power of simple acknowledgment.
My biggest pet peeve? Silence. Not responding to an email. Not responding to a post. Not even a quick “thank you.” Are people really that busy that acknowledgment gets lost? Connection begins with recognition—and it’s something we can all lead with.

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Today’s Call to Action

The word of the day is Leadership. Let’s lead with kindness, recognition, and outreach. Call the 5th name in your address book and acknowledge them today. Let them know they matter. Then ask them to join you Friday night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.

Who knows? You might even hear me share how I first discovered Valley of the Dolls as a kid—both the book and the movie! You ask. I answer.

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A Final Thought

Leadership isn’t just about climbing your own Everest. It’s about pulling others along, acknowledging their presence, and celebrating together when you reach the top.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today? How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Tuesday Thoughts: Be Who You Are

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind."
— Dr. Seuss

Today is World Humanitarian Day—a reminder that showing up authentically, with compassion and courage, makes a lasting difference.

Here’s something to consider:

• Do you like the person you’ve become?

• Do you like the 4th name in your address book?

If yes, call them today and let them know. If not, it may be time to let them go. Life is too short to surround yourself with those who don’t lift you higher.

Better yet, call that 4th name and do something that shows you are someone they can rely on. Invite them to join you this Friday night, August 22, at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre for my encore of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask).

Here’s the ticket link: The Laurie Beechman Theatre

Let me know how it goes—you never know who might say YES and what might unfold.

The word of the day is Knowledge. May it guide you to live more fully, connect more deeply, and celebrate who you truly are.

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today? How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Monday Reflections: To Live Is to Choose

"To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there."
— Kofi Annan

Today is Serendipity Day, a chance to embrace the unexpected and trust that even the unplanned can bring purpose and joy. Choosing well requires clarity, but serendipity reminds us to stay open to the surprises life sends our way.

This day also carries special meaning: Happy 100th Birthday to Arlene Dahl. I was blessed to call Arlene a friend, confidante, and astrologer. She not only guided me but also created opportunities that shaped my path. One of the gifts she gave me was perspective, and I will always treasure the memories we shared. If you’d like to remember her today, watch one of her films, and take a look at an interview I did with her thirteen years ago:
Happy Birthday, Arlene Dahl (2011 Interview)

We also honor the legacy of Joe Caroff, the artist behind the unforgettable James Bond 007 logo, who passed away yesterday—just shy of his 104th birthday. His artistry defined an era and left an indelible mark on popular culture.

As part of today’s reflection, I invite you to call the third person in your contacts list and ask them to join you this Friday night for an evening with me. Details at RichardSkipper.com. You never know where the next yes will come from, and that call may lead to something truly meaningful.

This week, let’s choose wisely, invite serendipity, celebrate creativity, and carry kindness in everything we do.

The word of the day is Kindness.

— Richard Skipper
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

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Sunday Reflections: Walking the Wire Between Joy and Vulnerability

“It’s Niagara Falls. It’s one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. Who wouldn’t want to walk across it?” – Nik Wallenda, daredevil

Today we reflect on courage, artistry, and the choices we make to truly live. On this day in history, two powerful reminders of individuality and daring spirit came into the world: actress Mae West, born in 1893, who refused to be anything but herself, and George Orwell’s Animal Farm, published in 1945—a stark reminder of the power of words to reshape society.

It’s also Balloon Airmail Day, a whimsical reminder of how far people will go to bridge distance and connect. That’s what art and live performance do too—they carry messages through the air, reaching hearts across space and time.

I’m reminded of a favorite line from The Music Man:

“You can spend a lifetime collecting tomorrows to find you have no yesterdays.”

We all risk that mistake. So, what is the one mistake you never want to make? For me, it’s waiting too long to say yes—to opportunity, to love, to joy.

This Friday night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, I invite you to say yes with me. Call the 2nd person in your contacts list and ask them to join you. You never know who might show up or what might happen.

Let’s create more space for vulnerability, more room for stories that matter, and more moments that leave us lighter than when we walked in.

The word of the day is JOY—let’s celebrate it together.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

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Saturday Reflections: Break The Monotony Day

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
~George Bernard Shaw

Today is Break The Monotony Day—a perfect reminder to step away from routine and add some joy, play, and spontaneity into our lives. That’s exactly what I hope you’ll do by joining me next Friday night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Come play with me! Tickets are available at RichardSkipper.com.

Here’s a challenge: Call the first name that pops up in your contact list and invite them to come with you. You never know who might show up and what might happen!

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Celebrating Lesley Ann Warren

Today we celebrate the birthday of the enchanting Lesley Ann Warren. Like so many of you, I grew up mesmerized by her in Cinderella. I still remember the heartbreak the first year CBS didn’t air it—we didn’t have the luxury of instant access like today.

As an adult, life brought me a gift I never expected: the chance to become friends with Lesley and with her unforgettable Fairy Godmother, Celeste Holm. I even had the joy of interviewing Lesley, where she shared her stories, wisdom, and heart. If you haven’t seen it, I invite you to watch here: My Interview with Lesley Ann Warren.

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Remembering Elvis Presley

Today also marks the anniversary of the passing of Elvis Presley in 1977. I was 16, working at Grand Strand Amusement Park when the news broke. I remember that moment as vividly as if it were yesterday. Elvis wasn’t just an entertainer—he was a force that defined an era, and his music continues to resonate.

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A Thought for You

Try this: Ask the first person in your iPhone to give you one word that describes you today. Sit with it, reflect on it, and see what it reveals. Better yet—call me and tell me the word you chose to describe me!

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Word of the Day: Intuition

Trust your intuition. Let it lead you toward the connections, conversations, and celebrations that matter most.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Friday Reflections: Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) – August 22

Venue: The Laurie Beechman Theatre
Tickets: RichardSkipper.com

Ron Spivak of NYC once said:

“Richard Skipper has had an amazing life and career, and never ceases to amaze with his warmth, honesty, old-fashioned showbiz razzle dazzle, and talent. His optimism is infectious. See his show(s)—you’ll leave feeling better than you did when you came in!”

That’s exactly what I hope you’ll experience next Friday, August 22 at 7 PM, when I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre for Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask). It’s a joyful, unscripted celebration of stories, songs, surprises, and your questions—pulled live from audience question cards. No two shows are ever the same!

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Today’s Reflections

It’s National Best Friends Day—a perfect reminder to celebrate the people who have made a difference in your life. I invite you to say YES today to something you truly desire to do, whether it’s seeing a show, reconnecting with someone, or taking that first step toward a dream.

The Word of the Day is Individuality—a theme we’ll be celebrating on today’s broadcast of Richard Skipper Celebrates at 4 PM ET. You can watch live at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com.

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Your Friday Invitation

Here’s a little challenge: Call the 9th name in your address book and ask them to join you next Friday night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Let me know how it goes—you never know who might turn up or what magic might happen.

And to everyone who came out last night to the Valley Cottage Library—thank you! I had a blast sharing stories, music, and laughter with you.

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Thursday Reflections: Color Book Day

"Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world." – Marilyn Monroe

Today, I’m taking a moment to celebrate Color Book Day—a reminder that even in a black-and-white world, we have the power to fill the pages with vibrant choices.

What's Next? ~ Upcoming Events, Deadlines, and Resources

• One Week to Go!
  On Friday, August 22, I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC for an encore of Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask)—a joyful, unscripted night of songs, stories, and audience connection.

• Resources & deadlines come and go, but the ones that matter most are the ones we give ourselves. Mark your calendar now, because you’ll want to be part of this celebration.

Are the things you’re doing today the necessary things?

When we pause and assess our actions, we often find the urgent pushing out the important. Integrity means aligning what you do today with where you truly want to go tomorrow.

Noticing Discomfort

Noticing what makes us uncomfortable isn’t fun—but it’s valuable knowledge. Sometimes discomfort points to growth, other times to boundaries that need protecting. Pay attention; it’s information you can use.

Happiness Check-In

What does happiness look like for you? A sold-out theater? A quiet evening with a friend? A new adventure?
Call the 8th name in your contacts list today and share your version of happiness with them. You may be surprised how it sparks their own.

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The Word of the Day: Intelligence
Real intelligence isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about knowing what questions to ask and acting with intention.

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Wednesday Reflections: What Will You Do With Your One Wild and Precious Life?

Today, I’m thinking about Mary Oliver’s beautiful question:
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

It’s a question that stirs the heart—and reminds us that every day counts.

It’s also National Filet Mignon Day, which feels fitting. Life is a rare, tender, delicious opportunity. Why not savor it fully?

Steve Jobs once asked himself:

“If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I’m about to do today?”
If the answer is “No” too many days in a row—it’s time to change course.

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It’s All Connected

Annie Oakley was born on this day in 1860. Her extraordinary life inspired Annie Get Your Gun, which in turn inspired Jerry Herman to write Hello, Dolly! for Ethel Merman. From a sharpshooter to a Broadway diva—threads of artistry connect in ways you could never plan in advance. Life has a way of weaving a tapestry far richer than we could ever stitch ourselves.

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On the Subject of Integrity

The word of the day is Integrity. Has someone in your life recently shown you who they really are? Believe them. Integrity is about alignment—between what you say and what you do. When you walk that talk, people notice.

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A Small Request

Call the 7th person in your address book and invite them to join you for an upcoming live performance—mine or someone else’s. The act of inviting someone to experience live art together creates a ripple that can last a lifetime.

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Tonight’s Plans

Speaking of live performance—tonight, I’m going to see Goldie Dver’s Sneak Peek at Don’t Tell Mama. If you’re in the neighborhood, please join our party!

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Your Turn

So… what will you do with your one wild and precious life—today?

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Tuesday Reflections: Stitching Together the Good Times
by Richard Skipper

Today is National Sewing Machine Day—a reminder that even the most intricate creations start with one simple stitch. Much like a well-loved garment, our lives are made up of countless pieces, moments, and connections carefully woven together over time.

As the musical Dames at Sea reminds us, “Good times are here to stay.” But history also tells us that joy often comes after challenge. On this day in 1945, World War II ended—a monumental turning point that called for both celebration and reflection.

So I invite you to pause and reflect on your own journey: the victories you’ve sewn into your life, the patterns you’ve repeated, and the loose threads you may want to mend.

Ask yourself: Where do I waste time? Is it in worry? In overthinking? In waiting for “the perfect moment” to act? What if that perfect moment is now?

Today’s small challenge: Call the 6th name in your contacts list and ask them what they think about the patterns they see in their own life. You may be surprised at what you discover.

The word of the day is innovation—the courage to try a new stitch in an old pattern, to refresh your fabric instead of throwing it away.

And speaking of fresh energy—join me this Thursday night at the Valley Cottage Library for a special evening of stories, music, and connection. Together, we’ll weave something unforgettable.

One more thought to carry with you today:
Like any craft, the art of living well requires practice, patience, and the willingness to pick up the needle and try again—no matter how tangled the thread.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

 

Monday Reflections: Raspberries!

Happy Monday!

Today is National Raspberry Tart Day—a sweet reminder that life’s richest moments are often a perfect blend of tart and sweet. The question is, are you savoring yours… or letting a little drama steal the flavor?

Here’s something to reflect on: Is the drama you’re feeling truly your own—or is it borrowed from someone else? If it’s not yours, maybe today’s the day to let it go.

We are all capable of positive movement. Alex Haley, born on this day in 1921, once said, “Find the good and praise it.” That’s a choice we get to make every day.

On this date in 1973, American Graffiti opened in theaters. Do you remember where you were when you first saw it? That film captured a time, a feeling, and a sense of connection—something we could all use more of right now.

Here’s your Monday challenge: Think about the 5th name in your contacts list.
What would you write on their fortune cookie? Once you’ve got it, give them a call and tell them! You never know where the conversation might lead.

The word of the day is initiative. It’s the secret ingredient in every big change, every great idea, and every bold step forward.

Let’s start this week with purpose—and maybe a little sweetness on the side.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

 

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Sunday Reflections: 1939

On this day in 1939, The Wizard of Oz premiered in Green Bay, Wisconsin. That movie was such a part of my childhood that my family and friends in South Carolina still associate it with me to this day. I grew up in the era of annual TV broadcasts—those magical nights when the whole country seemed to stop and step into Oz together.

Today is also National Lazy Day—but before you settle into your well-earned rest, I have a little challenge for you:

The word of the day is Independence.

Before you exercise your Lazy Day rights, call the 4th name in your address book and invite them to join you for my August 22 performance at The Laurie Beechman Theatre—just 12 days away! Let me know how it goes. You never know who might show up and what might happen.

Sometimes the most magical moments aren’t planned at all—they just happen when we reach out.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com 
www.RichardSkipper.com

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Saturday Reflections: Be Happy, Joyous, and Free

I’m back from Provincetown! I had a great time—the shows went very well artistically, and the response was incredible.

I’ve been going to Provincetown since 1988 and performing there off and on since 1998. I love the vibe of P-Town audiences—there’s a generosity, a spirit, and an energy that’s unlike anywhere else.

However, I have a stark warning for artists and bookers: You are cannibalizing yourselves. There are simply too many shows happening at the same time. Audiences are being pulled in too many directions, and it’s translating into smaller crowds for everyone. I heard from many artists this season about how difficult it has been.

The goal should always be to bring in audiences—not divide them. Imagine the impact if talent were spread evenly over the summer instead of crowding everything into the same nights. Trust me, everyone—on both sides of the footlights—would be happier.

Today is International Coworking Day—a perfect reminder of how much I value the collaborative spirit. I’m lucky to work alongside James Beaman, Dan and Chrissy Pardo, and all of you who take part in my career in whatever capacity that may be.

Where is there resistance for you to reach out to the third name in your address book today with a phone call? Just do it, and let me know how it goes.

The word of the day is Inclusion. How can you create more space in your creative life for others to join, contribute, and shine?

One more thought for your weekend: Sometimes the best way to strengthen a community is to slow down, take turns, and make room for each voice to be heard. The art will be better for it.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Wednesday Reflections: Hello, Provincetown...And Environs!
by Richard Skipper

"Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths."
— Arnold Schwarzenegger

Today, I write to you as I prepare to leave for Provincetown—a place where the sea meets soul, where art meets authenticity, and where every sunrise seems to whisper: “Begin again.”

It’s fitting that this Wednesday falls on International Day of Friendship—because Provincetown is nothing if not a town built on chosen family, artistic camaraderie, and enduring connection. I’ve been lucky to call this town a creative home over the years, and each return visit is both a reunion and a renewal.

On this day in 1966, The Troggs took “Wild Thing” to number one. That rebellious, heart-thumping anthem reminds me how art doesn’t have to be polished to be powerful—it just has to be true.

Which brings me to the word of the day: Impact.

Each of us leaves a trail—of kindness, of story, of energy. Whether on a stage, in conversation, or in quiet encouragement, we create impact by simply being present. So today, speak with positive intentions. You never know what ripple effect your words will have.

Here’s your reflection prompt:

What moment in time would you stretch out for as long as you live?

What feeling, connection, or triumph would you linger in if you could?

Today’s action step:
Call the 5th name in your address book and share a moment with them. Ask how they’re doing. Let them know what you appreciate about them. We don’t say it enough—and it matters.

I’m off the grid until after August 8th, soaking in this gift of time and place. But know that I carry you with me into every performance, every moment of reflection, and every new connection made here.

Until we meet again—on stage, online, or across the table—thank you for walking this journey with me.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With love from Provincetown,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com | 
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Tuesday Reflections: Creating a Home for Our Art

Good morning.

On this date in 1981, Prince Charles married Lady Diana—and like much of the world, I remember exactly where I was. I was living in The Bronx, renting a room from Lydia DeVito. We got up at 5 AM, bleary-eyed and wide awake with excitement, to watch the royal wedding unfold live on television. It wasn’t just an event—it was a moment in time that reminded us of fairy tales, tradition, spectacle, and the possibility of happily ever after.

Today, July 29th, is also National Lasagna Day, which may seem unrelated… but then again, isn’t lasagna a kind of home in itself? Layers of flavor, history, love, and warmth—comfort food at its finest.

This morning at 10 AM ET, I’m hosting a special pop-up podcast episode at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. Our theme is "Creating a Home for Our Art."
What does it take to build a space—physical, emotional, spiritual—where creativity can thrive? Where we feel safe enough to risk, bold enough to share, supported enough to shine?

The word of the day is Home.

Call the 4th name in your address book and invite them to tune in with you. Let this be a moment of shared reflection. Let’s spark each other’s curiosity and build a creative community that truly feels like home.

And one final question to carry with you today:
How do you want to be different because you lived in this world?

See you at 10.

With appreciation,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Monday Reflections: Turn Your Angst into Art

"If we don't care about our past, we can't have very much hope for our future."
— Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

As this new week begins, I invite you to turn inward—and then outward—with purpose.

We all carry a little angst: unspoken dreams, disappointments, unresolved questions. But here’s the gift—angst can be transformed. It’s creative fuel. Let it become a scene, a story, a song, a stand you take. Turn your angst into art.

Today also happens to be National Milk Chocolate Day—a sweet reminder to blend the bitter with the delightful. Great storytelling does just that. So does a meaningful life.

The word of the day is: Humor.
A sense of humor builds bridges, lifts the spirit, and keeps us going.

Your call to action:
Reach out to the 3rd name in your address book and share a humorous moment from your life. A little laughter goes a long way—let me know how it goes.

And ask yourself:
How do you want the world to be different because you lived in it?
Let that answer shape the story you write this week.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With gratitude and curiosity,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Sunday Reflections
You Are Enough

There’s a quiet truth I keep circling back to lately: self-help heals.
Not in the buzzword-heavy, overnight-transformation kind of way—but in the slow, steady, intentional work of remembering who you are... and deciding to show up for that person daily.

What would it take to convince you that you are enough?
Not one day. Not someday. But today—as you are. With the joy, the doubt, the unpolished edges, and the whole wide wonder of your becoming.

Look at the second person in your address book.
Do they validate that for you?
Do they reflect back your value—without condition, without performance?
If they do, call them today and tell them thank you.
If they don’t... maybe it’s time to be that voice for yourself.

The word of the day is Humility.
Humility is not shrinking. It’s standing tall in your truth—without needing to shout. It’s knowing you matter and so does everyone else in the room. It’s what keeps the artist grounded, and the heart open.

Sometimes, the most radical form of humility is accepting help. Whether it’s from a mentor, a friend, a collaborator, or your younger self whispering, “Don’t forget why you started.”
You don’t have to do it all alone. That’s not strength—it’s isolation. Let someone in today.

You are enough.
And if no one’s told you that yet this week—I just did.

With humility, hope, and gratitude,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?
Google me to see what’s been happening and what’s coming up!

Saturday Reflections
I Believe.

"I believe that if you want to go make your mark on the world you’ve got to go out and do it. Don't be shy, be adventurous."
— Dame Helen Mirren

Today is National All or Nothing Day—a bold invitation to stop dipping our toes in the water and dive in. What’s that thing you’ve been hesitating on? The email you haven’t sent, the show you’ve been meaning to pitch, the story you’re still waiting to tell?

If not now—when?

We all carry pieces of our personal history that shape our voice and fuel our work. But sometimes, the very stories we’re holding onto so tightly are the ones we most need to share. So here’s today’s challenge:

Are you holding on to your history?
Find the first name that pops up in your inbox today—and call them. Not text. Not reply-all. Call.
Share a story from your past that’s ready to come into the light. See what unfolds.

Because today’s word is Hope—and hope doesn’t just sit quietly waiting to be invited. It’s sparked through action. Through adventure. Through belief.

And today, I believe.
In the value of your voice.
In the power of real connection.
In the momentum that begins when we stop waiting for the right moment and create it instead.

I Believe. Do you?

Let me know what today’s call brings up for you. Maybe it's a memory. Maybe it's a next step. Maybe it's just the beginning.

With hope,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Friday Reflections
Walking in Grace—Alone, and Together

"When you're good at something, you'll tell everyone. When you're great at something, they'll tell you."
— Walter Payton

There’s a quiet confidence in that quote—a reminder that real mastery isn’t loud. It’s lived. It radiates. It creates connection without needing to chase it.

Today, I’ve been thinking a lot about solitude—not loneliness, but the kind of solitude that builds strength and clarity.

Julia Cameron, in The Artist’s Way, introduced the idea of the Artist Date—a weekly solo expedition to feed your creative soul. Whether it’s a museum visit, a long walk, or even just sitting in a café with a notebook, these moments teach us to love our own company, to hear our own voice more clearly, and to see the world from the inside out.

As someone once wrote:

"There are many elements of living a good life, but the first and most foundational is to love yourself and enjoy spending time with yourself… The person who is at ease within finds every other space larger and more enjoyable."

So here’s a small invitation for today:
Call the 9th name in your address book and ask them to join you this Sunday morning—for a walk, a coffee, a moment of stillness, or just a shared start to the day.

What’s your favorite thing to do on a Sunday morning? And more importantly: when was the last time you did it—just because it brought you joy?

Today is also International Red Shoe Day—a day of remembrance and celebration. Whether you’re wearing red shoes literally or symbolically, let them remind you to walk confidently in the direction of what matters.

The word of the day is Grace.
And this afternoon, we’ll be celebrating Grace and Our Art on a special edition of Richard Skipper Celebrates—
4 PM ET at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com
I’d be honored if you joined the conversation. You might just hear something that shifts your day—or your path.

Here’s to finding your footing—alone, and alongside those who lift you.

Warmly,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Thursday Reflections: None of Us Are Promised Tomorrow

Happy Birthday to the ever-effervescent Kristin Chenoweth, a true Broadway original whose voice, humor, and heart have inspired countless performers and fans. She reminds us what it looks like to show up fully—in talent, in faith, and in grace.

Today is also Pioneer Day—a celebration of bold steps, new beginnings, and the courage to go where others haven’t. It’s a great reminder: You don’t have to cross the plains to be a pioneer. Sometimes, just picking up the phone or sending that email you’ve put off is a pioneering act in your own life.

It’s also a day to strike up a deal—with yourself. A deal to show up for your health. Not just your lifespan, but your health span. That distinction matters.

You may live to be 90—but how many of those years will be vibrant, mobile, expressive, and joyful? That’s where daily intention comes in.

The word of the day is: Health.

And it’s not just physical. It’s mental, emotional, creative, and relational.

Here’s today’s small but powerful step:
Call the 8th person in your address book.
Check in. Reconnect. Tell them something meaningful.
It’s a step toward relational health—and a reminder that none of us are promised tomorrow.

