Bring It 2012!

For my final post of 2011, I decided to give you Benjamin Bratt because of his mixed ethnic heritage and in this picture he is featuring his semi-shirtlessness with water, one of my favorite accessories. I have many hopes and dreams for 2012, the least of which is not that there will be more cultural diversity on stage, that ethnically appropriate actors will be seen for roles that were written for them, and that all of this will involve more male shirtlessness. I also hope that I will elevate myself past the sharecropper level in my career. All I can say is that my motto is "Kick It Up A Notch!" and I hope that all of you will be able to join me in doing so.

2011 was a wonderful year in many ways. I spent 5 months in the deep South learning about public notices against shirtlessness as well as performing the works of the Bard. Then I had the chance to perform in "The Rocky Horror Show" where almost all of the men took off their shirts and Rocky in fact never put his shirt on. The fall brought me back to New York where I found that everyone was taking their shirts off on stage all the time! The movement has really had an impact!

So I toast you, my fellow IMS members, for a job well done in 2011 and to further success in 2012! As always, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

X-tra Shirtlessness

So another IMS member has sent me a clip of some excellent shirtlessness from X-Factor judge Steve Jones. His job is to judge others on their talent, and it seems only fair that he take his shirt off. My favorite part of this clip is the shot of the audience of women smiling and clapping when he finally does it. It really warms the heart of this IMS president.

The holiday season is upon us, and I have to admit that I have high hopes for 2012. All indications point to more good male shirtlessness in the future. I will be taking this Friday and Monday off for the holiday and wish you all a safe, happy, and healthy Christmas weekend. I continue to be...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Merry Christmas, Singapore

A new IMS member recently sent me an article about the opening of a new Abercrombie & Fitch flagship store in Singapore which featured 40 shirtless men. The pictures attached to article made it look like there were more Asian men involved in the opening which would make sense in Singapore, but this picture looks a little bit like the American stage, very homogenous. I'm hoping that there were lots of hunky Asian hotties inside giving some good shirtlessness.

I didn't post on Monday for two reasons. 1) I was doing a workshop of a hilarious new play that rehearsed and performed all day long, and 2) I wanted to the article about "Motherf***ker with the Hat" to stay up for longer than three days. This turn of events in the theater has truly affected me and my psyche. I find myself becoming much more agitated when I talk about race in the theater which was actually the topic of the new play that I was working on. An audience member at the reading asked me why so many plays by playwrights of color have to do with race, and I found myself red in the face and flabbergasted. Perhaps because race has a profound affect on how one navigates through the world, especially when one is not the race of the dominant culture? I mean what does one say to that? Race- it's an issue.

So with that, I will make a wish that there will be more diverse shirtlessness in 2012. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Concept Shirtlessness

This week a friend and IMS member has been sending me pictures of this man, model Miguel Iglesias, as an option for the blog while he procrastinates from studying for his final exams. I know good male shirtlessness always makes me do better on my exams! It has been a bit difficult to find a picture in which Mr. Iglesias is shirtless but also wearing pants, but here's a good one, I think. I told my friend that I was actually hoping to post some Latin shirtlessness today because of a bit of a Latin scandal that is storming the theater community.

A production of "Motherf***er with the Hat" was recently staged at Theaterworks in Hartford, CT, featuring two Caucasion actors in the leading roles that were written as Nuyoricans. The playwright expressed his outrage at the choice on Facebook which then resulted in a New York Times article. My friends in the New York theatrical community are outraged, even more so because it was revealed that the two roles were simply offered to the actors without auditions and no Latin actors were ever seen for the roles. This turn of events depresses me as an actor knowing that even when a role is written with my "type" in mind, I may not even get seen for it much less cast, and as a playwright knowing that when I write ethnically specific roles, a theater may still cast whomever they want. How will our theater ever change from the incredibly homogenous art form it has become?

What gives me comfort is the amount of discussion the event has spawned. And good shirtlessness. I'm just saying that I look forward to the day when men of all races are on the American stage taking their shirts off in front of their ethnically diverse female co-stars. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Holiday Shirtlessness

I recently saw a giant billboard for Hugh Jackman's sold out Broadway show called "Hugh Jackman: Back on Broadway" and thought, "Here's a guy who gives good shirtlessness and can sing and dance!" He hasn't been on the blog in a while, and in honor of his show, I thought I would post him. I have a soft spot for a song and dance man, having been a song and dance woman for a significant period of my life. I don't believe he takes off his shirt in the show, although he did in "Boy from Oz," but I will forgive him for that. Sometimes, I'm sure he wants to be appreciated for his talent!

In any case, I've been receiving a lot of positive commentary on the shirtlessness from my play last week. I realize that these days, one needs to have a star to sell theater tickets, but I'm hoping that I may have just found the antidote for our star-crazed culture - shirtlessness. I may have to figure out how to make a guy take off his shirt in every play I write from here on out just as Gail Collins manages to mention Mitt Romney driving to Canada with the family dog strapped to the hood of his car in every single column. I assume she will stop after the election next year, but depending on the outcome, she may not. Good male shirtlessness would certainly make me happier than Mitt Romney! I'm going to start working on my plan right away. Until next time, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Twin Shirtlessness

One of the many joys of being President of IMS is receiving pictures like this one in my inbox. I have no idea who these two men are, but a new IMS member just sent this picture to me, strong in her belief that they should be added to the blog. Indeed they should! The cause is strong, my friends, the cause is strong.

I am gearing up for a full month of holiday parties and last minute shows and hoping that some shirtlessness is on the menu for at least some of the events. This afternoon, my writers' lab is hosting a mailing party, and the man who is organizing the event has offered to take his shirt off if only some of the writers will come in and help him. I shall be folding and stuffing letters into envelopes this afternoon! I'm so glad that shirtlessness is being used as an incentive to do good works. I wonder what else it could be used for...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtlessness for Good and Not Evil

In my excitement to report that even my mother believes in male shirtlessness, I forgot to post about the shirtlessness that I cooked up over Thanksgiving. My writers' group, the Ma-Yi Writers' Lab, hosted a benefit last night to raise funds for a much needed new copier. As you can imagine, 17 playwrights sharing one printer/copier has not made for an effortless printing of pages every Thursday night, and we have officially killed the one we had. So in effort to buy a new one, we threw a little shindig on the stage of the Connelly Theater, current home of Ma-Yi's production of "The Sugar House at the Edge of the Wilderness." Each playwright was tasked with writing a 5 page play which contained a Labbie secret. I realized that this was my opportunity to use shirtlessness for good and not evil. We need a new printer; people will pay money to see hot guys with no shirts. So I wrote a play with roles for 5 shirtless men.

Let me say that our fine cast of actors did not disappoint. 5 men took off their shirts so that our lab could print out our pages at will. I am so proud of them for their brave work. One did a short but sensual strip tease. Another used his shirt like a stripper pole. A third, the above pictured Louis Ozawa Changchien, gave shirtlessness with a smile. A fourth read his lines shirtless while carrying another actor on his back playing a baby. And the fifth delivered the punchline of my play with simplicity and shirtlessness.

It really made my dreams come true. Gentlemen, may you all be so brave in your next theatrical outings because in my opinion, your stage shirtlessness is a thing of beauty. I will continue to write shirtless parts for all of you. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Sexiest Shirtlessness Alive!

