LADY COPS Proof-of-Concept Screening Takes New York City by Storm
Immersive Creativity: LADY COPS Proof-of-Concept Screening Takes New York City by Storm
NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, May 3, 2024. Amidst the Cannes Film Festival's glitz and glam, a different kind of cinematic experience unfolded miles away in the heart of New York City. As filmmakers and industry insiders arrived at the French Riviera to showcase their multi- million-dollar productions, a “proof-of-concept” screening for a new television series called LADY COPS was underway at Soho House, offering a refreshing glimpse into grassroots creativity and the power of community.
LADY COPS is a mockumentary style comedy about the absurd antics of a small town’s newly hired “lady” cops as they fight crime and make their small town a safer place. The story centers around three protagonists—Angela Hawkins, Piper Dulasse, and Ivy Mung (played by Alison Chace, Lucie Fleming, and Samantha Evans, respectively)—who are all flawed and relatable women trying their best to maintain “law and order” in their town of Boudica.
The LADY COPS proof-of-concept premiere was more than just a screening—it was an immersive journey into the world of comedy, collaboration, and community. Set against the backdrop of Soho House's elegant interior, with its golden velvet hues and sexy lighting, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. As guests arrived, they were greeted with wine and classic movie snacks. Guests of all ages came together to celebrate and support one another, chatting excitedly as disco hits played on the speakers. Each chair was adorned with an inspirational journal and the LADY COPS pitch deck for audience member reference. The event kicked off with a musical performance of the theme song from "The Golden Girls," by singer Margerita Martinez, setting the stage for an evening of laughter, inspiration, and comradery.
Alison Chace, leading actress and executive producer of LADY COPS, took center stage with her trademark charisma. With a twinkle in her eye, she introduced the concept of the event itself, describing it as a "Sizzle Reel Mock Pitch Deck Meeting." She invited the audience to refer to their printed pitch decks and play the roles of studio bigwigs by writing down any feedback they may have about the screening. Chace dove into the origin story of LADY COPS, from its humble beginnings as a passion project to its transformation into a thoughtfully executed production. Chace’s passion for collaborative storytelling shone through during her introduction: She's not just a producer, she's a champion of creative voices. She’s co-founded multiple creative ventures, such as LMC Productions, The Dinger, Neurotic, and Pink Wisdom. Chace’s originality and cleverness were palpable in the room that night—the love and respect emanating from the audience were a testament to her leadership at the helm.
"LADY COPS is all about spreading joy and making creative dreams come true,” Chace declared. "We want to inspire you to take action on your dreams, even if they seem silly or impossible. After you hear our pitch and see our sizzle, I guarantee you'll walk away saying, 'Damn, I can do that too.'" But before diving into the pitch deck, Samantha Evans, actress and director of LADY COPS added some fun to the mix with an improv game. The room erupted with laughter as Evans led the audience in a series of hilarious improv games.
As the games came to an end, Chace introduced Kate Robards who guided the audience through the LADY COPS pitch deck presentation. Robards, writer-comedian, and co-producer of LADY COPS, brought her signature wit and charm to the presentation, engaging the audience with humor and insight. "See that phone? That could be product placement from Apple," she joked, adding a touch of levity to the proceedings. Co-producers, Robards, Chace, and Lucie Fleming, worked hard to put together a comprehensive and detailed pitch, from “manifested budget” to character arcs and episode ideas.
The rest of the cast and crew—actors, Jeff Mark, Preston Smith, Lucie Fleming, Samantha Evans, writers, Claire Crowley and Mary Crosbie, director, Samantha Evans, and filmmaker Zef Cota—were in high spirits as they shared the journey of LADY COPS from inception to screening. Crosbie and Crowley wrote some hard-hitting jokes and tight character arcs, while Evans beautifully translated the story from script to screen. The actors delivered dynamic and entertaining performances, like Chace’s intensity and precision in her performance of an overly passionate cop, Smith’s sidesplitting rhythm and comedic timing of an obsessive and neurotic small-town mayor, Mark’s hilarious interpretation of a slightly misogynistic cop-turned-realtor, Evans’ witch-cop who makes friendship bracelets on the job, and Fleming’s dynamite performance as an officer who’s dated basically everyone in this small town. Cota, director of Alphabet City Films (https://alphabetcityfilms.com/), flawlessly filmed the action and adventure of these goofy characters, with well-crafted cinematography, editing, and sound/music.
