By Harvey Sid Fisher

Los Angeles,CA(Hollywood Today 9/12/12) The e pluribus unum of helpful hints that I have encountered for the aspiring writer is: ‘If you want to write, never wait for an idea.’ and there is also, ‘Writer’s block? You never stop talking so why stop writing?’

Aphorisms abound on the subject of how to be a writer. There is no shortage of available advice, wisdom and inspiration to impel your nascent talent to publishing heaven.  There are classes, workshops, books and an acute sufficiency of well meaning friends with opinions.

Now, for all you lucky wannabe writers there is a play just for you. Take notes.

COLLECTED STORIES by Donald Margulies.

It is a you-are-there insider’s view on the panoply of complications, victories and techniques that can prepare you for some of the best and worst experiences of the writing life.
A milepost collection from a tortuous emotional highway leading to an end destination you might not see coming or think possible.

COLLECTED STORIES gives us Lisa, a young, talented, ambitious student writer played by NATALIE SUTHERLAND who is mentored by Ruth, a storied and well published writing professor played by APRIL LANG.   The smart construction of this two character play allows the  character arcs clear sailing to their final restive place. An actor’s dream. An audience’s reward.

NATALIE SUTHERLAND never relaxes her fierce perseverance and  primitive need to win as a successful writer. Her interpretation of an ambitious myrmidon is so naturally played out and called for that I cannot imagine anyone else playing this part.

APRIL LANG is centered and formidable as the credentialed professional writer and mentor. She wends her visceral way through a variety of emotional surges with great size and carriage. Whether ruling or riled she is the queen at this castle.

TERRI HANAUER (Director) – You would think that a 2-character play would be easier to direct than a larger cast. But that might not be the case. Terri says she had her hands full with this one. The result is a brain-full exhibition of intelligence,  art and human nature.

DIANE LADD, (Executive Producer) – Three time academy award nominee is not in this play but of it. Her involvement adds a deserved feather to the cap of this dramatically fulfilling and entertaining production.

COLLECTED STORIES
CREDITS AND KUDOS TO:

THALIA BUITRON – Producer
CARLOS MORENO JR – Stage Manager
JOSH SHAW – Stage Design
CAREY DUNN – Lighting and Sound Design
JENNIFER PALUMBO – Sound and Light Operator

Opens September 8, 2012 at the ODYSSEY THEATRE
2055 S Sepulveda Blvd,
Los Angeles, CA 90025-5621
(310) 477-2055
8pm Thursday – Saturday and 3pm Sundays through October 14, 2012

Harvey Sid Fisher

www.harveysidfisher.com

www.youtube.com/astrologysongs