About Young Playwrights for Change………………………………………………3

Home , Gotta Go

Table of contents

I. About Young Playwrights for Change………………………………………………3

II. Wartorn by MJ Sasse (national Young Playwrights for Change winner)…………...4

III. It’s Just Begun by Eilish Koch………………………………………………………13

IV. lol k by Ainsley Leof………………………………………………………………...23

V. Park Bench by Thisby Loomis………………………………………………………33

VI. Under an Overpass by Alex Silva…………………………………………………...39

VII. Different, But Mostly Same by Kai Tomizawa………..……………………………...51

About Young Playwrights for Change

These scripts are the culmination of Oregon Children’s Theatre’s fourth annual playwriting contest for middle school students. Sixth through eighth graders were invited to submit original ten minute plays that addressed the theme “What would you change about the world?” Six finalists were chosen by a reading panel of teachers and Young Professionals to work with professional playwrights Matthew B. Zrebski and Debbie Lamedman to revise and refine their writing. The plays published here were directed and performed by the Young Professionals Company at the YP Studio Theater in May 2016.

OCT’s program is also part of a national playwriting contest hosted by Theatre for Young Audiences USA and the American Alliance for Theatre and Education. Theaters across the country hosted similar contests and submitted a winner to Young Playwrights for Change. One of OCT’s finalists, MJ Sasse, was the winner of the national competition for her script, Wartorn. Her script was read at TYA: New Visions New Voices at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. All national submissions will be published in an anthology in summer of 2016. For more information about the national Young Playwrights for Change program, visit www.assitej- usa.org.

For updates on the 2016-17 Young Playwrights for Change Program, visit octc.org/young-playwrights-for- change.

Young Playwrights for Change is supported by

Wartorn

By MJ Sasse

2016 Young Playwrights for Change National Winner

CHARACTERS Rachel 1, 13, what people see on the surface, has a more practical view on the world. Rachel 2, 13, says what she’s really thinking, doesn’t hold back, feels ignored, watching from the outside.

TIME Now

PLACE Suburbia

(Lights come up on Rachel 1 and Rachel 2, standing on opposite sides of the stage)

RACHEL 1 My father, he used to tell me a story.

RACHEL 2 Well, before, before he left us for...

RACHEL 1 (Interrupting Rachel 2) A very long vacation.

RACHEL 2 He did this a lot, my father.

RACHEL 1 He would always come back though.

RACHEL 2 Then one day he didn’t.

RACHEL 1 I would always ask,

RACHEL 2 “Where is he going?”

RACHEL 1 But all my momma ever said was, “Daddy’s gotta go away for a little while honey.”

RACHEL 2 4

She thought I never noticed.

RACHEL 1

The way her eyes looked a little bit too puffy after a full night’s sleep.

RACHEL 2 The way she always stared at that picture of my father a little bit too long.

RACHEL 1 The way she poured herself just a little bit too much wine on those days she was feeling a little bit too lonely.

RACHEL 2 She thought I didn’t notice.

RACHEL 1 What eight year old girl would?

RACHEL 2 I was always observant though.

RACHEL 1 That’s why I finally figured it out;

RACHEL 2 The reason daddy was leaving so often.

RACHEL 1 He had a bigger battle to fight.

RACHEL 2 I guess I wasn’t a big enough reason to stay.

RACHEL 1 He always came back though.

RACHEL 2 Every year, the day before my birthday, the doorbell would ring.

RACHEL 1 I would open the door and he would be standing there.

RACHEL 2 Standing tall and proud...like a soldier.

RACHEL 1 Three years and 363 days later the doorbell rang.

RACHEL 2 I knew something was off.

RACHEL 1 My father always came the day before my birthday.

RACHEL 2 Not two days, never two days.

RACHEL 1 I rushed to the door. I pulled it open.

RACHEL 2

My heart fell.

RACHEL 1 I smiled at the man.

RACHEL 2 He wasn’t my father.

RACHEL 1 He asked me to get my mother.

RACHEL 2 He wasn’t my father.

RACHEL 1 I ran to get her.

RACHEL 2 This man, isn’t welcome.

RACHEL 1 I told her there was a man at the door.

RACHEL 2 No one invited him here.

RACHEL 1 The man asked to come in.

RACHEL 2 Don’t let him in, shut the door and walk away.

RACHEL 1 My mother welcomed him in, a smile on her face.

RACHEL 2 Why was she smiling? Couldn’t she see the look of pity on his face?

(Silence.)

RACHEL 1 (Imitating man) I have been asked to inform you that your husband has been reported dead in Kandahar, Afghanistan at 2400 on December 16th, 2015.

RACHEL 2 This can’t be right. He must have the wrong family.

RACHEL 1 Officer Davis was mortally wounded in combat. By the time he was brought to a medic, he was already gone.

RACHEL 2 Any minute now my father will walk through that door.

RACHEL 1 On behalf of the Secretary of Defense, I extend to you and your family my deepest sympathy in your great loss.

RACHEL 2 Stop talking! Please! Just. Stop. Talking.

RACHEL 1 The man looked at my mother then turned to me. He extended his sympathy to us once again, then left.

RACHEL 2 I won’t cry, no you see I won’t cry because he isn’t really gone.

RACHEL 1 I looked at my mother.

RACHEL 2 One look at her was all it took for me to break down.

RACHEL 1 I ran out of that house.

RACHEL 2 I wish I could run out of my own body.

RACHEL 1 I didn’t stop, until I couldn’t breathe.

RACHEL 2 All I could think, while I was laying there, gasping for breath.

RACHEL 1 This must’ve been what my father felt, as he lay there, dying.

RACHEL2 Alone.

RACHEL 1 I tried to get up.

RACHEL 2 I’m never going back.

RACHEL 1 I stood up.

RACHEL 2 You can’t make me.

RACHEL 1 I walked home.

RACHEL 2 Back so soon.

RACHEL 1 I went to sleep.

RACHEL 2 I cried myself to sleep that night.

RACHEL 1 I woke up the next day and just for a moment I forgot.

RACHEL 2 Then reality hit and I remembered everything.

