I agree with everything alba said.
Since this thread is about Sara and not about Grey Gardens' book, I didn't even approach its need for rewrites. But it's true, Act I and Act II seemed practically unrelated to me. (And, as alba said, Sara somehow made the dysfunction between the acts more noticeable.) If I had left after Act I (a thought I entertained), I would have missed something remarkable. So I'm glad I stayed!
But I found the first act completely useless and felt very strongly that major revision was needed. In fact, the first act detracted from the dramatic effect of Act II.
But that's just my opinion.
I look forward to seeing what changes have been made for its Broadway run.
"Be on your guard! Jerks on the loose!"
http://www.roches.com/television/ss83kod.html
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"If any relationship involves a flow chart, get out of it...FAST!"
~ Best12Bars