Ex-Hollywood couple brings original holiday play to CNY Arts Center
Ex-Hollywood couple brings original holiday play to CNY Arts Center
From the silver screen to the small stage, the Giglios understand that family holidays are far from perfect.
When families come together for the holiday season, it may not be the smoothest gathering. It’s a situation playwrights Keith and Juliet Giglio are familiar with and one that defines their newest play, ‘Dis the Season, debuting at the CNY Community Arts Center on Thursday.
“The idea came from our realizing that a lot of people struggle, especially with family, around the holidays,” Keith Giglio said.
The original play tells the story of four estranged sisters who were once part of a singing group. Now, they find themselves spending the holidays together at their old childhood home to get their late mother’s fortune granted to them by her will.
It’s a departure from the other Christmas-related projects that the Giglios have worked on, which were TV movies. But it’s not their first time going from on-camera to on-stage. Last year, the Giglios put on a one-act play with the Oswego Players.
“At the reception, we were approached and asked if we had any ideas for the CNY Arts Scene, and we did,” Giglio said. “We love the process of writing, casting and seeing [the play] come to life.”
The Giglios think that it’s healthy for screenwriters and playwrights to pivot to different entertainment projects. It marks a slight shift in production after many years in Hollywood. Termed “the home of movies and television” by Keith Giglio, the married couple worked on films in Hollywood, including A Cinderella Story (2004). The Giglios now write plays for the Central New York community: something they did not foresee, but welcome with open arms.
“We’re excited to see where this new path takes us. From Oswego to Fulton to Syracuse to Broadway,” Giglio said.
‘Dis the Season will be performed at the CNY Community Arts Center, a place that promotes “all arts, all ages, all people.” Not only is the venue inviting, but it’s pumping with passion.
“CNY Arts Center is a fantastic place to put on a show, and that’s because of the people who work and volunteer there,” Giglio said.
From Hollywood to Fulton, the Giglios feel entertainment is a way to boost morale, especially during the stressful holiday season.
“At this time of year, it’s always great to have a laugh mixed in with a heartfelt moment,” Giglio said. “Maybe, after our play, people will be a little kinder.”
‘Dis the Season runs from Dec. 4 to 7 at the CNY Community Arts Center.
is a contributor for The NewsHouse.