RACHEL 1 Life goes on.

RACHEL 2 Everything.

RACHEL 1 I think I finally know what caused all of this to happen.

RACHEL 2 I know who did this.

RACHEL 1 8

We have no one to blame but ourselves.

RACHEL 2 It was them.

RACHEL 1 We fight each other, attempting to earn peace. We don’t even know what peace is.

RACHEL 2 They killed my father in cold blood.

RACHEL 1 We’re too wrapped up in ourselves to realize the toll our violence is taking on the world.

RACHEL 2 Shot a bullet through his head.

RACHEL 1 Wars can’t solve all of our problems.

RACHEL 2 They took my father.

RACHEL 1 Violence took my father.

RACHEL 2 This was no accident.

RACHEL 1 Dead.

RACHEL 2 And he’s never coming back.

RACHEL 1 I walked down the stairs.

RACHEL 2 My heart stopped.

RACHEL 1 I saw my mother.

RACHEL 2 This isn’t right.

RACHEL 1

She was sprawled out on the couch.

RACHEL 2 This isn’t her.

RACHEL 1 She had an empty bottle in her hand.

RACHEL 2 I must be dreaming.

RACHEL 1 There were ten more around her.

RACHEL 2 This isn’t real.

RACHEL 1 Broken glass littered the floor.

RACHEL 2 This can’t be right.

RACHEL 1 I sat there and watched.

RACHEL 2 What do I do?

RACHEL 1 I walked away.

RACHEL 2 What am I supposed to do?

RACHEL 1 I left her there.

RACHEL 2 I don’t feel anything.

RACHEL 1 I guess that’s life.

(Rachel 2 turns to Rachel 1)

RACHEL 2 This wasn’t supposed to happen. 10

RACHEL 1 You don’t understand.

RACHEL 2 None, of this was supposed to happen.

RACHEL 1 You still don’t understand.

RACHEL 2 We were going to be happy.

RACHEL 1 After all I’ve said you still don’t get it do you?

RACHEL 2 Get what? Get the fact that you are too self-centered to even think about someone else for two seconds? Get tha-

RACHEL 1 (Interrupting Rachel 2) No you don’t understand that pain is weakness, there’s no room for weakness here. You can cry and grieve all you want but while you sob I’ll be moving on with my life. You have to accept things for what they are. You can’t change them. You can’t change a thing! He’s dead. He’s gone, and he’s never coming back.

RACHEL 2 I can’t just accept it, don’t you see. If I don’t keep his memory alive then who will. Mother? You saw her, she’ll be lucky to even remember her own name. He didn’t have anyone else, we were everything to him, family was everything to him. What kind of family would I be if I let the memory of him die? If I move on, if I let his memory fade, he’ll be gone forever.

(With each line they step closer to one another)

RACHEL 1 He’s already gone.

RACHEL 2 Not in my heart.

RACHEL 1 That doesn’t change anything.

RACHEL 2 He’s still alive, I can keep him alive.

RACHEL 1 He’s dead!

RACHEL 2 11

Who are you?

(Silence, then lights fade)

END OF PLAY

It’s Just Begun by Eilish Koch

PLACE St. Bobby’s High School, somewhere in the United States.

TIME Present

CHARACTERS LENNOX, female, 16 years old, straight, new kid at school. JADEN, male, 16 years old, gay, pacifist. BRENT, male, 17 years old, straight, pastor’s son/homophobe.

SCENE 1

(St. Bobby’s High School hallway, LENNOX is at her locker rummaging around. JADEN walks up and stands behind her open locker door. He is wearing a hat. LENNOX, books in arm, closes her locker and sees JADEN.)

LENNOX AHHH! Oh, you scared me.

JADEN Oh, sorry. Lennox, right? I’m Jaden. I was new last year. Do you want to be friends?

LENNOX (Laughs) Do you have any idea how weird that sounds?

JADEN (Grins) I hope not that weird, I wouldn’t want my new friend to think I’m a weirdo.

LENNOX I’ve known you for thirty seconds.

(LENNOX drops her books and leans to pick them up.)

JADEN (Bends to help LENNOX pick up her books) Here, let me help you with that.

(LENNOX and JADEN reach for the same book. JADEN touches LENNOX’s hand)

LENNOX (Stares at their hands, then jerks back) Dude… do you like me or something?

JADEN (Surprised) What? NO! Of course not!

(LENNOX looks offended)

JADEN

I didn’t mean that! It’s just that-- you’re not my type!

LENNOX Oh, really? Then what is your type? Real life Barbie dolls with glitter for brains?

JADEN No! Not that! It’s just... no.

LENNOX Then what? What’s your type?

JADEN (Pauses) You’re not my … you’re not a boy.

LENNOX What?

JADEN If anything, I think you’re very pretty.

LENNOX (Embarrassed) Oh… thanks, I guess. Umm…

JADEN It’s fine. That was kind of awkward on both ends. Well, we had our unbreakable friendship tested, and we passed with flying colors! We will be BFF’s forever.

LENNOX (Amused) Well, that isn’t creepy at all…

JADEN (Laughs) Yeah… You know, you’re taking it a lot better than some other people.

LENNOX What do you mean?

JADEN I’ve lost about fifty percent of my “friends” because I’m gay. And I get a lot of crap at school.

LENNOX But… that stuff’s over. Gay people have equal rights.

JADEN We can get married, but we don’t have equal rights yet.

LENNOX There was a gay flag on the white-house. Can’t get much more equal than that.

JADEN Look, I get bullied at here at school, my cousin and his husband have gotten fired from many jobs, haven’t been hired at all for other jobs.

LENNOX (Rolls her eyes) You just want attention. Look, I am totally fine with gay people. You don’t need to convince me.

JADEN That’s not what I’m trying to do!

LENNOX

I’m your friend. You don’t have to keep playing the pity card.

JADEN

(Voice quivering) Daniel and Mark got attacked! Because they were holding hands! Being husbands. They were punished and life is crap.

LENNOX (Disconcerted) Oh- okay. Who are Mark and Daniel?