What small shift can you make today for a longer, more vibrant health span?

Let me know how that call goes. I’d love to hear what it sparks.

In gratitude and good health,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Wednesday Reflections
This Is the Moment

As I begin my day, I’m listening to This Is the Moment from Jekyll & Hyde. The lyrics hit differently this morning—reminding me that sometimes, the moment doesn’t come to you. You step into it. Ready or not.

Today, I invite you to go where you are pulled. Not where you should go. Not where you’ve always gone. But where something in your gut says: That. There.

It’s Yada, Yada, Yada Day, which in some corners might feel like an invitation to tune things out. But maybe it’s the opposite—maybe it’s a call to cut the filler and focus on what matters. On what pulls you forward.

Astronaut Sally Ride once offered three secrets to success:

"Be willing to learn new things. Be able to assimilate new information quickly. Be able to get along with and work with other people."

Notice that none of those are about being perfect or prepared. They're about being open.

Which brings me to today’s word: Harmony.

Not balance. Not control. Not avoidance. Harmony.

Ask yourself this:
Do you have a harmonious relationship with the 7th name in your address book?
If the answer is yes—call them and let them know.
If the answer is no—maybe today is the moment to clear the air, reconnect, or simply listen.

We don’t need to have all the answers before we leap. We just need a little faith... and a willingness to be in tune with something bigger than our fear.

This is the moment.
Will you take it?

Let me know how that call goes.

Warmly,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Tuesday Reflections
Let’s Shine Together

On this day in 1893, Katharine Lee Bates penned the poem that would become America the Beautiful—a piece that has endured not just as a patriotic hymn, but as a quiet call for reflection and unity. If you do nothing else today, take five minutes and listen to Ray Charles’ version. It’s not just music—it’s a masterclass in soul, conviction, and truth.

We also celebrate the birth of Alex Trebek, a man who taught us that curiosity, intelligence, and kindness could all fit in the same daily half hour. He made it cool to know things, to ask questions, and to keep learning—right up until the very end.

And today is Lion’s Share Day, a lesser-known occasion that reminds us to give generously—to bring our full selves to the table and offer more than what’s asked. In a world of small talk and safe plays, it takes courage to truly show up.

Let’s shine together today.

That’s not just a feel-good phrase. It’s a challenge.

Consider the bravery it takes to put yourself out there. To show up for conversations. To engage honestly. To try. To fail. To follow up. To grow.
That’s the real lion’s share.

Who’s on YOUR board?
Not your corporate board—but your personal one. The people you turn to for grounding, guidance, or gut checks. The ones who remind you who you are when the spotlight dims.

Here’s your prompt today:
Pull up your address book. Look at the 6th name.
Are they on your board?
If you’re not sure—call them and ask.
Maybe today’s the start of a more intentional connection. Or maybe you’ll find that it’s time to make room for someone new. Either way, you’re growing.

The word of the day is: Growth.
Growth doesn’t always look like upward motion. Sometimes it looks like reaching across, reaching back, or reaching out.

Let’s keep reaching—together.

Warmly,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Monday Reflections
Another Loss: Remembering Tom Troupe July 21, 2025

Today, my heart is heavy. We’ve lost another great one—Tom Troupe, a true gentleman, a gifted actor, and above all, a generous friend. His passing marks not only the end of an era but also a personal loss for those of us lucky enough to have shared time, laughter, and stories with him.

Grief has a strange way of sharpening perspective. It reminds us—sometimes abruptly—to embrace the moment as it is. Not as we wish it to be. Not as it once was. But as it is. And to appreciate those moments deeply while we still have them.

It’s fitting that today is also National Be Someone Day—a day that encourages us to take just 10 seconds to make a positive difference in someone’s life. Tom did that every time he walked into a room.

How are you doing?
Really.
When was the last time someone asked and waited for the real answer?

The word of the day is Gratitude. Not in the vague, greeting-card sense—but in the intentional, practice-it-out-loud way. Gratitude as presence. Gratitude as action.

Your Call to Action Today:
Call the 5th name in your address book—whether that’s a friend, a colleague, or someone you haven’t spoken to in a while—and tell them one reason you’re grateful they’re in your life. Just that. Let me know how it goes.

One More Talking Point:
In memory of Tom—and in honor of those who continue to inspire us—what’s one story you’ve been meaning to share? With your audience, your family, or even just yourself? This week, let it out. Because stories, like friendships, are our truest legacy.

Until tomorrow—
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Warmly,
Richard
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Sunday Reflections: Remembering Eileen Fulton, a Dear Friend
by Richard Skipper July 20, 2025

This morning, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary life and spirit of Eileen Fulton—a dear friend, a dazzling talent, and a woman who gave the world so much through her art and presence.

Many of you knew her as Lisa Hughes on As The World Turns, the fiery, unforgettable character she brought to life for over five decades. I knew her as Eileen—a generous soul with warmth, wit, and a remarkable ability to light up a room.

When I was a kid, sitting wide-eyed in front of the television, I never dreamed that one day, Lisa from Oakdale would become a real friend. But she did. And it’s a gift I’ll never stop being grateful for.

Last year, I had the joy of interviewing her on her birthday. We laughed, reminisced, and celebrated the long arc of a life lived in full color. You can watch that conversation here:
Watch My Interview with Eileen Fulton

Today, I’m remembering her not just for her groundbreaking work in daytime television, but for the private moments, the kindnesses, the realness. And I encourage you—don’t wait to tell the people in your life what they mean to you.

In that spirit, I invite you to reach out today to the fourth name in your address book. Make a call. Express a memory. Give something back. You never know what kind of day-changer it might be.

It’s also National Fortune Cookie Day—a quirky reminder that life holds unexpected messages and surprises when we’re open to receiving them. So stay awake to the mystery in which we find ourselves. Keep your heart tuned to the gentle nudges of meaning around you.

The phrase of the day is: Giving Back.
To our mentors, our friends, our audiences, and yes—even the characters who shaped our younger selves.

One additional reflection:
Eileen taught me that staying relevant isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about showing up with honesty, courage, and curiosity. That’s the legacy I try to carry forward in every performance, every conversation, every post.

So I’ll ask you, as always:
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

And if you haven't yet, please join me on Friday, August 22nd at The Laurie Beechman Theatre for Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask). Reserve at RichardSkipper.com and use code RSC2025! for priority seating.

What do YOU think? I’d truly love to hear from you.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Saturday Reflections: New Friend’s Day
By Richard Skipper

Today is New Friend’s Day, and it’s got me thinking: when was the last time you truly welcomed someone new into your life—not just with a handshake or a passing “let’s stay in touch,” but with genuine interest and openhearted intention?

The word of the day is Generosity. Not just the generosity of giving things or time, but the generosity of attention, of listening, of being present for someone—especially someone unfamiliar. Sometimes we forget that the most impactful relationships begin not with shared history, but with shared openness.

In this season of visibility and celebration, we talk often about chosen family—and today, I invite you to consider that some of those people might not be in your life yet. That they’re just waiting for a moment of recognition, a curious question, or a well-timed “yes.”

Which brings me to a different kind of generosity: the generosity of not taking things personally.
How often do you take things personally—online, in conversation, in silence? We’ve all been there. But more often than not, what someone says (or doesn’t say) has nothing to do with us. Practicing a little generosity of interpretation can unlock doors to understanding—and maybe, to new friendships.

Today’s reflection: Reach out to the 3rd name in your address book. Is there potential there for a deeper connection? A new idea? A shared project? A rekindled spark? Invite them to join you for something—an upcoming show, a simple phone call, a walk through a favorite neighborhood. You never know what might come of it.

In next week’s newsletter, I’ll be debuting my new Backstage Pass series: reflections on what 46 years in showbiz have taught me about resilience, reinvention, and the people who make it all worthwhile. I hope you’ll read it—and maybe see a bit of your own journey in mine.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

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Friday Reflections: Perfect Family Day
by Richard Skipper

Today is Perfect Family Day—but what makes a family perfect? I’ve come to believe it’s not about matching holiday sweaters or posed portraits. It’s about presence, understanding, laughter, and deep listening. Sometimes, it’s not the people we’re born to—but the ones we choose along the way—who show up when it counts, who see us fully, and who make life’s messy, joyful journey feel a little less lonely.

Which brings me to today’s phrase of the day: Chosen Family.

These are the people who reflect our truest selves back to us. They lift us when we’re low, celebrate us when we shine, and challenge us to grow. They are fellow artists, collaborators, mentors, dear friends, and yes—even the occasional stranger who becomes part of our story.

Here’s your action for today:
Go to the 2nd name in your address book.
Ask yourself: Does this person make me feel truly seen?
If yes, call them. Tell them. Let them know how grateful you are.
If not… maybe it’s time to release that space for someone who does.

And this afternoon at 5PM ET, I’ll be joined by an incredible group of guests on my podcast to explore how our chosen families shape our lives and our art.
Tune in LIVE at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com

We’ll talk about identity, creativity, resilience—and the people who help us thrive.

Another layer to reflect on today:
Have you been someone’s chosen family lately?
The person who listens. Supports. Shows up. That’s a legacy worth building.

Let’s continue creating that kind of community—on stage, on screen, and off.

What do YOU think?
I would truly love to hear from you.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Thursday Reflections: Future Generations: Celebrating Those Who Have Gone Before Us

As I sit here listening to the unmistakable voice of Connie Francis, I’m overcome with gratitude—and deep sadness. The world lost an icon last night, but oh, what gifts she gave us. And what gifts she will continue to give, through every timeless note and heartfelt lyric.

I was lucky enough to see her live in concert—and even luckier to interview her a few years ago. That conversation remains one of my most treasured. You can 'watch 'it here:
My Interview with Connie Francis

In my countdown to August 5th—a date that marks both the 61st anniversary of Hello, Dolly! and my own 46th year of arriving in New York—I’m pausing today to celebrate two extraordinary women who each stepped into Dolly Levi’s shoes: Phyllis Diller and Mimi Hines, both born on this day.

Read more about their contributions to the Hello, Dolly! legacy at CallonDolly.com, and don’t miss my special celebration of Mimi Hines at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. These are the women who paved paths not just across stages—but through generations of performers and audiences alike.

And while we're celebrating trailblazers, let's not forget Lucie Arnaz, who also celebrates a birthday today. I recently revisited my interview with her—and you can too at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. Her warmth and insight are gifts in themselves.

Today also marks the 70th anniversary of Disneyland. I had the honor of performing at Saddleback College in Laguna Beach 20 years ago—and through sheer magic (or fate), I received VIP access to Disneyland on what turned out to be the park’s 50th anniversary. It remains one of the happiest surprises of my life. Happy 70th, Disneyland. Thank you for reminding us all to believe in wonder.

As I reflect on the lasting influence of Connie, Mimi, Phyllis, Lucie, and Walt Disney himself, I find myself thinking about future generations—those who will inherit not just our stories, but our examples. What will we pass down? And how will we continue to light the path?

Today’s invitation:
Call the first name in your database. Ask them: What was the best day we ever had together?
Re-celebrate that memory. Let it live again in conversation, in laughter, in connection.

Because the best gifts we can leave for the future are the ones we nurture in the present.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google me to see what’s been happening and what’s coming up!

Wednesday Reflections: Celebrating Ginger Rogers, Hello, Dolly!, and the Power of Connection
Word of the Day: Fun

Today, I celebrate the extraordinary Ginger Rogers, born on this day in 1911. While many remember her for gliding effortlessly across the dance floor with Fred Astaire, I honor her as a vibrant part of the Hello, Dolly! legacy.

When Carol Channing left the Broadway production in 1965 to launch the first national tour, it was Ginger who stepped into the spotlight. She made her debut as Dolly Levi on August 9, 1965, descending the staircase at the Harmonia Gardens and leaving her own indelible mark on the role.

This August, I’ll be paying tribute to that moment—sixty years later—onstage in Provincetown:

The Art House – Provincetown, MA
Monday, August 4 at 8:30 PM
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)

Tuesday, August 5 at 8:30 PM
Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!

Featuring Don and Chrissy Pardo
Reserve seats now at RichardSkipper.com

Today’s action:
Call the 9th name in your address book. Ask yourself—do you wish you could spend more time with them? Pick up the phone. Reconnect. Invite them to join you at an upcoming appearance. You never know what might happen… or who might say yes.

And since today’s word is fun, I’ll leave you with this:

When was the last time you truly celebrated—with joy, spontaneity, and intention?

Let’s make this a summer filled with meaning, memory, and momentum.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
www.CallonDolly.com

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Tuesday Thoughts: It's Not Where You Start (It's Where You Finish)
by Richard Skipper

Happy Birthday, Dorothy Fields—the brilliant lyricist who gave us so many unforgettable lines, including the empowering anthem, “It’s Not Where You Start, It’s Where You Finish.” That message runs through every beat of my Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) show—and through every beat of my life.

That lyric isn’t just a showstopper. It’s a reminder.

Every one of us begins somewhere—sometimes in doubt, sometimes in struggle, sometimes in the shadow of someone else’s spotlight. But it’s the finish, the arc, the growth, that defines us. And growth never comes without a little resistance.

Practice the Art of Small Daily Discomforts

Modern life is designed for convenience. We can press a button for dinner, press another to be entertained, and with a few taps on a screen, stay connected without actually connecting. I enjoy comfort as much as anyone—give me a warm seat and a strong Wi-Fi signal, and I’ll be happy.

But lately I’ve been reminded that our souls are not built for convenience—they’re built for challenge. For stretching. For the quiet satisfaction that comes after pushing through something hard: a difficult conversation, a new creative challenge, a moment of vulnerability.

Laozi put it best:
"Deal with the difficult while it is yet easy;
Deal with the great while it is yet small."

Growth demands discomfort. A meaningful day asks us to step outside the bubble, even if just for a moment.

So here’s a small challenge for today:

Reach out to the 8th name in your address book.
No agenda. Just check in. Ask how you can be of service in whatever they may be navigating right now.

You might be surprised by how much that moment of friendship—today’s word—can shift someone else’s day… or yours.

It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish.
And sometimes, the finish line is just one uncomfortable, generous, growth-filled step away.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Monday Reflections: Freedom, Pandemonium, and the Power of One Call
by Richard Skipper

On this day in 1789, the storming of the Bastille marked the beginning of the French Revolution—a moment of profound upheaval born out of a cry for freedom, justice, and change. It was messy. Loud. Uncertain. And yet, it forever shifted the course of history.

Today is also Pandemonium Day, and whether we like it or not, that feels a little too fitting. The world is spinning fast—news cycles, inboxes, deadlines, distractions. But even in the noise, we can choose stillness. We can choose connection. We can choose freedom—not just in grand political gestures, but in the smaller, everyday acts of intentional living.

So here’s your invitation:
Go to the 7th name in your address book or contact list.
Ask yourself: Do you truly see them? Have you really heard them lately?

Call them.
Text them.
Check in.
Make a difference in their day—and maybe in your own.

You never know what might happen… or who might need that moment of connection. Let me know how it goes.

The word of the day is Freedom, and I’m reflecting on what that really means—not just the freedom to speak or vote or travel, but the freedom to choose who we are in every moment. The freedom to course-correct. To forgive. To create. To connect.

As I prepare for my August 22 encore at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, I’m thinking a lot about the freedom of live performance—how no two evenings are ever the same. There is something sacred about being in a room where anything can happen, where laughter and storytelling and music unfold in real time. It’s one of the purest forms of presence I know. And I hope you’ll join me there.

Mark Your Calendar:
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, August 22 | 7 PM | The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve now at RichardSkipper.com using code RSC2025 for priority seating.

Let’s make today count—not through grand gestures, but through meaningful ones.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Sunday Reflections: Legacy, Limits, and Live Aid
by Richard Skipper July 13, 2025

On this day in 1985, the world tuned in for something extraordinary: the Live Aid benefit concert—a massive, multi-venue musical event held simultaneously in London and Philadelphia. It brought together legendary artists, galvanized a global audience, and raised over $125 million for famine relief in Ethiopia. More than a billion people watched around the world. It was art in service of humanity—proof that music, when mobilized with purpose, can move mountains.

It’s hard not to think about legacy on a day like this. What we leave behind. Who we touch. What we give—not just in dollars, but in presence, intention, and voice.

Today is also Go West Day, and I’m reminded that I’ll be doing just that in February 2026 as I head back to The Revolution Stage Company in Palm Springs to celebrate a very personal milestone—my 65th birthday on February 11th. The show we’re planning will reflect not only on where I’ve been, but where I’m headed—and I hope you’ll be part of that journey, whether in the audience or in spirit.

But here’s the question I’ve been sitting with this morning:
How do you limit yourself?
Not how the world limits you. Not how the system, the critics, the noise imposes itself.
You. How do you box yourself in?

Is it fear of judgment? Of failure? Of success?
Is it waiting for the right time, the perfect offer, the full bank account?

Which brings us to the phrase of the day: financial stability.
It’s a complicated one, isn’t it? Especially for those of us who live by our creativity.
But what if stability wasn’t just about money, but about the strength of our support system—our audience, our collaborators, our chosen family? What if stability begins not with a number in the bank, but with a decision to keep showing up, giving, asking, and celebrating?

So here’s your Sunday CTA—a simple ripple that could shift everything:
Call the 6th name in your address book.
Invite them to join you one of my upcoming events. Share a story. Tell them they’re on your mind.
You never know what might happen… and who you might see. Let me know how it goes!

As always...

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Saturday Reflections: Chosen Family, New Conversations, and the Day Disco Died
by Richard Skipper July 12, 2025

On this day in 1979, at Comiskey Park in Chicago, thousands of baseball fans brought disco to its knees—literally. It was "Disco Demolition Night", and in a chaotic moment that mixed cultural rebellion with a whiff of something darker, a crate of disco records was blown up between games of a doubleheader. The crowd rioted. The second game was canceled. And just like that, many declared disco dead.

I remember that summer vividly. Just weeks later, I arrived in New York City—wide-eyed, hopeful, and completely unaware that I was stepping into a world where disco still pulsed under the surface, in clubs, in fashion, and in the rhythm of a city that never fully stopped dancing. Even as headlines moved on, the beat continued for those who needed it.

Today is New Conversations Day, and I can’t help but reflect on how many new conversations shaped the early chapters of my life in New York. The introductions that led to opportunities. The chance encounters that became lifelong friendships. And the people—outside of bloodlines—who became part of my chosen family.

So here’s your invitation for today:
Go to the 5th name in your database or contact list. Reach out. Start a new conversation.

Ask a question. Share a memory. Offer something—an idea, a collaboration, a listening ear. We talk so much, but how often do we truly connect? Is your communication a one-way street, or are you leaving space for two-way growth?

The phrase of the day is chosen family—those people who meet you where you are, lift you up when you stumble, and remind you why you do what you do. I am grateful for mine. If you’re reading this, you may already be part of it.

Thank you for walking this road with me. For dancing through the noise. For showing up again and again.

Let me know what new conversation you start today. You never know where it might lead.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Friday Reflections: Focus on the Seeds, Not the Trees
by Richard Skipper

On this day in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird was published. Harper Lee couldn’t have known just how deeply her words would resonate—how her quiet seed of storytelling would grow into one of the most beloved and enduring literary works of our time.

And so today, I ask: What seeds are you planting?

We live in a world obsessed with finished products—the applause, the polished tree. But all of that begins in the unseen space beneath the surface. Growth begins with attention, patience, and intention. Whether you're starting a project, sending a kind note, or showing up for someone who’s alone—each action has the potential to bloom.

It’s National Cheer Up the Lonely Day—an invitation to reach out, to extend a hand, to remind someone that they are not forgotten. This, too, is a seed. Reach out to the 4th name in your address book with a phone call today. Let me know how it goes.

Today’s word is Environment—and we’ll be exploring how the environments we live and create in shape us as artists and humans. Join me and a panel of insightful, creative minds at 2 PM ET for Richard Skipper Celebrates on RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. The conversation promises to inspire.

And who knows? You just might win an amazing prize for showing up and engaging. Be proactive today. Don’t wait for someone else to plant the seed—start with what you have.

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to return to Provincetown next month, one of the most creatively charged environments I've ever known. I’ll be at The Art House for two very personal evenings:

• Monday, August 4: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)

• Tuesday, August 5: Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!

Both nights are sure to be joyful, unscripted, and full of celebration. Tickets and info at RainbowEG.com.

So again I ask—what seeds are you planting today?
Not for applause, not for recognition… but for something greater.

Let’s keep tending our gardens together.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Thursday Reflections: Happy Birthday, Jerry Herman
July 18, 2025
The Word of the Day: Faith

Today, I’m filled with gratitude and music. It’s Jerry Herman’s birthday—the man who, without question, composed the soundtrack of my life.

I was just 13 years old when I made my theatrical debut in a local community theater production of Mame. That was the beginning of everything. From the overture to the curtain call, I was swept into a world that Jerry built—melodic, warm, bold, and full of heart. And then came Carol Channing. He and Carol were a creative force unlike any other. Their collaboration on Hello, Dolly! shaped not only Broadway, but me.

As many of you know, I spent 20 years traipsing around the world as Carol Channing—literally. I was proud to embody her joy, humor, and legacy, and was always honored when she referred to me as the "other" Carol. Through it all, Jerry’s music remained my anchor. I know I’ve sung Jerry Herman more than any other composer in my life. And I’ll never forget the night he personally called to thank me for what I do to keep the spirit of his work alive. That moment is etched into my soul.

His songs are more than melodies—they’re a love language. They remind us of who we are, what we stand for, and why we gather in theaters to celebrate being human.

I’ll be celebrating Jerry and Hello, Dolly!  and Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid To Ask once again:

• August 4 at The Art House in Provincetown

• August 22 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC

Both shows are deeply personal. I’ll be joined by Dan Pardo on piano and Chrissy Pardo will open for me in Provincetown with her signature charm and talent. There will be music, stories, and gratitude. Because how could there not be?

Today is also Pick Blueberries Day—and I’m flooded with memories of picking blueberries in the hot South Carolina sun with my Mom and Grandma Skipper. Sticky fingers, laughter, and the joy of being present. It reminds me that the smallest rituals—like singing a song, picking a berry, or calling a friend—are the most lasting. Pick up the phone and call the 3rd name in your address book today.

So I ask:
What’s your love language?
What do you return to, again and again, to find yourself?

With faith in music, memory, and the people who shaped us,
I say: Thank you, Jerry.

Let’s keep celebrating together.

