Remembering Alex: A Memory Play in Five Acts
- Christopher McCormick
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
Act 1: The Opening Scene
Setting: A softly lit stage, the ambiance filled with gentle music. The speaker stands center stage, a reflective expression on their face, drawing the audience into a personal memory.
"Yes, I have tricks in my pocket, I have things up my sleeve. But I am the opposite of a stage magician. He gives you illusion that has the appearance of truth. I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion. To begin with, I turn back time… The play is memory. Being a memory play, it is dimly lighted, it is sentimental, it is not realistic. In memory everything seems to happen to music.”
Tennessee Williams, The Glass Menagerie
Transition: The speaker pauses, allowing the weight of the quote to resonate, then continues with a wistful smile.
Alex skipped the light fantastic out of town. . . and out of life.. .The last we heard of him was a picture postcard from New Orleans containing a message of two words - 'Hello - Good-bye!' and no address. I think the rest of the play will explain itself.
Transition: The music fades slightly as the speaker reflects on the significance of memory.
Memory is a powerful force that shapes our lives. As we mark the one-year anniversary of Alex’s passing, I want to honor my best friend, Alexander Mentele—a person who truly danced through life. His remarkable spirit and authentic leadership left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Act 2: The Comedy of Errors
Setting: A busy New York City street, the sounds of honking cars and chatter fill the air. The speaker gestures animatedly, embodying the humor of the moment.
It is a frozen February in New York City 2014. I am completely laid out on an ice frozen sidewalk on the corner of 49th Street and 9th Avenue. Alex’s cackling laughter cannot be contained as he has just witnessed me taking the step that would send me up into this position on my back. I’m in sheer pain, but more embarrassed than anything else. And here, my best friend, is looking down at me trying to help me up, all the while unable to contain his laughter. It became one of his “stories” he loved to tell at dinner parties or anywhere else he found it relevant when we were together in groups.
Transition: The speaker smiles, lost in the warmth of that memory, recalling how laughter can turn pain into joy.
Later that year, we’d both end up moving from Seattle to San Francisco and living together to continue our friendship journey in a new city full of possibilities for both of us, personally and professionally.
Act 3: Culinary Adventures
Setting: A bright, inviting kitchen filled with the smell of spices and fresh ingredients. The speaker stands by the stove, animatedly recounting their cooking experiences with Alex.
During the beginning of living together, he asked me to teach him how to cook. I was the cook in our house.
Transition: The speaker adopts a playful tone, recalling a humorous lesson.
The first lesson he learned was to wear a shirt when cooking bacon. Those grease burns are a bitch if you’re not paying attention while learning your way around the stove. Like with anything he enjoyed, he was a quick learner and ultimately became “Chef Alex” to his family during the holidays. His guacamole was probably one of the best I’ve ever experienced. He’d try out new things. He loved to sous vide. There were numerous people in his life who were gifted a sous vide set.
Transition: The speaker’s expression grows more reflective, emphasizing the growth in their friendship.
In many ways, the student became the teacher, and through these shared experiences, we created a plethora of memories that defined our friendship.
Act 4: Children Will Listen
Setting: A vibrant community event, filled with laughter and conversations, showcasing Alex’s impact on those around him. The speaker stands with pride, embodying Alex’s spirit.
Alex had a unique ability to bring people together. Whether through his work or personal life, he led with authenticity, inspiring those around him. If you didn’t know, he was Mr. Gay Seattle 2012. If you were meeting him for the first time, you’d be aware of this fact within half an hour. Many saw this as him boasting. I saw it differently. He shared it in the context of one of his values — Inclusion. Did I mention he was Mr. Gay Seattle 2012?
Transition: The speaker’s tone shifts to one of admiration, highlighting Alex’s consistent presence.
He had raised thousands upon thousands of dollars for different organization during his reign as Mr. Gay Seattle. He continued to do just that in the years that followed. From ensuring Gay Marriage in WA state was passed before it became a Federal law, to ensuring the first LGBTQA+ recruiting events in Seattle had the support, resources, and follow-up requisite to call it successful.
Transition: The speaker’s voice grows soft, conveying the depth of Alex’s influence.
Alex taught me the importance of being genuine and present. He shared his laughter, charm, and wit with all of those he touched, including me. The one thing about his leadership that stands out to me — he showed up. No matter what. Was he always at his best? No. Who is? Was he consistent and reliable? Yes, he would be there for you if he said he would. He was a catalyst for positive change, always showing up for others in meaningful ways. He easily recruited 10,000+ people for jobs at such giants as Starbucks, Tesla, Lyft, and Fastly. From his first job as a barista at Starbucks, he’s likely served cups coffee to more than 100,000+ in his short time on earth. He took pride in his work. He enjoyed creating a space where people felt they belonged.
Act 5: Blow Out Your Candles
Setting: A theater filled with the sounds of a live performance. The speaker’s gaze is distant, filled with nostalgia as they reflect on a recent show.
I went to go see a production of “Into the Woods” at the San Francisco Playhouse last Friday with my kindred spirit, Allan. Guess how we met? Alex was the connector of our relationship, as with so many others. The production was great, and also a salient reminder that No One is Alone.
Transition: The speaker’s voice echoes with emotion as they share the wisdom from the show.
“Sometimes people leave you, halfway through the wood. Others may deceive you. You decide what’s good. You decide alone. But no one is alone.
People make mistakes. Fathers. Mothers. People make mistakes. Holding to their own. Thinking their alone. Just remember: Someone is on your side. Someone else is not. While we’re seeing our side. Maybe we forgot. They are not lone. No one is alone.”
Stephen Sondheim, Into the Woods - No One is Alone
Transition: The speaker’s tone brightens, recalling shared passions and memories.
We loved to go see Broadway shows together. From Wicked, Kinky Boots, Hamilton, or Rent. Remembering Alex isn’t just about mourning the loss; it’s about celebrating his life and the joy he brought to all of us.
Conclusion: The speaker steps forward, looking directly at the audience, inviting reflection.
I encourage everyone to cherish their loved ones and keep their spirits alive through our memories and actions. Alex will forever be dancing in my heart and my life. From the boy I met, to the man I got to witness emerge, he will continue to shine his light, love, and laughter for years to come.
Final Thoughts: The speaker pauses, allowing the weight of their message to sink in.
Our time in this realm is limited. How do you want to spend it? How do you want to honor those who’ve had such a huge impact on your experience of this life? I leave you with the lyrics from one of Alex’s favorite songs.
“Five hundred twenty-five thousand, six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets
In midnights, in cups of coffee
In inches, in miles
In laughter, in strife
In five hundred twenty-five thousand, six hundred minutes
How do you measure a year in the life?
How about love?
Measure in love
Seasons of love”
Jonathan D. Larson, Rent - Seasons of Love
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