Hearty congratulations to Bradley Cooper for grabbing that coveted title, Sexiest Man Alive. Mr. Cooper is no stranger to this blog or to good male shirtlessness, and we at IMS are glad to see the Two Point Standard being upheld by this important figure. I'll say that I do not remember "Sexiest Man Alive" being announced on Thanksgiving before, but I really won't complain. It was certainly something that I felt thankful for!

So I did watch the two hour finale of Dancing With the Stars with my mother this week. She asked me why all the men had their shirts open. When pressed as to why their open shirts bothered her so much, she responded that she thought the shirts got in the way of their dancing. "So you would rather that they simply remove their shirts?" I asked her. "Sure," came her reply, "I think so." It was a revelatory moment for me. Even my mother supports good male shirtlessness! Perhaps this holiday season, IMS members can reach out to their family members for support in the cause. They may just surprise you! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Dancing with Shirtlessness

I'm upstate with my family and just watched DWTS with my mom who is an amateur ballroom dancer. She loves Derek, and he seems to take his shirt off a lot on the show. So here he is on the blog! During tonight's episode, my mom kept asking me why Derek wasn't wearing a shirt, to which I replied, "Who cares?" So thank you Derek Hough for bringing some good shirtlessness to DWTS. I remember how much I loved it when Gilles ripped off his shirt in dance after dance in season 8. I don't have the same crush on Derek, but I have to support his good shirtlessness. I do have to give a shout out to Karina Smirnoff, though, for rocking her costumes without taking her shirt off. That lady better work it out! She looks great!

I will be taking Friday off for Thanksgiving and wish all of you a happy holiday with your loved ones and remind you all to give thanks for all the good male shirtlessness in the world! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtlessness Off Broadway

Before I explain the title of today's post, I will expound upon the shirtlessness of the above featured Dermot Mulroney. Lately, I've been developing a slight obsession with Maroon 5 ever since "Moves Like Jagger" wiggled its way into my brain, and in my quest for other videos in which Adam Levine might also be shirtless, I came across a video from "The Wedding Date" starring Mr. Mulroney and the lovely Debra Messing which featured Maroon 5's song "Secret." I was then reminded of how much I enjoyed the movie, a) because I am a sucker for romcoms, and b) the gigolo character played by Mr. Mulroney admits to having been a comparative literature major at Brown which made me laugh inappropriately in the theater. Also, let's face it, I've always wished that I could just order myself an Ivy League educated date who looks like Mr. Mulroney to accompany me to a family wedding. Wait a second, I did take the Vice President of IMS to my brother's wedding, but we did not wind up shirtless in a boat. In any case, I think the song and the scene are both very sexy, and my appreciation for Mr. Mulroney was renewed. Perhaps my favorite thing about this sex scene is that Ms. Messing falls down and starts laughing in it which makes it seem like fun sex instead of the usual silent stuff portrayed in film.

As for the title of this post, I was so delighted to attend a performance of Carla Ching's "Sugar House at the Edge of the Wilderness" last night and discover that Ms. Ching has added some shirtlessness to the play that was not in earlier versions. I managed not to start clapping inappropriately but warmly congratulated the actor after the show who admitted to me that he was nervous to have the President of IMS in the house. I'm just so pleased that plays being developed in my writers' lab are increasingly featuring shirtlessness. And I am so happy to see the work of my fellow Asian American writers receiving such beautiful productions. New York IMS members, go see Sugar House, not only for the shirtlessness but for a wonderful play!

Our lab is presenting an evening of short plays next week to raise money for a new copier, and all I can say is that mine will most definitely feature male shirtlessness, lots of it. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirts off on Broadway?

After seeing a show this weekend, some lady friends and I went out and discussed the theater at large as well as shows that we would like to see. One friend mentioned that she had tickets to see "Stick Fly" on Broadway, to which I responded that I hoped Mekhi Pfifer who is in the cast would take off his shirt. Now that movie and television stars come so regularly to Broadway, I feel that it is only logical that there will be more shirtlessness on the Great White Way. One can hope. One can also hope that one day the Great White Way will be a commentary on the bright lights of Broadway rather than the race of most of the actors. But thank you "Stick Fly" and a few other shows like "Chinglish" and "Porgy & Bess" that are working on changing the stats of racial diversity in the commercial theater. It has always seemed odd to me that theater in a wildly diverse city like New York can remain so homogenous.

In other news, I did not see "The Immortals" this weekend. I'm saving it for Thanksgiving week when I am sure that my family will cause me to need two hours of good shirtlessness at some point. Instead, the Vice President of IMS and I spent an evening at Ann Taylor Loft picking out outfits for the holiday season. The irony of the President and Vice President of IMS shopping for women's blouses is not lost on me, but alas, sometimes one really does need a shirt. Lest we forget, IMS is an advocacy group formed in response to years of female shirtlessness seen in movies as well as in response to a certain episode of DH, back when that show was good. Good male shirtlessness does bring balance back to the entertainment industry and spread happiness to many. Keep doing your good work, gentle members. I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Urgent Shirtlessness

I received a voicemail from the Vice President of IMS last night with an urgent message - go see "The Immortals!" I'm not a big fan of violent movies, but the VP knows that I am a big fan of Henry Cavill, pictured above, who apparently spends of a lot of time in the film without a shirt. With all those muscles on his stomach, I'd say that was a very good choice. Mr. Cavill had me at "Good day" in the Tudors, and I thought I was going to have to wait for Superman to see him again. Oh happy day to know that not only is he coming to a theater near me this weekend, but also coming to it in 3D! I don't even like 3D movies, but this one could change my mind. And the VP who went to a sneak peek screening last night, offered to go with me again!

Also, it appears that Mr. Cavill's love interest is Freida Pinto which adds an added layer of intrigue to the film. I'm always happy when movies based on mythology make the bold choice of opening the casting to all races. I have never understood why movies set in made-up places tend to be so homogeneous in their racial make-up. Lord of the Rings, anyone? In any case, this film appears to have a multicultural cast with many men who seem primed for shirtlessness. I have a sense that when my family is driving me crazy over Thanksgiving, this may be the movie to make everything better.

In any case, knowing that good shirtlessness is out there makes the world a better place. I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The Threat of Shirtlessness

Disclaimer: There is no actual shirtlessness in the above video clip, but the mere hint of shirtlessness to come delighted me. Honestly, I'm not really that hard to please. I laughed out loud when I saw this commercial and thought that I had to post it. Shirtlessness can be used for humor too!

Unfortunately, I missed SNL this weekend in spite of this cute promo because I was seeing some in person shirtlessness at the theater on Saturday night. I went to see Leviathan Lab's inaugural production of "Twelfth Night" at the Arclight Theater on West 71st Street, and I am happy to report that there was an unexpected but very enjoyable bit of shirtlessness in the show. I always think that shirtlessness compliments the Bard, and 12N really proved this point. Another point that the production proved was that using an entirely Asian cast of actors does not alter the delight of the play. Having had many conversations recently with my fellow Asian actors about how often casting us in non-specific roles is viewed in the industry as "political," I was particularly curious to see how this production's casting would affect the meaning of the play, if it would politicize it. While Shakespeare is often set in different times and places in many productions, this production inspired by 1960s Hong Kong told the timeless stories of lovers and families split apart and brought back together in an accessible and comprehensive way. I had a great time at the show, not in the least because of some good male shirtlessness on display in Act II. I hope some of you IMS members will get out there to support it.

