An actor proofing the pilot remarked: “It's Really great! Warm, realistic characters. Interesting relationships that just tease you into wondering how they’ll be developed... You’ve set up a lot of compelling story lines. I can’t wait to see what happens next!” Other actors soon expressed interest and wanted to be part of it. The writing and concept has been lauded across the board.
This project was created with an eye on bringing it to cable TV. CENTER CITY can bring a lot of creative satisfaction involving two great cities in my life, New York and Philadelphia. Although it centers around an Italian-American family, this character driven episodic drama also celebrates diversity among the family's social network and history.
There was a workshop/reading 15 April 2012 in NYC. It was a rewarding experience. The participating actors and attendees provided us with a lot of positive feedback and a great revised pilot was born (WGA: 1585080) Ilene Kristen, David A. Gregory, Chase Coleman, Kiely Williams and Matt Walton were all there to give feedback and give voice to the great characters.
We had a great reading in Philadelphia on 17 February with attached actors David Moretti, Richie Nuzzolese, Colton Ford, Danny Donnelly and Daphne Di Cinto. We are setting up a staged reading in Los Angeles at Celebration Theatre on April 29, 2013.
The Philly read brought about casting Danny Donnelly in the pivotal role of Tommy Avalon.
I have now partnered with Sonny Vellozzi and staff of Don't Go There Productions and actor/producer John Colella (jc@johncolella.com). We have been reaching out to other agencies and representatives on both coasts.
Philadelphia Gay News covered the reading in Philly. Go here.
This project has the belief of all of us involved. You can find out more here: http://centercitytheseries.blogspot.com The pilot is registered with WGA.
This is a good one: a rich and complex story taking place in the heart of Philadelphia with music and food as supporting players.
This is a work in progress. Completing the pilot is just the beginning. It will provide us a launching pad for a television series. We definitely have the option of turning this into a web series having the wherewithal to do so. We have an amazing team and we will keep the project alive. We have seven actors already attached: Colton Ford, David Moretti, Richie Nuzzolese, Daphne Di Cinto, Danny Donnelly, Ilene Kristen and John Colella.
If you can't help financially, please spread the word!