International CringeFest '10 Announces Fruit Cup Awards

At the wind-up of International CringeFest '10 on August 8 at the Producers' Club, the FRUIT CUP AWARDS were bestowed upon a cocktail of wildly diverse plays, musicals & films -- 36 in all that formed six rotating theme nights. Winners were chosen by audience vote after each and every performance, so this is very much a community affair... a community that loves to push the envelope in every direction possible!

The coveted GOLDEN PINEAPPLE was shaken from its tree by Barbara Lindsay's "Psycho Bitch & the Throbbing Blue Veiner," a clever play directed by Kenny Howard about a well-mannered couple on their first date with their salacious alter egos in simultaneous dialogue. The SILVER TOMATO was grabbed by Laurie Spector's "Torrid Taxes," directed by Tom Amici, centering on a nerdy CPA and desperate client who narrate their passionate encounter on the eve of April 15. Bud Twang's "Whittlin' Dixie" took home the BRONZE BANANA. A hillbilly romp involving an outhouse, amorous sheep, and a homemade cedar sex toy, the musical was directed by newcomer Sharon Einhorn. Honorable Mention went to NYU student Melanie Wallner for her timely play "The Chat Room" about a couple separated by modern technology. Richard Pryor Jr. appeared as their cross-dressing counselor Dr. Morgan, who was equally tech-addicted. Richard received a Special Citation for Most Inventive Use of Lip Gloss.

The JACK LEMON AWARDS for best performances were squeezed by: Best Actor Dylan Weinberger, 1st runner-up Jarrett Sullivan, 2nd runner-up Rob Hinderliter. Best Actress Jeannine Yoder, 1st runner-up Cailin McDonald, 2nd runner-up Lena Cigleris.

The GOLDEN COCOANUT for best film went to David Schrag for his film parody "The Boss Gets Come Bad News," which opened every night of the festival.

BEST DIRECTION OF A THEME EVENING was bestowed upon Tom Amici for "Sex, Thugs & Rockin' Roles," a theme evening of 9 plays in toto. Presenting the award was last year's winner Tony Spinosa. This is Tom's fourth venture with the CringeFest.

To round out the ceremony, numerous Special Citations were presented, including MOST FUN EVER HAD IN A RED DRESS -- Teeny & Weeny (Latrey Evans & Rob Buchwald) from "Fingerman." MOST FUN EVER HAD IN A GRAVEYARD -- "Zombie Strippers." And then, all faithful, hardworking tech crew, house management staff, and interns were celebrated -- those who REALLY make it all happen, according to artistic director Melba LaRose.

A wild costume party was held in the Iluras Lounge to celebrate the end of this year's festival and the winners. There were Charlie Chaplins, chorus girls/ boys in fringy dresses and 4" heels, and many more. The highlight of the party was when award-winning director Tom Amici and actress Lauren Piselli showed up as supervising director Tony Spinosa and artistic director Melba LaRose, respectively.

With the overwhelming work of winding up the festival, the group's Silent Auction had to be extended till August 15... so get your bids in now! This time, it's REALLY the end.

http://www.biddingforgood.com/NYArtistsAuction2010

All proceeds from the festival and auction go to support NY Artists Unlimited's 28 year old mission of taking professional theatre to under-served audiences throughout NYC and the Northeast. For more information: 212-242-6036 or www.nyartists.org.