The theater increasingly has become a place for new male shirtlessness. I wonder what this coming week will hold. I am in anxious anticipation! Until next time, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtlessness in the Sun

The other day, I was feeling a bit down because of an unsavory task that I had to complete, and the Vice President of IMS suggested that I watch the first 5 minutes of last week's "Hawaii 5-0" episode to pick me up out of my doldrums. Doldrums eradicated! I stopped watching H5-0 a while ago due to the lack of interesting dialogue, plotlines, and a disproportionately low number of lines for the Asian characters along with the fact that Monday night was my night off, and I tended to go out then. Not to mention that Alex O'Loughlin did not take his shirt off nearly enough. This episode, however, put first things first and started off with a shirtless scene which then went into a flashback. I think this is very clever storytelling on the part of CBS. I wish they would start every episode with a shirtless scene followed by the story of how Mr. O'Loughlin came to take his shirt off. This would undoubtedly boost ratings.

Happy Halloween! Unfortunately a crazy snowstorm blew into town over the weekend, dashing my hopes for a lot of shirtless costumes today. I'm going to a Halloween party tonight benefiting the theater company of a dear friend and dressing as the Black Swan. I'm hoping someone might fill the role of shirtless dance partner, but in freezing weather, I have my doubts. At least, I know my White Swan will be there!

The cold will make opportunities for shirtlessness more scarce but perhaps all the sweeter? Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

For Matt with love

The stage manager of the touring show that I directed this fall recently sent me some photos of Joey Lawrence shirtless for the blog, and to reward this recent IMS member for his dedication, I thought I would post Mr. Lawrence in a sort of artsy balck and white shot. Mr. Lawrence has clearly come a long way since his "Blossom" days. I wonder if he now goes by "Joe" instead of "Joey" to complete his transformation like another young heartthrob of my time, Rick Schroeder. Whatever he wants to be called, I will give him a strong IMS salute. Thank you, Mr. Lawrence, for taking the transition to adult television star seriously.

In other news, I went to see a play last night in which one actor wore a moderately tight t-shirt. For most of the play, I wondered when he would take his t-shirt off since he was the object of desire, but alas he never did. On the ride home, the Vice President of IMS and I had discussed at length why his character should have taken his shirt off to further the plot and raise the stakes of the story. And while I realize that this sounds absurd, I realized that sometimes shirtlessness can really be used for art. Seriously folks, good shirtlessness is not just eye candy - it can mean something!

With that in mind, I leave you...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Trouty Mouth Goes Shirtless

An IMS member recently emailed this photo for the blog, demonstrating his commitment and dedication to the cause. I'll admit that I have not been keeping up with Glee this season, partially because I have acting class on Tuesday nights and have yet to add dvr to my cable features. I am loathe to pay Time Warner Cable any more than I already do. But I was sad that Mr. Overstreet's contract was not renewed this season, primarily because he always seemed prepped for shirtlessness. I also was sad because I thought it was a brilliant storyline to have him and Mercedes date and was quite disappointed that the plotline would not go forward this season. Now it seems his contract has been re-negotiated, and he will return in December. I hope said contract includes a significant number of shirtless scenes!

The weather in New York has turned definitively to fall, and I am resigning myself to little or no shirtlessness in the coming months. The only thing that is buoying my spirits now is the recent onslaught of emails from IMS members with pictures and links for posting. I wonder what I would do without IMS - possibly wallow in my apartment eating ice cream and watching "Pride & Prejudice" over and over again without any hope of new shirtlessness in my world. Thank goodness for the cause and all the good work being done on its behalf!

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Another Important PSA

In the spirit of bringing you important news in a shirtless package, I offer this PSA from the CW addressing climate change. While of course, it is a shameless plug for its own programming, I must say that increasing good male shirtlessness to combat global warming is change that I can get behind! So next time an IMS member feels like yelling "Take your shirt off," said member can also follow it up with "It's for a good cause!" I like it.

Is this perhaps the next wonderful trend in PSAs? All messages delivered shirtless? I feel that we might solve our problems more quickly if the solutions were presented in such a manner. Cap and trade? Sure if that shirtless guy is doing it! Americans after all are all about the packaging. Sad but true. So let's hear it for more shirtless PSAs! Hurrah!

On a side note, I was so happy to see Gilles Marini back on prime time in this week's episode of "Modern Family." Sadly, he did not take his shirt off which seems like a waste of perfectly good shirtlessness to me. But honestly, he could keep his shirt on and just speak in that sexy accent to make me happy. I'm really not that hard to please. Sigh... Until he takes his shirt off on another show, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

In Person Shirtlessness

For today's post, I give you Adrien Brody in all his "Predators" glory, inspired by none other than Mr. Brody himself. On Saturday night, I went to see "The Dumb Waiter," presented by NAATCO (National Asian American Theatre Company) at the Duo Theater in the East Village, which starred IMS poster boy and supporter, Louis Ozawa Changchien. Unfortunately, Mr. Changchien did not remove his shirt in this production (nor has he removed it in any of his last three productions, but who's counting?) but he did deliver an amazing performance as I have come to expect whenever he hits the stage. Some of you may remember Mr. Changchien's tattooed torso from "Predators" which appeared here last summer. Those of you who don't should most certainly consider brushing up. As it turned out, not only did I decide to support Louis on Saturday night but so did his "Predators" co-star, Mr. Brody. After the show, a few friends had drinks with MM Changchien and Brody where Louis brought up the topic of Indians for Male Shirtlessness and the good work that we do. I have to say that it was quite enjoyable to discuss the blog with two experts on being shirtless, and when I suggested that I would post Mr. Brody and asked for his preference of film for the shot, he wholeheartedly endorsed "Predators." One can see why. My research reveals that Mr. Brody gained 25 pounds of muscle for the role, and I hope he knows that IMS fully supports his efforts. Thank you, Adrien Brody, for taking your shirtlessness as seriously as you take your acting. Although, there is no Oscar for Good Shirtlessness (yet), IMS honors you for adhering to the 2 Point Standard.

I'm hoping that this begins a trend of discussing our cause with more film actors as I continue to do my work in the theater. A two-pronged approach seems entirely sensible. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Breast Cancer Awareness

There are many reasons that I love this PSA, but the main one, of course, is the use of shirtlessness for good. At last a ray of hope in the clouds of bleakness that have been blanketing this blog of late! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I think this PSA is a great way both to spread the word and to remind women to do their self-exams every month. You know, I will be downloading that app immediately. 1 in 8 women is diagnosed with breast cancer, and as is the case with many cancers, early detection can offer a wide range of treatments. So ladies, please allow this app to help you remember to do your breast exam every month!

I like this app particularly because it allows you to choose which man you would like to receive a reminder from - a nod to the fact that different people respond to different types of shirtlessness. Watch all the way until the end to see all of your choices! So even though it is rainy and glum today and the world is much as it was yesterday, I feel some hope. Thankfully, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

A Return to Shirtlessness

I can't claim any real sadness to the loss of "Brothers & Sisters" other than the fact that I know there is no way I will see sweet Gilles Marini shirtless on a Sunday night again. My fingers are crossed that he might find his way onto "PanAm," but given that show's preposterous storylines, I'm not really sure that I even want that to happen. After a Sunday night of no shirtlessness, I'm feeling rather sad and dejected. Hence the photo of Mr. Good Shirtlessness himself to make me feel better about a bleak world.

