James Mcbride & Ed Shockley

BOBOS

AN URBAN OPERA

BY: JAMES MCBRIDE & ED SHOCKLEY

CHARACTERS

(Featured roles in boldface )

ALFRED ...... …...... 13 years old. DORIS ...... …...... 13 years old. Chubby. Dental retainer. SKOOLEY ...... Drug Czar. GERALD SNEED ...... …....Middle forties. Bum. PHYLLIS ...... Caribbean. Middle aged.

THE AUTOBOTS

BRICK ...... Street gang leader DOODIE...... Female gang banger CHINK...... Southeast Asian SKEETER...... A featured dancer

SKOOLEY'S CREW

BUTCH ...... …..Skooley's enforcer.Baritone/Bass CHAQUITA...... Gangster. Alto. CATRICE...... Skooley's girl. Soprano. GINA...... …...... Gangster. Alto. KAHEEM(Dwight)...... ….….Gangster. Baritone. SPIDER...... …...... …....Gangster Tenor. (Featured dancer)

PARTY CAST (double as Skooley's Crew, Chorus and Neighborhood Kids. )

MOTHER...... Late twenties. GRANDPA...... Mr. MaGoo AUNTIE HAUER(HAR)...... ….....Alcoholic. Belter UNCLE JOE...... Fat MISS IRENE...... Prim. Light complexion. SONNY...... …...... Thirties. Cool. 2

LIST OF SONGS

ACT I 0. OVERTURE: BREAK BREAK 1. SURPRISE PARTY (Parents) 2. JACKETS AND SHOES(Alfred & Doris) 3. WE'RE THE AUTOBOTS (Autobots) 4. LISTEN TO THE WORD (Skooley & his crew) 5. BOBOS (Brick & Autobots,1 Crew, Chorus) 6. NOT ONCE IN 13 YEARS (Alfred and Doris) 7. PULLED CHICKEN (Phyliss & Alfred) 8. LIVING LARGE (Skooley & Crew) 9. GOT TO GET WHAT YOU NEED (Alfred, Crew) 10. NEW KICKS (Chorus & Alfred) 11 WISEUP (Gerald) 12 A FELLA'S GOTTA DREAM 13. WALK STRAIGHT THROUGH THE DOOR/Robbery (Autobots, Alfred, Crew) 14.SHOWDOWN (Alfred & Skooley ) 15. ALFRED'S LAMENT (Alfred)

ACT II 1. IF I WAS A KID (Parents) 2. I BOW MY HEAD AND PRAY(Doris) 3. THE REAL DEAL (Autobots, Alfred, Doris, Butch) 4. SNAP! (Skooley) 5. COULDN'T WE BE A PAIR? (Gerald, Phyliss) 6. LIFE CAN GET TOO REAL(Alfred, Phyliss, Gerald, Doris, Butch and Crew) 7. THIS IS LIFE (Gerald) 8. SUMMER CELEBRATION BLOCK PARTY:(Phyllis, Cast) 9. FINALE: SKOOLEY ARRIVES (Skooley, Crew) GERALD ARRIVES (Gerald) AUTOBOTS ARRIVE ( Autobots) IF SOMEBODY HAS TO DIE (Alfred, Cast) SUMMER CELEBRATION REPRISE(Cast)

© James McBride and Ed Shockley This is a perusal copy only. Absolutely no copying permitted. AT RISE: Late summer on a side street in the shadow of William Penn’s statue in South Philadelphia. Skeeter enters carrying a boom box and a large piece of linoleum. He sets down the radio, unfolds his dance floor, hits the play button and an explosion of percussive music launches him into an acrobatic hip-hop dance. He changes his style of dance to match his perception of each passerby: salsa, calypso, ballroom with his jacket for partner et cetera. Despite his best efforts, everyone ignores him. He stops, turns off the music, picks up his beat box then races off snatching an old woman's purse as he exits.

BLACK

END OVERTURE

SCENE I: SURPRISE PARTY

Afternoon light from a doorway cuts the blackness as Alfred enters his modest apartment to the swinging groove of a hi-hat. Suddenly a camera flash cuts the darkness and Alfred's comically distorted family of misfits appear each with some exaggerated body part or defining prop.

ALL Surprise!

MOM Look who's come around to see you celebrate your birthday.

AUNTIE HAR (Kissing Alfred and leaving lipstick.) How about some sugar for your favorite Auntie Harry?

MOM Daddy couldn't be here cause he's working at the fact'ry... overtime.

MISS IRENE(Spoken) Isn't that what they always say.

AUNTIE HAR (Spoken) Who asked you, heifer?

MISS IRENE (Leading Alfred away from Auntie Har) Here's your cousin Sonny home to visit from the army.

(Sonny holds up his hands as targets and Alfred throws an uppercut/hook combination)

SONNY (Spoken) Golden gloves.

AUNTIE HAR Be a doll and fetch your favorite Auntie Har a whiskey.

MOM First dear hang your jacket on the coat rack in the hallway.

(Mom takes a drink from Sonny and gives it to Auntie Har.)

AUNTIE HAR Where's the lime?

MOM(Spoken) Oh, I left it in the kitchen.

(Exit mother) (Grandpa grabs Alfred by the coat as he passes.)

GRANDPA You won't believe it, son, but I once was as young as you are, now I would trade my right leg to be you.

(Grandpa takes off his wooden leg. Alfred slips out of his coat and escapes.)

SONNY Pay no mind to grandpa he's just plain old fashioned crazy.

AUNTIE HAR (Shoving a glass in Alfred's hand.) Alfred be a dear and get your Aunt another whiskey.

MISS IRENE (Returning glass and taking Alfred) Alfie meet my niecie here to visit from Kentucky. Doris Knight.

(Enter mom with lime)

SONNY(Spoken to Alfred) You could do worse,

(Doris lifts head and reveals her dental retainer)

SONNY(CONT) ... I guess.

MOM (Leading Alfred back to Doris) Come on, no need to be shy.

UNCLE JOE(Blowing cigar smoke into Alfred's face.) Bet you're surprised that we are here to celebrate your birthday.

ALFRED You show up every year...like locusts.

(Chorus:These are the best of times.)

DORIS (to Alfred) Excuse me but I didn't catch your name.

ALFRED(Granpa pushes Alfred toward Doris with cane.) Name?!

AUNTIE HAR(Holding up glass) Alfred!

MISS IRENE Alfie.

ALFRED(spoken) Excuse me.

DORIS(Sighing) Alfred.

(Alfred crosses to Auntie Har)

MOM (Spoken to Doris) We'll get him to show you around the neighborhood.

DORIS (Hugging Alfred’s coat) I'd like that.

MISS IRENE Don't they make a nice couple.

SONNY(Spoken) A couple of what's is what I wanna know.

GRANDPA(spoken) You slay me, Sonny...

UNCLE JOE(Intercepting Alfred) Hey!

GRANDPA (Spoken) ...always making with the jokes.

UNCLE JOE Remember me?

ALFRED No.

UNCLE JOE I held you in my lap.

ALFRED Oh.

UNCLE JOE You peed so much I had to get a life preserver.

ALFRED (Spoken) I think I'm going to be sick.

AUNTIE HAR (Offering whiskey) This'll fix you right quick.

(Miss Irene cuts between them.)

MISS IRENE This is from me and Uncle Joe.

ALFRED Thank you. Oh.

(They have given him a two dollar bill.)

UNCLE JOE Spend it slow son.

ALFRED(SPOKEN) Two dollars.. .Right.

AUNTIE HAR Alfred?

ALFRED (Spoken) Yes ma’am?

(Auntie Har indicates that her glass is empty.)

ALFRED (Crossing to Auntie Har) Be right there.

MOM(Spoken) You're all coming to the block party tomorrow, yes.

VOICES(Spoken) Oh yeah. Of course. God willing. Wouldn't miss it for the world.

AUNTIE HAR(To Alfred) Make it another whiskey sour for Auntie Har.

MISS IRENE She may as well just go and ask the poor boy to bring her a bottle.

AUNTIE HAR (Spoken) Is that right?

UNCLE JOE(Spoken) It ain't much wrong.

