The welcome ever smiles,

   And farewell goes out sighing.  —The History of Troilus and Cressida, Act III, Scene iii

“Play readings of new works are my favorite events at The Players, because there’s always the chance we may discover the next great play or playwright in the process,” says Player David Paterson.
 

This is quite an endorsement coming from Paterson, who has written over two-dozen plays, twelve of which have been published by Samuel French. Also an award-winning screenwriter, David’s first film, LOVE LUDLOW, premiered at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews and was subsequently sold to The Sundance Channel, Starz Channel, and Warner Home Video. His second feature, BRIDGE TO TERABITHA, was released by Walt Disney Pictures and went on to become the most successful DVD release of 2007. Patterson is currently in pre-production for two features, PIECES OF THE SKY and THE GREAT GILLY HOPKINS.
 

“I met playwright Harding Lemay, a member of the Club. Harding’s wife had helped me on some research for a play I was writing about WWII. He liked my play and invited me to the Club for lunch. I instantly fell in love with the place, and Mr. Lemay suggested I join.” David filled out the application that very afternoon.
 

“Theater is the life blood of the entertainment industry, whether it is recognized or not by today’s movers and shakers in the industry. Theater has to be celebrated, embraced, and protected. Our Club serves that very purpose,” says Paterson. David would like to see Players attending more Club events, paid programs as well as the many free offerings.
 

“I like our charming Grill and its colorful cast of regulars, myself included!” There David can frequently be found with friends he brings along from the screenwriting classes he teaches at NYIT, friends from his gig on the Advisory Board of the Big Apple Film Festival, friends from his productions-in-progress, or with friends from The Players. He loves to sit in The Grill, sipping a Coors Light and eating a Cobb Salad, proffering his invaluable views on the arts, NYC, and, of course, The Players. He especially likes Happy Hour--half price on drinks!--and sees the club as a respite from the city, offering a warm welcome to all members. 
 

So when you see David in The Grill, alone (unlikely!) or with a group, bring your drink and pull up a chair. You’ll always be a welcome addition to the colorful cast of regulars.