JADEN My cousin and his husband. I live with them. They are my family.

LENNOX

Oh… what happened to your parents?

JADEN Car crash. I-I don’t want to talk about it.

(Awkward silence)

LENNOX We should probably talk or something.

JADEN (Smile falters, then drops) Lennox… we shouldn’t be friends.

LENNOX

What? Are you serious? You just asked to be my friend in the weirdest possible way ever.

JADEN We shouldn’t be friends. We can’t be friends. I don’t know why I said “Hi” to you. It was a mistake.

LENNOX Tell me why.

JADEN You know how I was talking about how I get bullied at school and all?

(LENNOX nods)

JADEN His name is Brent Ashwood. He’s the Pastor’s son. He’s a senior and out to get everyone who doesn’t totally fit into his beliefs. But I think he targets me because, I’m the only one who won’t fight back. Anyone who gets close to me gets close to Brent. In a very bad way.

LENNOX You’re over reacting. It can’t be that bad.

JADEN It is bad! ... (Looks over LENNOX’s shoulder off stage.) Umm, Lennox?

LENNOX Yeah?

JADEN Could you walk away from me?

(LENNOX makes a WTF face)

JADEN Please, Lennox.

(LENNOX shrugs, walks across the hall and turns to watch Jaden open his locker. Brent enters)

BRENT Hiya sissy-boy!

JADEN (Turns to face BRENT) “Sissy-boy?” What happened to “Devil worshipping swine?”

BRENT Hey, no hats at school! (Grabs JADEN’s hat and puts it on his own head)

JADEN (Stiffens but takes a deep breath) Could you please return my hat?

BRENT That was almost polite. You don’t fool me. My Pop’s gave a sermon about you freaks and your unnatural ways, and I thought to myself: “Self, what am I doing letting one of these monsters run free at my school?” So, you know what? Now I’m gonna make you good. No matter how long it takes. You’ll thank me for this later. I’m gonna do my Daddy proud and make you right.

JADEN (Turns his back to BRENT) Whatever. You can keep the hat.

BRENT (Shoves JADEN into his locker) Coward! Fight like a man!

(JADEN turns to face BRENT, shakes his head and tries to walk away. BRENT shoves him again, knocking the breath out of him. JADEN slumps to the ground.)

JADEN I’m… not going to… fight you, Brent.

BRENT You’re such a girl!

JADEN (Grins weakly) That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.

(BRENT snarls, then grabs JADEN by the collar and pushes him against the lockers.)

BRENT You, me, after school. The one who walks out on both legs is the real man. You see, I may be on the side of the angels, but don’t think for one moment, that I am one of them.

JADEN I don’t need to (choke) prove myself to you, Brent. I. Won’t. Fight.

BRENT Just because you won’t be a man, doesn’t mean I won’t.

(BRENT stalks away, shoving random students. JADEN sways on his feet, breathing heavily. LENNOX rushes up and sits him on the floor.)

JADEN Patak!

LENNOX Oh my god! Wait-- did you just curse in Klingon?

JADEN Umm, yeah.

LENNOX 17

You are my other half.

JADEN (Laughs weakly then takes a sharp intake of pained breath, holding his side) Ughhh...

LENNOX Are you okay?!?

JADEN (Breathing heavily) No?

LENNOX

I can’t believe he just did that.

JADEN You gotta get out of here. Before Brent comes back. (Pushes LENNOX away.)

LENNOX No.

JADEN

I don’t want you to become one of Brent’s targets.

LENNOX No. He cannot just get away with that. I am never letting you be bullied again. I promise.

JADEN You know, he isn’t really bad.

LENNOX Did you miss the part when he shoved you up against the wall?!!?

JADEN He’s just scared.

LENNOX He’s a homophobic jerk!

JADEN Do you know what the word “homophobic” really means? To be scared of homosexuals.

LENNOX He hates you.

JADEN He believes that gay people will burn in hell. And anyone who stands with them will too. Do you have any idea how terrifying that must be? The idea of burning in hell for eternity? And the thought that his church might be 18

wrong about the world. That his religion could be wrong. That his own father could be wrong. His whole way of life. It’s scary.

LENNOX That’s hardly an excuse...

JADEN And if he became friends with someone who’s gay, he would have to go home to his Church, to his father, and answer to them. What he’s doing is terrible, but he’s not an evil guy. He has reasons.

LENNOX Being scared is not a justification for hurting people.

JADEN It’s just the way things are.

LENNOX Not anymore.

SCENE 2

(Deserted school hallway, after school, JADEN and LENNOX are at his locker. JADEN is frantically rummaging around in it, muttering to himself. LENNOX is holding their backpacks looking very impatient/exasperated)

LENNOX Dude, it’s way too late to still be at school. Come on, you can use my phone. You’ll find yours tomorrow.

JADEN Daniel’s gonna kill me if I lose another one!

LENNOX Another one? How many cell phones have you lost?

JADEN Umm… too many. Like, twelve.

LENNOX … Jaden ... How do you lose twelve?

JADEN (Shrugs sheepishly) Yes! Found it! (Triumphantly hold up phone and slips it into his backpack)

(BRENT enters.)

BRENT Hello, Jaden. And who do we have here? (Gestures to LENNOX)

JADEN 19

Leave her out of this. (JADEN steps in front of BRENT, blocking his view of LENNOX)

BRENT Why, is she with you?

(Grabs JADEN’s shoulder and shoves him into the lockers. LENNOX drops the backpacks and hurries forward into a protective position between BRENT and JADEN)

BRENT Sweetheart, are you a Believer? What are you doing with a stain like that?

LENNOX (Shakily reaches for her phone in her pocket) Get away from us.

(JADEN struggles to his feet)

BRENT No need for your phone, sweetheart. I’m not going to hurt you.

LENNOX (Pulls out her phone) Get. Away. Now.

BRENT (Steps away, smiling) Look, I have nothing against you... Lennox, isn’t it? But I’m sorry. Doing this for your own good. I’m saving you.

LENNOX

Wha--?

