Sheila and Angelo (FringeNYC)

Categories: Comedy, Local. From Two Headed Dragon Productions. Written by Nick Raio. Directed by Michelle Kristine Best.

FROM THE ARTIST:
Sheila and Angelo is unique among the Fringe Festival entrants as all of the main characters, except one, and the first time produced playwright are 65 years of age or older. A comedic love story set in a South Florida retirement community, it deals with active seniors coming to grips with the reality of aging and the alternative. Serious subjects, such as the right to die with dignity and the state of health care in America are touched upon. The play has a flow that alternates between comedy and tragedy. Previous stage readings have brought about robust laughter and actual tears at the end for many of the audience members. If you love a good laugh, a good cry, or both this play is for you.

One of the advantages of working with seniors is you get to cast seasoned veteran actors in meaty roles that will let them shine. My lead, Dan Grimaldi, is a SAG award winner supported by the veteran cast of Lynda Rodolitz, Ed Kershen, Simone Lazer and ex-Playboy bunny, Judy Bruno Bennett. This fine cast is being directed by Michelle Kristine Best who holds an MFA from The Actors Studio at the New School University.