This autobiographical piece is based upon the true story of my life Partner, Singer/Actor/Writer; Peter Mac’s coming of age in a homophobic suburb of New York City. Peter grew up in the extremely narrow minded Elmont, Long Island which is just over the Queens border. There from the ages of 9 to 16 he was the daily target of both verbal and physical abuse from his classmates. Further compounding these injustices, his Teachers and Principals turned their heads at the clear abuse being endured by this tender, talented and “different†than most kid. Terrified for his personal safety he was habitually absent, cut out early and even contemplated taking his own life.I decided to work with Peter to bring this work back to New York City after the horrible news of Laurence King this past winter. That event served as a painful reminder to both of us just how resonant homophobia still is among youth within the school system. In telling his story, Peter hopes to reach out to youth struggling with being gay, Parents to see the warning signs of abuse, and school officials who have the ability to take appropriate action to ensure this doesn't happen again.John Schaefer was best described by author Jim Colucci (Q Guide to The Golden Girls) as a "Wall Street Consultant by day and 'male actress' by night"! He uses this skill set working for one of the largest software product companies in the world.
However, he is extremely right brained as well. An experienced emcee/master of ceremonies he served in this capacity at Club21 a nightclub and cabaret in Sacramento, CA. Additionally he revised and directed Capone’s Dinner & Show in Orlando, FL. This award winning production is now entering it’s 14th year. He has shared the stage with such luminaries as: Steve Allen; Jayne Meadows; Ginger Rogers; Burgess Meredith; and Jennifer Holiday. He is grateful to be working with his soul mate Peter. “…My heart is true you’re a pal and a confidante.†I love you.
John can be seen as Bea Arthur opposite his husband Peter Mac as Judy Garland in a series of cabaret shows in New York City. You may remember John and Peter as Dorothy and Sophia in the runaway 2003 NYC hit show "The Golden Girls: LIVE!"
<"A SLIDESHOW OF BEA AND HER HUBBY JUDY"
Judy Garland Off Broadway Judy and Me a play by Peter Mac http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtuVLAanzYk
Dealing with such issues as homophobia, domestic abuse and suicide, while also including the positive impact Judy Garland has had on playwright Peter Mac, which influence is reflected in the main character, Anthony "Tony" Castellano (played by Christopher Brick),.
