My Dear Debbie - Casey Tregeagle

Casey Tregeagle has managed to do something in “My Dear Debbie” which is devilishly hard to pull-off: create a dramedy with nods to well-known TV shows and movies of the 1950s and 60s which is not cringe-inducing and leaves behind a potent message.

 

“Debbie” and “Beverly” have excellent chemistry and outstanding comic timing in all the comic scenes. Their husbands are good foils in their supporting roles.

 

These comic scenes are interwoven with far more serious and dramatic scenes with a building sense of mystery: a son, leaving his family on a major holiday to visit an institution, talks to a warden, a psychiatrist, and his mother with escalating tension all around.

 

This 46-minute piece concludes with all ends tied and leaves the viewer with much to think about—the cultural assumptions we have grown up with, especially as portrayed in popular media of that period; and the implications of abuse for individuals, families, and our society as we confront these challenges today.

 

This was an audience favorite at the Orlando Virtual Fringe.

 

The teaser is slightly deceptive in that it is only an outtake of one of the comedic scenes.

 

This would be an excellent family viewing selection for mature middle schoolers and teens, especially those who are hooked on “I Love Lucy” reruns.