While I was writing the script for this project, It’s Me, Matthew! I saw Michael Musto, The Village Voice columnist, guest performing at The Uprights Citizens Brigade Theater. He was absolutely hysterical and entertaining! At that moment the idea dawned on me, he would be perfect for the role of The Therapist.

When I finished the script, wanting to break typical casting trends, I decided to approach Mr. Musto about being in the film. He asked to see a copy of the script. A few days later I was thrilled to receive a response saying, “he would do the project.” I was excited that a community icon and writing legend was going to be in my film.

Mr. Musto and I had met once, prior to working together. We had a meeting scheduled and I was running behind with auditions. The door opened and in the middle of a Broadway Star’s monologue, he walked in and casually took a seat beside me. This assured me that he was getting involved in my project.

We were scheduled to start shooting the therapy scene at the Callen Lorde Community Health Center at 9am, but were unable to get into the Center until 10. Once again, I was running late with Mr. Musto. I was mortified that Mr. Musto, who preferred a later call time on a Saturday, got out of bed so early just to sit around and wait. Yet, he remained gracious and understanding of the situation. Unfased, he took a seat on an outside lawn chair, while we waited to be let into the center.

With celebrities you never know what you’re going to get, but I was delightfully surprised that Mr. Musto, was such a down-to-earth and kind person. It was an honor and a pleasure to work with “La Dolce Musto” not only a legend but a class act!