With heart,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
www.CallonDolly.com
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

 

Wednesday Reflections
July 10, 2025
Word of the Day: Fairness

On this day in 1962, a young Bob Dylan recorded “Blowin’ In The Wind.”
A simple song. A timeless question. A voice that echoed into a movement.

What Dylan captured that day wasn’t just melody—it was momentum. A breath of cultural honesty. A call to consciousness wrapped in three minutes of guitar and grit.

We are still asking those same questions today.

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Call of the Horizon

Today is also Call of the Horizon Day—a symbolic reminder that forward still exists.
There’s always something just beyond the line where sky meets earth, waiting for you to claim it.

But to get there, we must be both visionary and janitor.

Yes, dream boldly. See the bigger picture.
But also sweep the floor, return the calls, send the follow-ups, do the work.

The magic is in the maintenance.

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One Small Thing

What one small thing can you do to take better care of yourself today?
Drink the water. Make the call. Take the walk.
Maybe it’s resting your voice, preparing a nourishing meal, or saying no with grace.

Fairness begins with how you treat yourself.

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A Moment of Alignment

If fairness is today’s word, then consider this:
Are you holding yourself to a standard you wouldn’t place on someone else?
Or are you giving away all your energy without protecting any for your own creative well?

This week, I’ve been reminded over and over—through pitches, responses, yeses and pauses—that integrity isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about being fully present wherever you are.

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Today’s Invitation:
Call someone on your horizon. Reach out to the 2nd name that pops up in your email today WITH A PHONE CALL!
Tell them what you see.
Better yet—ask what they see for you.

And if you need a spark, let today’s Dylan reminder wash over you:
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind…

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With clarity and care,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

 

Tuesday Reflections
July 8, 2025
Word of the Day: Excellence
Theme: Be a Kid Again Day

Today is Be a Kid Again Day—a gentle nudge to reconnect with the part of ourselves that still believes anything is possible. The part that leads with wonder, curiosity, and play.

Kids don’t hesitate when they see an open door—they dash through it. So today, I ask you:
What doorway is open to you right now?
And perhaps more importantly—what’s stopping you from stepping through it?

Maybe it’s a creative risk, a phone call, a ticket link, a proposal waiting to be sent. Whatever it is: be brave, be bold, and say YES with childlike joy.

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The Pursuit of Excellence

Excellence isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
It’s about doing what you love with sincerity, with care, and with a touch of magic that comes from being fully in the moment.

That’s what I aim for in my shows, in my blog, and in my everyday interactions.
Because when we honor our gifts with excellence, we honor our audience as well.

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This Week’s Newsletter Is Now Live

Inside this week’s issue, I introduced two new features designed to spark action and deepen connection:
The YES List and The Five Minute Fix

This week’s featured YES-makers:

• Charles Kirsch – Bringing his Backstage Babble podcast to the stage at 54 Below

• Will Nunziata – Writing and directing Débora, a powerful new biopic

• Adam Rothenberg – Hosting The Fierce Entrepreneur Summit on July 16

Subscribe at www.RichardSkipper.com and join the conversation if you haven’t subscribed yet.

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Today’s Five Minute Fix:

Call the 1st name in your contacts list.
Seriously—don’t overthink it.
Say hello. Share what’s new. Invite them to something real.

Reconnection is excellence in action.

Let me know how it goes. You never know who might show up… and what might happen.

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With presence and play,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

Monday’s Daily Reflections
July 8, 2025
Word of the Day: Community

Today is Global Forgiveness Day, which reminds us that letting go of the past—whether in others or ourselves—is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our communities. Forgiveness creates space. Space creates connection. And connection? That’s where the magic lives.

So today, I invite you to commune with your community.

Ask yourself:
What is your greatest fear—and is it keeping you from being fully present in community?

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When Was the Last Time You Visited My Website?
If it’s been a while, I encourage you to take a fresh look.
www.RichardSkipper.com
You’ll find performance updates, press features, reflections, and new opportunities to celebrate with me.

Let me know what speaks to you—or what you’d like to see more of.
This space is for you as much as it is about me.

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A Daily Ritual You Could Take in Community Is...
Reading a community-focused newsletter.
Mine happens to arrive every Monday morning—just like this.
Full of purpose, celebration, storytelling, and people worth knowing.

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Introducing: The YES List

Debuting in Today’s newsletter: 
A Weekly Roundup of Celebrated People, Projects, and Possibilities

Each week, I’ll be spotlighting the people, performances, and powerful ideas that are lighting me up—and hopefully lighting a fire under you too. This is about saying YES to what matters: creativity, connection, and celebration.

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This Week’s YES Spotlights

1. Will Nunziata
Say YES to bold storytelling. Will is writing and directing Débora, a new biopic honoring revolutionary Colombian painter Débora Arango, with Marcela Mar in the title role. It’s a thrilling step for a theater artist expanding into the world of international film.

2. Charles Kirsch & Backstage Babble Live at 54 Below (July 7)
A rising voice in Broadway history brings his celebrated podcast to the stage for one unforgettable evening. Say YES to the next generation of storytellers.

3. Adam Rothenberg & The Fierce Entrepreneur Summit (July 16)
Adam continues to uplift creatives through Call Me Adam. His upcoming summit tackles "The Real Reason People Become Entrepreneurs"—and why visibility matters more than ever.

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One Thing to Say YES To Today

Call the 9th name in your contact list.
Not a text. Not an email. Call.
Tell them about something you're working on, invite them to a show, or simply say:
"I thought of you."

Reconnection is ethical engagement in action.

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Audience YES

Last week, a reader reached out to an old friend—per the “7th contact” challenge—and not only rekindled a relationship, but secured a new sponsor for an upcoming creative project.

That’s the power of intentional outreach.
What’s your YES story?
Send it to me—I may feature you next.

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Coming Up: What I’m Saying YES To Next Week

• Provincetown, August 4 & 5 – The Art House

• Newsletter sponsors and ethical visibility

• Expanding CallonDolly.com to new generations of theater lovers

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Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With purpose and presence,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

 

Sunday Reflections with Richard Skipper
July 6, 2025 – International Kissing Day
Word of the Day: Ethics

Happy Sunday,

Today is International Kissing Day, and while I may not be able to plant one on each of you in person, I’m sending a virtual kiss to everyone who has said YES to me—whether by email, phone, in person, or simply through a kind word. A “yes” can be the most ethical act of support we offer each other: a recognition, an opening, a shared breath of belief.

It’s a good day to ask: What are YOU denying yourself?
A moment of rest?
An overdue conversation?
A chance to be seen?

Too often, we say “no” to ourselves before the world even gets a chance. But ethics isn’t just about how we treat others—it’s how we honor our own needs and voice. Today, I encourage you to ethically and compassionately say YES to something that feeds your spirit. One step. One call. One leap.

Tomorrow morning at 9AM, my weekly newsletter hits inboxes. If you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the time. It’s filled with inspiration, event updates, and stories that celebrate the spirit of connection and creativity.
Subscribe at RichardSkipper.com – and invite a friend!

Today’s Call to Action:
Call the 8th name that pops up in your database, contact list, or inbox. Not a text. Not an email. Pick up the phone. Engage. Reconnect. Celebrate.

And when you do, I want to hear about it. Please let me know how it goes.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With love (and yes, a virtual kiss),
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

Saturday Reflections with Richard Skipper
July 5, 2025

Happy Saturday!

Today is National Workaholics Day, a reminder that while dedication is admirable, balance is essential. In our fast-paced, always-on world, it’s easy to mistake busyness for purpose. But real fulfillment often lives in the pause, the moment of connection, the shared laugh—or in simply picking up the phone instead of replying to another email.

And on this day in 1946, something revolutionary (and a little cheeky) made its debut: the bikini. Who could have predicted that such a small garment would make such a global splash? It's a fun reminder that boldness often arrives in small packages. A song, a smile, a spontaneous call... These can all create ripple effects.

So I ask: What is this moment meant to teach you?
Pause. Reflect. Engage.

The word of the day is Equality. Let it guide your conversations, your creativity, and your choices. Whether on stage or in everyday life, I strive to make everyone feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Equality isn’t just a value—it’s a verb.

And speaking of celebration…
One month from tonight, Dan Pardo and I bring Richard Skipper Celebrates to The Art House in Provincetown, thanks to the wonderful Richy Pugh and Rainbow Entertainment. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the show in one of the most magical towns on earth—this is the moment. Mark your calendars for Monday, August 4 at 8:30 PM  (Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid To Ask) and Tuesday, August 5 at 8:30 PM ( (the 46th anniversary of my arrival in NY. Come celebrate with me!)). You never know what stories will surface…or who might show up.

Today’s Call to Action:
Call the 7th name that pops up in your emails today. Don't email—call. Surprise them. Delight them. Keep the communication—and more importantly, the engagement—flowing.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With gratitude and curiosity,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to see what’s been happening… and what’s coming up!

Independence Day Reflections
July 4th, 2025
Word of the Day: Efficiency

Today we celebrate Independence Day—a moment to honor freedom, legacy, and the continual pursuit of a more perfect union. But did you also know that today is Alice in Wonderland Day? How fitting, really—because what is freedom without a little imagination, a little wonder, and the courage to go “through the looking glass” of possibility?

It’s the 185th day of the year, and that means we’re officially more than halfway through 2025. So here’s a gentle question for your reflection:

What beauty have you been gifted today?

Maybe it was a quiet cup of coffee.
Maybe it was a heartfelt conversation.
Maybe it was simply the time and space to dream.

We so often measure progress by what we do—but today, I invite you to recognize the value of what you see, what you feel, and what you offer back to the world. That’s where efficiency becomes meaningful—not in the rush, but in the richness.

Today also marks one month until I return to The Art House in Provincetown for Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask). That performance will take place Monday, August 4 at 8:30 PM—and I promise you, it will be a night of joy, connection, and truth-telling (with a few surprises along the way).

Today’s Call to Action:

Reach out to the 6th name that pops up in your address book—and not with a text or an email.
Call them.
Share a memory. Invite them to something. Tell them what they mean to you.
You never know what that call might spark.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Happy Independence Day,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Thursday Reflections: What Do You See When You Walk Through the Door?
by Richard Skipper July 3rd, 2025

Today is National Compliment Your Mirror Day — and while that may sound whimsical, I believe it offers a powerful invitation:
How you see yourself shapes how the world sees you.

So let me ask you — what’s the first thought that crosses your mind when you walk through the door and catch your reflection?

Do you smile?
Do you judge?
Do you walk past without acknowledgment?

Too often, our own reflection becomes a list of flaws or to-dos. But what if, just for today, you stopped and said:
"You're showing up."
"You're still standing."
"You've done more than you give yourself credit for."

The word of the day is Independence.
That includes independence from self-criticism. From comparison. From the need to be anything other than exactly who you are.

Independence is the quiet confidence that says: I am enough.
It’s not loud. It’s not boastful. It’s rooted in self-awareness and choice.

And that brings me to today’s invitation:

Tune in at 3PM ET for a special pop-up podcast episode of Richard Skipper Celebrates at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com
We’ll be exploring Independence in the Arts with a powerful group of artists who have built their careers with passion, purpose, and self-definition.

If you haven’t subscribed to the podcast or channel yet, now’s the time.
Already subscribed? I’d love to hear from you.
What do you enjoy most about the conversations?
What would you love to see more of?

I believe in reflection—not just in mirrors, but in community. Let’s continue to grow together.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Wednesday Reflections: Freedom, Fear & the Drive to Keep Going
by Richard Skipper July 2, 2025

Can you believe it? Fifty percent of the year is already behind us.

We’re halfway through 2025—and whether that feels like a victory lap or a reality check, today offers a moment to pause and ask:

What has happened to you in the first half of this year that transformed you?

Was it something you accomplished? A conversation that shifted your thinking? A challenge that cracked something open? Maybe it was something quieter—a moment of clarity, a quiet yes, or a long-awaited no.

Whatever it was, give it a name. Give it your attention. Transformation often sneaks in through the side door, dressed as inconvenience or uncertainty. But once it’s here, it reshapes everything.

Did you know today is also Freedom From Fear of Speaking Day?

Let that sink in.

How often do we silence ourselves—out of fear we’re not ready, not qualified, not enough?
How many opportunities have we let pass simply because we didn’t raise our hand, our voice, or our vision?

This day isn’t just for public speakers. It’s for anyone who has something to say. And that includes you.

So today, whether you speak up in a meeting, say “yes” to an opportunity, or call that person you’ve been meaning to reconnect with—do it with drive. Call the 4th name in your address book and let them know why they matter to you.

Because that’s our word of the day: DRIVE.
Not the kind that wears you down, but the kind that moves you forward.
The kind that says, I may be halfway through the year—but I’m just getting started.

So… what’s driving you into the second half of 2025?

And how can we help each other stay in motion?

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Tuesday Reflections: It’s July!
by Richard Skipper July 1st, 2025

It’s July!

Can you believe we’re officially halfway through 2025?

On this day in 1963, the U.S. Post Office introduced the ZIP Code—an innovation that organized a nation and changed how we connect through the written word.
And speaking of connection, today is National Television History Day—a celebration of the medium that brought so many of our stories into living rooms and hearts across generations.

And here’s one more: Princess Diana was born on this day in 1961, the same year I was born. We were born in very different worlds, but today I can’t help but reflect on how her grace, humanity, and compassion shaped the world—and how birthdays (and birth years) can carry their own kind of symbolism.

So today, I invite you to pause and ask:

Mid-Year Check-In: Where Are You Now?

Take 15 minutes to revisit the goals you set back in January.
Were you focused on:

• Booking more gigs?

• Improving a specific skill?

• Upgrading your materials (headshots, reels, website)?

• Deepening your industry relationships?

Now ask:

• What have you actually accomplished?
  Be specific. Maybe you joined a scene study class. Upgraded your self-tape setup. Said YES to something that once scared you.

• What surprised you?
  Did an opportunity come out of nowhere? Did you discover something you didn’t know you needed?

• What do you want to prioritize for the rest of the year?
  This is your chance to realign. Refocus. Reignite.

And whatever your answers—give yourself credit.
Every conversation, every submission, every hour of effort counts.

You are here. You are doing it. And most of all:
Believe You Are Enough.

The Word of the Day: Diversity

Not just in who we collaborate with—but in how we celebrate, create, and show up.
Diversity of thought. Diversity of action. Diversity of expression.
Make space for it—in your work and your world.

And finally, ask yourself:

What is your favorite way to celebrate the people you love?
A handwritten card? A spontaneous phone call? A shared memory?
Whatever it is—do that for someone today. Reach out to the 3rd name in your address book and let them know the impact they've made on your life. Let me know how it goes. 

Let this be the month you choose connection over perfection. Progress over pressure. Presence over performance.

You’ve made it to July.
Let’s make the second half of 2025 count.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Monday Reflections: Feel Everything—Lena Horne, Diligence, and the End of June
by Richard Skipper

"Don't be afraid to feel as angry or as loving as you can, because when you feel nothing, it's just death."
— Lena Horne

Today would have been Lena Horne’s birthday—a woman who didn’t just sing a lyric, she lived it. An artist, activist, and icon, she gave us more than beautiful music. She gave us permission to feel everything—loudly, proudly, and unapologetically.

As we close the chapter on June and turn the page to July, I find myself asking:
How are we making things more difficult than they need to be?
In our work. In our relationships. Even in our art.

Sometimes we think struggle is proof of progress, or that chaos is a necessary companion to creativity. But more often, it’s our resistance—not reality—that makes things harder than they have to be.

What if we chose diligence over drama?
Quiet, focused, committed effort—without all the noise.

What if we honored our feelings, like Lena did—especially the big ones—but didn’t let them keep us stuck?

What if we remembered that discipline and emotion can coexist—and that both have their place in the creative journey?

Today, I’m choosing diligence as my word.
Not as a grind, but as a gift.
A daily recommitment to what matters most.
A gentle but firm refusal to get in my own way.

What will you choose as you cross into a new month?

Lena felt it all—and still moved forward with grace, style, and purpose. So can we.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Sunday Reflections: Happy Pride & The Great American Campout
by Richard Skipper June 29. 2025

Happy Pride!

Today is The Great American Campout… and while they may be celebrating pitching tents and cooking over open fires, I’ve been "camping out" my whole life—in a very different way.

Let’s just say the sequins outnumber the sleeping bags. My kind of “camp” leans more toward Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall than hiking boots and mosquito netting. But both forms share one beautiful thing in common: freedom. The freedom to show up, to express yourself, to celebrate community.

And that leads me to a question I’ve been holding today:
Does what you wear reflect who you are?

In the world I come from—and the one I continue to help create—costume and character are often one and the same. But I’m not talking about masks. I’m talking about dignity. The kind that comes from standing in your truth. Pride Month reminds us that dressing up can be an act of rebellion, resilience, and yes, joy.

Last night, I curled up not in a tent, but on the couch, to watch Mariska Hargitay’s poignant new documentary, My Mom Jayne—a powerful tribute to the one and only Jayne Mansfield. It’s a story of glamour, grief, and fierce maternal love told with such tenderness and honesty, it stopped me in my tracks.

And this morning, I was struck to learn that today marks the anniversary of that tragic crash that took Jayne’s life—and also the day we lost Katharine Hepburn, another icon of strength, independence, and undeniable presence.

Two very different women. Two very different lives.
But both owned their voices. Both taught the world something about being seen.

So on this Sunday—this Campout Sunday, this Pride Sunday, this Anniversary of Icons Sunday—I leave you with the word of the day:
DIGNITY.
In how we dress. In how we speak. In how we remember. And in how we carry each other forward.

Whether you’re out under the stars or under the stage lights, I hope you’re surrounded by authenticity, warmth, and a little sparkle.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Saturday Reflections: Creativity, Courage, and the Big Picture Dream
June 28, 2025

On this day in 1969, a spark ignited that would go on to fuel a movement. The Stonewall Riots began—not as a grand speech or organized march, but as a moment of resistance, born out of exhaustion, frustration, and the deeply human desire to be seen, heard, and free.
Fifty-six years later, the echoes of that night still call to us—not just to remember, but to keep creating. Keep imagining. Keep believing that our voices, our stories, our art, and our presence matter.
Today’s word is Creativity.
Not just the kind that paints a picture or writes a song—but the kind that rewrites what’s possible.
The kind of creativity that allows you to envision a different world—one you want to wake up in.
Whether you’re writing, rehearsing, teaching, parenting, producing, planting, or simply showing up in your fullest self—you are part of the creative force that shapes our collective future.
Embrace the wisdom of nature’s rhythm.
Some seasons call for hustle. Others ask us to reflect. There is time for both.
Today, allow yourself to lean into what nature already knows: growth takes patience, space, and a little bit of magical thinking.
Ask yourself:
– What does success look like one year from now?
– Five years?
– Ten?
Not just on paper—but in your spirit. In your community. In the stories you tell and the legacy you build.
hashtag#BigPictureDream
Today is also a day to honor where we’ve been while dreaming boldly of where we’re going. Stonewall taught us that real change begins when individuals step into their power together—loudly, imperfectly, and unapologetically.
Let’s carry that spirit forward.
And now—your Saturday invitation:
CALL the 2nd name in your address book.
Let them know the impact they’ve made on your life—big or small. Don’t text. Don’t email. Call.
Then, let me know how it goes.
You never know what that moment of connection might open up—for both of you.
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU?
With heart,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Friday Reflections: What Do You Wish to Experience Again?
Word of the Day: Contribution

Today, I invite you to pause and ask yourself:

What do you wish to experience again?

Is it a moment of creative freedom? A shared laugh with a full house? The quiet joy of knowing your work touched someone—perhaps without you even realizing it? We often chase the new without realizing how much value lives in the moments we’d most love to revisit.

This afternoon’s podcast is dedicated to Cooperation in Our Art—a celebration of the ways we build, share, and lift one another through creative collaboration. I’ll be joined by five remarkable artists, each bringing a unique perspective on what it means to co-create with purpose and generosity.

Want to reach an audience beyond your friends, family, and fellow artists?

Sponsor today’s Podcast. 
There’s still time—email me by 4PM to have your next show, event, or brand spotlighted for a wide network of arts supporters and industry insiders.

Let’s make today a contribution—not just a to-do list.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

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Thursday Reflections: Dedication & the Energy We Bring
By Richard Skipper June 26, 2025

Wednesday Reflections by Richard Skipper June 25, 2025

Wednesday Thoughts: The Colors of Our Lives
“Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don’t have.” – Anthony Bourdain

Good morning, friends—

Today, we pause to reflect on legacy, visibility, and the bold color of human character.

On this day in 1978, the first Rainbow Pride Flag was proudly raised in San Francisco. Designed by Gilbert Baker, it symbolized not just identity, but hope, courage, and unity — the spectrum of our shared humanity.

And on this date in 1951, at exactly 4:35 p.m. ET, CBS aired the first official color television broadcast. Titled Premiere, it featured Arthur Godfrey, Ed Sullivan, Garry Moore, Robert Alda, and Faye Emerson. A new era had begun — one that embraced color not just in visuals, but in storytelling, inclusion, and innovation.

So how do we continue that legacy today?

We thrive — by standing in our truth, by using our voice, and by choosing collaboration over comparison.

The word of the day is: Thrive.
What does that look like for you today? What action — small or large — can move you toward your most vibrant self?

And one question to consider:
What book made a lasting difference in your life?
Was it a memoir that opened your eyes, a novel that comforted your soul, or perhaps a guide that helped you see your own story more clearly?

Let today be a reminder that while skills and technology evolve, it’s our character, community, and courage that bring true color to the world.

And if you’re looking for a place to celebrate it all — I invite you to join me at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Friday, August 22 at 7 PM. We’ll be gathering once again for my encore show:
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask).

Reserve your seats at RichardSkipper.com with code RSC2025!

Until then — keep thriving, keep celebrating, and keep showing your true colors.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

With appreciation,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

 

Tuesday Reflections By Richard Skipper June 24, 2025

“It isn't up to the painter to define the symbols. The public who look at the picture must interpret the symbols as they understand them.”
— Pablo Picasso

Happy Tuesday!

Today is Celebration of the Senses Day — and I can’t think of a better moment to pause and reflect on how we receive and interpret the world around us. Through taste, sight, touch, smell, sound… and something more intangible: curiosity. The very thing that nudges us toward discovery, connection, and meaning.

That’s where Picasso’s quote lands so powerfully. As entertainers, artists, and human beings, we offer symbols—songs, stories, gestures, silences—and then release them into the world. What happens next is not up to us. The audience assigns meaning. They bring their own context, history, longings, and senses to the table. Interpretation is a collaboration.