AUNTIE HAR Not that it really is any of your business...

(Chorus Ooooooo)

AUNTIE HAR(CONT) But since your mouth is in this.

(Chorus:Aaaaaa)

MISS IRENE Well I never.

AUNTIE HAR I bet that you have, Sis, and more than once.

SONNY Oooooooweee!

MISS IRENE You're a drunk.

(Chorus: She's a drunk.)

AUNTIE HAR And you're a high waisted, half-yellow, horse hair wig, no dressing, flat chested, foul minded, hard hearted, narrow hipped, hairy nose, sliver-lipped, sour like a lemon old crow.

(Irene slaps Auntie Har who then snatches off her hairpiece.)

MOM Will everybody try real hard to get a grip upon themselves...

CHORUS Come on, it's his birthday.

(Each gives a present rhythmically.)

UNCLE JOE Alfred.

CHORUS Happy birthday!

GRANDPA Alfred.

CHORUS A CHORUS B(spoken) Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Happy birthday, Alfred! Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Happy birthday, Alfred! Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Happy birthday, Alfred! Aren't you glad? Aren't you glad?

(Chorus C counterpoints: These are the best of times.)

ALL Surprise!

(A camera flashes then Mom stands in a light holding a sneaker size box. Alfred shoves all of the other presents aside.)

ALFRED(Spoken) Mom! You remembered!

MOM(Spoken) Happy birthday, Pumpkin.

(Drum roll)

ALFRED(Opening box) What are these?

(Drum stops)

SONNY(Spoken) Bobos!

MOM(Spoken) What do you mean?

ALFRED(Spoken) I asked for sneakers.

MOM(Spoken) And that's what I got you.

ALFRED Nooooo!...You don't understand.

MOM(Spoken) Obviously not.

ALFRED Everyone will laugh at me.

MOM(Spoken) Why would they do that?

ALFRED Shoes make the man. All the kids on earth agree.

MOM(Spoken) Children, I swear. (sung) You're old enough to know I'm not Onassis

AUNTIE HAR Jackie O!

MOM And dollars never grow on trees.

AUNTIE HAR(spoken) There aren't many trees uptown so..

ALL (to Auntie Har) Be quiet!

MOM You don't have to fall down on your knees, but damnit I work hard.

MISS IRENE(Spoken) Life is hard when you're alone.

MOM and ALL You haven't had it bad. Be thankful for the little that you've....

ALFRED I can't go to school.

MOM(Spoken) Excuse me?

ALFRED I'm never gonna graduate.

MOM(Spoken) Lord, give me strength.

ALFRED I might as well die. My life is over. Thanks Ma. Great.

MOM(Spoken) He's lost his mind.

CHORUS Bobos! Haha haha haha...

(Alfred crosses to Sonny)

ALFRED(Spoken) Sonny, tell her what'll happen when I hit the streets in those boats..

SONNY Hehe hehe ......

DORIS(Spoken) They don't look so bad.

ALFRED(Spoken) Add a red nose and I could join the circus.

MISS IRENE/UNCLE JOE Hoho hoho ......

DORIS(Spoken) I saw them in an ad once.

ALFRED(Spoken) Gimme a break.

GRANPA Hah! Hah! Hah! Hah!

DORIS(Spoken) We wear them in Louisville.

ALFRED(Spoken) But this is Philly.

AUNTIE HAR Hah-cha-cha-cha. Ha-cha-cha-cha...

ALFRED(Spoken) You were young once, weren't you, Ma?

(Mom & offstage chorus laugh)

ALFRED(Spoken) Can't anybody understand how I feel?

CHORUS You don't know.

MEN When I was a kid I never had a pair of sneakers.

WOMEN Mother was so poor we all went barefoot in the summer.

MEN Honey that ain't nothin' we went naked in the winter, times were hard.

GRANDPA Sure were.

WOMEN Had so many chores I started sleeping in the stable.

MEN Used to sleep while standing up to keep food on the table.

WOMEN At least you got to sleep we were so poor we weren't able. I'm not lyin'.

ALL Times were hard.

MEN Ever try to make a pie from burlap, sand and gravel?

GRANDPA Once I took a truck apart and tried to eat the axle.

WOMEN Christmas day in '38 we ate a cocker spaniel, hair and all.

(Chorus: Eeeeuuuu.)

CHORUS Times were hard. When I was your age I never ever had a party. You should count your blessings cause you're really very lucky. Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday? Aren't you glad we came around to celebrate your birthday?

WOMEN You should be glad for the things that you've got.

MEN When we were young we didn't have a hell of a lot.

ALL You're a lucky kid, Alfred!

(Mother has put the shoes on him and everyone poses for a photo. The tableaux is similar to a later moment with Skooley.)

MOM(Coaxing him to smile) Alfred.

DORIS (Lovestruck) Alfred. (Sonny takes photo.)

BLACK

END SCENE I

SCENE II

JACKETS AND SHOES

(Alfred enters the park followed by Doris as the hip-hop rhythm of the streets takes hold. Spider and Rahim play craps and sell crack in the back. Kids play oblivious to the activity. Each child laughs as they notice Alfred's sneakers and the girl with a mammoth retainer. A junkie in rags passes, pauses, looks at Alfred's kicks then busts out laughing en route to scoring a rock. Phyllis struggles with a large sign announcing "BLOCK PARTY.")

ALFRED(SPOKEN) There's the bench, there's the fence, it's the park.

(Alfred sits dejected on a bench. Doris sits quietly beside him. Phyllis is struggling with the Block Party sign above them.)

ALFRED Welcome to the city Where life really sucks If you ain't got no logo. Momma thinks I'm silly Still it's pretty clear The way this story goes. PHYLLIS: You children come help You could be the first name on the honor roll Ma P with this t’ing. But if your gear ain't Super bowl You just don't make the grade. Them be the rules. Jackets and shoes, In the schools, They make you what you are. PHYLLIS: Who you be, girl? DORIS: Doris Lesser. I just moved here from Louisville. Maybe in Kentucky PHYLLIS: Welcome to the Kids are lucky and can neighborhood, Doris, now raise Grab some rags at Bi-lo. your end up. Run that scam in Philly I sincerely think They'll tease you till you cry. Sure it's weird that wearing number twenty three Means more than passing chemistry But everybody knows, "Them be the rules, Jackets and shoes In the schools They make you what you are." PHYLISS: What you talkin’ bout, boy?

Want to get the nod? Izod doesn't do it; Wear some pants that don't fit Showing off your draws. (Drawers) PHYLISS: You can’t be followin’ Yeah, it's kinda hard after them fools. Dealing with the bull...crap

ALFRED (CONT) Everyday If you don't play Then you'll pay. PHYLISS: You got to follow your own road, not the crowd. You can say I'm crazy And I may be But I didn't dream this game up. DORIS: Sometimes they can be It was here before me terribly loud. And it will not go away When I am gone. PHYLLIS: Kids can’t half read worryin’ Sure I wish some other something made you hot after what name’s on their butt. But I can't dunk and don't smoke pot So fashion's my one in. PHYLLIS: You should listen to yourself.

Jackets and shoes PHYLLIS: Fill your mind and you’ll (Music) be okay.

Them be the rules. PHYLLIS:Man got to make his own way. (Music)

In the schools They make you what you are.

(ENTER AUTOBOTS loud and disruptive.) (ENTER GERALD from behind a dumpster.)

GERALD (Reading sign) What da ya know, a summer block party.

DOODlE (to fellow Autobots) Every year they have this sorry jam.

CHINK It's a scam.

BRICK Cheese and spam. (Sees Doris) God diggiddy damn!

GERALD(To Phyllis) I could use the food, if you're the one cookin'.

PHYLISS Don't you worry bout it.

BRICK(To Doris) Hey, good lookin'.

GERALD I wouldn't do a dog like you do me.

PHYLLIS(To Gerald) Go away!

GERALD That's okay. You can treat me shoddy but Reverend Jackson say, "I am somebody!"

CHINK No you ain't.

DOODlE No you ain't.

GERALD Yes I am.

CHINK No you ain't.

GERALD Yes I am.

BRICK No you ain't.

GERALD Yes I am.

AUTOBOTS No you ain't!