(BRENT grabs LENNOX’s phone and tosses it aside and shoves LENNOX out of the way. LENNOX falls and hits her head. She tries to sit up, but falls back again, holding her head. BRENT strides over to JADEN, grabbing the front of his shirt and lifting his fist as if he is going to punch him.)

BRENT Looks like I won.

JADEN

You won’t ever win. You can hurt me. But that doesn’t change me. You can’t change me. I won.

(BRENT snarls, then lowers his fist)

JADEN You don’t really want to hurt me. Remember, when we were science partners? When you and I weren’t at odds? Look, I know you are scared of what will happen if you don’t hate people like me. But… Trust me, you don’t want to hurt me. 20

BRENT (Face hardens, then he smiles) No? (Lets go of JADEN’s shirt and uses both hands to push JADEN offstage.)

BRENT And look, I win. (Walks offstage)

LENNOX (Fumbles around on the ground and holds up her phone. She quickly dials) H-Hello? I’m at my school, St. Bobby’s. My friend was just pushed down the stairs. I can’t see him, but he fell down the stairs, so I’m pretty sure he’s hurt. I hit my head pretty bad too… Yes. His name is Bent Ashwood… No, he-he’s still here. He doesn’t seem to want to hurt me. It’ll take him a while to leave, though… Yeah, (Nods) yeah.

LENNOX (Struggles to her feet and staggers off stage. After a pause) J-Jaden?

SCENE 3

(Semi-crowded school hall, JADEN is at his locker with a cast on his arm. LENNOX walks up. JADEN closes his locker and turns towards her. She punches him in the un-casted arm)

JADEN Ow! Oh, hey, Lennox.

LENNOX I haven’t seen you in a month! All I get is an “Oh, hey?!”

JADEN After I got discharged from the hospital I just couldn’t. Do… life. I needed some down time.

LENNOX (Looks around exasperatedly then hugs JADEN) It’s okay. You needed some space. I’m just glad you’re okay.

JADEN Yeah… yeah. Are you okay?

LENNOX Umm, yeah. I guess I am okay. I told the cops what happened… and it was kind of scary, but they were really nice about it. You know, not all cops are racist and sexist and abuse their power.

JADEN Okay… are we good?

LENNOX 21

(Sighs sadly) Listen, I am so, SO sorry. I was supposed to be protecting you.

JADEN You did everything you could. Don’t you ever apologize to me for being my best friend. Do you hear me? Not ever.

LENNOX I-- am I really your best friend?

JADEN Well, yeah.

LENNOX You’re mine too.

JADEN Glad that’s settled. (Takes LENNOX’s hand) You know, I’m really sorry that I dragged you into this.

LENNOX It’s just that… after the marriage equality ruling, I thought that it was all okay. I thought that everyone had equal rights. It’s kind of funny how the world can all of a sudden tumble down around you.

JADEN Lennox…

LENNOX No, I’m glad I know the truth. The fight isn’t over. It might be one day, but until then, we gotta keep going. This won’t happen again. I won’t let it… We can’t let it. Because the fight isn’t over. It’s just begun.

(JADEN drops LENNOX’s hand. LENNOX grabs his hand again. JADEN smiles, LENNOX smiles weakly, then her smile drops. They walk of stage hand in hand. The curtains close.)

END OF PLAY

lol k.

By Ainsley Leof

CHARACTERS CANDACE, 13years old, likes Jeremy. JEREMY, 13 years old, likes Candace.

TIME Now

PLACE Suburbia

(All dialogue is as if typing on phone through text unless otherwise noted. Lights up On Candace Jeremy sitting in chairs facing the audience. As if in their own bedrooms.)

JEREMY

Hey. Sent

CANDACE

Uh who is this? Send.

JEREMY

Jeremy, send. You know from school? Send.

CANDACE

Oh, then, Hey. Sent How’d you get my number? Send.

JEREMY

Mae gave it to Anthony and Anthony gave it to me. Sent.

CANDACE

(To audience) This is weird, like, really weird. I’ve never talked to him in my life. But man, is he cute. (Looks back at phone starts to type) Oh that’s cool. Send, This is Candace btw.

JEREMY

How are you? Letter ‘r’ and letter ‘u’ no question mark. Send.

CANDACE

Tired, and good. Smiley face emoji. Sent. What about you? Wait no. W-b-u question makr. Send. (Looks straight at audience) Uh Don’t give me that look! I mean it means the same things and, like, less letters so…might as well.

JEREMY

Number two much homework, wait actually ‘H-m-w-k.’ Sent. (Looks at audience) I mean, I’m gonna be a professional basketball player. Who needs school?

CANDACE

Same. Sad face, not the emoji. Sent. (To audience) Yeah, it’s a lot of work to go over to the –er—back panel thing with the little two dots, you know like the one that looks like the winkie face eye, but like not squished— COLON! That’s what it’s called. Maybe I should pay attention in English, or nah.

JEREMY

Seriously. Sent. It’s like they’re trying to drown us or something. Send.

CANDACE

Lol true. Minus the ‘e.’ Sent. (puts phone down) Jeremy’s so great. And cute, I mean who would have thought that bad hygiene, a low quality attitude, and saggy pants would leave me loopy, but they do. Ooohhh, he responded. (In a low voice) “Did you see that funny post I tagged you in I died?” I should wait to respond. Yeah. That’s good, play hard to get.

JEREMY

(Puts phone down) Candace is hilarious. I mean….Wow. I don’t think she’d like me though. I’ve got no personal hygiene, a low quality attitude, and I always sag. And she’s not texting me back. Maybe, she didn’t see the post. She may be on her (mocking voice) ‘Social Media Cleanse.’ It’s actually so stupid. Like why have an Instagram if you’re not gonna be active. It’s not gonna make you some saint who’s above all of middle school.

CANDACE

(Glances at phone) Okay, that actually wasn’t very funny. And it kind of objectified women, but what else would you expect from an eighth grade boy? Messages: Jeremy: I DIED. In all caps. Sent.

JEREMY

The internet is godlike.

CANDACE

Debatable.

JEREMY

(Looks straight at audience)

I’m a teen the internet is my home. And I it’s chill, I mean, it’s who I am. (Starts texting) I get you. Letter ‘u,’ of course, sent.

