We interviewed Lorraine Ranalli, a published author who had so much fun writing her book about South Philly Italian recipies (and anecdotes) that she also wrote a vignette for the theater.
Directed by Ron Hill, “Gravy Wars, Agita” is an emotionally charged comedy based on the theme of the book, “Gravy Wars | South Philly Foods, Feuds & Attytudes”. Agita is the Americanized word for Acido, which means aggravation. The parody involves Sal and Cecilia, an Italian-American couple, their two adult children, Gina and Vinnie, and their grandson, Petey. Chaos erupts as the family gathers for their traditional Sunday gravy dinner and discovers that there are too many cooks in this kitchen. Overshadowing the commotion is Cecilia’s chronic hypochondria.
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You can see the Colonial Quickies series of short plays at the Colonial Playhouse in Aldan, PA. When a little white building just off Magnolia and Ridley Aves. in Aldan opened it’s doors to the public on September 21, 1940, featuring the brand-new play This Thing Called Love, Colonial Playhouse was born! And now, 68 years later, we’re still here, still going strong. Visit www.ColonialPlayhouse.org
More about “Gravy Wars | South Philly Foods, Feuds & Attytudes”
Is it “gravy” or “sauce”? Lorraine Ranalli, Philadelphia Broadcast vet and writer, settles the age-old argument while humorously describing the culinary competitiveness that runs deep in the heart of South Philadelphia Italians. You’ll laugh out loud as you read the truth about Italian traditions and superstitions. And you’ll discover a slew of scrumptious original recipes that’ll help you win your own kitchen competitions.
“Gravy Wars | South Philly Foods, Feuds & Attytudes” captures the essence of Philadelphia. We have the ability to debate, argue, and dissect the most mundane topics but always we keep our hearts open to our greatest strengths: family and friendships. - Phil Martelli, Head Coach St. Joseph’s University Men’s Basketball and author of Don’t Call Me Coach: A Lesson Plan for Life
Read more at http://www.gravywars.com/
If you’re listening online, through iTunes, on your iPod or if you’re a proud South Philly Italian Cook with the BEST Gravy, go ahead and leave us a comment. We’d love to hear from you!
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