Paul Raskin
Paul Raskin
Paul Raskin
Fortune. And Fame ​​
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​​1940. Hollywood. The greatest influencer of all time impacts American values and behavior. The Hollywood Musical is a cultural staple, taking us away with song, dance and the ubiquitous happy ending. Fortune. And Fame, a unique story derived from real events, does just that - but with a twist.
In Omaha, Will LaCroix and his mother, May, have been abandoned and left broke by her latest husband. Will, a gifted talent, convinces May to get them to Hollywood. He knows he can win on "Shooting Stars," Curt Kimball's weekly radio talent contest heard by millions. Then, he can keep them afloat........and have his chance at fortune. And fame.
​​In Hollywood, the determined pair find their way directly to Curt. Will impresses him, but a cunning Curt sees more. He recognizes this alluring young man holds a deep secret - one which Curt can use to settle an old score. He negotiates with May for her son. He will put Will on the show and ensure he wins - for a price. May, unaware of anything but her own needs, is easily manipulated into handing her son over to Curt.
The powerful young star, Julie Quinn hears Will on the radio and is intrigued. The role of a lifetime, Savannah Joe, is up for grabs. A national search is on. Julie instantly recognizes Will’s talent and intuits what makes him ideal to play the sensitive, young hero. Although part of the Hollywood machine, she does not subscribe to its false morality and is determined to find out all she can about Will. In doing so, she also uncovers Curt's past and his nefarious scheme that is certain to destroy Will - and those like him.
​She can free Will from Curt’s grasp and keep his secret. Then, Savannah Joe will be his.
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But at what cost?
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"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.