CANDACE

I mean I love a good relatable teen post as much as the girl, sent.

JEREMY

Yeah. Send. Some of those are funny (looks at audience) NO. They’re stupid. It’s all about, like, hair and stuff. Girls are dumb.

CANDACE

I get what you mean…I relate to a lot of them though. Sent. 25

JEREMY

Random question. Sent.

CANDACE

Fire, send.

JEREMY

What? Wait, no I’ll just send a couple of question marks. Done.

CANDACE

Fire, like shoot, give me the question. (Looks at the audience) My god he’s stupid.

JEREMY

What would your theme song be?

CANDACE

I couldn’t choose just one. Send. Probably something Britney tbh. Sent.

JEREMY

(To audience) Britney Spears. That’s weird. Isn’t she like a joke? (Turns back to phone) Like, send, Spears, send.

CANDACE

Lol yeah. Sent. What would yours be? Send.

JEREMY

Something Drake. Sent.

CANDACE

(Puts phone down)

Oh my god. I hate middle school. Everyone is the exact same. I mean I am too, I put my Uggs on one foot at a time just like everyone else, but still, it’s annoying when all you see is Nike and all you hear is Drake and Fetty and The Weeknd. Maybe it’s part of growing up in America, dealing with the basicness. But being basic is fun so I guess I’ll keep it up.

(Picks up phone)

Drake’s chill. Sent.

JEREMY

His sound is so original. Send.

(They sit in silence for an awkward 30 seconds staring at phone)

Yeah, so, um, another weird question. Sent. Do you like anyone? Send.

CANDACE

Like, like anyone?

JEREMY

Yeah, that.

CANDACE

One person. Send. (Looks at audience) Or at least I thought that I did but, I mean, this conversation isn’t going very good.

JEREMY

Dude, that sucks.

CANDACE

Do you like anyone? Sent.

JEREMY

Yeah. Lol. I’m a teen boy, what would you expect? Sent. (To audience) Well, I like her. Or…I think I do. I really don’t know anymore.

CANDACE

Idk. Just returning the question.

JEREMY

Who do you like.

CANDACE

And why would I tell you that?

JEREMY

Because we’re friends. Dot dot dot. Sent.

CANDACE

I’ve only told Mae. And that’s because she swore on her unborn children that she’d keep it a secret. And we’ve been friends for 13 years. But mostly the unborn children.

JEREMY

What if I swear on my unborn children?

CANDACE

Ha ha ha ha. You? Kids? You’ll probably need a girlfriend first. 28

JEREMY

Shut up. Middle finger emoji. Sent.

CANDACE

Wow, dot dot dot, harsh, dot dot dot. Sent.

JEREMY

What if I swear that if I tell anyone you can tell the whole school mine? Sent.

CANDACE

Then I need to know yours.

JEREMY

Then let’s send them at the same time.

CANDACE

On 3. Send.

JEREMY AND CANDACE

It’s you. Sent. (Looking at phone but not typing) “It’s you.” Read.

CANDACE

Well this is awkward. Sent.

JEREMY

Yeah lol. Sent.

CANDACE

(Puts down phone) Wow. Just wow. They never tell you that a relationship could be so simple. (Buzz. Picks up phone. In low voice) “You like wanna date?” Let’s see um do I want to date him. I think I do. I mean I like him. He’s kind of annoying and we have alike nothing in common. But I mean DATE. Will my parents let me? Does it matter? I guess I’ll say yes, I mean what could go wrong?

JEREMY

Will she say yes? I hope she does. I mean a girlfriend would be great. But can I be a good boyfriend? I already asked and they say once it’s on the internet it’s there forever. (Buzz. In a high voice) “That would be chill” (Voice back to normal) Oh My God, yes! This is what I’m waiting for, a girlfriend, finally. (Picks up phone and starts texting) K then we’re dating. Sent.

CANDACE

Lol, k. Send. This is awkward. Sent.

JEREMY

Yeah it is. Sent.

CANDACE

I’m pumped that we’re dating. Send.

JEREMY

Me too. Wait no, the number 2.

CANDACE

(To audience) Okay so if today’s Tuesday. Then we have school tomorrow. We NEVER talk at school. We don’t even have any classes together. Will he talk to me? He better talk to me. Okay I’ll just send a smile, not the emoji, and then we’ll see how the rest of the conversation goes. Sent.

JEREMY

I should sleep. Send.

CANDACE

(To audience) Thank god. (Back to phone) G-d-n-t. Sent.

JEREMY

Night. Sent. Hearts trading places emoji, sent.

CANDACE

Heart wrapped in bow emoji, send.

JEREMY

(Sighs) Blue heart emoji, sent. (To audience) This is a lot of work, just for some little hearts.

CANDACE

Purple heart emoji, sent. (To audience) I’m not gonna be the one to send the red heart. It’s, like, the most romantic emoji out of all of the emojis. (Rolls eyes, and looks at audience as if she sees that they think that emojis aren’t romantic.) This is how we communicate, it’s like a box of chocolate and some flowers, just they’re pixels. (Questioning) Pixels are cute? (Reassuring herself) Yeah, pixels are cute.

JEREMY

Green heart.

CANDACE

Pink heart with an arrow through it.

JEREMY

Red heart emoji, sent.

(CANDACE appears slightly shocked as lights fade to black.)

END OF PLAY

Park Bench by Thisby Loomis

CHARACTERS MARY, 20, women, likes to go to the park every day. JIM/HOMELESS MAN, 42, man, likes to talk to everyone he meets.

TIME Present

PLACE Public Park

HOMELESS MAN

I should introduce myself, my name is Jim.

MARY

My name is... um.... uh… my name is... (Looks at ground) Daisy! My name is Daisy.

JIM

Well that’s a nice name.

MARY

Uh... Thank you?

JIM

Did you know you are a terrible liar “Daisy”?

MARY

How did you know I was lying?

JIM

Just a guess. So you were lying?

MARY

Yeah, my real name is Mary.

