Flying in the face of fear with Debra Ann Register

Debra Ann Register is back! Her latest play to hit the CP stage is an anthem for facing fears and flying in the face of them. Now, that’s a 25th year nod if we do say so. Debra, a long-time CP supporter and playwright took a pause to share some insight into how she’s finding more ahhhhh… and less AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! 

Check her out. Get inspired.

Cherry Picking turns 25 this year - which means it’s due for a quarter-life crisis. What advice would you give to your past or future 25 year old self, or to Cherry Picking right now?

Live in the present moment as much as possible. Worrying about the past is futile; it only robs you of your well-being and ability to thrive in the present. And, worrying about the future is pointless, so many factors from moment-to-moment will change all you've been fretting about so live now, work hard on your passions, your intentions, and be focused and willing to go with the flow, so your future can be bright and full of all that brings you true happiness. Happiness, it turns out, is a series of choices, so choose consciously and well.

It’s our Silver Anniversary this year – if you had your own heavy metal band what would you call it?

Steel Hearts.

Tell us about the last time you tried something brand new?

Regular meditation twice a day, every day, using the Ziva Technique.  My intention since I began, and I note that I've never attempted a meditation practice before, has been more miss than hit. Still, I continue because when I do it, even once a day, I feel relaxed, focused, and ready to take on the challenges with a clearer mindset. It's making it a habit that is the struggle, but I continually remind myself it's a "practice" not a "mastery.”

What is your CP core memory?

Working with the CP writing mentor, Robbie [Weinstein], in 2022, who offered invaluable thoughts and encouragement as I continued crafting the play that was presented at the festival that year. I loved going deeper and thinking about the characters and actions in completely different ways with his guidance, and was astonished at how truly inspiring the play became. It was also expertly cast and directed, and as an audience member, I got lost in the story, as I did with all the great work that night. I felt a refreshing detachment from it that made seeing it on its feet much more enjoyable than any readings or productions of my plays had been.

If Cherry Picking were a cocktail (or mocktail), what would be in it?

Shaken Passion Cherry Perfection.

Describe your summer 2025 using only emojis.

😄 | 🤫 | 🥳 | 😎 | 🌞| 🫶 | 🙌 | 🏊 | 🎼 | 🎨 | ❤️ | 

What’s keeping you going right now? 

Quiet long walks or while listening to a great mystery audiobook.

Don’t miss Debra’s latest play, Ashes To Ashes featured on Monday, July 14 by getting on our waitlist TODAY.