I know that my posts have been rather dejected lately from a lack of hope. When surrounded by people who believe in neither climate change nor good shirtlessness, I am left with a sense of wonder as to what tomorrow might possibly hold for me. At the moment, it seems only bad hair and a room full of hirsute, unfit men in button-downs. What is a girl to do? I'm almost as depressed as when all of my friends sent me the link to the Maureen Dowd column in the New York Times with the same title. It basically made the case that smart women had no chance of meeting Mr. Right. While I know plenty of smart women who are married to Mr. Pretty Rights, the column still made me sad. I really just want a man to take off his shirt and speak in full sentences. Is that so wrong?

I hope not. Until then, we have Mr. Marini and me...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The Ides of Shirtlessness

Okay, I know no one is shirtless in this picture, but I have to post it because I'm so excited that Ryan Gosling and George Clooney have made a film together. I'm also excited that Mr. Clooney directed it and adapted the screenplay from a stage play, "Farragut North" by Beau Willimon. I hope beyond hope that each of these fine actors finds a way to take his shirt off during the course of the film. I have a feeling that I will be disappointed on this count and then hopelessly depressed about the political process, but I'm going to go anyway. I love them.

At least in the movie, there will be some nice eye candy accompanying the sad political commentary as opposed to the state of actual politics today which is depressing and without any eye candy at all. The only candidate who could possibly take off his shirt is the President, and he has forbidden the press from taking shirtless pictures. This IMS President is feeling bleak. All I have to look forward to is Op-Ed pieces by Gail Collins who finds more and more clever ways to work the fact that Mitt Romney drove to Canada with the family dog strapped to the roof of his car into each column. If there can be no good shirtlessness, let us have good humor!

My bleakness has spilled over into my television habits. I have not been able to watch GA at all because I simply cannot endure another Meredith-McDreamy break-up. There are some things that all the good shirtlessness in the world cannot fix, and repeated romantic trauma is one of them. Perhaps the global economy is another, but no one has ever tried. I will carry on somehow, as I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Apologies Jonathan Cake

Several hours after posting on Monday, I realized that there was shirtlessness on Sunday's season premier of DH. It was just that lines uttered while shirtless were so preposterous that it was immediately erased from my short term memory. Indeed, Jonathan Cake who has the thankless job of playing Bree's cop boyfriend on DH took off his shirt early in the episode. Sadly he was also forced to utter the line, "No offense, but you do that like a professional" after a vigorous session of lovemaking. Call me crazy, but being told I am like a prostitute after sex is not a turn on. If this is all that anyone can come up with for pillow talk, then there can be no surprise as to why this is the final season of DH. But my apologies to Mr. Cake - his good shirtlessness is duly noted.

This leads me to believe that there are some bad accessories to shirtlessness, honestly a topic I have never before considered. Indeed, if even the best of shirtlessness is accompanied by as horrible a line as quoted above, then the shirtlessness does lose all appeal. Truly, I never thought there could be such a circumstance before now! So my sage advice is that if you have nothing to accompany your good shirtlessness, please remain silent.

I'm pleased to report that most of the shows that I have attended in the past month have featured some good shirtlessness. I think that the work of IMS has infiltrated the Off-Broadway community because it's rare to go to a play without shirtlessness these days. I can't complain. It makes the bad plays a little more pleasant and the good ones really amazing! Carry on, brave IMS members; we must carry our message to Off-Broadway and beyond! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Latin Shirtlessness

In honor of my trip to Mexico which kept me away from posting last week, I give you Enrique Iglesias who is not Mexican but started his career on a Mexican label. He also seems to like being shirtless, and I feel that a shirtless man who can sing is not a bad thing. I have professed my preference for dancers, being one myself, but I do enjoy a good song. This leads me to believe that there are many excellent accessories to good shirtlessness. Perhaps I need to explore more of them.

I went to Mexico City for work last week, and although I was at a lovely resort just south of the city, I did not really get any time to evaluate the shirtlessness in that country. Certainly, I would expect that many men meet at least the second point of the Two Point Standard - Seeing the sun - since it is quite sunny. I spent a meager 30 minutes by the pool hoping to soak up a little vitamin D before rehearsal, mostly because I had taken the trouble to wax my legs before flying and didn't want the pain to be in vain. But alas no one else was at the pool when I was. Sometimes the search for good shirtlessness is harder than one can imagine.

For instance, there was no good shirtlessness on DH last night. What kind of season opener is that? There also was no good writing. I guess this really is the last season. All I can say is that I hope it gets juicier before it ends. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

In the Beginning

Okay, so Mick Jagger does not quite fit the 2 Point Standard of our day since he has never seemed to be one for the sun; he did kind of start it all with his shirtless strutting. His antics made other rock stars say "Hey, I might want to take off my shirt in concert and should probably look good doing it." So thank you, Mick! You kicked off the era of Good Male Shirtlessness. We at IMS are grateful for it.

I missed posting on Friday because I was sucked into the coverage of 9/11. Some things (though not many) are more important than male shirtlessness. Remembering the lives lost that day as well as the lives lost since then in the wars that day precipitated is one of those things in my mind. I can't believe 10 years have passed. I wonder what we will think of it after another 10. I hope perhaps more people will be inspired to try to make the world a better place rather than tear it apart. Gentle IMS members, please try to remember that as you continue to make the world more beautiful by promoting good male shirtlessness. Be kind. Give to charity. Smile at someone. As you go forth with love and peace, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtless Moves

I am officially in mourning for The Rocky Horror Show. Not having reliable good shirtlessness and a dance party every night has had an adverse effect on my mood. Who knew? This proves that good male shirtlessness is truly a natural mood elevator. In any case, this song was the penultimate song of our final dance party, and when I watched the video and realized that the lead singer of Maroon 5 was shirtless, I thought it was a fitting tribute to a fantastic summer. Mr. Levine has more tatoos than I tend to prefer with my shirtlessness, but I have no doubts that there are a few IMS members out there who can really appreciate his artwork.

This song also highlighted to me another excellent accessory to shirtlessness - moves. Having a dance party immediately after the show every night reminded me of how much I love to get on the dance floor and shake it. And our Rocky always hung around to dance with me in his shirtless state. I won't bore you all with my continued adoration of Mr. Madsen, but I will say a man who can pull off shirtlessness and moves on the dance floor is a keeper. One of my castmates recently told me that he was looking for someone to talk to at the end of the night which prompted me to consider what I was looking for in a partner. I really just want someone who can dance with me for a whole song. And I don't mean move around while looking at all the other people on the floor - I mean someone who can really dance with me. So tonight I'm hoping that there is a someone out there looking for a dance partner, a person who can talk late at night to my castmate, and good shirtlessness for all. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

You Know You Want It

I've spent most of today trying to figure out what to post for my last posting from Ithaca, and then, like a dream (or an email) it came to me - a production shot of Rocky. This photo is a production still from the moment when Rocky's torso and most of the rest of him is revealed. The audience tends to start cheering loudly at this point in the show. Who wouldn't? Quite honestly, the entire ensemble starts panting at the back of the stage. Night after night, we know it's coming, and yet we almost can't believe it when it happens. I'm still a little bit sad that the director didn't let me rip his shirt off, but I guess artistic integrity and storytelling do have to take precedence over giving the president of IMS a perk in the theater.