GERALD So who are you? (Autobots do a step)

I'M AN AUTOBOT

AUTOBOTS I'm an Autobot, I'll take all you got, Then when you're finished lay you in a plot.

BRICK(spoken) Dead.

DOODlE I sport a forty-five.

CHINK I pack a sixteen millimeter.

DOODlE My buddy, Chink, they call him the

BRICK/DOODlE terminator!

CHINK If you come out alive You best believe you been...

CHINK/DOODlE Luck-y!

BRICK Cause we break bone And stomp and kill Just for the thrill see

AUTOBOTS We're the Autobots We come out on top

BRICK Always!

AUTOBOTS And if you F with us We'll leave you in a tight spot.

CHINK Drop down to your knees And when you see me

AUTOBOTS Pass your water!

CHINK Cause if I see you first...

BRICK Chump!

AUTOBOTS You' goin' six feet under.

DOODlE (I) don't speak lightly.

CHINK You 'bout a doubt?

BRICK Then fight me!

DOODlE Come on!

CHINK Come on!

BRICK Come on!

AUTOBOTS Come on! (Autobots break into choreographed dance) We're the Autobots! We battle till you drop, Shave and shower and then Slip into a night spot! (We wear the) freshest clothes. Our chumpies shine so bright they glitter. If there's a girlie near Believe you me we're gonna git her.

BRICK(sung to Doris) Hey, there's no need for you to fear I'll swear you'll be okay, baby, Long as Brick is near. Let's say you've been searching for a special frien' (Well then)look my way, I'm right here, waitin'...

CHINK (to Doris, who continues retreat) Don't give him a listen. It's Chink you should be kissin' Or else you're surely missin' Everything you ever wanted. Take me home 'n We'll git to bonein'. I'll bust a groove so hard You'll think that you are jone'n.

DOODlE (raps) You need a Cutie Well then, Doodie's all of that and more; A jammin' Shorty Slammin' suckers like a car door. You wanna shup, G? Forget the hoopdi Cause I'm a Caddy Drivin' MacDaddy's craazzy!

(Phyllis & Gerald rescue Doris)

PHYLLIS (spoken) You kids should be ashamed of yourselves.

GERALD Just who...

DORIS Just who...

GERALD/PHYLLIS Just who do you think you are?

AUTOBOTS We're the Autobots;

BRICK (to Gerald) Fool.

AUTOBOTS And that means a lot.

BRICK Yeah. Like pretty soon I'm gonna Clock you in your old knot.

DOODlE Time's runnin' low, Pop.

CHINK Don't see no cop.

BRICK (to Doris) I'll lick you like a tootsie roll then chew the chocolate center.

AUTOBOTS Kick it! Kick it! Kick it! Kick it!

DOODlE Let's git him, fellas. (They grab Gerald)

PHYLLIS No!

DOODlE Shut up!

DORIS\PHYLLIS Please! (Alfred goes to help Doris but gets intimidated.)

BRICK Back off!

CHINK Get him on his knees

AUTOBOTS Time to pay the piper, sucker. (Autobots start to beat up Gerald.)

LISTEN TO THE WORD

(ENTER SKOOLEY'S CREW)

CREW (to Autobots) Yo!

SKOOLEY (To everyone) Listen to the word.

CREW Word!

SKOOLEY This is how it's gonna go;

CREW Boyee!

SKOOLEY Here on my block, Everybody takes it…slow. (To Autobots) Violence brings cops. Cops wreck the economy; Then I lose coin And your ass belongs to me.

CREW DORIS/ALFRED Listen to the word. I don't like this. This is how it's gonna go. Looks like trouble. Here on his block We're surrounded Everybody takes it slow. Heaven help us.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Slow.

AUTOBOTS CREW We're the Autobots, Autobots! Violence brings cops, Nobody ever beats the Autobots,Autobots! Cops wreck the economy. We'll make you kiss our feet; Make him lose coin The Autobots, Autobots! Because we rule the streets And your ass belongs to The Autobots. Yeah, Autobots. …..me.

SKOOLEY CREW AUTOBOTS It's always Listen to the word Yo! Autobots! Autobots! So easy This is how it's Word! Autobots! Autobots! Gonna go For a brave Here on his block Chump!Autobots! Autobots! man to die. Everybody takes it.. We're the Autobots! slow It could be Yo! Violence brings cops, You think you want me?

SKOOLEY CREW AUTOBOTS Today is Word! Cops wreck the Come on and get me. Economy. The last Chump! Make him lose You think you bad? Of your life. coin. And your ass belongs I'll beat you like your daddy.

Listen to the word. It's always Word! (Refrain) Skooley-C don't never lose. So easy Punk! (Refrain) This is my world! For a brave Sucker! (Refrain) Cross me and you'll sing Man to die. You're the one the blues. that's gonna lose!

Listen to the word. It could be Let's have some fun Skooley-C don't never lose Today is Just watch 'em run This is his world The very last Rumble Rumble Rumble Of your life. Yeah! Cross him and you'll I'm in the perfect mood Sing the blues. to taste a little blood.

CHINK You'll have to wait your turn.

BRICK Fellas, it's time to burn! CREW We got heat!

AUTOBOTS We got heat!

CREW We got hate!

AUTOBOTS We got hate!

CREW We got heart!

AUTOBOTS We got heart!

CREW We got brains.

AUTOBOTS We got. ... (Everyone looks at Brick. After a pause he grabs his crotch)

BRICK Somethin' better.

SKOOLEY Face the facts, fellas, You drew deuces; Skooley's got every winning card. Make the smart play, Cut your losses, Otherwise champ, you're gonna fall...hard.

AUTOBOTS We're the ...

CREW PHYLLIS/GERALD AUTOBOTS Listen to the word There will be no winner if Autobots, Autobots, you fight, here today Nobody ever beats the Brothers time to Autobots! We'll make you kiss our say goodbye. feet (Chant) Cause if you don't Because we rule the streets Someone soon is The Autobots, yeah Autobots Sure to die.

CREW AUTOBOTS SKOOLEY PHYLLIS/GERALD Got my finger You think you want It's all about Either you will kill him, On the trigger. me? cash. or die Say the word Come on and get Nothin else can he's one dead me! throw no weight. nigger. Three more You think you bad? Act like you know bodies in the I'll beat Otherwise you Can't you see nobody river. you like sign your wins this game? Let me cut him your daddy fate.. with my razor?

CREW AUTOBOTS SKOOLEY (Spoken)

It's all about We're (the Autobots Last chance fellas. cash Autobots) Nothin else can Nobody ever beats Don't make the papers throw no weight. (Chant) Act like you know We'll make you It's all about dollars kiss our feet. (Chant) Otherwise you Because we rule the Move on or get played sign your fate. streets. The Autobots. Yeah, Autobots.

SKOOLEY Killing's never good for business.

AUTOBOTS Make a move I'll rip your heart out from your throat.

CREW Save your breath you're gonna need it.

PHYLLIS Listen to him, I'm a witness, you'll go broke.

GERALD Everybody hold your water!

DORIS Please stop otherwise someone will...

ALL Die! (A police siren sounds. Skooley and Butch send the Crew off. Doris goes to help Alfred. This makes Brick jealous and he points out Alfred’s shoes.)

BOBOS

BRICK Hey, get him.

(Butch and Skooley exit after observing for a moment)

DORIS Oh my god!

CHORUS Ain't seen nothing like 'em.

DOODlE Hey, get him.

DORIS Oh my God!

KID ONE They're so loud.

CHORUS(Solo) Hey...get him.

DORIS Oh my God!

CHORUS(Solos) Just what do you call 'em? Not Nike. Air Jordan's? Adidas? Converse? Not B.K. No way!

DORIS Oh my God!

CHORUS What are they?

BRICK Bobos! (Chorus: Ha!)

BRICK(CONT) There's gonna be days when your pants don't meet your shoe. When your soles got holes and the toes come squeezing on through. There's a green grime growing outta places where your face has never seen.

GERALD But you can still stand tall When you're strolling down the hall Cause as long as you've got style then you can smile.

CHORUS But if you got bobos.

BRICK Case closed, Cuz, cause you got nothing to say.