But the real highlight of the evening was the world premiere of the LADY COPS proof-of- concept. As the lights dimmed and the screen lit up, guests were transported into the zany world of the show, filled with action, comedy, and a few cringe-worthy dance moves. The room erupted with applause and laughter, a testament to the hard work and creativity of the LADY COPS team.
Guests were encouraged to participate, filling out feedback forms on a variety of topics, from set design to episode ideas to practical production suggestions. Most of their comments ranged from a desire for a pilot to a general feeling of inspiration from the evening's festivities. One guest said, “I loved the dry humor of the mockumentary style and the organic feel of the dialogue, jokes, and friendship among the lady cops.” Another guest applauded the post-production elements and said, “This sizzle reel is above and beyond and I want to see more! So much potential already established for multiple storylines and character arcs that would appeal to a wide variety of viewers!”
The spirit of indie filmmaking was alive and well at the LADY COPS proof-of-concept premiere—a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the pursuit of dreams, something that can often be forgotten in this industry. It was clear that the audience, cast, and crew wanted to make this night all about supporting and uplifting one another, and the importance of creating your own projects in community. As the night came to a close, it was clear that while big-budget films may dominate the headlines, it's the indie gems like LADY COPS that capture the hearts and souls of audiences everywhere everyone.
Cast & Crew Bios
Samantha Evans (Director, “Officer Ivy Mung”, she/her)–Samantha Evans is a New York based actor, writer, improviser and director. She is a teacher at The Barrow Group and has trained at UCB, The Groundlings, Pig Iron and Emerson College (BFA Acting). She is the creator and star of the award-winning pilot, Ghost Girl, which premiered at the NYTV Festival. You can see Sam in the upcoming horror feature The Woods. Sam is a proud member of AEA and is represented by Stein Entertainment Group and Bonafide & Emerging Artists. www.samantha-evans.com / @saaamevans
Alison Chace (Executive Producer, “Officer Angela Hawkins”)– Alison Chace stands as a beacon of talent and innovation. A bi-coastal, classically-trained American actress, Alison has graced acclaimed productions like Netflix's "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," HBO's "Succession," and Netflix’s compelling "Seven Seconds." Her magnetic presence extends to CBS's "Bull," "FBI," NBC's "Law and Order" revival, HBO’s "Pretty Little Liars/Original Sin," Apple TV's "Dear Edward," and the eagerly awaited Netflix series, "The Gringo Hunters." Beyond the limelight, Alison is an impassioned advocate for women's empowerment, spearheading initiatives like Pink Wisdom—a digital haven offering sage guidance. The Pink Kisses app, her ingenious creation, imparts daily doses of elation. Alison's impactful storytelling takes center stage in her award-winning global documentary addressing confidence and overcoming self-doubt. A savvy entrepreneur, Alison co-founded The Dinger, showcasing emerging comedic virtuosos, and LMC Productions—a collaborative hub where seasoned actors and burgeoning writers unite, with a particular emphasis on women's narratives. Her theatrical finesse, witnessed at The Barrow Group Theater, collaborations with Funny or Die, Neurotic Productions, and the Parisian haven Cafe Femmes, coupled with her amiable hosting on PlumTV's Morning, Noon, and Night show, underscores her multifaceted talents. Alison Chace, a matriarch, community architect, and unwavering advocate for women's empowerment, epitomizes the seamless fusion of creativity and purpose that captivates both hearts and screens.
Lucie Fleming (Producer, “Officer Piper DuLasse”)–After earning her degree from Stanford University in 2017, Lucie Fleming embarked on a journey enriched by years of professional training and stage experience at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco and a prestigious acting apprenticeship at the Williamstown Theater Festival. Transitioning to New York City, she found her artistic home at The Barrow Group acting school and off-Broadway theater company. Completing their rigorous one-year professional training program, Lucie has remained deeply engaged in the vibrant community, participating in master classes, new work readings, and captivating productions. Her talents have also extended to voiceover and commercial realms, where her contributions have been considerable. Lucie's star truly shone when she graced the screen opposite Rashida Jones and the legendary Bill Murray in Apple TV/A24's "On The Rocks," helmed by the incomparable Sofia Coppola. With each role, she continues to inspire and illuminate, embodying the essence of artistry and excellence.
