GB2001 - Walker

Robert Beltran's Galaxy Ball 2001

by Elena Fe WALKER.

Saturday the 10th: Question and Answer.

Kheris and I woke shortly before there was a knock at our door announcing breakfast: There's something luxurious about eating it in your room and besides, we hadn't worked out where the restaurant was yet!

Just after 9 am we headed down to the registration tables and joined on at the back of the line. Trouble was, the other RB fans that we knew were apparently at the front of the line, having had the forethought to send out a scout at 8:30am (thank-you Sara). We were duly shepherded to our correct places, where thanks were offered and received.

The organizers were running around as the crowd built up; Ari doing a fine job of crowd control! The Angel sponsors were being set aside so Kheris left the rest of us to our own devices: Next year, she graduates to both wings and a halo. The Red Hot One is moving up in the world!

I had a great time talking to various people, mostly the lovely Propita and her very supportive husband. Fresno came up in the conversation once or twice. I'm supposed to have very distant relatives there so I was curious about the place. The most I've seen of Fresno was an excruciating night spent at a Motel 6 which was also hosting a High School sports meet: Main Street was a blur as the car made its escape! I was also pleased to catch up with another Aussie, Dot, from Sydney. She was combining a visit to the Galaxy Ball with a much anticipated vacation.

At some stage, Robert apparently walked by. I can't attest to this myself, as my back was towards the door but a scream from the back of the room (from, I believe, a certain Chastless individual) drew my attention. He was gone before I was able to notice his arrival.

Waiting...waiting...waiting...I could see Robert through the open door, pacing back and forth across the stage. I came to the conclusion something was wrong: Ari re-appeared and asked everyone to be patient as they were having problems setting up the lights. "This could take awhile," I mused. Sound and lighting equipment rate highly on the "if it's going to go wrong, it will" pessimist's scale. I could still see Robert through the door. Long hair...very nice. Patient and in control under stress. Very impressive.

Before long we were walking through the doors and finding somewhere to sit. The back wall was lined with food and drinks; there were plenty of chairs and positions to get a good view. I chose a chair best suited to getting good photos without obscuring anyone's view. I had to dodge around a foldback but as the guests wouldn't be lying on the floor (at least I assumed they wouldn't be), I wasn't overly concerned. Albert Ortega had already claimed prime position immediately in front of the action, on the floor but I was happy with the space I'd discovered.

Robert came up on stage and introduced himself as "the most hated man in Star Trek". I could almost feel Wil Wheaton's presence, somewhere in the room, holding himself back from fighting Robert for the title. Incidentally, Wil's appearance on Saturday must have been good for him: His web site was closed down the next day "...due to excessive traffic...". Hmmmm! In fact, one of my favorite times during the "Question and Answer" session was the shocked look on Wil's face when someone welcomed him and told him we were glad he was there! The look on his face was priceless: He was speechless! And wouldn't you know it? He turned his head the other way, just as I took the shot!

As to Robert's claim to Trekdom's Throne of Torment: If you look around the Trek boards these days, his accusers are running out of vitriol. People believe their own personal experiences more than they believe misquotes or misrepresentation. Every time Robert appears, he wins more fans than he loses with poor publicity. And the crowd that was at the day events were already convinced he's wearing the "white hat" in the little soap opera the Trek/Paramount Powers-That-Be have created. Regardless of the opinions of a few, it's still clear to fans, exactly who it is that holds power in the Trek universe and who's wearing the black hats as they ride off into the sunset. It's not unusual for the hero to appear to be in the wrong before justice finally prevails.

Patrick Stewart, Brent Spiner, Wil Wheaton and Jonathan Frakes ran on to the stage. Jonathan tried to get "Volare" going but no one joined in. Patrick looked around at his companions and drily remarked that he was the only one not wearing black, wondering if it was an American thing. A blushing Brent admitted his Nikes were freebies and Wil confessed that his weren't. Patrick and Wil compared their Honda Preludes and the chat moved on.