In any case, the show closes tomorrow night, and I will definitely be sad to see it end. Besides the fact that I often wander backstage with shirtless men, I really love doing the show. The first half is a crazy aerobic workout for the ensemble, and there is something really fun about a show that charges through 90 minutes without a backward glance. I've never done a show that made so little sense, and I think it has helped me to enjoy the moment a little bit more. So I'm going to live it up for the next three shows, and I hope that all of you gentle readers will find something to relish too. In case you have trouble finding something, may I offer this article from the venerable Time Magazine about the greatest shirtless scenes in movie history. I'm glad to know that shirtlessness has made it to the subject matter of Time! Obviously our cause is going mainstream!

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Theatrical Shirtlessness

As I mentioned last week, Rocky is not the only shirtless character in our production of "The Rocky Horror Show," and although I am not onstage during this scene, I must applaud Frankenfurter and Brad for their shirtless antics. As you can see, Messieurs Ku and Greene are both acting up a storm while not wearing shirts which makes a strong argument, in my opinion, for more shirtlessness in plays and musicals.

I am in my final week of this IMS President's dream of a show, and I don't know what I am going to do with myself next Tuesday when I am not onstage watching others rip a mummy costume off of Rocky. Perhaps I will have to comfort myself by finally watching "True Blood." I have held off on watching this show because 1) I do not have HBO, and 2) I am afraid of the pantslessness, but when one is facing the prospect of having nightly good shirtlessness taken away, one must resort to extreme measures. I hope it will do the trick.

In the meantime, I plan on enjoying every last moment of live stage shirtlessness that I can, and I hope, gentle readers, that you will all savor every bit of shirtlessness in your lives as well. Until Friday, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Rocky and friends

As a salute to my friends in New York City who are braving Hurricane Irene this weekend, I offer a photo of our delightful Rocky, Andrew, in front of the Empire State Building. May his shirtlessness in general and lats in particular inspire you to stay safe in the face of possible natural disaster.

Some of my fellow castmates have been teasing me about my unabashed love for Andrew and his exemplary shirtlessness, but I ask you is it possible to look at this torso and not feel happy? Yesterday, he helped me at the gym with some of the machines, and I had visions of myself wearing a tank top and showing off my perfectly defined arms. While I do not advocate for female shirtlessness since there is plenty of that in the world already, I think shapely arms are a positive attribute in both genders, and I am grateful for the help of an IMS poster boy in achieving this goal.

In the meantime, I realize that I have been remiss in not mentioning the other two shirtless gentlemen in our show. Since I have not asked permission to use their names, I will only say that Brad and Frankenfurter are nothing to sneeze at and very much appreciated as well. I don't have the same rapport with these individuals to ask for shirtless pictures of them as I do with Andrew. But both of them meet the 2 Point Standard of IMS and do this blog proud in their nightly shirtlessness. Bravo!

I'm off to the gym to work on my shapely arms. An IMS President's work is never done. I continue to be...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The IMS Seal of Approval

I realize that the latest posts have been making IMS sound like the "I love Rocky" blog, but looking at the stunning Andrew Madsen who plays the titular character of the "Rocky Horror Show" at the Hangar Theatre (until September 3, in case anyone was wondering) can anyone blame me? I asked the divine Mr. M for some of his modeling shots which he provided to me in an email that declared he felt like a jerk for sending me pictures of himself. Obviously, he is not a jerk but merely a gentleman for providing me something that I sincerely asked for, unlike certain former Congressmen from New York, but I digress. Mr. Madsen was even kind enough to send me several shots so that I would could choose my favorite and offered me several choices with pants since he knows how I feel about pantslessness. [Pantslessness is for private.] This photo is just so ridiculous that I had to post it; he looks superhuman. And he is so kind that I don't even mind that at no point in the show does anyone douse him with water.

Given the above photo, I believe it is evident that the show is going well. On opening night a friend told me that she heard someone audibly say "thank you" when Magenta and Columbia ripped Rocky's mummy costume off. We are bringing good male shirtlessness to Ithaca, and people are happy. They like the rest of the show too. We've had raucous applause after the Time Warp, lots of shout outs at all the principals, and props abound throughout the show. My personal favorite is the waving lights during "Over at the Frankenstein Place." People stay and dance after the show, and after only one weekend of performances, I've been stopped at the gym and at restaurants several times by people telling me how much they enjoyed the show.

I'm so grateful to be in a show that features good male shirtlessness and entertains, that I don't really have anything else to say. The only thing that makes it even better is that several of the roles have been cast non-traditionally and no one seems to bat an eye at an Asian Frankenfurter or Dr. Scott, or even the small Indian phantom creeping around on stage for that matter. Sigh. Life is good. I'm off to explore a gorge where perhaps someone else will take his shirt off. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Happy Opening Night!

Tonight is the Opening Night of "The Rocky Horror Show" at the Hangar Theatre, and with 4 days of tech for this massive show, I am a bit fried. Thank goodness for the good male shirtlessness in the show which has made even the most tedious of lighting cues pleasant. Our Rocky has made tech more enjoyable not only with his excellent shirtlessness but his kind attitude and team spirit. For those people who think that theater kids don't participate in team sports, think again. Putting a show together is an enormous team effort, and a show like Rocky Horror in which even the ensemble has multiple costume changes and every number needs rock concert-like lighting truly requires drill team precision. So tech was certainly enhanced by the excellent physique and even more excellent temperament of our titular character.

In the crunch to get the show up, I have turned to IMS' beloved secretary for shirtless pics, and she has not let us down. She's kept me up to date on "True Blood" which I can't watch because I don't have HBO and am slightly afraid of the pantslessness, and she suggested Alexander Skarsgard for today's post. While I tend to find vampires too pale for the 2 Point Standard, Mr. Skarsgard does a good job of remaining pale while appearing to have seen the sun at some point in his mortal life. And the abs are not bad either!

Wish me luck tonight! I realized that at last one of my IMS dreams has come true, to be in a show that prominently features good male shirtlessness. Ahhh... the good life! I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Crazy Stupid Good

Today was my day off, and I went to see this movie with a couple of my cast mates. We loved it! Ryan Gosling's abs were worth the price of admission, undoubtedly. Mr. Gosling also wears a suit quite well. He is also a good actor. I think I love him! But seriously, this movie made me cry in a good way, you know that "maybe there is such a thing as true love" kind of way. I cried in the "those abs are so good" kind of way, too. Overall, a totally satisfying afternoon at the movies. What's funny about watching a movie with New Yorkers outside of New York, is that we laugh at a lot of things that no one else laughs at. This makes me wonder if perhaps New Yorkers are not as miserable as the rest of the country seems to think we are. Hmmm...

In any case, the moment of truth is almost upon me. The actor playing Rocky will take off his shirt in tech this week. Now that I know him better as a person, I can confidently say that he possesses one of the best accessories to shirtlessness, kindness. He is in fact one of my favorite actors in the production. This makes me even more delighted to be working with him in a shirtless state for the next three weeks. If only we could figure out how to throw some water on him in the show, then he would have all my favorite accessories to shirtlessness! But alas, we can't always get what we want. I'm just happy that I'm at last in a show that features unabashed shirtlessness after a season of Shakespeare done in period costumes and several productions of "Man of La Mancha" where everyone was fully dressed and dirty because we were playing prisoners of the Spanish Inquisition. It's good to be playing a space alien! I continue to be...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtlessness Abounds

So I'm still obsessed with the J. Lo video and song and hope to see more of shirtless William Levy in videos, cologne ads, and cheesy television shows in the future. I don't know anything about him (yet), but I am definitely into him.