Preston Fritz Smith (“Mayor Fitz Bells”)–As lobbyist Don Grundman in Season 2 of HBO’s “Succession,” New York-based actor Preston Fritz Smith is known for first coming up with “Con Heads” in his memorable courtroom scene with Connor Roy. This led to a nationwide fan club and multiple shipments of Con Heads clothing, drinkware, buttons, etc., arriving at Preston’s home the following week. In addition to “Succession,” Preston has an impressive resume of TV work, including “Devious Maids,” “Billions,” “Horror at the Cecil Hotel,” “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” three seasons as lead detective on “The Perfect Murder,” and a dozen or so films. In theater his recent performance as comedic, “late bloomin’ bisexual” Texas cowboy Wayne led to the Jurors’ Award in New York’s Fresh Fruit Festival. Preston has trained in Paris at the Cours Florent drama school and in New York at The Barrow Group Theatre and School, where he completed the professional conservatory program and continues in play readings and weekly masterclasses. A lifetime member of The Actors Project NYC, he has also trained at MN Studio, The Network NYC, Broadway Comedy Club and TVI Actor’s Studio. A January 2024 Tennessee Williams residency in Clarksdale, Mississippi, allowed Preston roles in three Williams plays and four staged readings, directed by Karen Kohlhaas of the Atlantic Theater Company. A classically trained pianist and organist, Preston has played for Oprah Winfrey, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, NBC Today Show, ABC Good Morning America, Star Jones’ wedding, and the funeral of Mrs. Walter Cronkite (alongside eulogist Hillary Clinton). He has concertized at Carnegie Hall and other major venues here and abroad. www.prestonfritzsmith.com, @preston_nyc_actor
Jeff Mark (“Officer Gregory Chapman”)–Jeff Mark is a classically trained actor, musician, and entrepreneur based on the East Coast. While studying method acting after college, he began successful careers in music, modeling, and graphic design. After a season on a popular reality show he began to pursue acting as a full time career. Jeff has guest starred on HBO’s The Deuce, Power on Starz, Law and Order, Law and Order SVU and FBI Most Wanted. He has also appeared in numerous feature films in roles opposite Natalia Dyer (Chestnut), Natalie Dormer (Audrey’s Children, Post production) and most recently a lead role opposite Teri Polo in the film Relative Control also currently in post production.
Mary Crosbie (Writer)–Mary Crosbie is a Brooklyn-based comedy monster. Her written work has
appeared in Gross and Unlikeable, Blood Bath Zine and Space Squid. You may have seen her in The Other Two or Mr. Robot. You may have seen her on her cable access show, "the Moe and Mary Show". But regardless, she saw YOU. And you're great. If you want to see her/hear her/feel her, follow on instagram @maryacrosbie or listen to her podcast: Hag Salon. Mary is very proud and happy to collaborate on Lady Cops with Alison Chace and the gang! xo!!
Claire Crowley (Writer)–Claire (she/her) is a New York-based writer. Her completed plays include R.I.P. BILLY (2021), THE BOX OFFICE (2023), and ADIRONDACK CHAIR MISSING PLEASE RETURN OR ELSE! (2024). ADIRONDACK was recently workshopped at the Playwrights Realm and Primary Stages. Her play, THE BOX OFFICE, appeared as a staged reading at The Tank (dir. Richard Caliban), followed by a 6-show run in late October 2023 (dir. Claire Marieb). Her plays have been workshopped at The Barrow Group, The Playwrights Group, Chicago Dramatists, and Oregon Contemporary Theatre. Claire’s film/tv writing includes a web series called Lady Cops (pr. Alison Chace & LMC Productions) for which she received an award from BlueCat Screenplay Competition. She has also written two short films DAWN (co-writer: Jessica Mercedes), and MOVING SCATTERED. She is a member of For, About, and By (F.A.B.) Women, a development company under the Off-Broadway umbrella of The Barrow Group. www.cgcrowley.com / @cgeecee