Many silences. (I wondered if these people have been asked to speak at too many cons. and whether or not they're all talked out. Maybe just tired or maybe just warming up.) Jonathan said they're about to start shooting Star Trek "Nemesis". (Mental note: They're even recycling titles now). The four were asked if the movie's plot had been altered as a result of the September 11th attacks. They all agreed that nothing had changed but Patrick summarized their responses saying. "There's no better time for a Star Trek film and no better time for this particular film."

After a couple of questions requiring details of the movie's plots, Patrick asked everyone to explain to him why people want to spoil a movie for themselves by reading the plot from the Internet before a film is released. Much discussion ran around the topic until Wil remarked, "Funny. I thought people just wanted to read it." He has strong views about the Internet as a result of his own experiences, creating and maintaining his own personal web site. He first created it to correct some of the false impressions people had of him. Brent Spiner admitted he didn't have a web site and the others tried to explain the concept of reserving a domain name. Wil was the most succinct. "Like you've bought a house but haven't moved in yet."

Brent spoke about a new project he's involved in. He's recently been pitching an idea for a TV series that's enmeshed with a comic book at the same time. Sounds interesting but no takers so far.

The actors spent some time considering what character they would have liked to play, other than the one they created. All came to the conclusion it would have been Data.

Jonathan left the stage at 12:30 to take his kids roller-blading at 1pm. Good of all the guests to come, as the appearance was for charity: Jonathan bought himself lots of kudos with the audience by putting his family first. On the way out, he suggested Trek should include spots (lights) in "Nemesis".

The remaining guests were asked what they thought of the new series "Enterprise". Patrick was being diplomatic. He remembered Bill Shatner (who he was having dinner with that very evening) being asked exactly the same question about "The Next Generation" and adopted the same reply. "You know, I just haven't had time to see it yet." Wil loves the new series but added a disclaimer: "It's not a world where you have to like one and not the other." Brent was silent...

The next question involved the much-dreaded and infamous techno-babble. The actors laughed about the number of times poor Data had to launch into a verbal diatribe of unintelligible babbling. "Analyze Mr. Data," says Patrick Stewart. "You analyze," mutters Brent in response. Audience members were relieved to hear that he's credited as being involved in developing the storyline for the new movie and amazed to hear that Wil's site is currently getting 90,000 hits a month!

Patrick was asked what it was like working with Bill Shatner on "Generations". He explained that "The Next Generation's" cast always laughed a lot and that Bill's arrival had been seamless because he laughed as much as they did. During the filming of the scene in Kirk's fantasy kitchen, Bill Shatner and Patrick had reportedly came up with an idea for a new cooking show, "Cook With The Captain's". I notice the audience were diplomatically silent and didn't remind them not to include Janeway!

Wil commented on how much the cast really seemed to get along, were united and there was no one who was a problem. Brent agreed, saying they were a bunch of people who really did get on, it wasn't just hype. Patrick pointed out that Gene Roddenberry had an instinct about such matters and took part in the casting process.

Finally, the actors were asked about the charities they support. Brent highlighted the fact that all charities are suffering since September 11th and continue to deserve attention. Wil supports the Electronic Frontier Foundation. Patrick has a scholarship program he's involved in but otherwise supports Doctors Without Frontiers and Amnesty International.

Right on time, Robert came back on stage, thanked the guests, again mentioned he was the most hated man in Star Trek then introduced Rene Auberjonois and Aron Eisenberg. I was relieved to hear Robert's pronunciation of Rene's surname as I'd been trying to guess at the correct version all week!

Some time during the first session, the organizers placed bottled water at the edge of the stage. Unfortunately, the guests didn't seem to realize it was there. Ever the gracious host, Robert decided to step in and sent it airmail delivery before Aron and Rene started their session. Rene and Aron turned it into a soccer match, shooting a goal through the chair legs!

At this point of time, I ran into trouble. Most of my film was 800 and every time I tried to load a fresh film, the camera wouldn't pick up the lead. 400 loaded fine but 800 was a no go. I decided it must have been a bad batch of film and resorted to my pocket sized stand-by.