JIM

That’s much nicer than Daisy.

MARY

Thanks?

JIM

If you don’t mind my asking why did you lie to me?

MARY

You’re a complete stranger! Ever since I was a little kid it was drilled into my head that I shouldn't talk to strangers.

JIM

(Chuckles) Well, that’s true but I trusted you.

MARY

Well… umm… I…

JIM

Yes?

MARY

I didn’t trust you because you are a complete stranger who randomly sat next to me.

JIM

On a PUBLIC park bench.

MARY

What?

JIM

I sat next to you on a public park bench, keyword public.

MARY

Ok, so it’s a public bench. That doesn’t mean you have to start talking to me.

JIM

I’m just your friendly everyday guy just trying to start a conversation.

MARY

Ok, ok you win Mr. Friendlyeverydayguyjusttryingtostartaconversation.

JIM

(Sarcastically) Appreciate the nick name.

MARY

And I appreciate the sarcasm.

JIM

You’re Welcome!

MARY

You are the most interesting homeless man I have ever met!

JIM

Ah ha! There it is!

MARY

What? What is IT?

JIM

You said I was the most interesting HOMELESS MAN you ever met.

MARY

So? It was meant as a compliment.

JIM

Yes I know. And thank you by the way.

MARY

Then what’s the problem?!

JIM

I never told you I was homeless.

MARY

Oh... I’m sorry.

JIM

You don’t have to apologize.

MARY

THEN WHY DID YOU POINT IT OUT IN THE FIRST PLACE!

JIM

Because I was wondering, did the fact that I am homeless have any effect on you not telling me your name?

MARY

Um… Well… I...Uh...

JIM

Please, do go on.

MARY

Fine! Ok, I’m sorry. I it did because I didn’t trust a stranger.

JIM

Mm, hmmm, is that all?

MARY

Yes, in fact it is.

JIM

I think you didn’t trust me because you think I’m homeless.

MARY

Well aren’t you homeless?

JIM

That is beside the point.

MARY

WHAT IS THE POINT?!?!

JIM

The point is that you don’t seem to trust homeless people.

MARY

The point is that you are suspicious of everyone and a jerk!

JIM

Hey that’s just offensive!

MARY

Too bad so sad… So you are homeless?

JIM

Yes I am.

MARY

So, why are making such a big deal out of this!?

JIM

Because you didn’t leave as soon as I sat down.

MARY

Why does that matter?

JIM

If you don’t trust homeless people then why didn’t you leave when I sat down?

MARY

Because that’s just rude!

JIM

Ok, then why didn’t you make an excuse and leave?

MARY

I’m sorry if I was just trying to be nice!

JIM

Why?

MARY

Why what?

JIM

Why were you trying to be nice?

MARY

You don’t want me to be nice?

JIM

No, I want to know WHY you were being nice when it was obvious you were uncomfortable.

MARY

Because I thought maybe you just wanted to talk.

JIM

That was exactly what I wanted to do!

MARY

Oh...

END OF PLAY

Under an Overpass

By Alex Silva

(Gus and Sam are home under an overpass looking up at the stars.)

GUS I like looking up at the stars. I think if I look long enough, they'll begin to have meaning. Do you think that'll happen?

SAM I don't know, kid. I've been out here a long time. The stars have never shown me what to do. (Silence)

GUS Maybe the moon has meaning? All those holes. Couldn't they mean something?

SAM The only person who tells me what to do is him. (Points to his head)

GUS (Sighs) I don't know. (Long pause) I'm hungry. You got anything to eat?

SAM I have a carrot.

GUS Lemme have it. (Sam grabs the carrot and starts eating) Where'd you get it?

SAM The community garden. They're very generous there. 39

GUS Is it clean?

SAM Son, it's a carrot.

GUS In grade school they talked about how being clean makes you live a long, healthy life; maybe I'm wrong. It was a long time ago. Do you remember going to school?

SAM I was an apprentice, but I don't like to talk about it.

GUS That was a good carrot.

SAM You know that got me thinking.

GUS About what?

SAM Some form of entertainment.

GUS A movie?

SAM No...

GUS A song?

SAM No. I remember listening to the gardeners talking about something they were going to see...

GUS A play?

SAM That's it, a play... 40

GUS My parents never had enough money to take me to one of those. (Long pause) Maybe we went to the circus once...

SAM God I'm hungry. Do you have any more of that carrot, kid?

GUS I ate it.

SAM (Feeling around in his pockets) I thought I had a dollar in here somewhere. I'm in the mood for something hot. (Pause)

GUS I would still go to a play.

SAM Here it is. A dollar. (Thinks) A hot dog would do right now; it's a quick walk to the convenience store around the corner.

GUS You going somewhere?

SAM (Thinks) No.

GUS Good. (Silence)

SAM I am hungry.

GUS Maybe it would have a pretty lady in it. I always wanted to meet a pretty lady.

SAM 41

You still talking about that play?

GUS Yeah.

SAM Face it, kid, it's never gonna happen. You live, here you die here--that's how it goes.

GUS That could change.

SAM Maybe going to the convenience store is a good idea.

GUS Maybe. (Silence. Truck noise, getting closer)

GUS Are trucks supposed to come this way?

SAM Beats me.

GUS Do you think we should get up?

SAM Probably not. Are you sure you don't have any more of that carrot?

GUS I said, I ate it! (Sound of a truck stopping, doors opening, John enters. He looks around and yells out:)

JOHN Hello, I have come to your rescue!

GUS Should I be worried?

SAM Probably not. 42

(Pause)

JOHN Hello, anyone here?

SAM Just sit tight. This shouldn't take long

JOHN Oh! Hello there. (Pauses to look at Sam and Gus) You look like you're recovering from hard times. I know how it is. I remember when the stock market crashed. I lost over a million dollars. But of course I got through it. You boys look like you weren't so lucky.

GUS (Whispering) Should I go talk to him?

SAM I wouldn't.

JOHN Can I offer you gentlemen anything? (Looks at Sam) You look like someone who could use a snack. Intuition you know.

SAM I'm not hungry.