That’s exactly the spirit I bring to the stage.
When I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Friday, August 22 at 7 PM, with Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask), I’m inviting the audience to complete the picture. You submit the questions. I respond in the moment—with music, memory, and a bit of theatrical alchemy.

No script. Just shared presence.
No symbols explained—just meaning explored.

So I ask you today:
When did life last surprise you?
What moment invited you to sense something more?

Let’s keep that curiosity alive—on stage and off.

And here’s a playful assignment:
Call the 7th name in your contact list and invite them to join you on August 22.
You never know what might happen—or what symbol they might help you interpret.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

P.S. You can use code RSC2025! at checkout on my website to reserve the best seats available. Let’s create something unforgettable—together.

 

Monday Reflections: Step Fully Into Your Power by Richard Skipper

Today is Let It Go Day, and maybe—just maybe—it’s time to truly release what’s been holding us back.

Let go of the doubts.
Let go of the comparisons.
Let go of the need for permission.

Let’s all step fully into our power this week—in art, in voice, in presence. What might open up for you if you trusted yourself just a little more?

The Word of the Day is: TRUST.
Trust your instincts. Trust your timing. Trust the power of showing up fully as you are.

Tonight, I’ll be celebrating Hello, Dolly! at Carnegie Hall. I want to send heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved. This musical is sacred ground to me—and you know how deeply I cherish its legacy.

But I’d be remiss if I didn’t say this: I’m disappointed not to be part of this moment. When I reached out to the producers and publicists months ago to offer my support—on or off stage—I was met with silence. That stings. And I know I’m not alone in that feeling. Sometimes the hardest part of our work is knowing when to let go, and when to keep showing up anyway.

So I’m choosing to show up.

If you’re reading this and you're a subscriber to my newsletter, I’d love to hear from you:
What are your thoughts on this week’s edition?
I create each message with care—and your reflections help shape what comes next.

And finally, a very special shout out to this week’s sponsor:
Lisa Grubb of The Happy Dog Gallery in Piermont.
Google her. Visit her gallery.
And when you do, tell her I sent you.

Let today be a day of release. Of trust. Of stepping forward.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

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Sunday Reflections: On Judy Garland, Courage, and Connection
By Richard Skipper

Today marks the anniversary of Judy Garland’s passing — a moment that still echoes across time for so many of us.

I was just eight years old in Conway, South Carolina. If you’ve seen my shows, you already know what that day meant to me — how it shaped not only my sense of loss but also my understanding of presence, performance, and the very idea of magic.

That memory has never left me. In fact, it’s become a thread in the tapestry of my storytelling.

If you join me on August 22nd at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, you just might hear me talk about it. Ask me. I’ll tell you.

Today, I also want to speak to something we all juggle: balance.
Balancing a creative life, a personal life, a public life, a private truth. Some days we hit the notes. Other days, we falter. And that’s okay — because showing up with authenticity takes something deeper than polish.

It takes courage.
Thank you to Bert Lahr (who said it best as the Cowardly Lion), and to L. Frank Baum, Harold Arlen, and E.Y. Harburg — the team that helped us all believe that having courage doesn’t mean we’re fearless. It means we act despite the fear.

And yes, today is also Stupid Guy Thing Day. But maybe the smartest thing you can do today is reach out.

So here’s your challenge:
Contact the 5th name in your email list. Invite them to join you on August 22nd.
You never know who might say yes. You never know what kind of connection might be rekindled.

Now that’s not stupid. That’s courageous. That’s human.

Let’s keep showing up for one another — in person, in story, in song.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Saturday Reflections June 21, 2025!

by Richard Skipper

Saturday Reflections

by Richard Skipper

On this day in music history, “Mr. Tambourine Man” was released—launching not only The Byrds into stardom, but an entire folk-rock revolution that still echoes through our lives today.

Speaking of echoes… have you heard Ann Kittredge’s haunting, gorgeous take on “Mr. Tambourine Man”? It’s a revelation—full of longing, light, and wisdom. Take five minutes today and let it wash over you:
Listen on Spotify

Today is World Music Day—a perfect time to pause and reflect on the sounds, voices, and rhythms that have shaped who we are.

Moment of the Week:

This week, I experienced a resounding YES! when I received confirmation that several colleagues will be spreading the word about my August 22nd return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre. It reminded me that cooperation—today’s Word of the Day—is not just a value... it’s an energy. A lifeline. A spark.

Now it’s your turn:

In what ways have you been afraid to shine your light?
What makes you feel most alive?

Let’s lean into that.

Reach out to the 4th name in your contact list and invite them to join you on August 22nd. You might be surprised at what doors open when you say yes—and ask someone else to do the same. Let me know how it goes!

If you missed last month’s performance, ask someone who was there. Or visit my Guestbook at RichardSkipper.com to see what audiences are saying. While you’re there, explore my homepage for reviews, upcoming appearances, and how we might celebrate you next.

Stay creative. Stay connected.
And don’t be afraid to sing your song.

Reserve now at RichardSkipper.com using discount code RSC2025! for best available seats.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?
—Richard Skipper

RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening!

 

Friday Reflections: From Ed Sullivan to Ethics
Word of the Day: Ethics

On this day in 1948, a little Sunday night variety show called Toast of the Town debuted on CBS. The host? None other than Ed Sullivan—one of my lifelong idols. His ability to bring together artists of all backgrounds, his wide-eyed wonder, and his insistence on giving people a shot shaped the landscape of American entertainment.

Fast-forward to 1975:
"Jaws" hits theaters and changes the summer blockbuster forever. A shark, a beach, and a bold new way of storytelling. Audiences were never the same—and neither was cinema.

What do these two seemingly different moments in pop culture have in common? New identities. Bold redefinitions of what entertainment could look like, feel like, and stand for.

Which brings us to today: New Identity Day.
A fitting time to ask:

How do YOU define love?
And how do your personal ethics shape the way you show it?

Is love how you show up for your community?
Is it the way you honor your word?
Is it in the boundaries you set—or the compassion you offer?

In a world constantly shifting, ethics becomes the compass we need. Not just in our work, but in how we lead, listen, and love.

That’s exactly what we’re diving into today at 5 PM ET on a special episode of Richard Skipper Celebrates:

“Ethics In Our Work” – Live at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com

We’ll explore what it means to stay grounded in integrity while navigating the creative world—from collaboration and communication to responsibility and resilience.

Join us LIVE at 5PM and be part of the conversation.
Bring your stories, your questions, your reflections. We need them.

Because as Ed Sullivan proved:
When you put the right people on stage... something wonderful happens.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

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Thursday Reflections: 1865
Word of the Day: Re-Evaluate

On June 19, 1865, freedom finally reached the last enslaved African Americans in Texas—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. That date, now known and honored as Juneteenth, stands as both a celebration and a solemn reminder: progress must be pursued, protected, and proclaimed.

Today is about more than history. It’s about awareness. It’s about reflection. It’s about asking ourselves where in our own lives we are still waiting for the truth to arrive, and where we need to step up and carry the message forward.

"The only people who see the whole picture are the ones who step outside the frame."
— Salman Rushdie

That quote resonates deeply today. On a national level, yes. But also personally. Where in your own life have you accepted “how it is” without asking, Could it be different? Could it be freer, fairer, more fully awake?

It’s also Garfield the Cat Day, which—believe it or not—feels oddly appropriate. Because even in humor, there’s always something to re-evaluate. Comfort, routine, resistance to Mondays... sound familiar?

So, I ask you:

What opened you this year in ways you didn’t know you were closed?
Where are you ready to re-evaluate, reframe, or restart—no matter how overdue it may feel?

For those of you who read my Monday newsletter, thank you. I introduced a new feature:
The Five Minute Fix – and I’d love to hear what you thought! Did it speak to you? Would you like more of those small, powerful prompts?

If you haven’t subscribed yet, you can do so here:
Subscribe at RichardSkipper.com

Next Monday’s edition includes:
Hello, Dolly! updates, Michael Orland, The Let Them Theory Book Club... and so much more.
Delivered straight to your inbox—bright and early to start your week with heart.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

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Wednesday Reflections
June 18, 2025
Word of the Day: Contentment

On this day in 1967, Barbra Streisand stood before 135,000 people in Central Park and gave a performance that would become legendary. It was electric, iconic—a true happening.

Today is also International Picnic Day, which somehow feels perfect. Because while Barbra had the crowds and the spotlight, what made that night magical was the shared experience—the contentment of being together, outdoors, under the stars, connected through music.

This morning, as I listen to Barbra’s voice soar through my speakers, I’m thinking… I’d be content with 135 people of my own—joining me at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on August 22 for the encore of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask).

Not 135,000. Just 135. A room full of connection, laughter, and maybe a few surprises.

Will you be one of them?

Here’s your challenge for today:
Call the first name in your database—that one person you’ve been meaning to reconnect with—and invite them to join you on August 22. Extend the invitation, see what unfolds, and let me know how it goes.

After all, contentment isn’t about crowd size. It’s about shared moments, real presence, and showing up for joy—wherever it finds us.

Wishing you a little Barbra, a little sunshine, and a whole lot of yes today.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

 

Thursday Reflections with Richard Skipper: The Attitude of Gratitude June 5th, 2025

Happy Thursday!

Today is National Attitude Day—and let’s be honest, the right attitude can change everything. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect, but about choosing how we face what isn’t.

The word of the day is Challenge—and like many of us in the arts, I’ve faced plenty. But challenge is often just opportunity in a slightly wrinkled suit.

So today, I want to ask you:
What is the kindest thing someone has ever done for you?
For me, it’s been the people who saw something in me before I fully saw it in myself—and who said yes when it would’ve been easier to say maybe someday.

As I work to secure my next booking (and there are conversations in motion!), I’m reminded that so much of this business comes down to community—and advocacy. If you’ve ever seen one of my shows and thought, They should book him here, pick up the phone and tell them so! Your voice matters.

Or—if you’re in a position to do so—say YES to asking me to entertain for your organization, venue, or next special event. Let's co-create something unforgettable.

And speaking of things unfolding—next week’s newsletter is one you won’t want to miss. If you’d like to advertise or sponsor, there’s still time to be part of something joyful, smart, and story-rich. Let me know by Sunday at 4PM.

Lots of surprises are in store.

Until then—keep showing up. Keep celebrating. And remember…

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me!

 

Tuesday Reflections: 1885
Statue of Liberty Arrives in New York Harbor
June 17, 2025

On this day in 1885, a symbol of freedom, hope, and welcome arrived in New York Harbor: the Statue of Liberty. Think of the confidence it took to envision such a monumental gift—and the courage it inspired in those who saw it for the first time.

It reminds me to pause and ask: What are you building that might welcome others to dream bigger? Confidence isn't just about certainty—it’s about acting in the face of the unknown, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

The word of the day is Confidence.
And I encourage you to do one bold thing today:
Start a meaningful conversation with the 9th name in your database. Don’t text. Don’t email. Pick up the phone. Ask them how they are. Let them know they matter. See where that conversation takes you.

To my YouTube subscribers and friends in the Broadway and cabaret community:
A quick shout out to Donald Feltham’s Broadway Radio Show—a treasure trove of thoughtful content, heart, and insight. If you haven’t tuned in yet, I hope you will. You’ll see why I keep coming back.

Of course, it’s easy to find for all my subscribers.

Here’s to building confidence—within ourselves and in each other.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
Google Me to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

Wednesday Reflections: The Audacity to Hope... and the Power of Caring
by Richard Skipper June 4th, 2025

Today is Audacity to Hope Day—a beautiful reminder that hope is an act of courage. It means believing in the future even when the present feels uncertain. It means caring enough to keep going.

Which brings us to the word of the day: Caring.
In my work—and in life—caring has always been the foundation. Caring about legacy. About craft. About every person who shows up and chooses connection over complacency.

I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who helped make last Friday’s show at The Laurie Beechman Theatre so special. It was an evening of truth, laughter, music, and community—and I'm still glowing from the love in the room.

And I’m honored to announce: I’ll be returning to The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Friday, August 22 at 7PM!

If you're going to be in New York—or need an excuse to visit—this is your chance to be part of something intimate, spontaneous, and unforgettable.

Reserve now at www.thebeechman.com and use code RSC2025 to secure the best available seats.

Let’s celebrate stories. Let’s celebrate legacy. Let’s celebrate caring enough to keep showing up.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Google Me!

Monday Reflections: 1884, Roller Coasters, and Designing the Life You Want
June 17, 2025

On this day in 1884, the first roller coaster in America opened at Coney Island. That detail might pass most people by—but for me, it brings a flood of memories.

I think back to this very date in 1979. I was working at the Grand Strand Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, right under the rumbling wooden tracks of the Swamp Fox Roller Coaster. The smell of cotton candy, the scream of thrill-seekers overhead, the salt air—and me, counting down the days to August 5th. That’s the day I packed my dreams into a suitcase and boarded my own metaphorical roller coaster: a one-way ride to New York City. I never looked back.

Fitting, then, that today is also Wish Fulfillment Day.

Because life doesn’t hand you your dreams fully formed. You design them. You ride the highs and weather the dips. And if you’re lucky, you get to build a life that lets you keep saying “yes” to what sets your heart in motion.

The word of the day is Connection.

Today, I want to thank all of you who subscribe to my newsletter—and especially those who take a moment to reply, reflect, and reach out. That’s what connection looks like. That’s what keeps me going.

This week, I’m celebrating connection through performance and conversation—with the incomparable Natalie Douglas, the radiant Billie Brouse, my podcast episode on Ethics in Art (Friday at 5 PM), and a special spotlight on the legendary Steve Ross.

Let’s keep building the bridges between us. Let’s keep riding the ride.

Feel free to reach out. Let me know what YOU'RE celebrating.

Let’s connect. Let’s sing. Let’s celebrate each other—together.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU?

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What's Coming Up!

 

Tuesday Reflections: Love Conquers All, What Is Sacred, and the Word of the Day is Career
by Richard Skipper

Happy Tuesday.
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Today is Love Conquers All Day, and I invite you to take a moment and ask yourself: What is sacred to me?
For me, it’s always been the spaces where connection happens—on stage, across a table, through a song, or even in a moment of shared silence. That is sacred. That is love in action.

And today’s word? Career.
Not the hustle—not just the bookings or the calendar—but the deeper path. The through line of your purpose. I’ve been on that path for 46 years in New York, and I’m still learning how love and sacredness make the best kind of career possible.

Mark Your Calendar:
I’m honored to return to Valley Cottage Library on Wednesday, August 14th with my most personal show yet:
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
It’s part memoir, part celebration, and completely shaped by your questions. Bring your curiosity. Bring your heart.

Until then, I invite you to reflect:
Where in your life can love conquer fear today?
What part of your calling feels sacred—and needs more of your attention?

Follow the pull. Honor your path.
And if you’re in Rockland County—or Provincetown on August 4th—I’d love to celebrate together.

With warmth,
Richard

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Sunday Reflections: Father’s Day, Competition, and the Spirit Behind the Spotlight
June 15, 2025

“It is a wise father that knows his own child.” —William Shakespeare

Today is Father’s Day, and with it comes an opportunity to pause and reflect—not just on fathers in the literal sense, but on mentors, teachers, and guides who’ve helped shape who we are. Whether your relationship was foundational, fractured, or forged through chosen family, this day calls us to acknowledge the people who influenced our path.

The word of the day is Competition, and it’s especially relevant in the world of show business. We are constantly auditioning, presenting, refining, and sharing our work. The instinct to compare ourselves to others is natural—but if we’re not careful, competition can eclipse connection.

For me, true growth has often come in those moments when I stopped trying to “win” and instead focused on why I do what I do: to tell stories, build bridges, and celebrate legacy. As I prepare for my upcoming shows in August, I’m reminded that showing up with integrity, joy, and resilience is its own kind of success.

So today, I ask you:
Who helped shape your sense of self?
Who taught you what it means to lead—with courage, with patience, with heart?

Tomorrow morning, a brand-new edition of my weekly newsletter lands in inboxes across the country. Inside:

• A spotlight on the incomparable Natalie Douglas

• A celebration of emerging artist Billie Brouse

• A reflection on Ethics in Art—why what happens behind the curtain matters just as much as what’s on stage
  …and so much more.

If you haven’t yet subscribed, now’s the time.
Sign up at RichardSkipper.com
and join a community of readers who believe in the power of storytelling, celebration, and truth.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU?

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Google Richard to See What’s Been Happening and What’s Coming Up!

What Made Friday Beautiful
by Richard Skipper June 2, 2025

Friday night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre was one of those rare, beautiful nights when everything just… clicked.

The house was full. The energy was high. But more than that, there was a spirit in the room that you can’t manufacture or rehearse—it can only come from shared presence.

People leaned in. They laughed. They listened. They asked the kinds of questions that crack you open just enough to let in something new.

So today, on National Doughnut Day, I’m taking a moment to savor the sweetness—and reflect on what made it work.

---

What Was Beautiful?

The belonging.
That’s the word of the day. And it’s exactly what I felt Friday night.

It was in the voices that filled the room, the eyes that held steady, the people who came together not just to watch—but to connect.

It reminded me why I do this. Not for applause (though I’ll never turn it down). But for the feeling that we’re all part of something here—a moment, a story, a song, a memory shared.

---

What Surprised Me?

The depth of the questions.
The bravery of the answers that surfaced.
And that magical, emotional synchronicity that happens when someone submits a question like, “What would you do if the world ended tomorrow?”… and the next song—completely unplanned—is “Moon River.”

That kind of synchronicity can’t be explained. Only honored.

---

Who Do I Need to Thank?

You.

Those who showed up. Those who asked. Those who trusted me to hold their attention and their questions.
Those who subscribe to my newsletter each week and support this creative life—thank you.
I would truly love to hear your thoughts on this week’s edition. Let me know what resonated. What surprised you. What made you feel like you belonged.

---

What’s Next?

On Monday, August 5th at The Art House in Provincetown, I’ll be celebrating Hello, Dolly! and the 46th anniversary of my arrival in New York City. It promises to be another night of joy, nostalgia, and a little Broadway sparkle.

If you'd like to help me keep sharing these stories and moments, I’m currently offering:

• Sponsorship and ad opportunities for next week’s newsletter

• Cross-promotion packages tied to the August 5th Provincetown performance

Let’s make magic together. Reach out to Richard@RichardSkipper.com to discuss how we can collaborate.

---

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Until next time—thank you for showing up. For reading. For belonging.

With gratitude,
Richard

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Reflections: Friday June 6, 2025
Theme: Advocacy in Art
Word of the Day: Advocacy

A Double Feature of Inspiration

On this day in 1933, America’s very first drive-in movie theatre opened in Camden, New Jersey. For many of us, drive-ins became the backdrop for cherished childhood memories. One of mine: sitting between my parents in the front seat of our car, watching Fireball 500 starring Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello, the screen glowing under the night sky. That experience cemented my love for entertainment and planted the seeds for the entertainer I would one day become.

Filmmaker April Wright has done extraordinary work preserving this slice of Americana through her heartfelt documentaries that spotlight the few remaining drive-ins across the country—including the beloved Wellfleet Drive-In in Massachusetts.Look her up!

If you’re planning a trip to Provincetown for my August 4th performance of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper...But Were Afraid to Ask at The Art House, I encourage you to check out what’s playing at Wellfleet the night before. Make a weekend of it—a celebration of nostalgia, storytelling, and shared joy.

Also today, we mark the anniversary of the final episode of The Ed Sullivan Show, which aired on June 6, 1971. I was ten years old—and I cried. That show was my first glimpse into a world where entertainers could shape culture, uplift spirits, and build community through performance. It’s no exaggeration to say that Ed Sullivan is one of my greatest muses. I strive to bring that same spirit of inclusion, excitement, and variety to everything I do.

Today at 4 PM ET, please join me for a special live edition of Richard Skipper Celebrates, where we’ll explore Advocacy in Art with Barbara J. Garshman, Francis Garner, Sharon Ruben, Adam Rothenberg, and Pamela Morgan.

Watch live and join the conversation here:
https://youtube.com/live/Lja93Y25JCI?feature=share

Bring your voice. Leave a comment. Share the energy.

Let’s remember how powerful art can be—not only in entertaining, but in advocating for change, for connection, for truth.

And ask yourself today:
Where would YOU most like to go in this world?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

 

June Is Bustin’ Out All Over
by Richard Skipper June 1, 2025

It’s the first day of June—and it’s already bursting with meaning, memory, and momentum.

First things first:
June is Pride Month.
A time to celebrate authenticity, resilience, and the brilliance of living fully in your truth. Whether you’re marching in a 'parade' or quietly reflecting on how far we’ve come, today’s a day to honor the beautiful spectrum of identity—and the courage it takes to be seen.

It’s also Marilyn Monroe’s birthday.
A woman whose image became iconic—but whose humanity was often overlooked. She reminds us that behind every spotlight is a story… and that the most luminous stars often shine through struggle. Today, I think of her not as a bombshell, but as a dreamer. An artist. Someone who dared to try, even when the world misunderstood her.

Which brings me to Dare Day.
Ask yourself: Are your actions aligned with your intentions?
It’s easy to dream, but do we dare to act on those dreams?
Do we make the calls, write the pitch, show up for the work—even when it feels risky?

If there’s something you’ve been holding off on—today is your invitation.
Dare to reach out.
Dare to take the next step.
Dare to be the best version of yourself—not later, but now.

That’s our phrase of the day: Being the Best.
Not someone else’s version of “best,” but your own.
Best doesn’t mean flawless. It means real. Present. Fully in it.
Best means giving what you’ve got, with love and intention.

So as June busts out all over—ask yourself:
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Let’s make this month about boldness, beauty, and being the best.
Let’s dare… together.

With gratitude,
Richard

 

 

 

Saturday Reflections: It’s Not Where You Start…It’s Where You Finish
Honoring Cy Coleman, Competence, and the Power of the People Who Love You June 14 2025

Today we celebrate the birthday of the legendary Cy Coleman. While many people connect me with Jerry Herman—and rightly so—there are two Cy Coleman songs that have lived in my repertoire for years: My Personal Property and It’s Not Where You Start, It’s Where You Finish. Both are featured in my show Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper...But Were Afraid To Ask.

Why do these songs matter? Because they speak to competence—not just technical skill, but resilience, integrity, and heart. These are the qualities that carry us forward, especially in show business, and especially in life.

