TAKING CARE OF PAUL
an episodic comedy by Arthur Yorinks, directed by Jim Simpson
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Paul is an elderly cantankerous music teacher, one of those iconic New York figures. He’s taught hundreds of students from amateurs to legendary famous musicians. He is a know-it-all, a womanizer . . . frankly a macho asshole who has no family or relatives, and only one friend. His twenty-something girlfriend has just dumped him and he has a massive heart attack; which triggers his younger best friend (and only friend) to try to take care of him in his last days. Paul’s given no more than a week to live and his friend panics. In desperation he calls on some of Paul’s former students to help. A few very (all nutcases) reluctantly answer the call. And what ensues, well . . .
With brief audio cameos from James Taylor, Paul Shaffer, Lynda Carter, and other legendary musicians . . . the theme song is by Edward Barnes . . . audio design and recording is by Bill Moss.
The Cast Includes:
Tina Benko as Lynda Dodger; Reg E. Cathey as Arthur Hudson; Stephen DeRosa as Dr. Tikku/Barney Charles; Peter Gerety as Paul Joseph; Anita Gillette as Eve Greyson; Bob Jaffe as The Low Talker; Brent Langdon as Gary Dyson; Lou Marini as himself; Mandi Masden as Betty Jensen; Steve Mellor as Bob Feldman; Aedin Moloney as Marcy Blaine; Kristine Nielsen as Sue Ann Dyson; Maryann Plunkett as Regina Kahn; Joe Randazzo as himself; Jay O. Sanders as Thomas Kahn; Tony Shalhoub as Franklin, The Funeral Director; Rocco Sisto as Mike O’Connor; Lois Smith as Ann Firmin
EP 1 – “Fucking Balls, He’s Dead”
Marcy, Paul’s ex-girlfriend informs Bob (Paul’s best friend) that Paul is dead.
EP 2 – “Depends”
Bob begins to spread the word to a few of Paul’s former students that Paul’s body is missing.
EP 3 – “He Can’t Be Dead”
A few former students learn that their old teacher, Paul, is dead and missing.
EP 4 – “He’s Not Dead”
Paul is found, but his doctor has dire news.
EP 5 – “He’s Almost Dead – Oops!”
Everyone visits Paul in the hospital with disastrous results.
EP 6 – “Dead or Not Dead, That Is The Question”
Paul’s dead—wait, no he’s not! The gang decides to help.
EP 7 – “Pepper Flakes”
This ‘taking care of Paul’ thing is not working out too well. Bob has an accident.
EP 8 – “Isn’t It Romantic”
Regina tries to hook up with Mike. Bob recovers.
EP 9 – “Oh, I Hope He’s Not Dead”
Bob listens to one of Paul’s recordings and sadly fears the end. Lynda’s sister has a request.
EP 10 – “I’ll Bet You”
Paul learns some bad news. Arthur meets his match.
EP 11 – “He’ll Be Dead Soon”
Bob, Arthur, and Mike try to arrange Paul’s end of life affairs.
EP 12 – “It’s The Cookies”
Regina and Thomas bring Paul some special oatmeal cookies.
EP 13 – “Open Casket”
Everyone agrees, it’s time to plan for Paul’s funeral. Bob calls a funeral parlor, while Lou tries to get some well-known musicians to play.
EP 13A – “I’m Not Going!”
Betty, Arthur’s girlfriend, gives Arthur an ultimatum he can’t refuse.
EP 14 – Season 1 Finale - “Gone Today, Here Tomorrow”
Joe has an idea for the funeral, but there is a big wrinkle—really big.