Consequently, because the camera and I were having an altercation, I didn't get everything down that Aron and Rene said. Aron did admit to being a Terry Brooks fantasy fan. (i.e. "The Sword of Shannara") and spoke of how he once mentioned this to Rene. Some time later, they were working together and Rene presented him with a Terry Brooks audio gift. Aron said that he's never forgotten that kindness and still has the gift.

Aron spoke about his 4 1/2 and 2 1/2 year old sons. Rene admitted his sons are 27 and 29: Both are working actors. Rene was congratulated on being an Emmy nominee: He was very comfortable working with the audience and seemed to be enjoying himself.

He pointed out that actors are just "happy if they want us to work". He admitted that working on a sitcom was easier: It allows for a regular schedule. During the shooting of "Benson", his kids were small and he was more able to be involved with their lives. By the time he was in "DS9", the kids were in college so it didn't matter as much. He told a story about Burgess Meredith, reflecting on how he'd baby-sat Meredith's kids while on guard at a pool when he was younger. In later years, while working on the film "The Hindenberg" together, Meredith would lie in his trailer and catch up on some sleep. One day, after emerging from such a break, Meredith said to Rene, "I love to be paid to sleep".

The actors were asked about their charities of choice. (In response to another question about his artwork) Rene mentioned that he is currently drawing more of his cartoons to sell for charity. The charity he supports is Doctors Without Borders. Aron explained that he'd had a kidney transplant when he was 17 years old so he supports the National Kidney Foundation. He also said how important it is to tell your nearest and dearest if you plan on being a donor, as well as carrying the card.

Rene was asked how he makes ODO? I was very impressed by the care he took with this answer. He explained that he wore a rubber mask and changed his voice. He scored big points with me by giving credit to the "storytellers who write the words". He then learns the words. Rene assured the questioner that he can't melt, even if that disappoints people he meets in airports! He admitted later that ODO used fresh make-up every day, unlike the Klingons and Cardassians who had to keep re-using the heads. The Klingon make-up is apparently very simple in comparison to ODO's: Every inch of ODO was glued into place. He laughed about his hairdresser taking photos each day as he stretched the make-up into contortions and caricatures, sometimes on purpose and other times accidentally, as he attempted to drag it off.

Aron remarked that Nog couldn't have pulled his off. Over the course of the day, the make-up crew would place more and more glue on to it to keep everything in place. He commented on the odors emanating from the mask after awhile and at what point a new one had to be made.

Aron admitted that his favorite character on "Voyager" was Robert because they worked together on "Initiations". No argument from me there: It's one of my favorite Chakotay episodes.

Rene reminisced about the day he and Ethan Phillips joined "Benson" and became best friends. On "DS9", he also became best friends with Armin Shimerman. He remains best friends with both men but wonders why he keeps becoming best friends with short, bald men?

He was delighted when a member of the audience remembered him appearing as the fool in "King Lear" when he was 28 years old. He's now 61.

Robert re-appeared on stage, thanked them both and stood there for awhile, waiting for Bob Picardo and Roxann Dawson (they were running late). He stood there, chatting and waiting for news of their arrival which came just as he was getting more interesting! (He was talking about "Enterprise" and mentioned that Scott Bakula is a friend).

Robert apologized on behalf of Garrett Wang and Tim Russ. Conflicting commitments had come up and they weren't able to join the panel.

Almost immediately, the three who were with us, launched into the questions part of the session.

I was still struggling with the camera so I didn't get everything written down this time either.

A questioner sought out advice on how to encourage children during their first experiences of Shakespeare. Robert told them to take the children to see it and allow them to be carried away by the experience. Take them to museums, the symphony. Do everything you can to elevate their sense of art and beauty. They're never too young.

Bob told us he's been working on a new project. The "Hologram's Handbook". It's all about how to get along with people who aren't as good as you are. He thoughtfully pointed out that's it's comedic in nature.