As I prepare to bring this show to Provincetown on August 4th, I’m thinking a lot about beginnings—about the people and moments that gave me the confidence to say yes to this life. What would happen if you wrote down the story of the people who love you? The ones who saw your competence even before you believed in it yourself?

The 36th Annual New York Cabaret Convention will be honoring Cy Coleman in a special tribute night kicking off  Tuesday, October 21st—and I’m honored to be part of that celebration as well.

So today, I leave you with this:

It's not where you start, it's where you finish. And nobody finishes alone.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and What's Coming Up!

 

What a Beautiful Night… and What’s Next!
by Richard Skipper May 31st, 2025

It’s National Smile Day, and I’ve been smiling ever since the curtain came down last night at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.

To everyone who showed up for Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid to Ask—thank you.
You were a beautiful audience: present, curious, generous, and ready for wherever the evening would take us.

The show was spontaneous, heartfelt, and yes—completely unscripted. You asked the questions. I followed where they led. We laughed, reflected, sang, and celebrated the moments that brought us here.

And the response? Humbling.

Stephen Sorokoff of Broadway World captured it like this:

“Fact #1: Richard Skipper is a highly entertaining and knowledgeable fellow who has had an action-packed career in show business. But last night, Richard ‘interviewed himself’ with the help of an audience packed with friends and fans who peppered him with questions targeted to lay bare the man behind the microphone. At times I felt like I was in a room full of psychiatrists, the questions posed were so thought-provoking… Richard’s answers were always intertwined with fascinating stories, songs (the man has a gift in communicating a lyric), and personal anecdotes from his 46-year career in entertainment.”
Read the full Broadway World review

It was one of the most rewarding nights of my career—and I’m thrilled to announce:
I’ve been asked back to The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Friday, August 22nd!
Tickets will go on sale any minute now. I’ll share the link as soon as it’s live. Let’s do it all again—new questions, new energy, same heart.

And for those planning a summer escape…
Join me at The Art House in Provincetown on Monday, August 4th at 8:30 PM for another round of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid to Ask.
With Dan Pardo at the piano and Chrissy Pardo opening the night, it promises to be something truly special.

Tickets:
https://www.simpletix.com/e/richard-skipper-celebrates-hello-dolly-tickets-204783

Today’s word is: Beautiful
That’s what I experienced onstage last night—and it’s what I’m carrying with me into everything that comes next.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Let’s keep showing up for one another. Let’s keep making it beautiful.

With love and gratitude,
Richard Skipper

 

Friday Reflections: It’s Friday the 13th – So Let’s Talk Authenticity
by Richard Skipper

Yes, it’s Friday the 13th. Cue the superstition, the black cats, and the nervous glances. But rather than worry about what could go wrong, what if we used today to lean into what’s real?

What is the fastest way to stay calm?
Tell the truth. Breathe. Be yourself.
That’s it. Simplicity is soothing. And authenticity grounds us in the present moment.

In a world that constantly pushes performance, appearance, and curated perfection, authenticity becomes an act of courage. It’s not always easy—but it’s always powerful. Whether you’re on stage, in conversation, or simply showing up for your life, choosing to be yourself might be the boldest (and calmest) thing you can do.

The word of the day is: Authenticity.
Today, I challenge you to show up fully. Speak from your center. Share something real.

And if you need a little inspiration?

Tune in TODAY at 4 PM EST for a new episode of Richard Skipper Celebrates.
We’re diving into “Authenticity in Art” with a vibrant panel of creatives who are leading with their truth and making meaningful work in the process.

Here’s your viewing link:
https://youtube.com/live/-zje_hf2s38?feature=share

Come for the insights, stay for the connection.

Today's Action Step:
Reach out to the 5th name in your database today and truly engage with them—personally, meaningfully. A phone call, not an email or text!

Then tell me how it goes—I’d love to hear.

Let’s make Friday the 13th a celebration of what’s real—and keep choosing authenticity, no matter what day it is.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me To See What’s Been Happening and what's coming up!

 

 

Today Is National Creativity Day... and It’s Show Day!
by Richard Skipper May 30th, 2024!

As I sit with my coffee this morning, I’m struck by the perfect harmony of today’s themes:
It’s National Creativity Day... it’s Show Day... and the word that keeps ringing in my ears is Balance.

Creativity has always been my compass. It’s what guided me from a small-town dreamer to standing on stages across the country. And tonight, it guides me once again as I step into the spotlight for Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid to Ask at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.

But creativity doesn’t flourish without balance.
Balance between preparation and spontaneity.
Between structure and flow.
Between giving and receiving.

Tonight’s show is unscripted. It lives and breathes in the moment. The questions I’ll pull from the audience will shape the evening. No teleprompter. No net. Just presence, play, and trust. That balance of vulnerability and joy... that’s where real connection happens. That’s where the magic lives.

So I ask you today:
How do you view success?
Is it the standing ovation? The glowing review?
Or is it showing up, fully, as your authentic self—and creating space for others to do the same?

For me, success tonight isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. It’s about letting creativity lead, letting balance guide, and letting the evening unfold as it’s meant to.

If you are available, I would love for you to be part of it:
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid to Ask
Tonight at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 West 42nd Street, NYC
Reserve your seat now: www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530LaurieBee

And as always, I want to hear from you:
Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU?

Let’s honor creativity, seek balance, and celebrate the beautiful mess of being human—together.

You never know who might show up or what might happen.

— Richard

Thursday Reflections: It’s Magic Day
June 12, 2025
Word of the Day: Compassion

Today is Magic Day, honoring illusionist Harry Blackstone Sr., who brought wonder and enchantment to the stage. But magic doesn’t just live in top hats and sleight of hand—it lives in moments. It lives in connection. In clarity. In compassion.

So let me ask you:
What was your most recent “aha!” moment?

Mine came during a quiet moment backstage, when I realized: the real power of performance isn’t just in the applause—it’s in creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and celebrated. That’s the kind of magic worth showing up for.

And that leads to today’s Word of the Day: Compassion.

Compassion is what transforms a performance into a communion. It’s what turns colleagues into collaborators, and audiences into lifelong supporters. When we lead with compassion—for ourselves, for our work, and for each other—we don’t just create better art. We create better lives.

I see compassion in the people who show up week after week to lift one another up. I see it in those who lend a hand, share a kind word, or support a project not because they have to, but because they believe.

And speaking of belief…

On Friday, August 22 at 7PM, I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre for an encore of Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask).
The magic is unscripted. The stories are real. And the connection? That’s up to you.

Reserve now at www.TheBeechman.com — use code RSC2025! for best seating.

And if you’re reading this, here’s your challenge today:
Call the fourth person in your contacts list and ask them to join you on August 22.
You never know what kind of magic that could spark.

Until tomorrow—
Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How Can I Celebrate YOU Today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me!

 

Thursday Reflections: Wonder, Ella, and the Creative Life
by Richard Skipper May 29, 2025
As I write this, Ella Fitzgerald is singing her joyful rendition of Love Is Sweeping the Country, and I can’t help but wonder if maybe it is. Or maybe it could be, if we let it.
Today, I invite you to reflect on a simple, beautiful question.
Does wonder still have a place in your life?
Wonder is more than a feeling. It is a lens. It is the theme of today’s show, this week’s reflections, and the perspective I strive to bring into all that I do. In a world filled with noise and routine, wonder keeps the artist in us alive. It reminds us to stay curious, stay present, and stay creatively awake.
This afternoon at one o’clock Eastern Time, I hope you will join me at RichardSkipperCelebrates dot com for a special edition of Richard Skipper Celebrates. I will be joined by three wonderful guests, DC Anderson, Donald Feltham, and Paula Heitman, for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about Wonder in Our Art. It promises to be an inspiring hour that may awaken your own creative spark.
And tomorrow night, Friday May thirtieth at seven o’clock, I invite you to join me at the Laurie Beechman Theatre for
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper But Were Afraid To Ask
Use the code RSC2025 for a special discount on tickets. They are going quickly, and I would love to see you there.
To explore everything I am working on, visit RichardSkipper dot com. There you will find updates on upcoming performances, video clips, newsletter archives, and more ways for us to stay connected.
Your feedback is always welcome. Let’s keep celebrating together.
Richard Skipper

 

April 9, 2025: Generosity & Talent — A Director, A Musical Director, and a Grateful Entertainer

One of the greatest joys in this 46-year journey of mine is getting to collaborate with artists who don’t just bring talent to the table — they bring heart.

As I prepare for my upcoming show at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on May 30th, I’ve found myself feeling especially grateful for two incredible collaborators: director James Beaman and musical director Dan Pardo.

Working with James is a gift. He brings a clear eye, impeccable instincts, and a deep love for storytelling — but even more than that, he brings generosity. He listens. He lifts. He shapes. And he does it all with a spirit of respect that allows a performer like me to take risks, trust, and grow.

And Dan Pardo? His musicality is matched only by his kindness. Whether we’re exploring phrasing, discovering new emotional beats in a familiar lyric, or laughing between takes, Dan creates a space that feels safe, supportive, and creatively rich.

Together, they remind me of something I’ve learned again and again: true greatness in this business isn’t just about what you can do — it’s about how you make others feel while doing it.

So today, I celebrate these two collaborators. I thank them. And I invite you to come witness what we’re creating together — live, in the room, one night only.

Friday, May 30 @ 7PM
 The Laurie Beechman Theatre
Tickets: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
Use code RSC2025! for discounted admission

With deep appreciation,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Richard Skipper Celebrates – Wednesday, May 28, 2025
International Hamburger Day | Word of the Day: Ambition
Theme: What Is the Most Thoughtful Thing Someone Has Said About You?

Happy Wednesday, and happy International Hamburger Day!

Now, if you’ve ever dined at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, you know this isn’t just about theatre—it’s also about the food. And let me tell you, they serve one of the best hamburgers in all of New York City. So if you're joining me there this Friday night, I highly recommend you come hungry—for both storytelling and the sandwich.

But let’s talk about another kind of nourishment: words.

What is the most thoughtful thing someone has ever said about you?
Not a compliment. Not a passing “great job.” I mean the kind of words that stop you in your tracks. The ones that echo back to you the truest parts of yourself—maybe even before you were ready to believe them.

Those words have power. They fuel ambition—not the cutthroat kind, but the purposeful kind. The ambition that comes from knowing you have something to give… and choosing to give it fully.

That’s what I see in Melissa Manchester, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her LIVE today at 3:10 PM ET to Richard Skipper Celebrates. We’ll be talking about her 50 years in show business, her new show Musical Memoir, and the legacy she’s continuing to build with heart and integrity.

Tune in at 3:10 PM ET today at www.RichardSkipperCelebrates.com

And of course, the countdown continues…

This Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask)
LIVE at The Laurie Beechman Theatre

It’s unscripted. Unfiltered. A little daring. A little dangerous. And a lot of fun.
You submit the questions. I draw them live. No safety net. Just music, truth, and a whole lot of laughter.

Reserve your seats now at www.RichardSkipper.com
Use code RSC2025! for a special discount—tickets are going fast.
You never know who might be there… or what might happen.

So today, in the spirit of Mame, let’s…

Open a new window. Open a new door. Step into the light of something brand new.

Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

 

Why I Do This

People often ask me: “Why did you start entertaining?” And more importantly: “Why do you still do it?”

The short answer? I was born with it in my bones. But the deeper answer has evolved over time.

I started entertaining because I craved connection. Growing up in Conway, South Carolina, I found magic in the sparkle of old movies, the laughter of an audience, and the transformative power of theatre. I have often said that I'm a product of 1960s and 70s television. That was the world of television spectaculars and variety shows, which was actually an offshoot of vaudeville which was evolving thirty years before I cam along. I didn’t just want to watch it — I wanted to live inside it. Entertaining gave me a voice. A place to be seen. A way to express the joy, the pain, the curiosity of being human.

But why do I keep showing up — 46 years later?

Because I still believe in the power of live entertainment.
Because every time I walk into a room and see a face light up — I’m reminded that what we do matters.
Because we need joy, reflection, and storytelling more than ever.
Because it’s not just about me on a stage — it’s about us, in community.

That’s why my upcoming May 30th show means so much to me. Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask) isn’t just a performance — it’s a conversation. It’s a celebration of all the questions, stories, and unexpected moments that have shaped this wild, wonderful journey.

And I hope you’ll be there.

🎟️ Friday, May 30 @ 7PM
📍 The Laurie Beechman Theatre
🎟 Reserve now: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
🎁 Use code RSC2025! for discounted tickets (while they last)

Thank you for being part of my “why.”
With gratitude,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Richard Skipper Celebrates – Monday, May 26, 2025
Memorial Day | World Lindy Hop Day
Word of the Day: Adventure
The Most Powerful Word: YES

It’s Monday, May 26, 2025—Memorial Day. A day for remembering, honoring, and reflecting on the men and women who gave everything in service to this country. Today, I hold space for their courage, their sacrifice, and the families who carry their legacies forward.

But did you also know… it’s World Lindy Hop Day?

Born in Harlem in the 1930s, the Lindy Hop is all about rhythm, connection, and trust. It’s about letting go of the choreography and stepping into the moment. There’s no adventure quite like it—just like live performance, just like life.

Which brings me to this:

What is the most powerful word… and why?

For me, that word is YES.

Yes is the door.
Yes is the risk.
Yes is the beginning of every great adventure I’ve ever had on stage—or off.

When you say yes, you don’t always know where it will take you. But that’s the beauty of it. That’s where the joy lives. That’s the dance.

And this Friday night, May 30 at 7 PM, I’ll be saying yes to the unknown once again with:
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask)
The Laurie Beechman Theatre – New York City

Audience members submit the questions before curtain. I pull them live during the show. I don’t know what’s coming—only that it will be honest, spontaneous, musical, and full of heart.

If you haven’t yet, please:
Reserve your seats now at www.RichardSkipper.com
Use discount code RSC2025! for a limited-time offer.
Tickets are going fast.

So today, on this day of remembrance and rhythm, I ask:
What YES are you ready to say?
What adventure is waiting for you to step into it?

Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.

Who/What Are You Celebrating?

How Can I celebrate YOU today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com

Today’s Blog: Be a Millionaire (of Spirit, Strength, and Story)
May 20, 2025 – Word of the Day: Abundance

Today is Be a Millionaire Day. On the surface, that may sound like a celebration of wealth — but what if we looked at it differently?

What if being a “millionaire” meant being rich in abundance — of purpose, wisdom, connection, creativity, and resilience?

That’s the kind of wealth I’m working toward.

This morning, I took a moment to reflect on a simple but powerful question:
What did I not know how to do at the beginning of this year… that I now know how to do?

The answer surprised me.

I now know how to build an entire show shaped by audience questions alone. I know how to step into a performance with no script, just trust — in myself, in the people in the room, in the stories that want to be told. That takes a different kind of abundance — a deep well of lived experience, improvisational joy, and openness.

I also know how to live off social media. That might not sound radical, but after decades of building an audience on Meta, walking away took courage. And yet — my connections feel richer now. My newsletter, my blog, my stage — these are spaces of intentional abundance.

So today, I celebrate being a millionaire not in dollars — but in the things that matter:

• The joy of a spontaneous story well told

• The warmth of a room full of laughter and light

• The emails from people who felt seen, heard, remembered

That's abundance. That's wealth.

And as we count down to May 30th at The Laurie Beechman Theatre — just 10 days away — I’m reminded that the real riches come from the people who show up, who ask the questions, who care.

That means you.

Let’s keep creating moments worth more than money.

Reserve your seat for May 30
www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

You never know who might be there and what might happen.

Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.
— Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

---

P.S. I was recently interviewed by Ron Fassler for Theater Pizzazz, where we delved into the heart of my upcoming show and the journey that led me here. If you're curious to learn more about the stories behind the performance, I invite you to read the interview: Who Is Richard Skipper? An Interview That Might Supply Some Answers

 

 

 

Richard Skipper Celebrates – May 25, 2025
Neighbor Day | Word of the Day: Adaptability
What Risk Paid Off This Week?

Probably all good things in life take place in no more than a minute. You spend 19 years sleeping, spend five years going to the bathroom, you spend 35 years doing some sort of work you absolutely hated and 7,853 minutes blinking your eyes. And added to that, you get that one minute of good things."
– Liza Minnelli (as Pookie Adams), The Sterile Cuckoo

That quote has lingered with me for years. It's raw, theatrical, and startlingly true.

We blink—and decades pass. Life’s routines stack up. And yet, in the middle of all that noise, a single moment arrives. One good minute that reminds us why we’re here.

But here’s the thing: that one minute doesn’t show up because we wait for it. It shows up because we adapt. We take risks. We reach beyond what’s comfortable.

And sometimes, it shows up because someone reached out to us first.

Today is Neighbor Day. But being a good neighbor doesn’t always mean sharing a fence. It means sharing presence. It means checking in. Listening deeply. Extending kindness with no expectation. A good neighbor might live next door—or they might be the person you finally reconnected with after years apart.

So today, I ask you:
Who or what are you celebrating today?
And just as importantly: What risk paid off this week?

Maybe it was reaching out to someone you’ve been thinking about. Maybe it was saying “yes” to something that scared you. Maybe it was simply telling the truth—for the first time in a long time.

For me, the risk was trusting the unknown. Saying yes to a fully unscripted show this Friday at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. I’m surrendering to the moment, letting the audience guide the evening, and trusting that something beautiful will come from the spontaneity.

And that, my friends, is adaptability in action. Not perfection. Not polish. Presence.

Let’s be good neighbors today. Let’s honor the risk-takers. Let’s celebrate the little victories, the quiet joys, the single minutes that change everything.

And if no one has asked you yet today—how can I celebrate you?

Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com

April 10, 2025 Did You Know? A Dolly Moment Worth Celebrating

Every so often, a date jumps out at me from my research and says, “Tell this story today.”

April 10 is one of those days.

Did you know that on April 10, 1964 — just three months after it opened — Hello, Dolly! broke the record for the highest weekly gross in Broadway history at the time? Over $100,000 in ticket sales. In 1964. That’s how quickly Dolly Levi marched her way into the hearts of theatregoers and Broadway history.

The momentum was unstoppable. Freddy Wittop's costumes. The wit. Gower Champion's direction and choreography. But above all — the spirit. Carol Channing didn’t just play Dolly — she embodied joy. And that joy created a ripple effect that still touches audiences (and me!) to this day.

I’ve spent over 25 years celebrating Hello, Dolly! through interviews, performances, and loving research. My project CallonDolly.com has archived over 1,000 firsthand accounts from the cast and creatives who’ve kept Dolly’s parasol twirling across stages around the world.

And now, I get to share that celebration live again.

On August 5, I’ll be bringing Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly! to The Art House in Provincetown.
It’s an evening of song, stories, history, and audience interaction — all in honor of one of Broadway’s brightest lights and the show that changed my life.

If you love theatre, legacy, and joy — this one’s for you.

And if you’re curious about what made Hello, Dolly! such a sensation in 1964 (and every year since), come see for yourself.

Tickets coming soon — stay tuned at RichardSkipper.com for details.

With love and light (and a tip of the hat to Jerry Herman),
Richard

Richard Skipper Celebrates – May 24, 2025
International Tiara Day
Word of the Day: Achievement
Theme: How Do You Show Up on a Hard Day

Today is International Tiara Day. Not just a day for sparkle, but a moment to stand tall, hold your head high, and honor your worth. The question I’m sitting with today is this: how do you show up on a hard day?

Do you show up when you’d rather stay hidden? Do you keep going when the path forward feels uncertain?

That’s what I call achievement. The quiet, persistent kind. The kind no one may ever fully see, but that changes everything.

Today, I celebrate the people who keep showing up. The artists who keep creating. The humans who stay committed to kindness and purpose even on the days when it doesn’t come easy.

At twelve noon today, I will be the guest on a special edition of Richard Skipper Celebrates—interviewed by the distinguished author and film historian Foster Hirsch. It’s a rare privilege to have someone of Foster’s insight and legacy turning the spotlight my way. We’ll be talking about achievement, storytelling, staying power, and what I’ve learned from showing up time and again throughout my career.

Join us live at RichardSkipperCelebrates.com. I look forward to sharing this hour with you.

And of course, the countdown continues. We are now six days away from my return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre.

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid To Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, New York City

It’s unscripted. It’s unrehearsed. It’s one night only. The audience submits questions before the show, and I pull them out live—sight unseen. You shape the evening. And you never know who might be there and what might happen.

Tickets and more information are available at https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

I hope this finds you well and thriving. Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com

 

 

Today's Reflection: What This Show Means to Me

11 Days to Showtime
Word of the Day: Wisdom May 19th, 2025

There’s a quote that has stayed with me for decades — one I carry into every creative leap I take:

“Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they’re yours.”
— Richard Bach, Illusions

As we step into the final 11-day countdown to Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask), I’ve been reflecting deeply on what this show truly means to me.

This isn’t just a cabaret evening. It’s a living memoir.
It’s a high-wire act of trust — with no script, no pre-planned arc, and no safety net. Just me, your questions, and the energy we build together in the room.

Because wisdom, for me, is not about knowing how everything will unfold — it’s about choosing to show up anyway. To say yes to the unknown. To invite curiosity in over control. That’s what this show is all about.

Two wonderful interviews were released recently that helped me explore that even further:

• Call Me Adam Interview

• BroadwayWorld Feature

Both take a deeper look at my journey, my process, and why this show feels like the most honest thing I’ve ever done on stage.

If you’ve ever wrestled with your limitations — and chosen to rise anyway — this show is for you.

Friday, May 30 – 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
 Reserve Your Seat

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU?

You never know who might be there and what might happen.

Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
www.RichardSkipper.com

 

 

Today’s Blog: Celebrating International Being You Day — The Power of Accountability and Uplift

May 22, 2024
Word of the Day: Accountability

Today is International Being You Day — a reminder to show up, just as we are, without apology, artifice, or excuse. It’s a celebration of authenticity, but it’s also a quiet challenge: to honor not only who we are, but how we impact others.

That’s where accountability comes in.

Accountability isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about owning the energy you bring into a room, the words you speak, and the way you show up for those around you.

For me, accountability in my work means creating space for others to be seen and heard — whether that’s through a show like Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask), where audience questions shape the evening, or through my ongoing commitment to celebrating the legacy of the performers who paved the way.

So, how can you lift someone up today?

Maybe it’s a note of encouragement.
Maybe it’s inviting a friend to a performance they need more than they know.
Maybe it’s simply asking, “How can I celebrate you today?”

Being fully, radically you isn’t about standing in a spotlight alone — it’s about shining enough light that others feel safe stepping into their own.

