REALTOR IN BROADWAY PLAY - SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER

It started with a car trip upstate, stuck in traffic, listening to CBS-FM 101.1. It was a radio contest and you had to be the 11^th caller to identify who wrote all of the music to the soon to open Broadway rendition of the movie, Saturday Night Fever. 

My husband, Michael, provided the answer, the Bee Gees, and I provided the magic dialing finger that won us four tickets to the October 21^st opening night.

Within this contest was contained a second contest.  All winners would partake in a 70's costume contest after the show.

The production was wonderful and when everyone got up to leave, I refused.  Even though I had not dressed any differently than usual, I wanted to be part of it.

Happily, I was the only contestant who remained after and I won a walk-on part in Saturday Night Fever by default.

Friday, December 3^rd was upon us before I knew it, no time to be nervous.  My husband and I arrived ½ hour ahead of schedule at the stage door of the Minskoff Theatre (be still, stomach).  We took the elevator to the backstage.  My first sight was of the actors' callboard and there in 8-1/2 x 11, full color, was the announcement that I, Gail Gladstone, was to appear as a walk-in in the 2^nd act disco contest scene.

We were warmly greeted by Perry Cline (Production Manager) and his assistant, Ilyce Bosch, who showed us to their office where I could change into the 70's outfit I had put together.  From time to time, cast members dropped in to introduce themselves and welcome me.

We were taken on a thorough tour of the backstage, lighting, orchestra pit, costume dept, wigs, shoes, make-up, etc., and took part in the lighting of the menorah (it was the first night of Chanukah).  We were presented with orchestra seat tickets to watch the show until the 2^nd act (that's me!).

At intermission, Michael walked me to the door marked "private" and I entered "Broadway."

I was introduced to David Eggers my date for the dance contest who further guided me through the "intermission" activities of the cast.  We ventured into the legendary "green room" where cast members where playing backgammon, checkers and just generally relaxing.  Actors continually embraced me with welcome hugs, and made me feel generally part of their family.  One actor brought me sparkle makeup to apply, another stood by kidding with us, and even the electrician was part of the festivities.

When the 2^nd act began, David brought me to the edge of the stage to watch the production and pointed out everything about the mechanics of what was happening.  Actors stopped before and after their appearances to chat and continually wish me luck.

As our cue came, we went to our spot.  David grabbed my hand and together we walked on stage.

Now I have to pause to set the scene for those who are unfamiliar with the story line.  It is important that you know each actor wore a microphone headset.  Ready?  The scene is in a Disco.  The cast portrays the Italian-Americans, Afro-Americans and the Puerto Ricans, all of whom are competing in this dance contest (represented by one couple for each group).  And of course there is the animosity between groups.

Back to the adventure:

As we walked on stage, the entire cast turned in our direction and began to shout, "Gail, you came!  How great to see you!  We've been looking forward to this!  It's so good to see you!" 

You cannot imagine my shock or delight. I fell right into step, returning hellos and waves and greetings.  Then the contest began.  The first couple to dance was the Afro-American pair who first came over to me to yell, "Gail, this one's just for you!  We're dancing for you, Gail!"  And as they danced and did their "lifts," her legs were around his waist as he spun round and round.  And as each spin brought her face in my direction, she would yell, Gail, we're dancing for YOU!"  And as they finished and left the center of the stage, again they came by to shout once more, Gail, that was just for YOU!"

Now the Italian-American couple competed with their disco dancing.  David and I were now doing the "bump."  When David realized we were not in the best position for my husband to have a good view, he escorted me closer to center stage.

The Puerto-Rican couple finished their dance and it was time for my fifteen minutes of fame to come to a close.  But as we began to walk off stage, one of the four main male leads came after us, shouting, "Gail, do you have to leave so soon?  You just got here."  And I answered, "Sorry Joe, but I've got to go." 

I watched the remainder of the show with the audience and we returned backstage at the end.  The cast presented me with a signed program and the callboard notice of my appearance.  The backstage was deserted within minutes (these poor kids had to do this again four more times before the weekend was over).

My husband is still in shock over the moment he first realized they were calling my name and yelling to me.

This was an experience that I will carry with me the rest of my life.  I am so indebted to the production staff and cast who welcomed me as one of their own and made this a night of nights and a memory for all time.
Gail