In the meantime, Rocky Horror rehearsals have been filled with promises of shirtlessness without any shirts coming off. There are, however, a lot of tank tops. Next week is tech, and I am really looking forward to it, perhaps more than ever before. All I can say is that the Assistant Director has a note that she passes to the Stage Manager with a nod from me that reads "The Assistant Choreographer thinks this scene would be better if (Actor's name here) took off his shirt." The sign goes back an forth a lot, but no one has been ordered to take of his shirt yet. I thought being Assistant Choreographer would bring me some power, but it doesn't. Bummer. Never fear though; this show is filled with shirtlessness and the actors will have to rehearse their shirtlessness sooner than later. I'm filled with anticipation and continue to be...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

I'm Into Shirtlessness

I have this kooky habit of downloading one song a month so that I can keep up with the kids. I turn my monthly downloads into a mix for the year, and then I can look back on each year and remember it according to a pop soundtrack. A lot of people know that I do this and send me suggestions for songs for the month. A few months ago, a friend suggested "On the Floor" by Jennifer Lopez which became my June song. The other night I thought I should check out the other songs on the album and happened across this video. OMG! The shirtlessness is incredible. Now I don't know what happened between J. Lo and Marc Antony, but I have got to give props to a woman in her 40s rocking a dress made out of coins rolling around on the beach with 20-something William Levy wearing khakis and some sand. It's all good, and I will have no problem saying that I'm into anyone who looks that good in the surf. Phenomenal!

So as I cool down from this video, I will report that Rocky Horror is certain to contain a lot of shirtlessness. I'm very happy about it. At last I get to do a show in which the men are wearing less clothing than the women! I actually think I may be living the IMS dream. I wish the same for all of you loyal IMS members as well. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Crazy Stupid Shirtlessness

Shots like this one make me laugh. Steve Carell's strategically placed head in front of a nude Ryan Gosling. I know I will like this movie because Ryan Gosling takes his shirt off in at least two scenes - definitely worth whatever astronomical sum they are charging for movies these days. I've been referring to this film as "Crazy, Stupid Abs." In any case, I'm happy to see that the romcom is making a resurgence. Two "Friends with Benefits" and "Crazy, Stupid Love" have received halfway decent reviews which gives me hope for the future. Let me qualify that my hope for the future is defined strictly in terms of romantic comedy and not in terms of the debt ceiling which currently seems like a needlessly hopeless situation.

I'm about to start rehearsals for the Rocky Horror Show at The Hangar Theatre and have suddenly realized that there is about to be a lot of shirtlessness in my life. I'm hoping the choreographer will let me rip off someone's shirt at some point in the show because that is what the President of IMS should do. We'll see! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Heat wave!

As the heat wave in the Northeast finally subsides, I have to share the status update of a friend on Facebook who remarked that it was "hotter than Ryan Reynolds abs" this weekend. Indeed it was! I salute her ability to make lemons into lemonade and keep even sweltering heat seated in the positive. I knew that the weather had been truly outrageous when yesterday's 91 degree weather seemed "cool." Currently, I am enjoying a balmy 85 degrees. But of course, as the above picture shows, hot weather leads to increased shirtlessness. So I will learn from my friend's positivity and thank Mother Nature for the silver lining in every cloud, or in this case, the loss of shirts in debilitating heat.

What I love about New York is that in spite of the heat, people still need to get out and get their arts. On Saturday night, I went to see a dance performance in Central Park that was packed with people, sweating to see some modern dance. I can't imagine another city in America where such a thing would happen. It was close to 100 degrees at 9pm, and people just took off their shirts and watched. I love New York!

Hopefully the rest of the week will bring relief to New York and the rest of the country. let's hope that even as the temperatures cool down, the shirts stay off! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Friends with Benefits Indeed!

Admittedly, I came late to the JT bandwagon. When one of my close girlfriends was obsessed with the "Justified" album, I pooh-poohed her, but after "SexyBack"I had to give it to her. Justin Timberlake does consistently bring sexy back, and always in surprising ways. Just when I thought he was just another boy band has-been, he turned out some great music on his own, continued to excel with his Michael Jackson moves, and then showed he could make fun of himself on SNL. Recently, he has been turning up in movies and proving himself as an actor. I liked him in "The Social Network." So in honor of his upcoming romcom that I certainly want to see, I'm posting him here. Justin, you can be my friend with benefits anytime!

Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shameless Post

Sometimes when times are tough, I like to turn to old stand-bys who always have something for a dejected IMS president. Hugh Jackman is just such a man. He is a gentleman and good dancer and is very good at combining shirtlessness with water as pictured above. Good stuff!

I was trying to find new shirtlessness from Daniel Craig, but alas he seems to keep his shirt on for his new film "Cowboys v. Aliens" (note to Jon Favreau, always make Daniel Craig take his shirt off). Congratulations to him and his new bride, Rachel Weisz, not only on their marriage but on keeping it a secret from the media! Fit and clever!

In the midst of a heat wave, I'm surprised by how little shirtlessness I have seen of late. What is going on? Perhaps post-Congressional scandals, people have decided to show a little bit more discretion. Ahh, the swing of the pendulum...may it return to the center where good shirtlessness can work for good and not infidelity. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

In loving memory

I lost a dear friend and mentor this week, and in his honor, I post this video. He supported so many people in the theater with his love, humor, and constant presence. I miss you already, Tony.

Yours in sorrow and shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
Indians for Male Shirtlessness

While I have been rather despondent on the shirtless front for the past month, it hasn't stopped people reporting to me on some excellent shirtlessness happening around the world. This Korean star, Rain, has been generating quite a bit of excitement, and recently I have received many reports on his wondrous shirtlessness. He certainly has more ab muscles than I thought humanly possible. I feel that Rain may just wash my despondence away!

While all the negative shirtless publicity has been a real downer, I have started to remember the joy that good male shirtlessness, when used properly, can bring. As of late, times have been a bit tough, but good male shirtlessness has been one of the few things that is helping me through. Knowing that multiple abs are out there being exposed in positive ways makes me feel like maybe there is some good in the world. We'll keep working on it, on torso at a time. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Renewing the Hope

Gentle readers, I must apologize for my extended absence from this blog as well as for the lack of a photo in today's entry. The last month has been a difficult one for the cause as male shirtlessness became a tawdry headline instead of a force for good in the world. Honestly, I have needed the last month to recover from the shock of it. After working so hard for good male shirtlessness for the past 3 years, it was a great blow to see the cause co-opted for less than honorable uses. I won't name names, but I must strongly state that members of Congress should think twice about their shirtlessness and its use in the future.

In any case, I think I have recovered and will return to my twice weekly schedule for the rest of the summer. Surely there must be some good shirtlessness out there to lift my spirits and yours. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

From Paris With Love

This video was recently brought to my attention as a great item for the blog. Indeed it combines two of my very favorite things, shirtlessness and Paris! I like that Abercrombie continues to be the go-to store for good male shirtlessness. I am less excited about their padded bikinis for 7 year olds. But watching this video, I felt happy that good male shirtlessness is spreading all over the world. I'm hoping next for diverse male shirtlessness to take over. Let's face it, there are more shades than black and white, and all are beautiful.

