Ceci Returns to Philadelphia in a Novel

As I've been threatening for years, I am writing a novel about the theater world that I know. It is about hanging on to the label of actor, playwright, director, whatever, even when you have never earned a cent in it. It is especially meaningful in the vast jungle reaches of that wilderness called The Upper West Side. You can have your friends work for free, rent or get the loan of a space and voila! You are still OF the Theater, if not IN the theater. Your friends and family buy tickets. You might even join a union or two but no health plan without income. But you are OF the theater. Cobble together the paying jobs, wear that jaunty little hat and carry your H&H bagel down the street with your New York Times. The gang gets together around the piano on a Saturday night and you are OF the Theater. And for those who live this lifestyle, on the Upper West Side...they are content. They are living in Nirvana. In Paradise. It is the dream found one way or another and God bless them. How different or how happy would I be if I had at least achieved that instead of being stranded on the wrong side of the River? How did Ceci get from Philadelphia to the Gates of Paradise and get left in limbo? It's called Flounder On A Roll, named for a sign in a deli in Manhattan Plaza and it is on it's way. Hello Beebee...do I recognize that leaf?