CHORUS You're a loser.

DOODIE(SOLO) Pack up, sack up, back up, and just tip away.

CHORUS If you got bobos.

CHINK You blow so pick up your feet and go.

BRICK Cause you can't walk tall When you're stumbling down the hall. If your skippy's got no class you come in last.

CHORUS Zero.

BRICK There's bound to be times when your vines leave everybody laughing.

CHORUS We're laughing at you.

BRICK When the bubblegum bursts and your face is covered in goo.

CHORUS You know you blew, yeah.

BRICK You might suspect the next pie is gonna wear your name.

(Pops out of hiding surprising everyone.)

GERALD But you can still be cool If you live by this one rule Cause as long as you've got style Then you can smile.

CHORUS But if you got bobos..

CHINK No way, Jose, you gonna get no play.

CHORUS You're a loser.

DOODIE(Solo) Ve adelante a su madre.

CHORUS If you got bobos.

DOODlE They all know daddy ain't got no dough.

BRICK Cause you can't be down When you're dressed up like a clown. If your kicks ain't got no clout then you strike out.

(Doodie kneels behind Alfred. Brick pushes him.)

CHORUS(Solo) Bye, Bro.

CHORUS Bobos! Cheap, cheap, cheap bargain basement bobos.

DORIS (Spoken) Why don't you leave him alone?

ALFRED(Spoken) They don't bother me.

(CHORUS REFRAIN)

GERALD(spoken) It ain't what you got, boy, it's what you are.

ALFRED(Spoken) Of course you would say that.

(CHORUS/REFRAIN)

DORIS Maybe they’re all his mother could afford, did you ever think about that?

ALFRED Thanks a lot.

(CHORUS/REFRAIN)

DORIS I was only trying to help.

ALFRED Worry about helping yourself, alright?

(Doris moves off to sit by herself. Brick is angered.)

BRICK Cause you sure ain't cool When you're voguing like a fool; If your stomps ain't got no name, Bro, you're in pain.

ALFRED In pain?

BRICK(Spoken) Yeah, pain.

ALFRED(spoken) But how does it hurt?

BRICK Permit me to demonstrate.

(Brick steps on his foot. Others follow until Alfred takes the shoes off. Chink and Doodie play keep away then finally they throw them onto the phone wire.)

CHORUS Bobos! Cheap, cheap, cheap, cheap bobos. [Repeat five times]

GERALD(spoken) I can get 'em down.

ALFRED I don't want those ugly old things.

BRICK Cause you can't walk tall When you're stumbling down the hall. If your kicks ain't got no class, you come in last.

ALL Yes, you got bo-bos.

(Gerald has retrieved shoes and offers them to Alfred)

ALFRED Man, leave me alone.

(Enter youth)

YOUTH(Spoken) Hey ya'll! Mr Jenkins just chased his daughter out the house and she's naked!

(Exit all except Doris, Alfred and Gerald. Gerald places the shoes on the bench beside Alfred then returns to his hiding place. A junkie enters, sees Alfred's shoes and laughs.)

NOT ONCE IN THIRTEEN YEARS

(Alfred and Doris sing, neither one sees the other but they "sense " one another whenever they sing a line in unison.)

ALFRED I hope, I dream, And yet I never seem to grab the Shining ring of gold. A step too slow, I reach too low, Missed it again.

I pray, I scheme, I rise sometimes and scream at heaven, "Hey! give a kid a break.” No one ever hears, Not once in thirteen years; Always the same.

DORIS I ache, I cry, For no one cares To share the treasures That I'm sure are mine. No I'm not a beauty queen But does that mean I'm not a prize?

DORIS(CONT) I wait and try To tell the world that I've got something In me rare as gold. No one ever hears. Not once in thirteen years; Always the same.

ALFRED DORIS I swear I wish 1 wish I swear

BOTH If there were someone I could care for

ALFRED DORIS She would see me through. He would see me through. Sorry for complaining, He'd be kind. It's just that it keeps raining Please let me find him All of the time. The love that's mine.

ALFRED I have always been the odd man out. Mustard on my chin and filled with doubt.

DORIS I have always been the little frump; Braces in my grin and flabby rump.

ALFRED Don't ask for a lot but I get none. When I see a pot the meal is done.

DORIS Don't ask for a lot but I want some. I could be content with just one crumb.

ALFRED What about my share.

DORIS Does anybody care?

BOTH Am I out here all alone?

ALFRED DORIS I swear I wish I wish I swear

BOTH If there were someone I could care for

ALFRED DORIS She would see me through; He would see me through. She'd be kind Sorry for complaining Please let me find her But it keeps on raining The love that's mine. All of the time.

I wait and try I wait and try and wait

BOTH To tell the world that I've got something

ALFRED DORIS In me rare as gold. Look inside you'll see the shining. No one ever hears. No one hears Not once in thirteen years Not once in thirteen years Not once in thirteen years Not once in thirteen years Not once. Not once

BOTH Not once in thirteen years. So again it's me the moonlight and my tears.

END SCENE II

SCENE III PULLED CHICKEN

(Enter little girl.)

GIRL Hey, ya'll, Ma P's coming!

(PHYLISS/Ma P sings aria offstage)

PHYLLIS Oooooooooooooh!

(Entering with chicken wagon, as neighborhood awakens to her call.)

PHYLLIS(CONT) CHORUS( VOICES) Everyone loves my pulled chicken. It’s Ma P. It makes your mouth go wet. Bring my purse. If you don't know what you're missing. Just in time. You ain't had chicken yet. Buy me a piece, daddy.

Sure you got plenty problem. Hold my place in line. But tell old man trouble wait. No hunksies! For a while, you'll wear a smile If there's pulled chicken on your plate. You better give me my dollar.

ALFRED What to do? I just don't know what to do.

DORIS What to do? I just don't know what to do.

ALFRED Why must dreams almost always end up broken?

DORIS Why must I be lone-ly?

ALFRED I don't think that anybody hears?

GERALD Bless my soul if anybody cares?

DORIS/GERALD/ALFRED If only...

ALFRED(Spoken) Somebody loved me.

PHYLLIS Come on the run me got ginger And fresh cut sugar cane. Roots for whatever may ail ya From gout to fever brain. Leave your hard times till the morning They'll still be there when you wake; For tonight forget the fight, With Ma P's island chicken break.

(ENTER GRANDPA)

GRANPA Way back before the first war When I was in Haiti Then, men were men... (Spoken) Have you got a boneless piece of mildly seasoned hen?

PHYLLIS If you prefer me got roti And hot Jamaican pie; Oxtail and old fashioned curry Bring water to your eye. Always you going to have worry So that's never nothin' new. Eat food with spice the rest of your life And I bet you will not be blue.

GERALD I ain't never been shy And your breasts have been a big desire of mine Can I have a bit?

PHYLLIS(Spoken) Man, you better quit.

CHORUS Can you believe that he. .said that?

GERALD All I wanted was a taste.

(Gerald reaches slowly for a piece. Phyllis slaps his hand with her apron.)

PHYLLIS No! (Enter Autobots)

AUTOBOTS Autobots,! Yo! this is the spot. (repeat twice)

(Each notices the food smell and joins in a chord.)

AUTOBOTS(CONT) Mmmmmm.

DOODlE Chicken.

CHINK So?

DOODlE When Phyllis burns it's kicking.

CHINK To the bone?

DOODlE Snap! I'm talkin' finger licking like a skank.

CHINK No thank you.

DOODlE Don't know what you're missin'.

CHINK Go and ask your momma.

CHORUS Oooooo.

DOODlE(Ready to fight) If you looking for a spankin',sucka, keep on with your rankin', hear me?

CHINK(Seeing Gerald) Yo!

DOODlE Yo yourself.

CHINK It's him!

DOODlE Who?

CHINK The bum.

GERALD Easy fellas.

PHYLLIS We don't want no trouble here.

CHINK That's too bad...

DOODlE You got it...

CHINK/DOODIE Slick! (Enter Auntie Har pushing past the Autobots.)

AUNTIE(Pushing past Autobots) I don't take kindly to nobody coming between me and my chicken.

