I can't say I've ever dreamt of being a Prisoner in any jail or penitentiary. The closest I've come so far was an ill fated 'walk home from the pub with my pint' in downtown St. John's in the late 1980's. This poor decision resulted in me sitting in the back of a paddy wagon explaining to two Officers that I had no idea the black liquid in this pint glass was actually Guinness.

'I asked for a glass of Pepsi, I swear. They must'a gave me this by mistake.'

Lucky for me an ex-softball coach of mine, who's paying job is a Warden, was on the gate at the Lock Up under Courthouse, and I never got past the threshold.

Likewise, I have never planned to beat the shite out of my actor friend, Allan Hawco (Jake Doyle, Republic of Doyle). I may have slashed him hard enough to bruise his unpadded calf once or twice playing ball hockey, but that's as close to fisticuffs as we have come in our 30+ year friendship.

In retrospect, it is too bad my avoidance of incarceration and Hawco abuse were so successful. These experiences would have served me well in my second professional gig, as an actor as I find myself playing a Convict who dukes it up with Jake on a few occasions in an Episode of The Republic of Doyle.

I can't tell you much about the story or the other actors, as I don't want to spoil the fun, but it's been a thrill all week to be a part of the show. This despite the fact that I've been chained and beaten for more hours than I care to discuss. Not to mention the really unflattering wardrobe. See below.

I've had the good fortune to work on quite a variety of projects, big and small in different parts of the Entertainment Industry, in different parts of the world. But this experience feels unique. There is a sense on the set from the Cast and Directors, to the Camera and Sound Crew, to the Caterers and Drivers, that we all working on something really special. Something special for the CBC and for the Canadian TV audience, but special for Newfoundland in particular. Feels like all hands are jumping at the chance to prove ourselves, whether we actually need to or not. This show is something made right here, with lots of help from talented folks from all over world, but something unmistakably ours.

They've got a surprisingly well tuned and oiled machine considering it is really still new. I have previously mentioned here that show creators, Allan and Perry Chafe are old friends of mine. But I don't want you to think I am just flattering my friends by mentioning how efficient this place runs. They need to make decisions quickly and respond to unforeseen challenges on the spot and they are doing an amazing job. Really impressed with the industry they've created along with their brothers in arms, Rob Blackie and John Vatcher.

I think all hands in Newfoundland really proud of the boys for landing this show and managing to keep it so alive and well for a second season. I know I am.

I'll be sure to keep you posted on your chance to see the show when Republic of Doyle's Season 2 gets rolling in January, 2011.

Just got the 5-minute call. One scene left to film. One more chance to act like a criminal and punch Jake in the neck.

Grand times.

Cheers,
Alan