Later, as I began to write GYPSY, I slowly came to realize how much the story was a response to my EDGE experience. I was struggling with many of the same issues Gypsy was facing. In retrospect, I believe GYPSY 83 was my way of telling myself - that despite all my fears, the past and the pain -- I COULD DO IT. Working with many of the same collaborators, including producer Karen Jaroneski and DP Gina DeGirolamo, the production of the film turned out to be a joyous and healing experience.

Gypsy and Clive are -- like I was -- social outcasts in a small Ohio town where conformity is the way of life. Two lost souls trying to find their place in the world. My feeling is that most of us, whether we're gay or straight, black or white, male or female, jock or preppie, identify at one time or another with having felt like an outsider. And we all fight to prevent our fears from strangling our dreams.

This film is for all gypsies on the long and winding road to self-acceptance...

Todd Stephens