I just realized Of Mice and Men was the first movie I ever cried at...I think. Maybe Bambi before that. I was about 10 when my mom took me to see it when it came out in theatres (The John Malkovich version).
I read the book a few times after when I was 12 or so. I should read it again sometime.
Just like Stanley - it fucking tears people up - the woman who was Blanche is a very good friend of mine....her best friend came into town for the show....the friend spoke to everyone in the reception line except for me.......she then e-mailed Blanche and told her to pass along how great I was ...but at the time she was too pissed to speak to me - lololol
I think you should stay local. The comp tickets sounded like a good idea, and there will be other opportunities to perform elsewhere, will there not? It sounds like you're heart is with your local troup, but part of you is saying to get some balls and step out of your comfort zone. I'd go with your heart in this case- stay where you are for now. It sounds solid.