Roxann reminisced that she often fell asleep on the set while she was pregnant and the camera often caught her snoozing in the background. She suggested everyone should watch out for it on the re-runs.

Robert said that "...we always had fun" and "I remember my paycheck with great fondness!" (that smile...) Roxann laughed and agreed, saying "...they were the best seven years of my life."

The actors were asked what they're doing now:

Roxann is being a mom to her two kids ("...which is great!"), directing on "Voyager" and "Any Day Now". Appearing on "The Weakest Link "(she said a few terse words regarding Mr. Picardo's behavior on the show - we'll all have to watch it to understand apparently) and putting the finishing touches on the final book of her trilogy.

Bob is spending time with his kids and wife Linda, appearing on "Frasier" (as Martin's new boss who runs a security company), playing a schizophrenic on a low budget movie and being a 'soccer mom'.

Robert said he was going to be working with Garrett Wang (but neglected to say on what), writing a play and co-writing a couple of screenplays.

Robert thanked all his guests and we were dismissed to gather our collective belongings and thoughts before attempting to enter the autograph line.

By that point, my camera and I were no longer on speaking terms so as everyone headed one way, I raced to Kheris Quadrant HQ. I'd recently had a book of panagraphs sent from Australia for Robert. Some of the Aussie fans were concerned that Robert had only spent two days on our distant shores: I'd promised them I'd find a way to remind him that he's promised to return another time (and hopefully, take some of his films for them to see). As my brother was the ghost writer and editor of this particular tome, I realized it was the best possible coffee table book for the purpose; almost custom designed for the task at hand.

Kheris kindly agreed to pass it on to Robert as I rushed off to first the Sheraton gift shop and then the Hilton, where I finally found some more 800 film. Hurried back , in time to get some shots of the autograph line and Robert signing. Managed to get a shot of Cat D'Arcy giving Robert a medal featuring the actor's saint; a gift straight from the heart.

Then it was back to the room to sort out film, camera and turn from caterpillars into butterflies for the evening's events!

NEXT: SATURDAY THE 11TH: THE GALAXY BALL

By the time the autograph session was finishing and everyone was filtering away to rest, it was getting late. I chatted to a few people on the way back to my room at the Sheraton. Kheris was already there and Cat Darcy joined us for awhile to chat and relax (always a pleasure). We were proud of ourselves! Kheris and I had planned our outfits, our schedule, our dressing rituals, down to the last detail! Efficient and organized
we knew we had plenty of time to prepare and preen before the night's entertainment started downstairs. Still, all three of us kept looking at our watches, concerned we might miss out on meeting up with people for the pre Galaxy Ball drinks. Finally, unable to withstand our own edginess any longer, we went our separate ways to begin our coiffure!

Laying out my requirements, I checked over what had to be done and in what order. Pulled the gown out of its bag, glitter showering the room as it sprang to freedom. Oh great! Methinks to myself. I'm going to be spreading "fairy dust" with every step I take. Hopefully, everyone will be too occupied to notice. Suddenly, I'm wishing for more time: I'm tired and could do with a lie down. But looking at my watch, I spring into well-planned action. Everything went like clockwork! The final touch was braiding my waist length hair - it had been doing its imitation of a bush all day and it was time the beast was bridled! I skewered the bun with jeweled hair sticks, specially created for the occasion..

Kheris appeared from the bathroom looking wonderful! We had an unspoken agreement that there would be no "before and after" shots or pictures of each other in our underwear or some such nonsense: After all, we had to maintain some illusion of dignity and self-respect *sniff*.! There were too many people who knew us back home expecting to see these photos and no way were we going to allow any room for future
blackmail! But Kheris needn't have feared: She'd found her top hidden away in some little select hidey-hole boutique and had been refusing to show it to me until the Ball.. It was lovely and didn't sprinkle its sparkles as she went!! My dress, however, continued to shower its own little version of sunshine all over. I felt sorry for those who'd be vacuuming our room the following day.

