DAY 1
To better understand the greatest city in the world, T.J. Shanoff and Ed Furman, the show’s writers, flew out of Chi-Town’s O’Hare International and landed here, at PHL. Shortly there after, the two writers took to the streets and were given a tour around Philadelphia by some of the most knowledgeable Philadelphians.
While some spontaneous tour stops arose during the writer’s visit, Jen Childs, director and founder of 1812 Productions, Philadelphia’s All-Comedy Theater, carefully selected destinations that best captured the essence of Philadelphia.
The duo started their first night off at Fergie’s Pub, where they discussed with patrons and staff how Philadelphia has changed over the years. As the two enjoyed sampling local micro-brews and a fantastic meal, they vigorously jotted down notes about themes that would be sure to leave this summer’s audience in stitches.
The two writers discussed how businesses have changed in Philadelphia over the years with pub owner, Fergie.
DAY 2
The next day, the two met with officials over at City Hall to discuss Philly politics. While the day was long, the two gathered some very desirable insider information about the workings of the city. After a few hours in the offices at City Hall, the two departed to spend the rest of the afternoon walking around and taking in more sights.
DAY 3
The next morning, the two woke up early to meet with actor, Scott Greer. Greer, a long-time resident of Philadelphia, took Shanoff and Furman in and out of some of South Philadelphia’s streets, offering the two a unique perspective of The Italian Market.
Greer, a frequenter of the Italian Market, introduced the two writers to Emilio Manuchi, the vice-president of product development at DiBruno Bro’s, an Italian Market landmark and Philadelphia favorite.
To show the writer’s what Philly was all about, after a full morning of eating, Greer decided that a trip to either Pat’s or Geno’s for lunch would be appropriate.
After a quick history lesson about the Pat’s and Geno’s rivalry, the three decided to venture over to Pat’s to grab a Philly cheesesteak and cheese fries for lunch.
Shortly after lunch at Pat’s, Shanoff and Furman said their goodbyes to Greer, jumped in a cab, and headed over to The Reading Terminal Market, where they were scheduled to meet with Paul, the manager of the market.
Once the two arrived at the market, they met with Paul, who offered them a glimpse of how the market came about and how it continues to thrive today. While at the Market, the writers spoke with locals to find out their favorite Philadelphia traditions. From the Philadelphia Art Museum to the America’s oldest zoo, Shanoff and Furman kept their pens going, writing down ideas for the show.
After their long day, Shanoff and Furman decided that it was time to head back to the hotel and start digesting their ideas (and food). The two decided to walk back to their hotel, instead of catching a cab or waiting for SEPTA, to gain some final insights from those on the streets.
The next morning, the two said their goodbyes, made their way to the airport to fly back to Chicago.
The writers will return on July 8th to see the opening of the show at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre.
For tickets to see, City of Nutterly Love, Funny as Bell, call 215-985-0420 or log on to www.philadelphiatheatrecompany.org The show runs from July 8th to July 26th. Groups of 10 or more get a discounted rate! Call for more information!
