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A new comedy show about the struggle to actually have what it takes to make it in New York City—as an actor, as a woman and as a human—debuts tonight on YouTube.
EAST, by creator and producer Dana Marisa Schoenfeld and producer and actor Jolie Curtsinger, shows just what it takes to pursue a big dream in the entertainment industry despite all the odds, and as you can imagine, it gets wild.
The show, which has won awards at festivals across the country, including “Best Television Plot” at the New York International Film Awards, stars Schoenfeld, Curtsinger, Natalie Roy, Jennifer Rudolph, Guyviaud Joseph, Jeanine Bartel, J.J. Gonzalez and many more who are able to offer viewers both humor and sincerity.
Watch the trailer below.
The women-driven show—on screen and behind the camera—airs its first episode tonight on YouTube at 6:30pm right here. Before the debut, we caught up with Schoenfeld about what we can expect and some of the women’s very favorite NYC spots.
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Where did the concept of the show come from and what are you hoping viewers get out of it?
“I came up with the idea many years ago as I was inspired by the journey (that I was living) of what it really takes to pursue a dream. I was a political science and history major in college, and when I graduated, I surprised everyone when I announced I wanted to be an actor. EAST is based on the promise I made to myself many years ago to pursue my dream against all odds, and loosely based on experiences I've had in that pursuit.
Comedy has always been a coping mechanism for me. It's my first love. This series incorporates the day to day struggle of what it really takes to achieve goals that seem unattainable with the humor that has kept me sane (somewhat). I hope viewers will enjoy this light-hearted comedy, and be inspired to pursue their own dreams no matter what it takes.”
What is the benefit of airing on YouTube?
“We shot and produced an entire first season of EAST and can’t wait to share it. We have had incredibly positive feedback at film festivals worldwide and are excited to be releasing the first episode to expand our audience through our YouTube channel. Our goal is to create a community of EAST fans that will join us on our journey to releasing the rest of the season.”
As a women-led show, what are some themes we can expect and what are you trying to achieve in this space? What might be some challenges?
“EAST is women-driven in front and behind the camera. The creative team and main cast bring so much life to these stories about women persevering in all ways, falling and getting back up again. From relationships and family to careers, these are your best friends, sisters, mentors, colleagues and bosses. They are all so much more than how they first appear. Over the course of the season, we learn their quirks, insecurities and super powers. The challenge, as in life, is to let people show us who they are and not to judge on first glance. Women are often labeled by stereotype and the women of EAST, like women everywhere, are nuanced, fascinating, complicated and resilient. We are thrilled to celebrate women in a project written, directed and produced by women.”
Tell us about the cast and their chemistry.
“We were so lucky to work with a lot of people we already knew and loved. Additionally, we were introduced to some new faces through our casting process and they were all perfect fits for the show and our set family. Working the kind hours you do on an independent project, chemistry is so important for the filming process and also the energy on set. The series highlights New York artists and we are so proud to be showcasing so much of New York’s most-talented. This cast is fire and everyone needs to know who how they are. We had a blast and hope we get to reunite on the set for Season 2.”
And finally, can you share your favorite NYC spots that hold meaning to you or bring you joy that others should experience?
“It’s home to some of the best theater in the world, also a location for EAST. A dream come true to make art in the iconic space. So grateful to SAW for letting us call the theater Stone Studios (Jolie's character, Lacey's Stone's film studio) for a couple days.
“This is Jolie’s family’s favorite restaurant. There have been so many special occasions there, the best food and vibe, a neighborhood destination unlike any other. We also used as a location because the owners, Francesco and Meghan are the coolest and kindest. Their deep fried pizzas, fresh pastas and salads and Italian G&Ts deserve to be world famous.”
“We are both obsessed with their Triple Crown facials, perfect for any event or a glowing skin refresh any time.”
“Dr. Sherwin Parikh is a rockstar dermatologist in all the ways medical and aesthetic.”
“It has the best gluten-free everything.”
“It’s great authentic Italian with a cozy, romantic vibe.”
Watch EAST on YouTube, starting tonight, February 14, at 6:30pm. You can keep up with the show on its Instagram or Facebook pages.