Let’s make that the standard.

And if you’re looking for a night of celebration, joy, and true connection — I hope you’ll join me on Friday, May 30 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC. The countdown is on.

 Reserve your seat now

You never know who might be there and what might happen.

Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

— Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

 

Richard Skipper Celebrates Blog
Wednesday Reflections – June 11, 2025

“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” – Carl Jung

Today is National Making Life Beautiful Day, and what a powerful reminder it is: Beauty doesn’t just happen — it’s created. With intention, with heart, with community.

So I ask you: Do you know how to say YES?
Not just to others — but to yourself. Your purpose. Your voice. Your value.
Every time you say yes, you’re opening the door to collaboration, creativity, and connection.

Which brings us to today’s Word of the Day: Community.
I believe community is built through conversation, collaboration, and celebration. We need each other. We thrive in the spaces we build together. That’s what drives me to keep showing up — and inviting you to do the same.

On Friday, August 22 at 7PM, I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre for an encore of Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper...But Were Afraid To Ask — an evening of unscripted cabaret, Broadway magic, and heartfelt storytelling.

If you joined me on May 31, you already know what a magical night it was. If you didn’t — this is your chance.

Reserve now at www.TheBeechman.com
Use code RSC2025! for best seating.

Call the 3rd name in your contacts list and ENGAGE!
Invite them to join you. Extend the community. Share the joy.

Because here’s what I know to be true:

You’re seen. You’re loved.
And no one can ever take that away from us.

Pass it on.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me!

Today's Blog: It's an Art! (Working)
May 21 – National Waiters and Waitresses Day
Word of the Day: Acceptance

Today, on National Waiters and Waitresses Day, I want to take a moment to celebrate the true artists of multitasking, patience, performance, and poise: servers.

Yes, I waited tables for years — and let me tell you, it’s an art. The rhythm of the floor. The dance between tables. The emotional awareness it takes to read a guest, anticipate needs, calm tension, or brighten someone’s night with nothing more than a smile and a refill.

It's performance. It's resilience. It's service.

And today, I salute every man and woman who's ever had to balance a tray, a paycheck, and their dreams — because I was one of them.

Those years shaped me. They taught me timing, empathy, the power of eye contact, and the grace of moving through chaos with a cool head. I’m a better entertainer because I was a server.

So here's to every waiter and waitress:
You are seen. You are valued. You are part of this art, this community, this world we call show business — whether you're on stage or in the wings.

And now, a question for all of us:

What are YOU most avoiding right now?

Avoidance isn’t always about laziness — often, it’s about fear. Fear of failing. Fear of being misunderstood. Or sometimes, fear of being seen too clearly.

But today’s word is Acceptance.

So whatever it is you’re resisting — the phone call, the new direction, the honest truth — what if you accepted it instead? What if you gave it space instead of a deadline?

You never know what clarity, courage, or momentum might follow.

Thank you, dear servers, past and present. And thank you to anyone reading this, still showing up… one table, one audience, one act of courage at a time.

With appreciation,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
You never know who might be there — and what might happen.
Let’s catch up soon… either at the show… or otherwise.
P.S. 9 days till showtime: Reserve your seat for May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre

Today's Reflection: If You Don’t Ask, You Don’t Get

May 17, 2025

By Richard Skipper

I learned long ago — often the hard way — that if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

It’s simple. It’s true. And for artists especially, it’s essential.

Sometimes, the ask is about opportunity:

Can I perform on your stage? Would you be open to an interview?

Other times, it’s about connection:

Would you come to my show? Will you help me spread the word?

And occasionally, it’s about showing up for someone else.

Today’s inspiration came from the wonderful Sharon Ruben, who will be appearing at The Triad on June 14th with her newest show. Sharon will also be featured on my Podcast on June 6th at 4PM. Early show that day because we are going to see Sue Matsuki that evening at Don't Tell Mama.

So today, I’m asking:

Who would like to join me to celebrate fellow artists?

Let’s lift one another up by being in the room — by clapping loudly, laughing freely, and reminding each other that what we do matters.

If you’ve ever felt shy about making an ask — remember, it’s not about ego. It’s about energy. And energy needs invitation.

That’s what Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) is built on: asking and showing up.

So, I’m asking again —

Will you be there on Friday, May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre to share in this celebration of legacy, laughter, and live performance?

Reserve TODAY!

And who are you celebrating today? Let me know how I can support you — because when we ask, we open the door.

Until then —

Richard Skipper

RichardSkipper.com

April 12, 2025 Why I Left Meta — and What I’ve Gained Since

Stepping off Facebook and Instagram wasn’t easy. When you’ve spent years building community, promoting shows, and sharing milestones through those platforms, walking away feels like a professional risk — and, let’s be honest, a personal one too.

But I did it. On February 29, 2025, I signed off for good. No dramatic farewell, no rage against the algorithm — just a quiet, intentional exit.

Why?

Because somewhere along the way, I realized I was spending more time feeding the platform than feeding my creativity.

I wasn’t engaging — I was performing. And not the kind of performing that lights me up. I was chasing visibility instead of intimacy. Metrics instead of meaning.

So I stepped away.

And here’s what happened.

I started writing more. Longer, deeper, truer. Not for likes — but for connection.

I started reaching out directly — through my newsletter, through handwritten thank-you notes, through personal invitations. Not to cast a wide net, but to truly reach the people who care.

I started performing differently. I designed shows that weren’t filtered through trends, but shaped by the questions and curiosity of the audience sitting right in front of me.

And most of all: I rediscovered the joy of storytelling on my own terms.

Leaving Meta didn’t end my career. It refined it.

Now, I’m preparing for my May 30th show at The Laurie Beechman Theatre — Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask). A show built not on a script or feed, but on real-time interaction, spontaneous stories, and the kind of magic that only happens live.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to show up — fully — without a filter, without a scroll, without an algorithm steering the ship… I can tell you:

It’s terrifying.
And it’s absolutely worth it.

Warmly,
Richard

P.S. Want to join me on May 30?
Reserve your seat now: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
Use code RSC2025! for discounted tickets — you never know who might be there and what might happen.

Lucky 13: A Week of Connection, Conversation, and Celebration
May 17, 2025 – Blog by Richard Skipper

As we head into the weekend, I wanted to take a moment to share a few highlights from what has been a wonderfully full — and fulfilling — week.

Last night, I had the joy of seeing Ava Nicole Francis perform, and I was reminded once again of the sheer power of presence onstage. Ava radiates grace and grit, and I left inspired, recharged, and reminded why we do what we do.

Yesterday, I hosted another episode of my podcast — and it was one of those rare conversations that linger long after the recording stops. We explored Truth in the Arts with honesty, laughter, and just the right amount of surprise. These conversations keep me grounded and remind me how lucky I am to be surrounded by artists willing to share so openly.

Another highlight was seeing Michael Portantiere interview the iconic Sandy Duncan — an artist I’ve long admired. There’s something so generous about Sandy’s storytelling. She brings you right into her orbit with warmth and ease. It was a masterclass in openness. Check out the video in which she interviews ME on my YouTube channel (RichardSkipperCelebrates.com)

And speaking of sharing stories, two interviews featuring yours truly dropped this week — both of which go deep into the heart of what I’m doing now and why:

• Call Me Adam Interview

• BroadwayWorld Interview

If you're not already subscribed to my weekly Monday newsletter, I’d love to have you on the list. It’s a mix of celebration, inspiration, upcoming events, and highlights from the week — always with heart.
Sign up here

And to those of you who are already subscribers — thank you. Your presence, your messages, your support — they mean more than I can say.

To everyone who has already reserved a ticket for my May 30 show, thank you for believing in the power of unscripted connection. We are just 13 lucky days away, and I promise: it’s going to be a night to remember.

Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

— Richard
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

 

April 13, 2025 A Favorite Cabaret Memory: The Moment, the Room, the Connection

There are many moments I could choose from — decades of stories, songs, and stages — but one cabaret memory rises to the top not for its scale, but for its intimacy. The first time I sang in front of an audience in a 'cabaret' setting in New York. It was 1980, The Piano Bar in New York. Houston Alred at the piano. It was an open mic setting.

I found this listing on line: Piano Bar, Broadway and 69th Street, in Beefsteak Charlie's (787-2501). Piano by Houston Allred, Wednesday through Sunday, around 9:30 P.M., interspersed with showcase comedy acts. Minimum, $5.50 a person. Thursday nights was their Broadway night. It was a low stage. Warm lights. The kind of venue where the front row can see your eyes and feel every note. That night I got up to sing,I sang Broadway Baby, the audience was close-knit (many became good friends), and the atmosphere electric!

I remember starting to sing and feeling the entire room lean in. Physically and energetically. It was as if for those few minutes, every distraction in the world had fallen away. We were connected — not through spectacle, but through presence. That, to me, is the magic of cabaret. I still feel it today when I'm in front of an intimate audience.

It’s not about the number of seats or the size of the stage. It’s about that shared breath between artist and audience. The unspoken agreement to listen, to be moved, to be fully there together.

That night reminded me why I do what I do — and why I keep showing up. Cabaret is not a style. It’s a spirit. And when it works, it’s unforgettable.

Celebrating the Questions

There’s something magical about a question.

A good question doesn’t just seek an answer — it opens a door. It invites reflection, connection, and sometimes… revelation.

That’s why I’ve built my upcoming show — Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper* (*But Were Afraid To Ask) — entirely around audience questions.

After 46 years in this industry, I could fill the night with stories. But I want to know what YOU want to hear. What have you always wondered? What behind-the-scenes moments are you curious about? What lessons, laughs, or surprises do you want to draw out?

On Friday, May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, the audience leads the way. I won’t see the questions until I’m live on stage — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This format keeps me honest. It keeps me present. And most importantly, it keeps the evening fresh and alive — like great live performance always should be.

If you’ve ever shared a laugh with me, seen a show, watched a YouTube conversation, or read one of my newsletters… this is your invitation.

One night only — Friday, May 30 at 7PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
 Reserve your seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Come celebrate with me. Come shape the night.

And bring your best question.

With appreciation,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Biographer’s Day: Honoring the Stories That Shape Us
May 17, 2024 – Blog by Richard Skipper

Today is Biographer’s Day, commemorating the anniversary of the first meeting between James Boswell and Samuel Johnson in 1763 — a meeting that would result in one of the most famous biographies in literary history.

Biographers are the keepers of our legacies. They piece together letters, memories, fragments, and facts to form something lasting. Something meaningful. Something that says, “I was here. This mattered.”

But what if we didn’t wait for someone else to write our story?

That’s the question that’s been living in me as I prepare for my next show:
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 – 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat

This show isn’t a retrospective or a “greatest hits” reel. It’s something far more alive. It’s me, showing up — unscripted — and letting the audience shape the evening with their questions. It’s the story I’m still writing. With music. With memory. With joy.

And here’s the truth: I’m no longer waiting to be written about. I’m writing myself — on stage, in real time — with you as my co-author.

As I shared in two recent interviews — one with Call Me Adam, and the other with BroadwayWorld — this show is about legacy, but not the kind carved in stone. It’s about presence. And connection. And what it means to tell your truth, out loud, while you still can.

So today, on Biographer’s Day, I raise a pen to those who tell our stories — and to those of us who dare to tell our own.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU?

Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

— Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

Bring Flowers — and Meaning — Wherever You Go
 – May 15, 2024

Today is Bring Flowers to Someone Day — a simple, beautiful prompt that reminds us of the power of small gestures. Maybe it’s a real bouquet. Maybe it’s a compliment, a check-in, or a spontaneous "I'm thinking of you." Whatever form it takes, the act itself carries weight. It says: You matter. You’re not forgotten. You’re blooming, even if you don’t feel it today.

I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately — about the importance of showing up for each other in small, intentional ways. These gestures are a kind of legacy, too. Not the kind carved into marble, but the kind remembered in passing:
“He brought me flowers when I didn’t expect it.”
“She called when I didn’t know I needed to talk.”
“They made me feel seen.”

That’s the spirit behind my upcoming show:
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 – 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat here

It’s not just a performance. It’s a gesture. A gathering. A kind of bouquet made of stories, songs, and shared laughter. Each night is different — shaped by the audience, guided by spontaneity, and rooted in connection.

So today, I offer this as my bouquet to you:
Thank you. For reading, for supporting, for believing in the value of live and true art.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today? And how can I celebrate YOU?
You never know who might be there and what might happen.
Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

— Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

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Richard Skipper Celebrates Blog
Tuesday Reflections – June 10, 2025
Happy 103rd Birthday, Judy Garland
Word of the Day: COMMITMENT

Today we celebrate the 103rd birthday of Judy Garland—a voice, a force, a legend. Her commitment to her craft continues to inspire generations. Whether on screen or on stage, Judy poured every ounce of her heart into her performances. She didn’t just sing a song—she lived it.

That kind of commitment—raw, fearless, unwavering—is rare. And it reminds me to ask:

What’s one thing YOU would like to learn more about right now?

Is it a new style of music? A marketing tool to share your work? A deeper understanding of your audience?
Whatever it is, lean into it. Judy never stopped learning, never stopped reaching. That’s the kind of legacy worth emulating.

Today’s word is COMMITMENT because that’s what this path requires—especially for those of us who’ve chosen storytelling, community, and connection as our compass.

I’m currently booking late August and September dates—and looking to partner with organizations, venues, and individuals who are equally committed to making meaningful, celebratory, entertaining experiences.

If that’s you—or if you have a suggestion for a venue, collaboration, or even a local business who might want to co-sponsor a live show or podcast segment—I’m all ears. Let’s make it happen.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

– Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me!

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Stars, Stripes, and the Power of Legacy
Blog – May 13, 2024

Today is “The Stars and Stripes Forever” Day — a celebration of John Philip Sousa’s iconic march that became the official National March of the United States in 1987. But the legacy of this piece stretches back much further — to 1896, when Sousa composed it in honor of a dear friend’s passing while returning home from a European vacation.

It’s a piece we’ve all heard — in parades, concerts, school assemblies, and Fourth of July celebrations. It’s woven into the fabric of American life. Why? Because it stirs something in us. It reminds us of unity. Of pride. Of momentum. I used to do a singing telegram to this tune!

It also reminds me that legacy doesn’t always announce itself with fanfare — but it echoes.

Sousa likely didn’t know this march would last 100 years and counting. But he composed it with care, with intention, and in response to emotion. That’s how legacy is made — through useful, truthful, heart-centered work.

That’s what I’m trying to do now with my own voice — to stop waiting for the perfect script and instead trust the moment. That’s what Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) is about.

It’s my version of a march — a little brass band, more Broadway — and the goal is the same:
To bring people together. To stir something inside. To leave behind something that echoes.

Join me and be part of that legacy.

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 – 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat: www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

You never know who might be there and what might happen.
Let’s catch up soon — either at the show… or otherwise.

— Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

 

 

46 Years In — What Would You Ask?

Today, I’m turning the spotlight around — onto you.

After 46 years in show business, I’ve been asked a lot of questions: How did it start? What was your biggest “pinch me” moment? What keeps you going?

But now, as I prepare for my upcoming show Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask), I want to know…

What’s one question YOU would ask someone who’s been in this business for 46 years?

This show is being shaped entirely by questions submitted by the audience — and that’s what excites me most. It’s not about delivering a perfectly rehearsed monologue. It’s about creating something spontaneous, meaningful, and filled with heart. Just like this career has been.

So ask away.

The funny questions. The heartfelt ones. The surprising ones I might not see coming.

And then join me on May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, where we’ll answer them — live, together, and with a lot of joy.

Reserve your seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
Use code RSC2025! for a discounted ticket while they last

With gratitude, curiosity, and a whole lot of stories,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

P.S. If you have a question in mind, send me a note — I’d love to hear it.

The One Thing Most People Don’t Know About Me
Blog – May 13, 2024

Recently, I was asked a question that stopped me cold:

“What’s the one thing nobody knows about you… and why does nobody know it?”

Here’s my honest answer:
For much of my career, I’ve hidden behind celebrating others.

I’ve built shows, interviews, and entire seasons around honoring the legacies of legends — from Hello, Dolly! to the unforgettable Carol Channing, from the spirit of Jerry Herman to the enduring magic of Broadway’s golden age. And I’ve loved every moment of that work. It’s sacred to me.

But that deep devotion to others also became a kind of armor. A way to tell stories without telling my own.

Why has nobody known this?
Because I’ve spent most of my life playing the role of host — the cheerleader, the interviewer, the celebrator. I’ve been the one asking the questions, not answering them.

But now, that’s shifting.

This month, I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre with a show that asks me to do what I’ve so often encouraged others to do: tell the truth, live in the moment, and trust the audience.

It’s called:

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat: www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

It’s an unscripted, audience-driven evening. I don’t know what questions I’ll be asked or which memories will be stirred — but I do know it will be honest, joyful, and full of connection. This isn’t just another show. It’s a turning point.

I recently spoke about this creative leap (and why it matters so much to me) in a candid interview with Call Me Adam.
Read it here: Richard Skipper: Celebrating an Entertainer

Truthfully, I’m not aiming to be liked by everyone anymore.
I’m aiming to be understood.
I’m aiming to leave behind something real.

Let’s start there — with truth.

And I’d love for you to be in the room on May 30.
Because, as I always say:
You never know who might be there and what might happen.

— Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

The Magic of Unscripted Moments

There’s something powerful about not knowing what comes next.

For someone who has spent 46 years in entertainment — often preparing, rehearsing, fine-tuning every line and lyric — there’s a beautiful freedom in letting go of the script. That’s exactly why my next show, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask), is shaped entirely by audience questions.

I won’t see them ahead of time. I won’t know what’s coming. And that’s the point.

Because in those spontaneous moments — when a surprising question is asked, or a forgotten story comes rushing back to the surface — that’s where real connection happens. That’s when the room leans in, the laughter is unrehearsed, and the memories come alive in a way that even I can’t plan for.

It’s why I still love live performance. And it’s why I want you there.

Friday, May 30 at 7PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Tickets: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
Use code RSC2025! for a discounted seat — while they last

Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. And let’s create something magical — together.

With appreciation,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Walking the Tightrope: Why I Embrace Spontaneity Onstage
May 12, 2024

What do I love most about the spontaneity this kind of performance brings? It’s simple — it takes me right back to where I started.

In high school, I used to do lunchtime shows on the front steps — no script, no sound system, just instinct, energy, and a willingness to connect with whoever happened to be walking by. I didn’t know it then, but those early moments of unrehearsed performance shaped everything that would follow.

Later, I delivered singing telegrams. Now that was a masterclass in unpredictability. You never knew what door you were knocking on — literally or emotionally. Every greeting was unscripted. Every reaction was real. Every moment, an opportunity to connect.

My latest show, Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask), brings that very same spirit to the stage. There’s no script. No safety net. Just the shared space between me and the audience — and the stories, songs, and surprises that emerge from your questions.

For me, it’s like walking a tightrope without a net. And I find that exhilarating.

This is true improvisational theatre. There’s no place to hide. No planned narrative. Just presence and play. I never know what’s coming next — but I trust it. I trust the moment. I trust the audience. And I trust that connection will happen if I stay open and grounded in truth.

That’s what I love about spontaneity. It’s not about perfection. It’s about honesty. About listening and responding. About being fully alive, right there with you.

And when it works — and it almost always does — it’s unforgettable. For the audience. And for me.

You never know who might be there and what might happen.

I hope you’ll join me for an evening of discovery on Friday, May 30 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC.

Reserve your seat:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Let’s make something unrepeatable — together.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com

 

Building the Stage — Brick by Brick

There’s something deeply satisfying about building.

Not just building shows or sets, but building something lasting: trust, reputation, community. That’s what I’ve spent 46 years doing in this business — one performance, one conversation, one spotlight at a time.

And as I prepare for my upcoming May 30th show, Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper* (*But Were Afraid To Ask), I’m reminded that it’s those quiet, consistent steps that make the celebration possible.

It’s not about reinvention. It’s about revealing.

This show is a culmination — not of just the big wins, but of all the little “yeses” that came before. From the first time I stepped on stage to every story I’ve shared on Richard Skipper Celebrates, I’ve been building toward this moment.

And I want you there.

Because this isn’t just my show. It’s a reflection of all the people who helped build the stage with me. It’s your questions. Your applause. Your presence.

 Friday, May 30 @ 7PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Tickets: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530
Use code RSC2025! for a limited-time discounted ticket

Thank you for being part of the journey — whether this is your first blog post or your hundredth. Let’s celebrate what we’ve built. And let’s keep building, together.

With gratitude,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Mother’s Day, Memory, and the Meaning Behind the May 30th Show
By Richard Skipper May 11, 2025

Today is Mother’s Day — and like many of you, I find myself reflecting not only on the women who raised me but on the countless people, mentors, and artists who mothered my creative spirit along the way.

Some shaped me with words. Others with gestures. And some, simply by believing in me when I needed it most.

My first acting teacher in South Carolina, Miss Epps, was one of those people. She didn’t just teach me lines — she taught me to honor those who came before me. To celebrate legacy. To say thank you. And as I’ve navigated nearly five decades in entertainment, her voice has never left me.

That spirit — of gratitude, celebration, and storytelling — is exactly what’s fueling my upcoming show:

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre – NYC
Reserve Your Seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

We’re now just 19 days away. This is not your traditional cabaret evening. There’s no script. No fourth wall. It’s a living memoir — guided by your questions. You, the audience, shape the experience. I simply respond through story, song, and whatever the moment calls for. It’s part conversation, part celebration, and 100% connection.

If you want a deeper glimpse into what makes this show so personal, I hope you’ll read my latest interview with Call Me Adam:
www.callmeadam.com/blog/richard-skipper-interview-celebrating-an-entertainer
In it, I share more about why this show matters, why it’s happening now, and how I hope it resonates with everyone in the room.

Whether you can attend in person or support from afar, I hope you’ll take a moment today to reflect on your own story — the people who nurtured your voice, who believed in your spark, who helped shape the performer or person you’ve become.

Who or what are YOU celebrating this Mother’s Day?
And how can I celebrate you?

See you May 30.
With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Google Me

46 Years In — Still Asking the Questions

Today, I’m reflecting on how it all began.

Not with a stage. Not with a spotlight. But with a question.

“What would happen if I said yes?”

That question — small as it seems — opened the door to a 46-year adventure in show business. And as I prepare for my upcoming one-night-only show at the Laurie Beechman Theatre on May 30, I find myself back in that same mindset: saying yes to curiosity, connection, and community.

