Thomas and Judy Heath

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Fringe pic #10

The line for “Perfectly Normel People”

Last night, as Thomas and I sipped cocktails on a beautiful rooftop garden, discussing theater with a charming group of actors, directors and writers (friends of Beth Lincks’), no one would have imagined the insanity of the past several days.

Our10-person cast and crew had 15 minutes to load in our props and most of our set after the show before us. Stage Manager John Bamond, coordinated this massive undertaking, with actors carrying their costumes (not to mention getting into them), everyone carrying props, and a porch swing which must be constructed anew for each show. Crazier than Piccolo, with stricter rules and less time, we were up to the challenge and made it with a minute to spare.

Opening night – the actors rocked the room! The audience responded with laughter and tears. Thomas and I felt like proud parents as we looked at one another and breathed deeply for the first time since we took our seats. And I thought acting was stressful! Show’s over and it’s time to push people out the door, to strike the set before the next show comes in right on our heels.

We were grateful to receive a favorable review in NYTheatre.com and were chosen as one of Fringe’s Top Ten picks by TheaterMania.com. Our Sunday Matinee sold out! Behind the scenes – not so glamorous. Our Brooklyn pad defies description with piles of PNP tee-shirts sorted on the floor, wardrobe hung on a rack and laundry piling up. Young cast members (not to be mentioned) saunter in about when the older ones are cooking breakfast. But hey, our play is about family, and I guess that’s what we’ve become.Fringe pic #12Finge pic #11