Veteran Mortgage Broker-Turned Playwright Debuts ‘The Oh Show’ at the Paramount Hudson Valley

PEEKSKILL—For the past 22 years, Irene Amato has been synonymous with A.S.A.P. Mortgage, based in Peekskill with six branch offices throughout the Hudson Valley and in the Bronx. However, in the past few years, the mortgage maven has expanded her career to include hosting her own workshops, speaking at real estate expos and networking groups, producing motivational videos and writing her first book, “Home at Last.”

Now, Amato can add “playwright” to her many talents with “The Oh Show” to premier at Peekskill’s Paramount Hudson Valley Theater on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m. Billed as “a testament to the resilience of the human spirit,” the show is based on perceptions of life and the different ways people view circumstances. “The word ‘Oh’ can have so many meanings—surprise, happiness, shock, disappointment or even anger,” explained Amato. “This play really takes a look at the good, the bad and the ugly on life.”

Amato uses her own life story as the basis for the show. “Because I’m a successful business owner, people often assume I had a great environment growing up, but that’s not the case,” she admitted. “What really matters is what’s inside your heart and soul and you should never be embarrassed about your background.”

Working since the age of 10, Amato learned early how to turn lemons into lemonade. “As a child, you’re usually in a situation you can’t change, but what I learned is that certain people can help you alter the direction of your life. My situation also taught me never to judge anyone,” she said. “You also have to have some of those not-so-great life experiences to help you through challenges throughout your life.”

In addition to thought-provoking vignettes, The “Oh Show” also promises a lot of humor, and includes real people, not seasoned actors. Directed by Amato’s daughter Alexa, the show features A.S.A.P. staff Joel Coleman and Danielle Petilli, Realtors Grace Patalano, Sue Fraietta and Antoinette Calderon, as well as Sam Giordano and Nicole Taccariello. “The whole cast is so dedicated, rehearsing all the time,” she added.

Of course, Amato will also take to the stage in this 90-minute play that encourages audience participation. All seats are $25, and proceeds will benefit local charities. For more information or tickets, visit www.TheOhShowProduction.com.

Eventually, Amato hopes to take the show on the road, travelling across the country and collaborating with local charities and school districts in each location. Her mission is to change the views, emotions and mindsets of audiences and also give back to those in need.

“If we can empower just one person to care more about themselves and less about what other people think, we’ll be successful,” she said. “We just want to help someone be a better person and see beyond their outer shell.”