Paul Raskin
Paul Raskin
Paul Raskin
Fortune. and fame a musical
Synopsis
It is 1937. The depression has re-shaped American values. 17-year-old Will and his mother, May, have been abandoned by her latest husband. Will, a gifted talent, convinces her they don't need a man as he can win on "Shooting Stars", Curt Kimball's radio talent contest for kids. In Chicago.
Making their way and arriving broke, May manages to get Will on the show by seducing Curt - so she thinks. But a ruthless Curt has his own plan for the young, gay Will. May, in denial about her son, believes that handing her son to Curt will lead them to Hollywood and the dream.
Hollywood? Yes. The dream?.....
Arriving In Hollywood, Will finds a champion in Julie Quinn, a powerful young star. He learns of Curt's past and the secret that has brought them both to Hollywood. Julie can free Will from Curt and hands him the opportunity that will change everything - if he can live a lie, holding secrets of his own, abandoning the only thing he wants - love.
*******
Ostensibly a boy's journey to stardom, Fortune. and fame reflects the reality of America's morals and ideals, defined by the greatest influencer of its time – Hollywood.
"Paul has written a compelling story of love and healing set in old Hollywood with soaring, memorable melodies, complex characters and scenes, and delicious action with twists and turns –a narrative for our time that we have not seen before. He is a bit of a renaissance man who draws on his depth of experience in the entertainment business, his life, as well as his wonderful imagination. "
-Jennifer Piech Pasbjerg,
Producer for Theatre and Film
Notably: Come From Away (Broadway, Toronto, National Tour, London, Australia). Awards & Nominations: Tony Nomination, Outer Critics Circle Award, Drama Desk Award, Olivier Award.