(Doodie tries to hold his ground)

AUNTIE HAR(CONT) (Spoken) Move your narrow ass, boy. (Sung)I'll take a double order with an extra side of kingfish. Throw in half a dozen of those cakes there in the blue dish. If I had a waistline I would have to hate you Phyllis. Give me some sweet fried bananas And some of that roti And lots of that gravy and goat cheese.

CROWD Oh my God!

GERALD Do you think you have enough?

(Brick crosses to Doris and pantomimes conversation.)

PHYLLIS Some people think I use gris-gris And me don't tell them, "No." My mother she give me this recipe Nearly forty year ago. I hope to see happy faces On every window seat. Don't need no pill, just eat your fill Of my pulled island chicken meat.

(Brick approaches food truck. Everything stops)

BRICK Pie. (Phyllis gives him meat pie. He turns to leave.)

PHYLLIS(Spoken) Money.

(Brick pays then gives the pie to Doris)

PHYLLIS (Spoken) What's the matter you, boy?

ALFRED(Spoken) Nothing.

PHYLLIS That's a whole lotta long face for nothin', eh?

ALFRED It's my birthday and I wanted sneakers.

PHYLLIS(Spoken) What you call them things on your feet there?

JUNKIE Bobos.

PHYLLIS (Spoken) Stead of mopin' you should get yourself a job.

ALFRED(Spoken) Who would hire me?

PHYLLIS(Spoken) You see them people calling at the windows?

ALFRED(Spoken) Yeah.

PHYLLIS(Spoken) Them all want chicken.

ALFRED(Spoken) So?

PHYLLIS (Spoken) You get them chicken, they give you money.

ALFRED(Spoken) Really?

(Phyllis gives Alfred an apron the says' "Ma P's Pulled Chicken")

CHORUS #1 Over here. Over here!

CHORUS #2 More chicken, more chicken...

ALFRED(Spoken) Soon I'll be rich!

(Alfred delivers chicken and has a handful of money)

ALFRED/PHYLLIS Life gets no better than chicken Tender young and sweet; Seasoned with sea island spices A perfect summer treat.

CHORUS Over here.

ALFRED/PHYLLIS Most of your dreams won't end happy But that's no need to cry; You'll get a break, so grab a plate Of Ma P's peppered goat meat pie.

ALFRED(Holding up money) Look at me; everybody look at me.

DORIS Look at me, why won't he please look at me.

ALFRED Very soon, I'll rewrite my future.

DORIS Can't you see I'm lone-y.

GERALD I don't think that anybody hears.

BRICK(To Doris) Let me dry those tears cause baby..

GERALD/DORIS/BRICK (Doris to Alfred/Brick to Doris/ Gerald to chicken.) I do love you; I'm the one who loves you.

(Chorus calls madly for chicken. Alfred sells frenetically.)

ALFRED(Spoken) God I love America!

EVERYONE Everyone loves her pulled chicken It makes your mouth go wet; If you don't know what you're missing You ain't had chicken yet. Sure you got plenty problem But tell Old Man Trouble wait. For a while you'll wear a smile If there's pulled chicken on your plate.

(Exit all repeating last line. Ad lib goodbyes. Alfred remains counting money after giving Phyllis her cut. Doris sits nearby)

ALFRED(Spoken) One...... twenty-five, fifty, fifty-five, sixty. .sixty-five... Two dollars and sixty-seven cents! God...I hate America.

LIVIN' LARGE

(Enter Butch. Doris crosses to Alfred and draws his attention to the ominous man. They try to leave but Crew enter separately cutting off each retreat.)

CREW Sit down right now there on the curb.

BUTCH Skooley's bout to give you his word.

GIRLS When he speaks, Freak, you don't disturb.

(Enter Skooley)

SKOOLEY(Spoken) You got a problem.

ALFRED(Spoken) Me? No, not me. It's my birthday. I've got a new job. Everything couldn't be better.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Something bout sneakers.

ALFRED(Spoken) You probably thought I was sitting here moping but I've just got one of those faces. My mom is always telling me to smile more. .

BUTCH(Threatening Alfred) So you saying Skooley's wrong?

ALFRED(spoken) No, I didn't mean that. I'd have to be a fool to call him wrong, right?

SKOOLEY(spoken) You got a problem.. .Fellas.

CREW Any problem's easy to solve. Just like snowflakes it can dissolve.

SKOOLEY(spoken) Let yourself give in to the urge.

(Pause. CREW:Livin' Large!)

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Dig his kicks?

(Butch displays shoes)

ALFRED(Spoken) Man, they are fat!

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Take a look around.

(Crew display shoes.)

ALFRED Oh yeah! Oh yeah! Oh yeah! (Sees girl's leg) Oh yes!

DORIS(Spoken) Don’t you think we should be going?

(The spell is momentarily broken but Skooley recaptures him.)

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Now, check me out.

(Crew makes sound as Skooley displays expensive mix matched shoes.)

CREW Blam! Blam!

ALFRED(Spoken) Slammin', Sam...I mean, Mr Skooley, sir.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Tell him how to get in, Crew.

CREW You'll get everything you deserve. All it takes is old fashioned nerve.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) I'm just here to give you a nudge.

(PAUSE. Crew offers hit on pipe.)

DORIS(Spoken) Your mom is going to be wondering where we are.

(Crew taunts Alfred as he tries to leave)

CREW

So are you down? No, he's a clown. Just dig his kicks. Fresh.. Yeah, if you're from the sticks. Some folks just ain't got enough bone. (Spoken) Mommy's callin’, better run home.

BUTCH(Blocking exit) My mistake, I thought you had courage.

(Skooley waves away Butch and takes Alfred aside)

SKOOLEY Don't be alarmed No one in my employ Will do you a harm. When I was a boy I sang in the choir, No voice was higher. (Spoken)You repeat a word and you're a dead man. Mama was poor. Dad was the last to die In some silly war. We had no cash to buy A real choir robe. Mama she sewed. They all knew.

ALFRED(Spoken) They always do.

SKOOLEY I washed cars Swept out bars Banked my coin in mason jars Always dreaming of the Day I'd sing my solo. I cut school Hustled pool Carried groceries like a mule, But I barely earned Enough to buy a yo-yo. That's the hour, I wished for power, Fortune and fame till

CHORUS Now everybody knows Skooley's name.

SKOOLEY So it tears my soul To see how hard you struggle SKOOLEY(CONT)

Chasing your goal, Knowing they'll burst your bubble. Take the advice Of a friend:

(Chorus: We're your friends, Alfred.)

SKOOLEY(CONT) Slaving doesn't pay.

(Skooley produces wad. Alfred is impressed.)

CREW Livin' large.

DORIS(Spoken) There's no easy way.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) I'm trying to do you a favor.

ALFRED(Spoken) I just couldn't deal drugs.

SKOOLEY And I wouldn't ask you to.

ALFRED(Spoken) You wouldn't?

(Skooley shakes his head, "No.")

CHORUS Livin' large.

DORIS Someone always has to pay.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Nothin’ wrong with holdin' money, is there?

ALFRED(Spoken) No.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) My man.

CREW One good day then you'll be in style.

SKOOLY(Spoken) Try it for one day.

SOLO

Make the Honeys scream when you smile.

(A crew flashes gold teeth.)

SKOOLEY(Offering Alfred a wad of money) If you don't like it...hey.

BUTCH Come join his elite entourage.

(Alfred takes the cash)

FELLAS Living Large!

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Somebody get B some gear.

(Crew dresses Alfred)

CREW Living Large.

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Your job is just to chill, here.

CREW One good day then you'll earn your shoes.

BUTCH Say bye bye to those bobo blues.

(Alfred tosses kicks onto telephone wire.)

SKOOLEY(spoken) Welcome to my sweet entourage.

ALL Large!

(Exit Skooley and women.)

GOT TO GET WHAT YOU NEED

DORIS (to Alfred) It isn't right; You know it's wrong.

ALFRED (to Doris) If for one night ALFRED(CONT)

I play along I'm not any worse for wear, And (at last) I'll own a pair.

(Crew shows Alfred his new job collecting drug money.)

