FOOD FOR THOUGHT is based on Carla Cantrelle's series of linked short stories, which she is currently adapting as a graphic novel.
Told in three "episodes," Food for Thought is the story of a woman's response to the death of her lover in a car accident she survived. Like the protagonist, the play starts intense and dark and lightens and expands as she recovers her equilibrium
In Non-Dairy Creamer her grief and shock plunge her into risky situations and she only feels real through sexual contact.
A few years later, she reappears in Lunch with Roger and strains against the protective barriers she has erected to avoid abandonment again.
The evening ends with Chips and Salsa, a romp by three best friends who refuse to give into their broken hearts, despite their commitments to their "misery brunch."
As with all good fairytales, the play ends with a miracle as the characters experience the joyous power of friendship, love and proclaiming one's identity. Together, the pieces celebrate the resiliance of the human spirit.
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What the critics are saying about
FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
"Literate plangent writing"
Village Voice
"A brilliant piece of writing and ensemble acting... a remarkably tasty entertainment"
Philadelphia Inquirer
"If you loved Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City, you'll relish these gems from the boulevards of New York."
The List (Edinburgh)
"4 stars! witty, inventive...this play is both poignant and funny"
The Scotsman (Edinurgh)
"Powerful...impressive piece. A joy to witness"
The Stage (Edinburgh)
PRODUCTION HISTORY
premiere: Edinburgh Festival Fringe
That production garnered an invitation to adapt CHIPS and SALSA as a radio play for WBAI's Arts in the Evening as well as a substantial grant from the Ira and Leonore Gershwin trusts. Rave reviews from every publication covering the Fringe.
Philadelphia Fringe Festival
curated festival: broke box office record for the venue! Rave reviews in every publication covering the Fringe.
HERE, NYC. Selected as a Voice Choice!
Several of the pieces have been performed separately at The Knitting Factory and most recently, Cantrelle was invited to perform Non-Dairy Creamer at the 2007 Estrogenius Festival, celebrating women solo artists.
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