Giancarlo Osaben, production photographer
Name: Amanda Nicastro
Tell us about you.
I write and produce a lot of my own work but that’s not what I originally set out to do. And I still have a lot of self doubt with the definition of “writer.” If you would have asked college aged Amanda, “Is your dream to write and produce your own work?” She would have said, “Heck, no! I want people to cast me in their stuff so all I have to do is memorize the lines!” Ha! But when I look back on my creative career I have pursued and realized a lot of my own creative projects.
Tell us about your current project?
I’m Just Kidneying is a comedic portrayal of how I donated a kidney for my sister through a paired donation and wound up also helping save the life of a Trump supporter. It all started with a couple funny instances during my living donor evaluation that I turned into comedy sketches. From there I decided I wanted to make it a solo show, and I wanted to use humor as a tool for advocacy. When I found out the other donor was a MAGA Head it added another crazy level to my story.
Where are you performing your show and why is it a good fit for your production?
I’m Just Kidneying has a run at Frigid Fringe Festival Feb 22-March 9. My show isn’t a traditional storytelling show nor is it quite a traditional comedy/sketch show. It’s a little bit of both and I find that mix is the perfect recipe of what Fringe audiences are looking for when they are deciding what shows to see.
What’s next for you?
Edinburgh Fringe! I just signed a contract with a venue and I’m so excited to be bringing I’m Just Kidneying to the world’s first and largest Fringe Festival.
What is the name of the last show you saw?
Haha! My husband and I actually just saw Hamilton! He’s a huge American History buff and has wanted to see the show for the longest time. The tickets were his joint birthday and Anniversary present.
Any advice for your peers?
Self doubt is your worst enemy. I can’t tell you how many times I almost talked myself out of a creative project that turned out either successful or rewarding.
Show Information:
When:
- Friday Feb 22nd, 5:30pm
- Saturday Feb 23rd, 8:50pm
- Sunday Feb 24th, 1:50pm
- Monday March 4th, 10:30pm
- Saturday March 9th, 5:30pm
Where: Under St Mark’s Theatre at 94 Saint Mark’s Place
Tickets: http://www.horsetrade.info/event/be402d57b3d578097f90dcbcdde5e2f4
Social: @TheLastAmanda https://www.facebook.com/imjustkindeying/ $5 off with code DONATELIFE
Malini Singh mcdonald 