BUTCH You got to get what you need. (repeat)

ALFRED( sings to Doris as he works) Any kid who's got some cash can cut into the dance. I wanna get in.

CREW You've got to get what you need

ALFRED Here at last for once and all I finally have a chance For such a small sin.

CREW You've got to get what you need

ALFRED So I play With fire for a few? Others do. When I'm through On cue, I'm done.

CREW One day of sales and you'll be done.

ALFRED If your gear ain't jammin' then the girls don't waste a glance. I've been the provin'.

CREW You've got to get what you need

ALFRED Once I style the slammin' dogs just watch this boy advance. Man I'll be groovin'.

CREW You've got to get what you need

ALFRED So I run The wild road for a few? Others do. When I'm through ALFRED(CONT)

On cue, I'm done.

CREW One day of sales and you'll be ....

ALFRED/CREW Winning

ALFRED May mean less than how you play the game.

ALFRED/CREW I'm/He's

ALFRED beginning To suspect what I've been taught is all lame. Life is insane.

CREW (to Alfred) Life is insane and.... Any kid who's got some cash can cut into the dance. I wanna get in.

ALFRED (to Doris) I've got to get what I need.

CREW (to Alfred) Here at last for once and all you finally have a chance For such a small sin.

ALFRED (to Doris) I've got to get what I need So I play With fire for a few? Others do. When I'm through On cue, I'm done.

CREW One day of sales and you'll be done.

DORIS (to Alfred) Ev’ry fall it begins with a stumble. So we always are wise to be humble. If you should play this game you just might lose.

ALFRED Jackets and shoes. Them be the rules; In the schools. ...

JUNKIE(spoken) Nice kicks.

ALFRED(Counting money. Puts it in his pocket) They make you what you….

NEW KICKS

(Crew directs attention of kids entering the park to Alfred's shoes while he collects money and postures.)

CREW/CHORUS Hey! Do you see his kicks? Ain't seen nothin like 'em. (Counterpoint:Ooh I wish that I could be his girl.) Top of the line. Fresh! (Repeat 4 times ) Must've cost a million. (Repeat 4 times .)

(Buyers: Gimme a hit.)

COUNTERPOINT #2 Do you see them. Do you see his kicks. Do you see them. Do you see his kicks?

(Counterpoint:Do you see his kicks? Check out homey's sneakers. Man, they're tough.)

CHORUS(Solo) Hey!

ALFRED (Spoken) Yo, Kool.

CHORUS(Solo) See you got new kicks.

ALFRED (Spoken) Oh, you noticed.

CHORUS(Solo) Got to give you five.

ALFRED (Spoken) Blackhand side.

CHORUS(Solo) Bro, your dogs is live. ALFRED (Spoken)

Thanks, man.

CHORUS Those are the best. One of a kind.

ALFRED (spoken) They call ‘em Terminators.

CHORUS You must be proud.

ALFRED No need to lie.

(Autobots stop playing ball to approach Alfred.)

AUTOBOT Say.

ALFRED (Spoken) Don't crowd me now.

AUTOBOT Where'd you get the coin?

ALFRED (Spoken) I got connections.

AUTOBOT Those kicks are death, man.

ALFRED (Spoken) Truth is word.

AUTOBOTS I want some too.

ALFRED(Spoken) Keep dreamin'.

DOODIE I like your shoes.

GIRL #1 Give me a call.

GUYS It's worth a dime.

ALFRED No one could be happier than me. It's as if I'm standing on a cloud for all to see. ALFRED(CONT)

And before this day is done I'm sure to earn my freedom.

BRICK Yo!

ALFRED(Spoken) Yeah, G.

BRICK B, you're good to go.

ALFRED(Spoken) Takin' it slow.

SKEETER Wanna run some rock? (play basketball)

ALFRED(Spoken) Maybe later.

CHINK Homey must be clocking.

CREW Large.

DOODIE I saw him first.

GIRL #1 Give it a rest.

DOODIE Kiss my behind. (Everyone: Kiss her behind.)

SKEETER Boss?

ALFRED(Spoken) I got business.

SKEETER Cut me some slack.

ALFRED(Spoken) Come again?

SKEETER Do me a favor?

ALFRED This ain't my money.

SKEETER Let me catch the vapors.(translation: Hook me up with a job or give me free drugs.)

ALFRED(Spoken) Can't touch this.

(Girls approach)

DOODIE I know the moves.

GIRL #1 I've done it all.

DORIS Back off he's mine.

DOODIE(Spoken) Did they give you headlights to go with that fender? (Indicating retainer).

(Doris retreats. Girls cling to Alfred)

ALFRED No one could be happier than me. It's as if I'm standing on a cloud for all to see. And before this day is done I'm sure to earn my freedom. Freedom...

WISE UP

(Gerald appears startling everyone.)

GERALD Oooooooohhhhh! It's a pity when the city makes a man so down and dirty till his daddy and his momma don't admit that they remember his name.

CHORUS Yes it's true.

GERALD I've rode the rails, been in jails, slept in parks while it rained nails, when I tell folks the details it never fails to turn them oh so sad and blue.

CHORUS Why?

GERALD (Takes a sip from a bottle) I have known troubles

CHORUS We bet.

PHYLLIS Lord.

GERALD Been many a fool.

CHORUS Tell the tale.

GERALD If I'da had good sense, I would've stayed in school.

PHYLLIS Witness about it.

GERALD(spoken) Well, since you ask, here's how my story goes. If it gets good to you feel free to put a little money in my hat.

(Gerald puts his hat on the ground)

CHORUS Doo Doo Doo Doo

GERALD I was born in the back of a railroad shack. Mom and dad ain't had nair one stitch for my back. Side of town folk calls the Bottom. Talkin' blues, livin' there you know you got 'em. I...can't brag on what I done to fill my tummy.

CHORUS What you done, man.

GERALD Begged a meal, (Picking up trashcan lid) ate off steel, Sometimes I been so hongry I been known to kneel and hollar, 0ooooooooooooooooooooooooooh!

(Alfred collects drug money while Gerald sings.)

GERALD(CONT) But....I...Can.....(faces Alfred and delivers song to him) Not believe what I believe you're doin'; Struttin' like your ass was glass and passing out your poison. I've half a mind, I swear 'fo wine, to fix your little wagon; Dress you down all over town and end your silly braggin'

GERALD CHORUS Wise up. Wise up. Hear me when I tell ya. Wise up you better. Better wise up. Wise up. Soon it will be too late. Soon it will be too late.

GERALD If..you.. .was my boy, I'd switch your narrow bottom; Make you take those powders 'n those pills back where you got em. Foolishness like this is cause the young don't read their Bible. Livin' fast and loose because a dollar is their idol.

(CHORUS )

DORIS We know that you are not really bad; (CHORUS:Really bad.) Still to see you out here makes us sad. (Chorus: Makes us sad.)

ALFRED One more hour then I will be done.

PHYLLIS Chile...you..got some nerve all puffed up like a blowfish. I don't know your people but I bet they don't approve this. Do you want to fill your dear old mother's heart with anguish? Use your tongue boy, Phyllis talkin' good Jamaican english.

(CHORUS )

DORIS Grownups always come on much too strong; (CHORUS:Much too strong.) Still you know she's not completely wrong.

ALFRED It's just for one hour; Then I'll quit forever.

PHYLLIS You'll be in his power.

ALFRED You should know me better.

GERALD Skooley's got your number.

ALFRED Not for long.

GERALD They. .say. babes and fools are in the good Lord's graces; (Spoken) If that's so then boy I know you must be going places. Far as I can tell you got as much sense as a hangnail. I just pray to see the day your simple minded plans fail.

(CHORUS) (Crew appears then Butch & finally Skooley.)

ALFRED(Spoken) Skooley!

SKOOLEY CREW Bro. Wise up little boy. You do what you please. Wise up little boy. Live life on your knees Wise up little boy. If that's how you want to go. The choice is yours to make. Wise up little boy. You can crawl or skate. Wise up little boy. But take a look at him, Then, kid, check me out. (Skooley snaps. Dealers deliver money & women take his arms.) Now you know what it's all about.

(Skooley starts to leave.)