We completed donning our accouterments in record time and headed downstairs.. Well, I'm proud to say we weren't late. We reached the foyer and were the firsts one there! So, we decided to spend the extra time wisely; bought ourselves a glass of wine to start the evening off and headed out into the early evening air. It really was lovely sitting out there, chatting and watching the preparations through the large windows. Gradually, people filtered into view and we went inside to catch up again with the others we'd been meeting over the past 24 hours.

I must say, people have a remarkable way of polishing up: The attendees outdid themselves in putting on the ritz! And the best part was, they were doing it for the fun of it and to add to the occasion. They may have been dressed formally but this group were there to relax and have a good time! Cameras were drawn out of silk purses and flashes popped all over as people sipped on the brew of their choosing. People mulled
around, talking or perusing the articles up for auction in a nearby room. I'm not a collector so there wasn't much that grabbed my attention but it was interesting to look around and see the bids. I wrote my name down on one Chakotay/Star Trek item that didn't seem to be too popular at that time but I was soon outbid. The more the merrier for such worthy causes! Everywhere you walked you found yourself involved in new
conversations. There were still names being put to faces as the doors of the ballroom opened and we were allowed inside (especially fascinating for those who had only ever met on-line)! As we registered each person was handed a souvenir bag containing a Galaxy Ball program, T-shirt and "Star Trek " magazine.

Congratulations to the committee from the DSALA! The room looking wonderful! And many thanks to those who organized all the tables, and the seating; including Kheris. Fitz had made sure each of the Kheris Quadrant's tables were clearly labeled with a suitably "cosmic" themed sign: Well done Fitz! I think nearly all, if not all, of them were souvenired! People sorted out where they were sitting and we were soon joined
by the guests who found seats scattered around various tables. We were joined by a charming young man, Aaron, who had come to the event after seeing it advertised on Startrek.com. It was his first time at the Galaxy Ball and he said he'd had a great time at the events and would probably return for the next one. (We were sorry when he felt he had to leave early but we'd enjoyed the chance to get to know him. Hi Aaron!)

Aaron Eisenberg also stopped by our table to see if we had a chair left but unfortunately, we were all filled up! If only we could have stretched the table!. We talked for a little while until it was noticed that I was probably one of the few people in room shorter than he was and took off my shoes to prove it: It was that sort of night...as I said. People were very relaxed and enjoying themselves. Hey look, if you're built like a Hobbit, naturally, you're going to make other people feel good about themselves: They're inevitably going to be taller than you! *shrug*. It's a gift! *chuckle*

The food was excellent! Vegetarian meals are often bland and uninteresting because the chefs have little to no experience cooking vegetarian. But in all honesty, there were quite a few comments from people wishing they'd ordered the vegetarian! It really was delicious and I have no idea what I ate. ..I was too busy enjoying it to notice! The waiters were smooth and silent as they whisked plates in, out and away. Ensuring there was plenty of time for the floor show.

Robert came up of stage and welcomed everyone. The man was magnificent; dressed all in black.. At this point, I'm going to describe my impressions. Later, I'll add on more details about the program but for now, I'm going to restrict myself to the leftover memories and feelings.

Robert started the evening asking the audience to stay seated. The dancing could wait while we concentrated our attention on the performers: A proper and respectful request. But, I've got to admit, there were times that was asking a lot, even if it was the best thing to do! Neil Norman and his orchestra were drawing the feet upward and forward towards the dance floor with every number! As well as performing their own repertoire, they backed all the performers, one after the other: The tension was building! In the
end, Roxann and Robbie McNeill took pity on the tortured souls with tapping tootsies and begged Robert to relent. He gave up in mock horror and the evening progressed as the crowd rushed forward. So, while I agree with Robert 100%, I can understand their pain! He's a real sweetheart to be so reasonable and adaptable to the situation.