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper*
(*But Were Afraid To Ask) isn’t your average show. There’s no script. No fixed structure. It’s shaped entirely by the audience. People submit their questions before the curtain rises — and I won’t see them until I’m live on stage.

It’s thrilling. It’s vulnerable. And it’s exactly why I keep saying yes to live performance after all these years.

Because the questions matter.

The ones that surprise you.
The ones that challenge you.
The ones that remind you why you started.

If you’ve ever asked me a question after a show, watched one of my interviews, subscribed to my newsletter, or simply wondered about this joyful, winding road of mine… I hope you’ll join me.

Friday, May 30 at 7PM
Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
 Reserve your seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Let’s spend an evening together. Let’s ask the questions.

And more importantly — let’s keep celebrating the magic of live entertainment.

With gratitude,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

What Counts Is the Connection We Make May 10, 2025!

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”
– Nelson Mandela

That quote has stayed with me. It reminds me that performance — at its best — is not about the spotlight. It’s about the exchange between artist and audience. That’s the difference I hope to make every time I step onstage.

And that’s the spirit behind my newest show,
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask).

Yes, it’s unscripted. Yes, the audience shapes it entirely through the questions they submit. And yes, that makes it thrilling — because every show becomes a true collaboration.

But spontaneity doesn’t mean I walk in unprepared. Quite the opposite. Over the years, I’ve honed the ability to guide even the most unexpected question toward a meaningful story — or a song. I think of the music as a kind of emotional buffer: a way to deepen or lift a moment, to carry us into the next thought with warmth and intention.

Carol Channing, who was famously scripted, once told me she admired how I could converse naturally with an audience. That conversation — that sense of mutual curiosity — is what I strive to create.

My director, James Beaman, helps me prepare by firing off questions in rehearsal I’ve never heard before. My musical director, Dan Pardo, and I have built a wonderful rhythm together — quick, intuitive, always ready to meet the moment. What we create is alive, and that’s what keeps me coming back.

I like to think of the show as a dinner party. I set the tone, but the guests shape the night. The questions bring laughter, vulnerability, surprise, and sometimes a quiet truth that hangs in the air longer than anything planned ever could.

That’s the kind of difference I hope to make — even if only for one night, in one room.

Want to know more about the story behind the show?
Read my latest interview:
Call Me Adam – Celebrating an Entertainer

And join me in person:
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre – New York City
Reserve your seat here: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

20 days till showtime — and no two nights are ever the same.

Who or what are you celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate you?

— Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com

 

Let the Questions Begin

There’s something electric about stepping into the unknown — especially when you trust the people on the journey with you.

That’s exactly what I’m embracing with my upcoming show at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on Friday, May 30. It’s not just a celebration of 46 years in New York and in this business (though yes, that alone is worth a toast!). It’s also a leap into something beautifully unscripted — because this show will be driven by the audience.

That’s right. No set script. No pre-packaged anecdotes. Just your questions, asked anonymously before the show, and answered live on stage.

Why? Because after nearly five decades of performing, I’ve found the most meaningful moments don’t come from perfect lines. They come from connection, vulnerability, and the joy of genuine exchange.

If you’ve followed my journey, shared a show with me, or simply believe in the power of live storytelling — I hope you’ll join me.

Friday, May 30 at 7PM
 The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve Your Seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

And while we’re on the subject of questions… here’s one for you:
What’s something you’ve always wanted to ask me?

Send it my way. Who knows — it may just end up shaping the evening.

With gratitude and excitement,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

Today in History: Louis Armstrong Dethrones the Beatles with “Hello, Dolly!” May 9, 2025

May 9, 1964 — When timeless charm met the top of the charts

On this day in 1964, something remarkable happened. At a time when Beatlemania ruled the airwaves and the Fab Four dominated the U.S. pop charts with an iron grip, an unexpected voice rose to the top — gravelly, joyful, and unmistakably American.

Louis Armstrong, then 63 years old, hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Hello, Dolly!”, ending the Beatles’ 14-week streak at the top. It was the oldest anyone had ever been to top the U.S. pop charts at the time. It was, in every way, a surprise — and a moment of pure musical magic.

“Hello, Dolly!” wasn’t just a song. It was a show tune from an upcoming Broadway musical(at the time he recorded it)— one that would go on to define a generation of theatre lovers and become synonymous with one of the great dames of the stage: Carol Channing.

But in Armstrong’s hands, it became something more. It became a celebration. It became a reminder that charm, style, and joy aren’t generational — they’re universal. And it introduced Hello, Dolly! to millions of people who might never have set foot inside a theater.

As someone who has built an entire chapter of my own life around celebrating Hello, Dolly!, this moment in music history has always struck a deep chord with me. It reminds me that legacy can surprise you. That joy can take the long road and still arrive right on time. And that a gravelly jazz legend can stand toe to toe with four mop-topped Brits and walk away with a #1 hit.

So today, I’m raising a glass — and tipping my hat — to Louis Armstrong.

He didn’t just record a song.
He helped launch a movement.
He gave Hello, Dolly! its first standing ovation —just as the curtain rose on Broadway.

Will you join me in celebrating this legacy live?
I’d love to see you at my upcoming show:

Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!
August 5 | The Art House, Provincetown (The actual anniversary of my arriving in NY 46 years ago!)
Reserve now: https://www.simpletix.com/e/everything-youve-always-wanted-to-know-abo-tickets-204775

Let’s keep the music playing, the stories alive, and the joy center stage.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

There’s something extraordinary about a creative rhythm — that momentum that builds not through rushing, but by showing up, step by step, with joy and purpose.

In the past few weeks, I’ve been blessed with moments that reminded me of the power of presence. From the laughter and color of our Children’s Picture Book Day celebration, to the dazzling brilliance of Julie Halston and Melissa Errico at the Dutch Treat Club, I’ve been steeped in stories, connection, and genuine inspiration.

These aren’t just events — they’re moments that feed the soul and reaffirm why I stepped into the spotlight 46 years ago. And they’re fueling something very special I’m preparing for:

🗓 Friday, May 30 at 7PM — An Evening with Richard Skipper at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.
🎟 Tickets: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

This isn’t just a performance. It’s a joyful return to the stage, a celebration of a journey still in motion, and an invitation to everyone who’s been part of it — whether for four decades or four days.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading, listening, watching, showing up.

And if you’re feeling the spark of momentum in your own life today, nurture it. Even the smallest step forward has the power to light up your path.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

Today's Reflection: Why I Let the Audience Take the Lead May 8, 2025

As I prepare for my upcoming performance at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on May 30, I find myself reflecting on how Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) came to be.

The idea was born earlier this year when I was invited to perform at the historic Salmagundi Club. It felt like the right moment to take a creative leap — to try something new. Something more personal. Something alive and completely unpredictable.

Over the years, so many people have said to me, “You should really turn your life and career stories into a show.” And trust me, I have enough stories to fill a dozen. But the question that always stopped me was: Which ones?

That’s when the lightbulb went off. Why not let the audience decide?

So I created a show where every performance is shaped entirely by the questions that come from the people in the room. I never know what I’ll be asked — and that’s exactly what excites me. It’s part storytelling, part cabaret, and part spontaneous celebration.

This isn’t just a performance — it’s a party. It’s connection in real time. It’s the joy of walking into a room full of people and saying, “Let’s discover where this goes... together.”

No two shows are the same, because no two audiences are the same. And that, for me, is the magic. It’s a celebration of the path I’ve walked, the people I’ve met along the way, and the beautiful unpredictability of live performance.

I hope you’ll join me on May 30 at 7 PM at The Laurie Beechman Theatre. Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. Most of all, bring your presence.

We’ll make something unforgettable — together.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
Reserve Your Seat
www.RichardSkipper.com

A Seat at the Table
Posted: 3/31/25

This week, I found myself thinking about the idea of legacy—not just the kind written in Playbills or remembered in glowing reviews, but the kind we shape every time we show up with sincerity, generosity, and joy.

Whether I'm hosting Richard Skipper Celebrates or preparing for another community gathering, I’ve come to realize that what truly matters is not the size of the spotlight, but who we invite into it. When we make space for someone to tell their story, to share a song, or to reflect on a moment that shaped them—that’s where the magic lives.

In preparing for this Friday’s show, I’m especially moved by the incredible guests joining us. Each of them brings a unique voice, a journey, and a spark. And together, we create something larger than ourselves: a moment of shared celebration and connection. These conversations remind me that live performance is not just about applause—it’s about inclusion, empathy, and showing up for each other.

So here’s to everyone who takes a seat at the table—on stage, backstage, or in the audience. Your presence matters. Your story matters. And if no one has told you lately, you belong here.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

 

 

Why I Do What I Do: Beyond the Spotlight May 7, 2025

There’s a reason I keep coming back to the stage after more than 46 years. It’s not just because I love to entertain — although I do. It’s not just because I feel at home in the rhythm of storytelling, music, and laughter — although that’s true, too.

I return to the stage — again and again — because I believe in witnessing.

I believe we all need someone to say, I see you. I hear you. Your story matters. For me, the stage is a sacred space where I can offer that kind of attention, that kind of presence — not just to the audience, but through them, with them.

So many of us walk through this world quietly asking, Do I belong here? Am I remembered? Did I leave something meaningful behind? My work — especially the unscripted show, Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) — is my way of answering yes. Not just for myself, but for the people in the room.

I create shows where people can see their own joy, questions, history, and even uncertainty reflected back at them. I give the audience the mic — literally and metaphorically — because the real magic happens when we co-create the experience.

What drives me is the belief that live performance is one of the last places where true, unfiltered connection exists. It is vulnerable. It is unpredictable. It is real.

And that’s where I want to live — in the real. In the room. With you.

That’s why I do what I do.

— Richard Skipper

 

The Power of Showing Up

March 30 2025

Today I’m reflecting on something simple, but incredibly powerful: showing up.

Whether it’s stepping into the spotlight, attending a friend’s performance, signing on for a livestream, or even reading a newsletter — showing up matters. In an age of endless distractions and digital noise, our presence has become one of the most generous gifts we can offer each other.

This past week reminded me of that in so many ways. Hosting a sold-out celebration for Melissa Errico and Julie Halston at The Dutch Treat Club… welcoming guests to “What’s On Your Mind” for Children’s Picture Book Day… and receiving heartfelt messages from people who’ve followed my work for years — each moment was a quiet reminder that connection is built not by perfection, but by presence.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what we “should” be doing to build an audience, grow a brand, or make an impact. But maybe, the real secret is just to keep showing up: to keep creating, to keep listening, to keep honoring the stories and people that light us up.

So here’s to the next conversation. The next show. The next moment that brings us together — even briefly — to remember that live performance isn’t just about applause. It’s about community.

If you’re reading this, thank you for showing up. You keep this circle alive.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

 

May 7, 2025
National Teacher’s Day: Honoring Those Who Shaped Us

Today is National Teacher’s Day, and I find myself reflecting on the individuals who not only taught me lessons — but shaped the way I move through the world, both on and off the stage.

My greatest teacher? Miss Epps, from Conway, South Carolina.

Miss Epps was more than an educator. She was a guide, a torchbearer, and a believer in something larger than the moment. She taught me — in words and in action — the importance of honoring those who came before us. To celebrate their work. To build upon their legacy. To remember that none of us create in a vacuum.

I’ll never forget the night she handed me an apple backstage after my first big role in The Unsinkable Molly Brown. She said it was in honor of the Barrymores — a quiet, theatrical blessing that said, “You’re part of something bigger now.” That gesture stayed with me far beyond that performance. And from that moment to the day she passed — and still — Miss Epps remains one of the greatest teachers I’ve ever known.

Of course, another name that echoes through my journey is Carol Channing. What Carol taught me about being a true artist — and a professional — has resonated deeply with me for decades. Her generosity, her integrity, and her unwavering commitment to the audience showed me that show business is not about ego — it’s about giving.

Today, I celebrate both Miss Epps and Carol Channing.
Two teachers. Two lights. One legacy of inspiration.

Happy National Teachers Day.
Who are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate them with you?

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

 

Let the Spotlight Find You
March 27, 2025

In the past few weeks, I’ve been reminded of something simple but powerful: when you stop chasing algorithms and start trusting authentic connection, the right opportunities rise up to meet you.

This past Monday night, I had the honor of celebrating two remarkable women—Melissa Errico and Julie Halston—for the Dutch Treat Club. The room was filled with laughter, heart, and yes… magic. The kind of magic that can’t be scheduled, posted, or manufactured. It has to be shared, live and in the moment.

That’s why I continue to offer shows like Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!, host conversations on What’s On YOUR Mind?, and launch workshops like Self-Promotion Without Social Media. Not because I want to be everywhere, but because I believe in creating experiences that remind people they’re part of something bigger—something joyful, artful, and deeply human.

Today is about following that same spark.
Not chasing the spotlight—but showing up, shining honestly, and letting the light find you.

So here’s what I’m asking:
What’s one thing you can do today to honor your voice, your work, or your story—without needing it to go viral?

I’d love to hear from you.
You can reply here, join me on Bluesky or LinkedIn, or better yet—come see me at a live event soon.

Keep showing up. Keep celebrating. And trust that your people will find you.

Warmly,
Richard Skipper

25 Days Till Showtime — and Something You’ve Never Seen Before
May 6, 2025

We’re now 25 days away from what promises to be one of the most unique evenings I’ve ever brought to the stage:
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat here

Yesterday’s rehearsal with Music Director Dan Pardo and Director James Beaman left me feeling electric. The work we’re doing is unlike anything I’ve ever attempted before—and that’s saying something after 46 years in this business.

This show is built on spontaneity. It’s the audience’s questions that shape the evening. Their curiosity leads the way—my job is to meet it with honesty, humor, and music.

James said it best:

“I gotta tell ya—Richard has taken on a genuine challenge: performing a cabaret that's largely improvised—because it's the audience's questions (and Richard's answers) that determine what the show will be!
Richard's stories are captivating, and his uncanny knack for taking whatever question is thrown at him and crafting his answer to segue seamlessly to his next fabulous musical number just has to be experienced!”

There’s no script. No safety net. Just presence, connection, and a deep trust in the moment.

Which leads me to ask my  fellowcabaret artists:
What was the first time you truly felt like an entertainer—and not just a performer?
I’ll be sharing my answer on May 30. I’d love to hear yours.

Join me for an evening of stories, songs, surprises—and the unpredictable magic of live entertainment.
This is not just a show. It’s a celebration.

And it won’t be the same without you.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

 

 

As Young As You Feel: The Magic of Staying Playful Through Performance

Happy As Young As You Feel Day!

Every time I step onto a stage—whether it’s in a cabaret room, a theater, or a conversation series—I’m reminded that joy, curiosity, and connection have no expiration date. It’s not about the number of candles on a cake, but the vibrancy you bring to the moment.

This Tuesday night, I have the honor of hosting another uplifting evening filled with stories, music, and a room full of people who prove, time and again, that the arts keep us young at heart. It’s the laughter, the shared memories, and the ability to see the world through fresh eyes—whether you’re 18 or 80—that fuels the magic of live performance.

So today, I invite you to reflect:
What makes you feel as young as you feel?

Maybe it’s a song that takes you back, an unexpected conversation, or showing up for an event where you’re surrounded by people who celebrate life fully.

If you’re ready to reconnect with that spark, I’d love to have you join us Tuesday night. Let’s celebrate together—because staying young has everything to do with how you feel and who you share it with.

 Reserve your seat and join the fun: [Richard Skipper Celebrates Melissa Errico and Julie Halston]

Until then, keep celebrating, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of a good tune to make you feel brand new.

—
Richard Skipper

Pulitzer, Presence, and the Power of Story
Sunday Reflection – May 5, 2025

“Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it, and above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light.”
— Joseph Pulitzer

Tomorrow, the Pulitzer Prizes will be announced — one of the highest honors in journalism, literature, and the arts. It’s a day that always reminds me of the quiet power of story. Of what happens when someone takes the time to craft something that doesn’t just inform, but illuminates.

Pulitzer’s quote has been echoing in my head all week. It speaks to something I try to live out each time I step on stage — not just to entertain, but to connect, to reflect, to give something back.

There’s no prize for that. No official recognition. But when someone tells me, “I needed that tonight,” or when I see eyes light up mid-story, I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

That’s what my new show is all about:

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30, 2025 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre – NYC

It’s an unscripted, interactive celebration — shaped entirely by questions from the audience. A joyful evening where we get to laugh, listen, share stories, and be fully present in the room together.

If you’re available, I’d love for you to be part of it. Better yet, call three friends to join you and make a celebration of it.

And if you can’t attend, I hope you’ll pay it forward by sharing the invite with someone who might need an uplifting night out.

Reserve your seat here:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU?

With appreciation,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

 

 

Who/What Are You Celebrating Today?

The Power of Live Entertainment: Why It Still Matters

In a world filled with endless scrolling, algorithm-driven feeds, and digital distractions, one question has been on my mind lately:

Why does live entertainment still hold such a powerful place in our hearts?

As someone who has spent my career celebrating cabaret, Broadway, and artists of all kinds, I’ve seen firsthand how stepping into a theater or cabaret room transforms both the audience and the entertainer. It’s not just about the show—it's about human connection, shared experience, and the beautiful unpredictability of being in the moment.

This year, I made a conscious decision to leave Meta platforms behind. It was a bold move, but one that reminded me how crucial real-time, real-space connections are—not just for me, but for all of us. Social media might reach wide, but nothing reaches deep like live performance.

So today, I invite you to reflect:
When was the last time you experienced something live that stirred your soul, made you laugh, or connected you to a community?

Let’s keep celebrating and supporting the venues, artists, and storytellers who remind us why live entertainment will always matter.

If you want to stay connected and hear more stories, check out my upcoming events, join my newsletter, or follow me on my current platforms. I’d love to see you—live or virtually—soon.

Until then, keep celebrating!

—
Richard Skipper

Looking Up: On Astronomy Day and the Power of Connection May 3, 2025

Today is Astronomy Day, a time to look up — literally and figuratively.

It’s a reminder that no matter who we are or where we come from, we all share the same sky. That vast stretch above us has inspired artists, poets, scientists, and seekers for centuries. It invites us to wonder. To reach. To imagine something greater than ourselves.

In many ways, that’s exactly what I try to do every time I step on stage.

Whether it’s in a black box theater, a cabaret room, or a community space, my goal is always the same: to offer a moment of connection — one that pulls us out of our own orbit and into something shared.

A laugh. A song. A story. A memory.

It may not be as grand as the galaxies, but when it’s real, when it lands, when it’s honest — it’s powerful.

And just like the stars, it reminds us that we’re not alone.

So on this Astronomy Day, I invite you to look up — and then look around. Let’s not forget how rare and beautiful it is to gather, to listen, and to share a night under the same roof, with the same light in our eyes.

If you’re in or near New York, I hope you’ll join me on Friday, May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre for
Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)

It’s an interactive evening of stories, music, and meaning — shaped by your questions and the spirit we create together.
You never know who might show up or what might happen.

Reserve your seat today:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Because we all need something to look forward to.
And sometimes, we just need to look up.

 

Who/What Are You Celebrating Today?

Happy First Day of Spring 2025!

Over the past few months, I’ve been reflecting deeply on the evolving nature of connection—especially in an era where so much of it happens through screens and algorithms. In February of this year, I made a significant change: I left all Meta platforms (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) behind. It was a bold move, but one rooted in my belief in something timeless—the power of genuine, face-to-face, human connection.

Since making that shift, I’ve been amazed at how much more intentional, rewarding, and personal every conversation, collaboration, and performance feels.

In a world buzzing with constant noise, I’ve rediscovered the simple yet profound joy of:

• Sending a handwritten note.
• Having a one-on-one chat with a fellow artist.
• Seeing an audience member’s eyes light up during a live performance.
• Receiving a thoughtful email reply to my newsletter.

These are the connections that remind me why I do what I do. They’re the lifeblood of the arts community. They’re what keep me grounded, creative, and inspired.

Today, I want to invite you to reflect:

Where in your life can you trade algorithm-driven engagement for something real and lasting?
Maybe it’s calling an old friend, writing that email you’ve been meaning to send, or simply showing up in person to support someone else’s work.

If you’d like to stay connected, I invite you to subscribe to my newsletter, join me on YouTube, or even attend an upcoming show—where we can share stories, music, and authentic moments together.

Here’s to deeper, more meaningful connections—on stage and off.

Until next time,
Richard Skipper

Thrift in the Arts: Making Magic Without Millions May 2, 2025

Today’s creative landscape asks us to do more with less — and somehow, the result is often more meaningful, more inventive, and more human.

That’s the heart of today’s show: Thrift in the Arts.

We’ll explore how artists, performers, and creators across disciplines are proving that passion, resourcefulness, and vision often matter more than big budgets or perfect conditions. From using repurposed costumes to turning garage spaces into rehearsal halls — art thrives when the heart leads.

I’ve always believed some of the most unforgettable moments come not from excess, but from intention. And I know many of you out there have experienced the same: making something beautiful out of what you had, rather than waiting until everything was “just right.”

So, I hope you’ll join us LIVE today at 5 PM as we celebrate the brilliance that can grow from limitations — and the extraordinary art that happens when imagination meets thrift.

Tune in LIVE at 5PM
Watch here:
https://youtube.com/live/Qa4jpaHI_NA?feature=share

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU?

With gratitude and creativity,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

 

Richard Skipper Celebrates Blog
Monday Reflections, June 9, 2025
Of Ducks, Grace, and Ethics

Today is Donald Duck Day, celebrating the animated character’s 1934 debut in The Wise Little Hen. Donald has always been a symbol of flawed charm — quick-tempered, passionate, hilariously human. He reminds us that sometimes, grace doesn't mean getting it right, but showing up anyway.

So let me ask you — What is grace to YOU?

To me, grace is keeping your poise even when your feathers are ruffled. Grace is continuing to create, to share, to celebrate, even when the world doesn't roll out the red carpet. It's about believing in your message, your art, your ethics… and continuing to do the work regardless of the applause.

And that leads to today’s Word of the Day: ETHICS.

Ethics, in our world of entertainment, means standing by your values. Telling the truth, treating collaborators with care, and showing up fully for your audience. That’s how I’ve tried to live throughout my 46 years in NYC — and especially in Rockland County, which has been my home base since 1990.

I’m bringing that spirit — that blend of grace, laughter, and ethical storytelling — back to The Laurie Beechman Theatre for an encore performance on August 22. If you were with me on May 31, you know what a magical night it was. And if you missed it? Here's your second chance.