GERALD (to Skooley) You know.. .talkin' trash can get your ass in trouble. If you don't watch out somebody's gonna bust your bubble. What you playin' at is sure to burn your greedy fingers. Bees got knees but at the other end are often stingers.

CHORUS GERALD(Spoken) Better wise up. I'm talking to you. Hear me when I tell ya. You just about through here. Better wise up. I'm from the old school. Soon it will be too late. Don't make me act the fool. (Repeat in gospel style)

GERALD(to Skooley, spoken-optional fillers) This is a public place. And we don't want to see your face, no more. You get the message Ace? Don't make me have to dance on ya. I'll whip you like buttermilk biscuit batter. I'll beat you like a drum. I'll hit you up top the head so hard you'll have to open your pants to brush your teeth.

ALL You better wise up! (Crew produce guns)

SKOOLEY You don't understand. Homey owes me lots of cake.(money) Sneakers ain't free. Kid, don't make a big mistake. Finish if you start; That's what momma always said. Four yards of large; Bring me less cus, bang! You're dead.

(Exit Skooley)

CREW Finish if you start. That's what momma always said. Four yards of large; Bring him less cuz, bang! You're dead.

(Butch pulls the trigger but no bullet is in the chamber. Crew laughs and exits. Phyllis gives Alfred's apron to Doris, thereby giving her the job that Alfred had. )

GERALD (to Alfred) Aw, you in trouble now.

BLACK

END SCENE III

SCENE IV HANGIN OUT

(The Park. Evening. Alfred collects money. Doris helps Phyllis. Enter Autobots, who call out for one another in the park.)

AUTOBOTS (rap) Autobots. Yo! This is the spot.(translation: Autobots, this is where we gather) Autobots. Yo! This is the spot. Autobots. Yo! This is the spot. Autobots. Yo!

BRICK Forties front and center!

(They salute with beer.) (Enter Doodie.) DOODlE Fellas.

AUTOBOTS Doodie!

DOODlE It's a Saturday.

AUTOBOT(Spoken) Yo, I don't play that.

(They square off. Brick intercedes)

BRICK (sings) Hangin' in out In the park is where I want to be.

ALL(They join in singing one by one) Hangin' out; Here on the block. (Repeat)

DOODlE (rap) Don't you ever wonder?

AUTOBOT No I never.

DOODlE Don't you ever? Don't you never wonder?

AUTOBOT What?

DOODlE Where you gonna go?

AUTOBOT When?

DOODlE When the forty's dry.

AUTOBOT I'll break and make another buy.

DOODlE But how's it gonna all end?

CHINK (Spoken) Yo, listen close son, I'm... (rap) Gonna be a pilot. Flyin' in a jet plane. Flaming like a butane. Getting lotsa poontang. One stop shopping And poppin' chippies in every continent. Usin' 'em like condiments. Confident, On the scent. By the dozens Flight attendants...

AUTOBOT(Spoken) Nigger flyin' planes can't even drive yet.

(Again Brick stops the brewing fight)

BRICK Fella's got to dream, B.

AUTOBOTS Fellas got to dream.

BRICK Got to get a scheme, see.

AUTOBOTS Got to get a scheme.

BRICK A way to cut the cream free.

AUTOBOTS A way to cut the cream.

BRICK Or else you end up screaming.

(Doodie screams. They look at him.)

DOODIE(Spoken) Something moved back there?

(REFRAIN)

SKEETER (Making mock chef costume) Look at me the head chef; Bustin' out the cuisine. Groovin’ on a turine. Provin' I'm a mean teen. Slicin and spicin Layin it nice'n neat on a platter. Climbin ‘ straight up the ladder, Watchin all the folks gather, Chatter, get fatter.

AUTOBOT I hear they hiring over to Burger King.

CHORUS Fella got to dream, B. (Repeat) Got to get a scheme, see. (Repeat) A wiggiddy way to cut the cream free. (Repeat) Or else you end up screaming.

(Gerald pops up out of the rubbish. Autobots first scream & scatter then prepare to attack. Brick distracts them with chorus.)

(Refrain)

DORIS (To Phyllis) When mom died.

BRICK(To Autobots) When dad died.

DORIS All alone.

BRICK On my own.

BOTH I was grown.

DORIS Oh, I cried.

BRICK Yo, I tried to be strong.

DORIS Suddenly all that was right is wrong.

BRICK Overnight I didn't fit.

DORIS Everywhere I don't belong.

BRICK Fostercare life just ain't ..it.

(Phyllis kisses Doris and exits passing Brick and causing him to check his language..)

DORIS (Praying) What I dream.

BRICK DORIS When I dream Lord. ... It' s a family Send me someone, And' they're glad to see me Please...... Maybe we won't own Mountains of stuff; But so what. If only I could I've been as good I'd settle down As I know how Right now. But if you I'm tired Don't help me now I'm afraid to say Lonely I just can't take it. And some days I fear And some days I fear I won't make it. I won't make it.

(Alfred takes stage counting his money, clearly showing off.)

ALFRED Almost made it!

WALK THRU THE DOOR

ALFRED Folks always worryin’ bout The bad things that could happen. Hey! They get caught nappin’ When the boat leaves the shore. It’s easy To take a ride, G. Just listen for the whistle And then walk thru the door.

Pardon my braggin’ But I gotta tell ya , Honey, Holdin’ all this money

ALFRED(CONT) It ain’t hardly a chore. I’m choosin’ To keep on cruisin’ Till the dust starts to settle And I walk thru the door.

All it takes to get a ticket Is a little heart and with it You can catch yourself a short ride Past your troubles to the sweet side.

It’s sorta funny How some guys can’t win for losin’. Man, they must be usin’ Less than half of the store. I’m rollin’ Like old man river While I listen for the whistle Then I’ll walk thru the door.

Just clock me! I’m on the dock see So don’t bother hatin’ Cause the kid is straight up skatin’ In and gone while you was waitin’ Yo, you blow by hestitatin’ Now I’m cool as a pistol Chillin’ till I hear the whistle Got the beef you get the gristle… Then I’ll walk thru the door.

(Skooley and Butch watch Alfred work.)

SKOOLEY The kid’s good?

BUTCH He’s alright.

SKOOLEY I need a fresh face to harvest the rice.

BUTCH Understood. Yo, Dwight! Shake him down.

SKOOLEY But be nice.

BUTCH Don’t get made.

DWIGHT I’m your troop. We gonna run this young buck through the route. Take his name.

ALL Cause once you’re in it, there ain’t no getting out of the game.

(Dwight and accomplice, in disguise, pull a gun on Alfred)

DWIGHT/CREW The money. Boy, you know what I’ll do. Give it all up. And the fly sneakers too. (Alfred takes off the sneakers.)

DWIGHT/CREW(CONT) Get funny. I’ll whip you till you’re blue. Kiss ground, Chump. Even twitch and you’re through.

(Exit Robbers. Doris goes to console Alfred.)

ALFRED Oh my goodness, How will I live through this. (CHORUS: There’s no getting out of the game.) What a bonehead! Now, God, I may be dead. (CHORUS: There’s no getting out of the game.) I was careless. Now I’ve made a big mess. (CHORUS: There’s no getting out of the game.) It’s like you said. I’ve made myself a hard bed. (CHORUS: There’s no getting out of the game.)

AUTOBOTS(Under their breath) Chump…….Fool…Mark………Mule…

ALFRED(Spoken) You talking to me?

(Autobots look innocent but keep chanting behind Alfred’s back.)

DORIS(Spoken) You should be ashamed of yourselves. Alfred was almost killed.

AUTOBOT(Spoken) One less buster on the boulder.

BRICK/AUTOBOTS Dopes swear they’re gonna find A short way through the jungle. But they always stumble Head first into a door. Stop trippin And get to strippin’. Time to grab both your ankles And put your face to the floor.

(Autobots fall out laughing. The “Chump/Fool” chorus continues.)

DORIS(To Alfred) Maybe Mr. Skooley will understand.

DOODIE(Spoken) He’s an understanding kind of guy.

DORIS(spoken) Anybody could get robbed.

SKEETER Skooley’s the one who robbed the doofus.

ALFRED Skooley?

CHINK Oldest trick in the book.

