Shooting Everyone! Making the intro for "Richard Di Gregorio: On Time"

Keith Gow, actor (alleged)

Look at that pained expression in my eyes. That's the writer in me wanting to run away from the greasepaint make-up and the indignity of standing out in public - having people stare, even as I hid behind this mask of character. Or, you know, I hate having my photo taken even when I'm unrecognisable!

There's definitely a frustrated actor in me wanting to get out, but usually I leave it up to the trained and the professional. Today, I shot a cameo for the introductory sequence for Richard Di Gregorio: On Time - on sale now! End plug.

(If anyone out there knows about the character I am playing, can you keep that to yourselves, thanks :-)

In fact, most of the people already involved in the production are taking part in front of the camera for this introduction to the show. Producer Ephiny Gale, Director Chris Broadstock will be front a centre for a line or two - as well as Richard's partner, Niniane LePage, and Chris Broadstock's mother, Joan. Nick Brien (who starred alongside Richard in The Fidelity Act last year - written by me, directed by Ephiny) joined us today to help round out the cast of characters.

Richard explains to Nick the next shot

We shot on and around Chapel St, close to The Space Dance & Arts Centre where the show will be staged in Sept/Oct. I was on location for about five hours, while Richard, Chris (and Richard's cousin, Tony - professional photographer and cameraman today) went a little longer, trying to get the last shots before they lost the light.

Nin had to leave early but before she did, she applied my make-up - which meant I had to do a little travelling between there and where we actually shot my scene. I was trying to make it from point A to point B in back streets, but Richard was intent on getting people to look at me! I am hoping I was unrecognisable enough, even though I could feel the quick glances and stares as we made our way down Chapel St in my car and then on foot. This is the exact opposite of what writer Keith likes. But I think the actor inside me kinda liked it.

You can see Richard on stage, as well as Ephiny, Chris, Niniane, Joan, Nick and myself on screen at Melbourne Fringe from Sept 23rd to Oct 2nd. Two weeks and six days to go!