Center Stage Series

The stage is set for the play of a lifetime: but it's the romantic drama backstage that has everyone applauding. Paul and Cath are the perfect creative team. He's an up-and-coming theater director and she's his unflappable, rock-steady stage manager. If Cath's had to bury her unrequited affection for Paul for ten long years to keep things professional, it's just the price she pays for a career she loves, working with her best friend by her side. Until he hires her old nemesis as the leading lady for a new play that's their chance to make it big.

All Alicia Johnson has ever wanted is to be able to slip into someone else's life, clothing, and makeup to become a murderess, a socialite, or a nurse for an episode or a season. Being an actress comes with a healthy dose of financial insecurity and a willingness to live out of two jammed suitcases, ready to go wherever the next director wants her. Up until now, it's been worth it for the creative escape and the thrill of applause.

An intense summer fling with handsome, protective actor James Martin opened up self-effacing Frederica Alves's horizons. Then their potential for love met a swift end when he followed his dreams and left New York for Hollywood. Two years later, James is back, his talent now matched by his rising fame, and that spark is still there. But the shy Freddie he knew has become a confident woman and their passionate reconnection speedily turns into equally passionate conflict.

Kathleen Fitzgerald has never been the leading lady. In her stage roles, she's always the second banana or the sidekick. And in love she's forever the bridesmaid, never the bride. So, showing up to support her best friend at her weekend wedding by the sea is a well-rehearsed role. Until one look from handsome fellow wedding guest Russell King makes her feel like a star.