ALFRED Skooley?

SKEETER Skooley.

BRICK Now you his trick, Slick.

(PAUSE. The realization sinks in. Exit Alfred .)

ALFRED Skooooooleeeeeeey!!!!!!

BRICK(To Doris) I’m the one who loves you.

BLACK

END SCENE IV

SCENE V SHOWDOWN (Skooley's lair, an abandoned factory that feels like an arena. Skooley sits atop throne made of old car tires watching a re-enactment of the robbery in pantomime. The theme from SNAP plays. ENTER Alfred through house. He tries to reach Skooley but is stopped back by Crew.)

ALFRED (enraged) Skooooooleeeeey!!!!! Out of my way I've got something that needs to be said.

BUTCH(Spoken) Who's the fool who would dare get loud in here?

ALFRED Maybe I'll pay but it's worth it cause I'm seeing red.

BUTCH(Hands golf club to Crew) Take this bat and go tee off on that queer.

(Skooley signals for him to wait.)

ALFRED Take away your crew. Take away your soldiers. Take away your stash; then what would you be? Just another kid, up on a stool, Fronting for cool, Skooley-C.

CREW(Each line sung anonymously by different member) Take away his crew? Take away his soldiers? Take away his stash? Then he's just a bag of wind. Up on a throne, Lording it over us. We're the ones who risk the bust. Daily.

BUTCH Let me go and I'll set this suckka straight.

(Skooley signals, "No.")

BUTCH (to Alfred) Boy be glad that the man wants me to wait.

ALFRED Skooley you lied. Led me to believe You were on my side. Recognized my need Then turned it around, Made me your clown.

BUTCH Better say your prayers cause you're a dead man.

ALFRED What gets my goat, Makes me ache to squeeze The smile from your throat. When I think that after I did my job You had me robbed; Now I'm through.

(Alfred takes off chain and tosses it.)

SKOOLEY(Spoken) Nobody quits my crew.

(Alfred screams)

BUTCH Please boss, now let me give his neck a trim?

(Skooley signals, "No.")

ALFRED You think you're god, don't you? Lord of the universe.

BUTCH You'll see God when I get the nod from him.

ALFRED Take away your cars. Take away the ladies. Take away your push. Then they all would see; Nothing but a punk.

(Crew gasps. Butch has to be restrained.) Passing for bad. They've all been had. But not me.

BUTCH Say the word and you've heard his last complaint.

(Skooley nods, "No.")

BUTCH(CONT) Yo, B , you better make peace with your saint.

CREW Take way his wheels. Take away his stable. Then I bet we'd see;

CREW(CONT) (Spoken)He ain't gold, he's made of tin! Passing for bad. Taking a lion's cut. (Spoken) Someone oughtta kick his butt! Truly. (Skooley produces gun.)

ALFRED Take away that gun. (Skooley gives gun to Butch)

ALFRED(Cont) Take away the razor. (Skooley surrenders razor) Take away the chains; And your brass four finger ring; Then nothing's left. Come on down from your chair. Have the guts to fight me fair, Skooley.

(Skooley strips his gear.)

CREW Do you think he's gonna do it? I think he's gonna do it. (Repeat)

CHORUS(Counterpoint) I am giving odds on Alfred. Half a hundred says he drops him. Me, I'm takin' on the winner. Do you see how well he's moving. Almost like a seasoned boxer.

(Alfred is grabbed from behind. He turns and throws uppercut/hook combination from scene I and decks assailant)

CREW(Cont) Look how good he dips and dodges. Man this guy is no beginner. Yo, I think he's gonna do it. Yes I think he's gonna do it. Come on, Alfred, you can do it. I think he's gonna do it. I think he's gonna do it. I think he's gonna do it.

(Skooley quickly and violently dispatches Alfred)

SKOOLEY Next! This time it's with razors.

(Butch tosses him his razor)

SKOOLEY Wanna take me out? Fellas here's your chance. Have you got the heart? Skooley's all talk. Come walk the walk.

(Skooley and Butch simultaneously cut the faces of two dissidents.)

SKOOLEY(cont) See who bleeds. Listen to the word. Look and learn just how it is. Skooley on top. Doubt me and you get the biz. You all are mine. No one else has got a say. Walk the white line. Stumble and you got to pay. (Spoken to Alfred) Now, Slick, you my slave. Sell crack and don't get jack.

(Butch gives package to Skooley)

Here's a stash, go make me some cash. Come up light and it's goodnight.

(Butch empties trashcan on Alfred)

BUTCH Boyee!

EXIT ALL EXCEPT ALFRED

ALFRED'S LAMENT

ALFRED(On floor)

God, If you're alive Up in the sky Like everyone swears, How come we squares Always cry the tears? It isn't fair. Are you listening to me?

(Alfred rises)

ALFRED(CONT) Lord, They say you care; But I don't buy it. That's clearly not what I see. Every way we turn there's fear. It's as if you can't hear (All of) the prayers and pleas That bruise our knees.

(Alfred falls to his knees in prayer) Oh please, If you are half of what they claim Then take away one half this pain And I am yours. But believe That if you leave me on this floor It's just the same as saying, "You and I are through" Then God I'm done with you.

(Alfred rises)

What made me believe you'd help me. God, Since you are blind Or else unkind And for me the outcome's the same; Don't dare complain Next time you catch me lying I'm only trying my best To find a way to keep from dying.

Lord, Since you have let cheaters run the game, Even to a fool like me it's plain What I must do. From now on, I won't be the sucker this I swear. Gonna teach the whole world to beware before I'm through And God I'm done with you.

(Alfred puts on sneakers)

What made me believe I could make a change When the life we live Doesn't mean a thing.

I must be naive Stupid or deranged. People never give They just pull your string.

(Alfred picks up drugs then kneels in mock prayer.)

ALFRED(CONT) Lord, Since you have let cheaters rule the game; Even to a fool like me it's plain what I must do. From now on I won't be a sucker, this I swear; Better warn the whole world to beware before I'm through. And God I'm done with you.

(Alfred picks up a razor that was dropped by an assailant.)

(God,) to hell with… (He holds the razor aloft like a crooked cross.) you.

BLACK

END ACT I

ACT II SCENE I: IF I WAS A KID

(Sunday late morning in the yard. Family dressed for church. Alfred is morose.)

MOM If I was a kid, I wouldn't know nothing from the blues Not like now. The bills hit you, "pow!" (Chorus:That's right.) And hammer away till you lose, Like I said, I'd be ecstatic If some magic took me back To a day when I didn't pay Through the nose for an attic. I know exactly how I would choose If somehow I could be a kid.

CHORUS Life would be different if I was a kid.

AUNTY HAR If I was sixteen (Chorus: Do tell.) I'd hike this skirt right up past my crotch, (Chorus: 0oooo) Burn my bra. (Chorus: Run for cover, ya'll.) It's pure Shangra-la To tease the boys, "Look but don't touch. I'm virgeen." (virgin) It would be soooo sweet For one week no cellulite All the eyes of the young guys Would follow me automatic. I tell ya, I'd be more potent than booze If again I could be sixteen.

CHORUS Life would be different if I was sixteen.

GRANPA(To Alfred) If I were young, son, Knowing what I know now: Great good God almighty I'd be so happy I'd shout,

GRANDPA (cont) "Look out! I'm comin' world to getcha." I don't mean to lectcha.(Lecture) But, boy, you better betcha, Sure as you know your name.

If I wasn't old, I'd roar like a panther on the loose, Man I'd howl! I'd make folks say, "Wow!" And no girl would ever refuse, Truth be told. You’d see no resisting Once my lips could start insisting, "Be bad." Egad! What a line. Are you list'ning? Bet I'd be knocking them off by twos Mark my word if I wasn't old.

CHORUS Old Pop, You're old, Pop.

GRANPA No.

ALFRED(Spoken) Can I talk to you for a minute, Sonny.

SONNY(Spoken) Sure, kid. (Throws punch) Ugh! Keep that guard up.

ALFRED(Sung) Say there was a young man.

SONNY(Spoken) Any young man or a particular young man.

ALFRED(Sung) Let's just say he got himself into trouble.

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