I did catch the last hour of DH last night and was delighted to see Jason George make a cameo. If only he had taken his shirt off! I have missed almost the entire second half of the season while in Alabama but was glad to pick up where I left off. Does anyone else think that Gabby's coffee table looks very much like a box that held a body from season 1?

As my time in Alabama comes to a close, I am getting excited for summer in New York City where I hope there will be lots of good male shirtlessness all over the place: running in the park, washing the windows, carrying my groceries. I may have to make a beeline for the Abercrombie store on Fifth Avenue! Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtless from Washington

Last week I read an article on the Navy Seals which featured this photo, and I knew I had to post it. This man appears to be Superman. And given recent news, clearly the men of the Navy Seals are excellent candidates for IMS. So thank you for protecting the country while demonstrating amazing shirtlessness!

In other IMS news, Republican congressman, Aaron Schock, has decided to bare his chest in an effort to curb obesity with a fitness campaign. I wonder if this can be considered bipartisanship since Michelle Obama has her own anti-obesity campaign called "Let's Move." I won't hold my breath for any reaching across the aisle, but I am glad to see that both parties are addressing this epidemic. Congressman Schock's Men's Health cover is not yet available to post, but I will give him props for using his excellent shirtlessness for good and not evil. Washington DC is not typically what I would consider a source for good shirtlessness, but I'm happy to be surprised on this front.

I'm headed to the beach for few days while the theater is dark and look forward to plenty of good male shirtlessness in the coming days. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

A Cheer for Our Troops

I have seen this video online repeatedly, and I have to say it touches me. We are so removed from the war in Afghanistan as civilians. In the US, one would be hard pressed to notice that we are even a country at war. But on the other side of the world, US troops are fighting, and something about this video moved me. Perhaps seeing troops work on a lipsync video just like so many other young people around the world reminds me that many young men and women are in harm's way. No one is shirtless in this video, but undoubtedly, many of them are candidates for the blog. I post this video in honor of the troops and the difficulties they face every day. I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The End of an Era

So last week the sad announcement came that "All My Children" and "One Life to Live" had been canceled. Obviously reality tv has taken over for soap operas, allowing real people to behave badly in their actual lives instead of paying actors to portray outlandish situations, and I have my own feelings about the adverse effects of this trend on our society. For one thing, it has encouraged people to treat each other terribly in order to gain that elusive prize of fame. With these two soaps' demise comes the end of an era of rather over-the-top daytime programming that was a shameless fantasy. I'm sure they will be replaced by another set of Real Housewives or maybe a show about what happens when you put 10 people who hate each other in a house filled with tarantulas.

While a few soaps remain on the air, I feel sad for the loss of AMC which was the soap that ruled in my house growing up. My grandmother used to tell me that she would feed me lunch as a baby while watching AMC. I watched it with her when I came home from school in my pre-teens years. And as an adult, I would find a strange comfort in tuning in to the adventures of Erica Kane every once in a while when I might find myself at home for lunch. I worked as an extra on AMC a few times, and it was the gig that lent my career legitimacy for my grandmother even though I had worked extensively in theater before working on the show. I also will venture a guess that my first glimpses of good male shirtlessness came on a weekday afternoon between 1 and 2pm on ABC during my teenage years.

So in honor of a show I feel I passed my life with, I post Cameron Matheson in all his shirtless glory. May he find other places to take his shirt off, and may I find something interesting to watch on that errant weekday afternoon when I am home for lunch. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The Goz

The secretary of IMS recently alerted me to some upcoming excellent male shirtlessness coming from Ryan Gosling in the film "Crazy Stupid Love." Between his abs and the fact that it's a romcom with Steve Carell, I'm sure to see it. If only he were reunited with Rachel McAdams, all would be well. But I won't grumble. Mr. Gosling is always compelling onscreen and has chosen some interesting roles over the years. And if he happens to look great with his shirt off, then who am I to complain?

So things are really heating up here in the South. I feel that in just a day or two, men will be shedding their shirts left and right. Whether this will be a good thing remains to be seen, since my apartment complex is surrounded by fast food restaurants. I will say, however, that the men in the cast seem to be gearing up for shirtless weather. I think goodness lies ahead. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Gleeful Requests

As the evening began to settle here in Alabama, I started to panic that I would not be able to come up with any good shirtlessness for this week. While GA featured a fair amount of shirtlessness last week, I don't think I can support the musical episode. To be fair, I came to the theater via musicals and have a very soft spot for them, but watching doctors sing instead of operate did not compel me last week. Also, I think GA has used up its quotient of otherworldly visions in the form of Denny Duquette, and so I was very disappointed to spend an hour with Callie outside of her own body. Thank goodness Avery took off his shirt!

So I turned to an IMS member for advice, and he requested Mr. Darren Criss of "Glee." I was worried about the age factor, since I am not an advocate of posting children on the blog, but Mr. Criss is 24 - fair game. I am a few episodes behind on "Glee" but have thoroughly enjoyed his storyline with Kurt, even though I sit in nervous anticipation of Kurt's first heartbreak. Having survived high school and beyond, I am unfortunately bound to remember the accompaniment to most first kisses. But it is sweet to see their love story presented as just that. So many thanks for the suggestion of ground-breaking shirtlessness to my fellow IMS member!

In the meantime, things are heating up in the South, and I believe a lot of shirtlessness will be coming my way soon. The park is green and lovely; the pool will be open shortly; and there is no reason that attractive men should not be sauntering about without shirts for the rest of my stay here. No reason except the possibility of torrential rain and tornadoes, but I remain hopeful as should you. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Limitless Shirtlessness

One of my castmates and recent members of IMS reported some good shirtlessness over the weekend in the new movie "Limitless." Bradley Cooper has never been hard on the eyes, and the prospect of seeing him in nothing but a pair of boxer briefs could entice me to see this movie. However, I have to admit that since arriving in Alabama, I have seen exactly one movie, and my guess is that my next trip to the cinema will most likely be for Jane Eyre. What can I say? I am a sucker for period dramas! That is why "The Tudors" was such a joy - period costumes and shirtlessness! Needless to say, Mr. Cooper has made "Limitless" number 2 on my list.

As for said castmate who reported his recent shirtless fix, I'd like to give a shout out for developing some very good shirtlessness of his own. He has introduced me to the wonder of "The Perfect Push-Up," a set of portable devices that make push-ups even harder than they normally are by requiring you to twist your wrists while doing them. I don't understand the physics of them, but I will say that the results speak for themselves. He was the envy of every man and woman in the gym this morning where we took a Body Pump class together. This recent addition to the IMS membership told me that the blog inspired him to develop better shirtlessness himself. This is exactly how the blog should work!

The cause continues on in mysterious ways. All I can say is that I'm happy to inspire more good male shirtlessness all across the country. Until next week, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Shirtlessness, the Old Fashioned Way

I realize that I have been a terrible blogger by not keeping to my schedule. Alas, rehearsing a repertory season is a bit more taxing than I expected and the internet connection in our apartments is not quite as amenable as promised. So my apologies for slowing down on the shirtlessness front. It is a cause that I continue to support but perhaps not as vocally on the internet as previously. I assure you that my commitment remains unwavering in spite of the obstacles that time and the internet put before me.

Today I am posting Clark Gable in honor of the play that I am currently working on, which tells a fictionalized account of the creation of the script for "Gone with the Wind." My castmates and I watched the movie as research, and I found myself incredibly compelled by Mr. Gable. He had such an ease on screen. While I realize that his shirtlessness is not the best by today's overwrought standards, there is something quintessentially male about Clark Gable, and I thought it was worth celebrating.