JOHN Oh (Pause--John looks around awkwardly) Lovely place?

GUS Is he serious?

SAM I wouldn't talk to him.

JOHN Do you mind if I stop and rest for a minute? 43

GUS Not at all.

SAM This wasn't my idea.

JOHN Well, this place is a mess.

GUS It's not that bad.

SAM I've seen worse.

JOHN Well boys, from my past experience I'd say that a new tuxedo for a party always cures what ails you. (Pause)

GUS What's up with this guy?

SAM Beats me.

GUS Maybe he can spare some change. (Speaks loudly) Excuse me? Do you think you could spare a few cents for the bare necessities?

JOHN Ah, the great man speaks. The poobah of under the bridge (laughs)

GUS It was worth a shot.

SAM I told you not to talk.

JOHN Is this your laundry pile? 44

GUS Maybe.

JOHN Well, frankly it's disgusting. What I think will solve your problem, boys, is... some dry cleaning coupons.

GUS Isn't that the clean laundry pile?

SAM Do you still have that carrot?

GUS I said I ate it.

JOHN I did a quick walk around, and I surprised myself in finding that your swampy abode has excellent feng shui.

SAM I think his truck is sinking in the mud.

GUS (Loudly) Is that your truck? Excuse me, I think it may be sink...

JOHN If I could turn this swamp into a dog park, then the money would really start flowing in for you. Gold-lined poop bags, boys, gold-lined poop bags. The real ticket.

GUS I'm going to have a closer look at his vehicle.

SAM I'm not stopping you. (Gus gives Sam a dirty look and exits offstage towards the car)

JOHN Oh, is that my truck you're talking about? Well, boys, you are looking at a one-of-a-kind 2016 Cadillac Escalade. (Yells off stage) Please don't touch it! I just had it washed. 45

GUS Well where should I wash my hands?

JOHN I don't know, the sink?

SAM Humpf.

JOHN I really think we should get to know each other better. I am a one-of-a-kind human being. An admirer of the arts. A small man with a big heart trying to make a difference. The things I have done in this world are far beyond your primitive state and almost too numerous to name. They include climbing Mt. Everest, organizing a tube sock drive for a leper colony, keeping poodles' dignity safe, administering bourbon to sick children, and, possibly most notable, the NOAH Project--Noah's Other Ark Foundation. The H is silent. Boys, at this point, I wouldn't blame you for wanting to kiss my feet. (Sam and Gus look at each other in disbelief. Silence)

GUS Boy, my feet are cold! (Gus gets an idea) May I have your shoes?

JOHN What!? Me, give my shoes to you? Oh dear, oh dear. All my life I've wanted to be a gentleman. And now, being asked by the likes of you to have my shoes! Especially with my feet being as ... difficult as they are. Tasteless boys, tasteless.

GUS Nevermind.

JOHN I may have the kindness to forgive you if one of you comes over here and massages my feet. (John removes his shoes, looks around for a clean place to put them. Seeing none, he places them carefully by his side) I have awful arthritis. It just gets harder and harder to move. I've called my doctor so many times, but I just can't get an appointment. (Sam rolls his eyes)

GUS (Loudly) 46

Ugh a massage? (Whispering) Maybe that will hasten things along.

JOHN I'm thinking about suing them. What kind of health care center doesn't return MY calls? It's ridic-- (Both Gus and Sam cross to John and start massaging his feet)

GUS Do you want me to massage the heel or the tendon?

JOHN The tendon. Ah, thinking back to my childhood garden, hot summer nights with the family, and that weird uncle who was never quite right. Brought me a nutcracker. Can you believe that boys? Can you believe that! (Gus massages one of John's feet while Sam focuses on the other. What starts out to be a simple massage quickly increases in vigor until...)

JOHN Ow, that hurts! (John pulls his feet away, quickly slips his shoes back on, gets up and walks a few steps)

SAM Maybe you should leave. (John pulls out a cigarette and lights up)

GUS (Loudly) About your Cadi...

JOHN I don't want to talk. I want absolute silence while I smoke.

SAM (Angrily) I think I'll leave.

GUS Are you going somewhere?

SAM Maybe.

(Nobody moves)

GUS We could punch him! We could call it a hit and run. (laughs) (Silence)

JOHN I had a dog once.

GUS Uh oh. (Pause)

JOHN The dog's name was ... I forget, but he had small feet. I do remember that he loved to take walks. Every day at the same time he would yip and scare the cockatoo. Created quite a ruckus every afternoon at... (Looks at his watch) Oh my! Look at the time. Have to go. I have an engagement and I must shower after coming down here. Boys, I have had a wonderful time. You'll be seeing a lot of me over the next few weeks.

GUS Well, I'm excited.

SAM Humph.

JOHN I would give you my phone number, but I don't think you boys have phones. See you soon.

GUS I'm glad that's over. (Pause)

JOHN I hate this swamp!

SAM Quick! He's coming back. (John enters. Sam and Gus look like they are pretending to sleep facing away from John)

JOHN Excuse me, boys, do you think you could help a poor man get his car out of the mud? I'm willing to pay. 48

GUS A job? That's exactly what we need. Thank you!

SAM Yes, thank you.

JOHN Actually, I think I'll call a tow truck--they'll do a better job no doubt. (John exits, talking on his phone. Gus and Sam both look away, deflated)

SAM Is he gone?

GUS Yup.

SAM Good. (Long pause. Gus takes out his phone to check the time)

SAM I'm still hungry.

GUS I think the play would have a leading man in it, wouldn't it?

SAM I'm still thinking about a hot dog.

GUS Romance is always nice.

SAM The convenience store is around the corner.

GUS Are you going somewhere?

SAM Nope. 49

GUS Good.

END OF PLAY

Different, But Mostly Same By Kai Tomazawa

CAST DANIEL, a kind, Christian, eight-year-old boy DAD, a well meaning, Christian mother MOM, a well meaning, Christian father HASSAN, a funny, Muslim, eight-year-old boy HASSAN’S DAD, a kind, Muslim father HASSAN’S MOM, a sweet, Muslim mother

SCENE 1

(DAD, MOM, and DANIEL are around the dinner table with food in front of them. Dad and Mom are seated. Their heads are ducked and their hands are clasped in prayer. Daniel is standing and is facing the audience. The only light on is a spotlight on Daniel. Everything around Daniel is frozen like a picture.)