Reserve your seats now at www.TheBeechman.com — use code RSC2025! to unlock best seating.

Bring someone new. Bring someone who believes in stories. Bring someone who understands what it means to keep showing up. Call the 1st Name in your data base and ask them to join you! You never know who might be there and what might happen!

Until then, let me leave you with the two questions I ask every day:

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

– Richard Skipper
www.RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Google Me!

Happy May! 29 Days Till Showtime !

Happy May!

The flowers are blooming, the days are stretching, and the energy in the air says one thing: It’s time to celebrate.

We’re just about 29 days away (from my return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre with my newest show:
Richard Skipper: Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask).

It’s a one-of-a-kind evening shaped by questions from the audience — spontaneous, musical, heartfelt, and full of surprises.
You never know who might show up or what might happen!

If you haven’t reserved your seat yet, here’s how to join us:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

And in the spirit of today’s lesser-known celebration — Bread Pudding Recipe Exchange Day — I’m reminded of something sweet and simple: sharing matters. Whether it’s a favorite dessert or a night of laughter and music, it’s the act of giving and gathering that makes it special.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU?

Drop me a message, share a memory, or… hey, even a bread pudding recipe. Let’s make this May one to remember — together.

I am responsive to email/phone communication. Let's connect!

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

Saturday Reflections with Richard Skipper

June 7, 2025
Word of the Day: Collaboration

Today, we pause to honor two brilliant contributors to the world of entertainment: Dolores Gray, born this day in 1924, and Charles Strouse, born in 1928.

Dolores Gray was a singular sensation—a Tony Award-winning actress and singer with a voice that could light up any room. Whether on the Broadway stage or the silver screen, she brought elegance, command, and wit to every role she inhabited. Her performances in Destry Rides Again and Annie Get Your Gun left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. There was no one quite like her.

Charles Strouse gave us the soundtrack to so many memories. From Bye Bye Birdie to Annie to Applause, his compositions have made generations tap their toes, laugh, and even cry. His melodies carried story and spirit, and his lyrics reflected the rhythm of American life with warmth and clarity. His work continues to inspire new generations of artists to collaborate and create.

Which brings me to today’s word: Collaboration.

None of us create in a vacuum. The power of theater, music, and storytelling comes from those magical moments when creative minds come together—each contributing their unique spark to the flame. Dolores and Charles each worked with the best of their era, and together, those collaborations left us with something timeless.

I’m thinking deeply about collaboration today as I work on next week’s newsletter, which will spotlight some wonderful voices in cabaret, Broadway, and beyond. I’d love to offer you or your organization the opportunity to sponsor or advertise in the issue. If you’re launching a new project, have a performance coming up, or want to connect with an engaged, arts-loving audience—this is a great moment to say YES.

And speaking of YES...

Mark your calendars for August 5th, when I bring Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly! to The Art House in Provincetown—part of my 46th anniversary celebration of arriving in New York City. It’s a celebration of legacy, of laughter, and of how the right collaboration can change everything.

I hope you’ll be there. And if you can’t be there in person—spread the word, or sponsor a seat for someone who could use a little theatrical joy in their life.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
How can I celebrate YOU today?

Google Me!
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

 

To Everyone Who Shows Up: Thank You April 30 2025

Today, I want to take a moment not to promote a show or a date — but to celebrate you.

To everyone who shows up.
To those who share a post, comment on a photo, send a kind message, buy a ticket, or simply cheer from the sidelines — thank you.

You are the heartbeat of everything I do.
In a world where attention is fleeting and screens dominate our days, you make room for live performance — for connection, laughter, stories, music, and the magic of being in the same room together.

Whether you're a longtime friend, a loyal audience member, or someone who just discovered my work — you make it all worth it.

Who or what are YOU celebrating today?
And how can I celebrate YOU today?

Your support doesn't just fuel my shows — it reminds me of why I began performing in the first place: to build community, to share joy, and to remind us all that live theater still matters.Hoping you all had a great April and here's to a great May! Share those flowers!

P.S. Today is also Adopt a Shelter Pet Day — a perfect reminder that love, like art, often comes from unexpected places. If you're looking for a way to make a difference today, consider supporting your local shelter or giving a furry friend a forever home.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

Sunday Reflections: Tony Awards Day, Best Friends, and the Next Right Step
June 8, 2025

Happy Pride and Happy Tony Awards Sunday.

Today, as Broadway dresses in its best to celebrate the finest in theatrical achievement, I’m reflecting not just on the glitz and glamour — but on grace. Comedian Larry David once said:

“The true measure of a man is not to be nominated and still show up to read a list of names of those who are nominated. That's a big man. That's a big, big man.”

There’s humility in that. There’s comfort in showing up even when the spotlight isn’t yours. And that brings me to today’s word: Comfort — as in showing up for others and for yourself, whether or not you’re on the “list.”

It's also Best Friends Day, and I can’t think of a better time to thank the friends — old and new — who showed up for me, especially at my recent show. You remind me that the stage may be mine, but the journey is shared.

So let me ask:
What is your next right step?

Maybe it’s supporting live entertainment.
Maybe it’s showing up for a friend.
Maybe it’s stepping back into your creativity.
Maybe it’s joining me for a special evening of storytelling and connection…

SAVE THE DATE: Thursday, August 14th at 7PM
I return for the 4th time to Valley Cottage Library — this time with
“Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper…But Were Afraid To Ask.”
A night of audience interaction, laughter, music, and reflection. The show is FREE, but reservations are essential. Call the library now to secure your spot.

And of course, I’ll be back at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on August 22nd with more to celebrate and new stories to share.

If you're reading this, you’re already part of the journey. Thank you.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?
How can I celebrate YOU TODAY?
Google Me!

— Richard
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com

 

Why I Still Entertain After 46 Years: It’s Simple — Connection April 29, 2025

Today, in honor of International Dance Day, I find myself reflecting on a question I am often asked: Why do I still entertain after 46 years?

The answer is simple. Connection.

Dance, like live performance, is about more than movement or music. It is about creating an energy that brings people together. It is about sharing stories, emotions, and memories in a way that words alone cannot always capture. When we dance, we celebrate life. When I step onto a stage, my goal is to offer that same spirit of celebration — to connect, to uplift, and to remind us all that we are part of something greater.

For me, it has never been just about the show. It has always been about the people. The laughter we share. The stories we tell. The moments of recognition when you see yourself in someone else’s experience. That is what keeps me returning to the stage after all these years.

I would love for you to be part of the next chapter.
Join me on Friday, May 30, 2025, at The Laurie Beechman Theatre in New York City for an evening that is all about connection, celebration, and joy.

Richard Skipper: Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
7:00 PM Show Time
Laurie Beechman Theatre, New York City

The evening will feature stories, songs, and a few surprises — all built around the magic of being in the room together.

If you believe, as I do, that life is better when we connect, when we celebrate, and when we remember to dance a little along the way, I hope you will join me.

Reserve your seat today. I look forward to seeing you there.

There was a time I thought about walking away. I’m so glad I didn’t. Here’s what brought me back. April 28, 2025!

There was a time I seriously thought about stepping away from this path.
The rejections had piled up. The disappointments cut a little deeper. And the applause — when it came — sometimes felt like it wasn’t enough to drown out the doubts.

It wasn’t one single moment that almost made me give up; it was the slow, heavy accumulation of wondering, "Is it worth it? Am I still making a difference? Does it still matter?"

And then — almost quietly — the answer came.
It wasn’t a standing ovation.
It wasn’t a rave review.
It was a simple, honest conversation with someone after a show. They told me that something I shared — a story, a song, a moment — stayed with them.
It lifted them.
It mattered.

That’s when I realized: this work is not about chasing the "big moment." It's about the connections. The real ones. The ones you sometimes don't even realize you're making until long after the lights have gone down.

I didn’t stay because it was easy.
I stayed because it’s meaningful.
Because every time I step on stage, there’s the chance to lift someone up, to help someone feel seen, or to simply remind them — and myself — that we’re not alone.

That’s why I’m so excited for May 30th at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.
This night — Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask) — isn’t just a show. It’s a celebration of every reason I didn’t walk away.

If you're coming, thank you for being part of the journey.
If you haven't reserved yet, I'd love to share this night with you:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

We’re building something together — one story, one song, one connection at a time.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

Why Let the Audience Ask the Questions? April 25, 2025

After 46 years in show business, I’ve learned a few things. One of the biggest? The most unforgettable moments happen when you least expect them — when a hand goes up, a question lands, and suddenly the room feels electric with possibility.

That’s why my latest show, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask), is completely audience-driven. There’s no script. No carefully choreographed narrative. Just real stories sparked by real curiosity — yours.

Why this format? Because it keeps the evening honest. It keeps it alive. And it allows for the kind of spontaneous connection that we don’t see enough of anymore. When the audience leads the way, I get to meet you exactly where you are — and we get to discover something new together.

Every show becomes its own living, breathing conversation. No two nights are the same — and that’s what makes it thrilling, for me and (hopefully!) for you.

So if you’re planning to join me on May 30 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, come curious. Bring your questions, your memories, your laughter — and let’s build the night together.

Because the stories you ask for might just be the stories you need to hear.

Reserve your seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

And as always — you never know who might be there… or what might happen.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

P.S. Have a question you’ve always wanted to ask? Don't Tell Me! Bbring it with you. I can’t wait to see where the night takes us.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today? April 24, 2025

Happy Thursday!

Today, I’m celebrating those who say YES—by showing up, by booking me, and by believing in the power of live performance.

A special shoutout to the Salmagundi Club, where this current chapter began. Thank you to Nancy Winston, who invited me to perform at the Coffee House series. That evening planted the seed for my new show, and what a joyful evening it was. What a stormy night that was and my audience still showed up!

As Nancy wrote:

"Dear Richard,
You were a ray of sunshine last evening at your performance at the Salmagundi Club for the Coffee House!
You turned a gloomy Wednesday into a celebration of life with your enormous talent and goodwill.
So interesting to hear about your journey from South Carolina to becoming one of New York’s most iconic entertainers.
Please come back soon —
Bravo!!"

I carry those words with me as rehearsals begin today with the extraordinary James Beaman (director) and Dan Pardo (Musical Director) for my May 30 performance at The Laurie Beechman Theatre.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask)
May 30 – 7PM – The Laurie Beechman Theatre
Reserve your seat here: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

This show is driven by YOU—the audience. No script. Just stories, songs, and whatever happens in the moment. If you’ve seen a previous show of mine, please take a moment to sign my Guestbook at RichardSkipper.com. I’d love to hear what resonated with you.

Now, how can I celebrate YOU today?

Warmly,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com
Richard@RichardSkipper.com
(845) 461-4895

64 Years Ago Today: Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall — and a Personal Reflection

On April 23, 1961, Judy Garland stood on the stage at Carnegie Hall and delivered what has often been called "the greatest night in show business history." That legendary evening wasn’t just a concert—it was a resurrection. Garland’s voice, her emotion, and her indomitable presence electrified the room. The audience knew it. The critics knew it. The world knew it. And the recording of that performance would go on to win four Grammy Awards and become an enduring symbol of artistic triumph.

Today, as I reflect on that night 64 years ago, I can’t help but feel a wave of personal gratitude. Because I, too, have stood on that same stage.

I had the incredible honor of appearing at Carnegie Hall as Carol Channing with the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus and the incomparable Sam Harris. It was one of the greatest experiences of my career—and of my life. To feel that legacy under your feet, to look out at a sea of faces gathered for music, laughter, and celebration, is something you never forget. It’s a moment that lives in your bones forever.

Judy’s concert reminded the world that no matter the obstacles, the spirit of a true artist will always rise. That belief—that art can heal, connect, and transcend—is what continues to guide my journey, 46 years strong in this wild, beautiful business.

As I prepare for my May 30th show at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, I carry that legacy with me. It won’t be Carnegie Hall—but it will be real, unscripted, audience-driven, and rooted in everything I love about live performance.

Because, after all these years, I still believe in the magic.

Join me?

Reserve your seat now: RichardSkipper.com

Let’s celebrate connection, courage, and a few great comebacks of our own.

They’ll Love You”: How a Dream, a Limo, and a Loaf of Bread Changed Everything April 23, 2025

In 1974, I was 13 years old, living in the country in South Carolina. A curious, awkward kid thumbing through a book that would become my road map: The Magic of Believing by Claude M. Bristol. One line stopped me cold: “Set your mind on a goal like a homing pigeon.” It wasn’t just a phrase. It became a promise.

I walked into the kitchen and announced to my parents that five years from that date — August 5, 1979 — I would be in New York City. They laughed. I didn’t.

Five years later, I stepped off a plane at LaGuardia with a one-way ticket, $500 in my pocket, and a head full of showbiz dreams. My contact in the city, David from my home town, had offered me a place to stay and a job in his office. What he didn’t mention? The apartment was a sublet, he had two roommates he had never mentioned to me, they didn’t know I was coming, and he was spending the night with a friend. I would be alone my first night in New York!

Also? He didn’t pick me up. Instead, a well-meaning friend back in SC told me to take an “airport limousine.” I did. A black stretch one.

David’s jaw dropped when I stepped out of that limo on 86th and 2nd. We climbed five flights to a smoky railroad flat. After a whirlwind tour of Central Park’s more “colorful” locations, he left me regarding the roommates, Brad and Lisa, “They’ll love you!” and disappeared.

Brad did. Lisa didn’t. That’s a longer story.

That night, I ate a honey sandwich (that was all that was in the refrigerator and cried myself to sleep, questioning everything. But I stayed. And slowly, over time, I built a 46-year career in the business that called to me as a boy.

Why share this now? Because on May 30, I’ll take the stage at The Laurie Beechman Theatre with Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid To Ask). It’s not just a cabaret show — it’s a night of stories like this one. No script. Just connection.

Let’s laugh, reflect, and remember the power of saying yes to a dream — even when it makes no sense on paper.

Reserve your seat: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

You never know who might be there… or what might happen.

P.S. For those who asked: I eventually met others. Millie Brown would become my first friend in New York. Wait till you hear about her! Kindness showed up. But that first night? New York City felt raw, wild, and unforgettable. After all, it was 1979!

Happy Easter: Arguing for Possibility April 20, 2025

As I reflect on this Easter Sunday, I’m thinking about renewal—not just in the spiritual sense, but in the creative and personal sense too. This season always seems to invite a quiet sort of inventory: What am I holding onto that no longer serves me? And what can I choose to believe in, despite past limitations?

That reflection brings me to one of my favorite quotes, one that has guided me more times than I can count. It’s from Richard Bach, author of Jonathan Livingston Seagull:

“Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they’re yours.”

Let that sit with you for a moment.

How often do we defend the very barriers we long to break through? How many times have we rehearsed the reasons something won’t work—rather than stepping into the possibility that it could?

In this season of rebirth, I’m reminding myself (again) that limitations are often just old stories that need rewriting. I’ve carried some of them a long way. But I’ve also laid many down, step by step, conversation by conversation, show by show.

And this year, as I celebrate 46 years in show business, I’m doing just that—rewriting the script with joy, spontaneity, and community.

On May 30th, I return to The Laurie Beechman Theatre for a one-night-only performance: Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper
(*But Were Afraid to Ask)

This show is a celebration of possibility. There’s no script—only questions, stories, songs, and whatever magic we create in the room together.

If you’re ready to step beyond your own limitations—or just want to enjoy a heartfelt evening of connection—I’d love for you to join me.

Reserve your seat:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

Happy Easter. May you shed something heavy today—and step into something new.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper
RichardSkipper.com

I’ll Be Back in P-Town This Summer… And Here’s What It Means to Me April 19, 2025

There’s something about Provincetown that defies description—but I’ll try.

Maybe it’s the light, the way it reflects off the water and onto every artist’s soul. Maybe it’s the stories, both whispered and shouted, that live in the walls of every gallery, every stage, every quiet porch swing on Commercial Street. Or maybe it’s the deep sense of belonging that somehow meets you the moment your feet hit the sand.

The first time I went to P-Town was 1988. I got off the bus in the middle of Carnival and it was one of the most magical experiences of my life. I had never taken a real vacation before. I stepped off the bus in the center of town and walked over to Commercial Street. It was bustling. It was almost sundown and it was incredible. Natalie Cole’s Unforgettable CD had just come out and you could hear that music everywhere.

That first time, I stayed at the Crown and Anchor. Café Blasé (now The Patio) had the largest Japanese lanterns I had ever seen. I went to shows every night—Jimmy James as Marilyn Monroe, Randy Allen in PS (Post Stroke), Bette Davis, Big Ed, Gertie. All I knew was that I had to be part of that scene.

Over the years, I performed at various venues throughout town, but for years, I dreamed of performing at The Art House. That dream went unanswered for a long time. But last year, thanks to CeeJay Russell, I finally made my Art House debut—and this August, I’m returning, thanks to the generous support of Richy Pugh and Rainbow Entertainment.

I’ll be performing two special shows:

Monday, August 4th
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Richard Skipper
(*But Were Afraid to Ask)

Tuesday , August 5th (46 years to the day that I arrived in NY!)
Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!

These are more than performances—they are conversations. They’re about honoring legacy and lifting stories from the past into the light of now. They’re about connection. And for me, Provincetown is the perfect place for that.

It’s where creativity doesn’t shout; it welcomes. Where audiences don’t just watch; they join in. And where the ghosts of legends past—Bette, Elaine, Charles, and yes, Carol—still linger in the air like sea mist and laughter.

So I hope you’ll join me this August. Let’s celebrate this beautiful town and create new memories together.

With gratitude,
Richard Skipper

www.RichardSkipper.com
www.CallonDolly.com

Get your Tickets HERE

My First New York Gig (and the Smell of Cat Pee) April 17, 2025

Fun fact: My first New York City gig was a melodrama called No, No, A Million Times No — and yes, that title turned out to be oddly prophetic.

Just three weeks after arriving in the city in August of 1979, I auditioned and was cast as Iffy Cann. (Let’s take a moment to acknowledge that name.) We rehearsed for seven weeks at the Harlequin Rehearsal Studios on West 46th Street — a name some of you may remember with both nostalgia and a wrinkled nose. It was arguably one of the dirtiest rehearsal spaces in Manhattan. It reeked of cat pee and stale desperation… and I absolutely loved it.

The cast was wonderful — hungry, hopeful, newly arrived in New York like me. We bonded quickly. We’d grab lunch at the Burger King around the block on Broadway. It was what we could afford. We didn’t ask a lot of questions in those days — we just said “yes” and kept moving forward.

Until, of course, we realized none of us had any idea where we were performing the play.

Five weeks into rehearsal, the director breezed in and announced that he’d secured a venue: a school auditorium in Garden City, Long Island. Oh, and we’d be staying with “friends” of his for the weekend. You can imagine the chorus of raised eyebrows.

When we arrived, we discovered a surprise chorus of local kids had been rehearsing as part of the ensemble. None of us had been told. We were furious. But we were there — and determined to make the best of it. We did the three performances that weekend and promptly parted ways with the production. That charlatan of a director had taught us all a powerful first lesson in New York show business.

But the best part?

That Thanksgiving — my very first away from home — our leading lady, the fabulous Duane Duval Prince, invited us all to her tiny studio apartment. We crowded in, laughed about what we’d just survived, shared food, stories, dreams. And we felt, for the first time, like a community.

It was a small start — a humble, chaotic, unforgettable one. And I still smile when I think about it.

It was how I dipped my big toe into New York show business — and 46 years later, I’m still dancing.

If you’d like to hear more stories like this (and maybe ask your own questions), join me for my next performance:

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask)
Friday, May 30 at 7 PM
The Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC
Reserve your seat here: https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

You never know what stories will surface… or what might happen.

Warmly,
Richard
RichardSkipper.com

The Bookmobile That Carried My Dreams April 16, 2025

Today is National Bookmobile Day — and for me, it’s more than just a charming memory. It’s a tribute to the fuel that launched my journey.

Growing up in the South Carolina countryside, Wednesday afternoons were sacred. That’s when the Bookmobile would park within walking distance of our house. For a kid with a big imagination and a hunger for stories, it was a mobile magic portal — filled with adventure, knowledge, and possibility.

I still remember Miss Epps, my mentor, who introduced me to the lives of great artists, entertainers, and pioneers. She taught me that if I wanted to step into their world, I had to read about them first. And I did. I devoured every biography, every memoir, every history book I could carry.

Of course, not everything I read was purely educational. I’ll never forget checking out Valley of the Dolls when I was in sixth grade — and hiding it under my pillow like a secret treasure. Even then, I was drawn to stories that pulsed with drama, glamour, and the ache of ambition.

That bookmobile helped shape me — not only as a reader, but as an entertainer. It taught me to revere the artists who came before me and to build my own path with curiosity, creativity, and grit.

And now, 46 years into my life in show business, I’m still telling stories — still honoring those who inspired me, and still looking ahead with wide-eyed wonder.

On May 30, I’ll be doing just that at the Laurie Beechman Theatre in a special one-night-only performance:
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (*But Were Afraid to Ask)
A joyful, audience-driven evening of song, storytelling, and reflection.

I’d love to see you there. You never know what stories may come off the shelf.

Reserve your seat here:
https://www.thebeechman.com/events/lbt25-rskipper-250530

And today — celebrate the power of a good book, a great teacher, and a Wednesday afternoon bookmobile.

With gratitude,
Richard

Have You Subscribed Yet?

Let me ask you something: Have you subscribed to Richard Skipper Celebrates on YouTube?

If not — you’re missing out on a vibrant, ever-growing library of interviews, celebrations, and joyful moments from the worlds of live entertainment, cabaret, Broadway history, and beyond.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• In-depth interviews with some of the most fascinating artists working today — and the legends who paved the way.

• Candid conversations that go beyond the stage to the stories that shaped each performer’s journey.

• Special themed episodes celebrating holidays, national days, and cultural moments (yes, we’ve even celebrated National Picture Book Day!).

• Clips and conversations from my live appearances — including everything from The Art House in Provincetown to The Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC.

• My signature warmth, curiosity, and genuine love for this community — because I don’t do surface. I do soul.

The beauty of Richard Skipper Celebrates is that it isn’t just about nostalgia or star-power. It’s about people. It’s about stories. It’s about shining a light on what we’re creating — and who we’re becoming — through the lens of live performance.

So if you haven’t yet… come on in. Subscribe. Binge a few conversations. Leave a comment. Join the celebration.

RichardSkipperCelebrates.com — click the bell, and I’ll see you there.

And hey — if you’ve already subscribed: THANK YOU. Your presence means more than you know.