In other news, I have discovered that although there is a rule in the park against running shirtless, there does not seem to be a rule against standing around shirtless. Now that the temperature has hit the 80s, the shirts are coming off. I'm not sad to say it. Things are definitely starting to look up on the shirtless front!

In the wake of my absence, I think I have to look at paring back my posting schedule to once a week on Mondays. I hope that my fellow IMS members will understand that sometimes learning and performing three plays at the same time can whittle away time once dedicated to blogging. I continue to encourage and promote good shirtlessness in my everyday life and hope that my Monday posts will carry the mantle for this short period away. I continue to be...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

The Man Hug

I know that this is not a bona fide shirtless picture, but after seeing Anthony Mackie on the Today Show last week promoting his new movie, "The Adjustment Bureau" with Matt Damon and Emily Blunt, I developed a little bit of a crush on him and think he should be shirtless soon. The arms in the above photo support my belief. He was simply so charming and humble and cute as he flirted with Ann Curry that I had to look him up and post him. So Mr. Mackie, please take your shirt off soon! He also said that he was a big supporter of hugging and then got into a hug-off with Al Roker. What is not to love about this guy?!

Apologies for the lack of posts last week. I found myself facing some rather difficult circumstances on a personal front and could not bring myself to concentrate on good male shirtlessness. I think you all can tell from that mere fact how heavy said circumstances were. Trouble seems to have cleared for now, but I am still wrestling with how to deal with people who act in an unjust way. I don't think I would have felt better if these people had demonstrated good shirtlessness while acting, but suffice it to say that they did not, which made the situation all the worse.

In any case the second show of the season will start previews tomorrow. No one takes their shirt off in this show either, but the quick changes suggest that there is a lot of shirtlessness happening backstage. I won't complain. Alabama is warming up, and I believe that some good male shirtlessness paired with my favorite accessories of kindness and compassion are in the air. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Countdown to Oscar

I know I have already posted Mr. Bale, but he truly is the only Oscar nominee that I would like to see without his shirt. From the above picture, can you blame me? I know Mr. Bale has a reputation for being a nut due to the footage of him screaming at the crew during a film shoot, but sometimes I wonder if all his Method-acting weight loss doesn't drive him to craziness. If he stayed the pleasant weight pictured above, perhaps he would be nicer. But then again, it is his manorexic portrait of an addict that will most likely give him an Oscar this Sunday. So who's to say? Natalie Portman appeared to have starved herself for her nominated performance in "The Black Swan" and by all reports did not yell at anyone. So I guess I should make it clear that if in pursuing good shirtlessness, one feels the need to be a horrible person, please stop searching for the shirtlessness. Kindness is a far more valuable commodity.

That said, I do enjoy a combination of the two.

We're knee deep in shows and rehearsals at the Shakespeare Festival and managing all to be kind to each other. Some of my cast mates have taken to playing tennis outside our apartments, and that seems like a promising source of shirtlessness as the weather continues to heat up. We've been cooking up a storm here, and so no one has any excuse not to be pleasant. I feel a combination of kindness and shirtlessness may be in my future. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Superman, Super Shirtless!

Oh happy day when the new Superman is announced! I know I'm behind the times here in the deep South, but news like this is definitely worth waiting for. You know that I have loved Henry Cavill since I first laid eyes on him in "The Tudors," and now the thought of seeing him on a giant screen wearing the suit of my favorite superhero is almost too much to bear. I am filled with joy.

I'm also happy because at last the weather has become delightful, and live shirtlessness seems possible again. I've taken to walking the long way to work in the hopes that I will run into a shirtless jogger, even though I know that shirtless jogging is forbidden in the park. This weather reminds me of the first days of spring in college when all the males spontaneously would take off their shirts just to feel the sun. It was generally a blinding proposition, but at least it started off the season with a bang. I'm happy for the sun in February and won't let anything bring me down. Henry Cavill and sunshine make me happy!

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Happy Valentine's Day!

I'm feeling romantic because it's Valentine's Day and because I have spent that past few nights watching "Downton Abbey" with some of my cast mates. This delightful individual is British actor, Theo James, who plays a Turkish diplomat in the Masterpiece Theater miniseries, and although he is not shirtless here, he does take off his shirt in the series. There are many things to recommend "Downton Abbey," imcluding lush settings, gorgeous costumes, and fantastically twisting storylines. Sadly the only shirtlessness in the series occurs under less than ideal circumstances, but I encourage all IMS members to take the time to watch it and to keep track of Mr. James. He has an unusually light presence on the internet for an actor, but with those lips and eyes, I doubt this will remain the case for long. I also suspect he has more shirtlessness in his future.

The weather is improving in Alabama, and I suddenly feel hope that shirtlessness may be just around the corner. I have been distressed to learn that shirtless running is not allowed in the park that surround our theater and wonder if this means shirtlessness is generally not encouraged here. That would be sad. One of the primary ways to enjoy the sun is to take off one's shirt and soak it in, I believe. I shall remain optimistic, however, and believe that with the warm spring sun will come some good male shirtlessness. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Fade to Grey

Every so often, I am reminded why I am so devoted to Grey's Anatomy. Last night's episode with Avery ever so slowly taking off his scrub shirt and ever so slowly putting on his regular shirt was just such a delicious reminder. My cast mate and I clapped and cheered after we picked our jaws up off the floor during this scene. Frankly, a man who will both take off his shirt and listen to your issues while feeding you chocolates gives one a lot to cheer for. Obviously, the fact that he was giving the chocolates and listening to Lexi in hopes of advancing his career lessened the impact of these actions, but the good shirtlessness at the end of the episode made it all okay. It's amazing how much shirtlessness can fix almost any situation.

The weather continues to disappoint me in Alabama. I was hoping for a winter of warm weather and good male shirtlessness , but alas, that seems not to be in the cards for me. I will settle for the many shapely calves revealed by all the Julius Caesar costumes and hope for spring to come soon. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS

Superbowl Shirtlessness

Before Superbowl Sunday, it seemed only right to post an athlete from one of the competing teams as suggested by one of the most recent members of IMS, and so I present Troy Polamalu, a Pittsburgh Steeler of Samoan descent who has insured his hair for a reported $3 million since he is also a spokesperson for Head and Shoulders Shampoo. He also seems to give pretty good shirtlessness. Since having my heart broken by the Buffalo Bills every year of college, I have made it a point not to follow football, but I was lucky enough to have some help from fellow IMS members to find Mr. Polamalu. I also like his last name; it rolls off the tongue.

In other news, the first show of the season opened here in Montgomery. Since we opened to a 10am matinee for high school students, there was relatively little fanfare, but locking a show in always gives one a sense of satisfaction. I'm glad to have one show under my belt and start the next tomorrow. Perhaps there will be new chances at good shirtlessness in "Much Ado..."

In the meantime, if you are looking for a quick fix for your shirtless needs, apparently Del Monte has created a ice cream pop version of Daniel Craig's torso. One of my cast mates alerted me to this important development in the frozen treat world. I don't know if I'm more sad that I don't have one of these frozen delights than that I didn't come up with this brilliant idea. While I doubt I will find one of these treats anytime soon given the freezing temperatures, I am really looking forward to trying one this summer. Until then, I am...

Yours in shirtlessness,
Nandita
President
IMS