The Program Director for the DSALA, the lovely Roxanne Carreon, welcomed everyone and the evening's program began. (I'd almost kill for black hair like Roxanne's! ..I'd look a little too much like Morticia Adams. for my liking; All pale and washed out but she looked spectacular: Dressed most effectively in black lace as well). Andrea Fay Friedman came to the stage, every inch the professional and beautiful in blue. Luke Zimmerman came to the floor below and the two recited a speech from "Romeo and Juliet". Luke poured his heart into every word, ensuring he included the audience in with his pleas of love. Juliet smiled gently and answered his impassioned words with every sincerity and carefully measured speech: As is appropriate under the circumstances. Ah! Whereforart a modern Romeo who can do that? I think every woman in the audience was melting by the end!

Robert came back up on stage, hugging the two as applause filled the room. Luke presented his lady love with a beautiful bouquet of red rosebuds. Andrea smiled and accepted them graciously like the lady she obviously is.

The rest of the evening was true cabaret, further complimented and enhanced by Louie Beltran and his Orchestra. Great food, excellent company, entertainment at its best and dancing! The embodiment of a great night out!

Ethan Phillips introduced us to his new "horn" and being a true performer, had everyone feeling the beat in such standards as "When the Saints Go Marching In". His wife had given him the sax. 9 months earlier... I wonder if she's ever regretted that decision? I was impressed: Not one squeak, squawk or split reed to be seen and a careful dribbling of his drool hole, ensured he missed Tim Russ's foot! Most impressive! His stand- up comedy act centered on current affairs. Is Dan Rather retiring?

Robbie Duncan McNeill. My goodness! That man can really rock and seemed to be having an awfully good time doing it! There was absolutely no way anybody was going to sit still while Robbie brought the house down! Roxann Dawson really rocks too and has a great voice. Maybe 2002 is the time for those two to do some duets? Sonny and Cher perhaps? Nah:. Too tame!

Robert Picardo looked every bit the man- about- town as he assumed position on stage and poured forth his tale of woe! The stress and striving of an ex-Trek actor, struggling to make ends meet as he does the rounds of the cons. *sniff* Where's that environmentally friendly tissue I brought? *sob* Ah! With great material like that, dear heart, the coffers won't be short of a bob or two anywhere in the foreseeable future.

Tim Russ. Hmmmm, ..well, he was a surprise. I'd heard the reports about his music and I was sceptical. Sorry but I was: I've heard too many bad acts to be otherwise. But Tim's voice is smooth and fine and the man can really play! He and Neil Norman's orchestra blend together like hand in glove. Listening is half the battle and they do it so well...

After the cabaret was an auction. Everyone seemed a little subdued, maybe even a little stunned after all that high quality entertainment. But, with a little encouragement from Roxann and Bob and Aaron and Robert. .................

Oh, who?

Oh...Robert?

Did Robert perform?

Are you kidding?

That was the reason I was there.

I mean, I could have just phoned the donation in.

But I went there to hear Robert sing.

And I got more.

And it was worth it..

Robert's voice 'live' is not what can be heard on taped versions, like the soundtrack of "Kiss Me A Killer". Robert's voice rings and lives with a passion you very rarely hear in anyone. His heart is in his singing. Oh, I tried to take photos. I really did. But to be honest, I didn't want to be distracted. So, I took one shot and put the camera down. I wanted to take in every single note, trying to absorb every word and nuance,
knowing it was only going to last such a short time.

Then he recited poetry.

And I watched audience members react as I listened.

Their hearts rose and fell with the words. Anticipating the poet's images and feeling them as Robert felt them.

A writer's words live in the reader's mind.

But they breathe in the voice of a truly great actor.

It was only a few short moments and then it was gone.

But he was breathtaking.

After the auction, the evening was.............LOUIE'S!

I didn't take any photos after that.

I was too busy dancing and appreciating the music!

Robert and the other guests mingled and talked with people while others danced the night away, intent on taking the chance to fully participate in the pleaures of the rumbrero.

As the night came to close, Louie treated everyone to a final solo before retiring to meet and greet those waiting.

The most frequent complaint I've heard, either at the time or since, is that it simply wasn't long enough...

Always leave the crowd wanting more................and they did!