DANIEL (Breaking the fourth wall) I have a pretty normal, happy family. My Mom and Dad love me and want me to be the best, smartest, kindest person I can be. I look at them and think, Wow. They must be the perfectest people in the whole wide world.

(Daniel sits down and bows his head like his parents. Lights up. The scene comes alive.)

DAD Lord, bless this food to our nourishment, and us to Your service.

DANIEL And the ice cream sandwiches! Don’t forget those!

DAD (Chuckles) Yes, bless the ice cream sandwiches as well. In Jesus’ name, Amen. (They dig in)

DAD So, how was your day, Daniel? Anything exciting happen at school today?

DANIEL (Thinking) Ummm… (brightens) Oh! There’s a new kid in my class!

DAD Oh?

DANIEL (Excited) Yeah! (lesser so) He’s kind of weird though. He doesn’t talk much.

(Mom and Dad exchange looks and Daniel, embarrassed, ducks his head and averts his eyes)

MOM Daniel, if somebody seems “weird” to you, it only means you need to get to know them more. I’m sure he’s a very nice boy who needs a friend. I want you to do me a favor. Tomorrow, try to say hi.

DANIEL But Mom...

MOM You’ll be surprised at how much you might have in common. Can you do that for me, Bud?

DANIEL (Reluctantly) Yeah. I’ll do that. (Dad and Mom smile. Dad ruffles Daniel’s hair.)

MOM You’re just a really good kid, you know that?

SCENE 2

(HASSAN is sitting in a cafeteria table, alone, eating his lunch from a paper sack. Daniel is standing behind him, almost expectantly. Hassan doesn’t notice him. The stage is dark, except for a spotlight on Daniel. The scene around Daniel is frozen.)

DANIEL (To the audience) So there I was, standing behind the new kid. I didn't want to be there, but my mom asked me to do this and I knew I couldn't let her down. Don't worry, I thought to myself. You don't have to do a lot. You don't even have to sit down. Just say hi and leave. Just say hi.

(The scene comes alive. Daniel looks around, trying to figure out a way to let Hassan know he is there. He clears his throat, then he tries again, louder. No luck. He taps Hassan’s shoulder.)

DANIEL (Uncomfortably) Um... Hi.

HASSAN (Looks at him from head to toe) Hi.

DANIEL Hi. (Awkward pause)

HASSAN So, are you going to sit down or-

DANIEL Oh. (pause) Okay. (He sits) (There is a pause as both boys try to come up with a conversation starter or to make the scene less awkward.)

HASSAN I like your lunchbox.

DANIEL Thanks. I picked it out ‘cause red’s my favorite.

HASSAN Me too!

DANIEL Oh! Cool! (The conversation dies.)

HASSAN So, what do you have for lunch?

DANIEL Baloney. Like I have every day.

HASSAN Cool! I have noodles.

DANIEL I wish I got noodles for lunch.

HASSAN And do you know what the best part is? (He turns away and puts a noodle up one nostril. He turns back.) Look! My brains are coming out!

DANIEL (Smiling) Ewww! That’s gross! (He turns away) He rolls up the baloney and puts it in his mouth like a tongue. He turns back.

(They laugh.)

SCENE 3

(Hassan and Daniel are talking outside)

DANIEL So what should we call it?

HASSAN What about… monkeydunkey?

DANIEL (Laughs) Oh, that’s perfect!

HASSAN Okay, ready… set… go!

(The boys engage in an elaborate, complicated, maybe improvised handshake with crazy body movements and ending lots of loud “lalas”. It is silly, and seemingly meaningless. As abruptly as it begins, it ends.)

HASSAN I won! I won!

DANIEL (Trying not to laugh) No, you said to do 14 “lalas”. You only did twelve.

HASSAN Oops. (giggling) I guess we’ll have to do it again!

(They begin again, laughing.)

SCENE 4

Split Scene. On one side, Hassan’s family is seated around the table, with his mom and dad. On the other, Daniel’s family is seated in the dining room.

DANIEL (To audience. Background scene is frozen) Hassan and I became friends right away. We have so much in common, it was hard not to be. Kinda weird how the one thing we didn’t have in common was what my mom went crazy about.

(He sits down. Lights up, both families come to life. They begin by eating.)

----- HASSAN’S MOM (Concerned, to Hassan) How was your day? The kids are better? Not like last time?

HASSAN The kids are really cool. Especially this one kid, Daniel. (beat) Today, we made up a new game. It’s super fun. But it’s really hard to explain. See, it’s like a race, but not. The idea is kinda to be as crazy as possible, and to do all of the moves.

DANIEL (Starts where Hassan leaves off.) We jump, skip, run, lala, and boogie. That’s the best part. Do you want to know what the name is called?

DANIEL AND HASSAN SIMULTANEOUSLY Monkeydunkey!

DANIEL Hassan made it up.

MOM (Realizing) Hassan? What kind of name… (trails off in thought) (Incredulous) Wait, your friend is that Muslim boy? With the Muslim parents!?

DANIEL Yeah.

MOM (Getting more angry) How did I not know about this for three whole weeks?

DANIEL You never asked. You were just happy that I made a new friend.

(Daniel’s family freezes as Hassan’s comes alive and resumes the scene. Their family is more concerned than anxious. Light shift.) 55

HASSAN’S DAD (Calm, trying to explain everything to his son) The thing is, you and he are… different.

HASSAN (Trying to make sense of what his dad is saying) Do you mean they look different or do you mean...do you mean..

(Daniel’s family comes alive. Light shift.)

MOM (Uncomfortable laugh) Daniel, sometimes you’ll meet people who have different values. SO different that-

DANIEL (Confused and very upset) What? Mom, you should meet him. He’s not different, he’s just like me. In math we got the exact same score, and

MOM and HASSAN’S MOM You two are very different people, from different families.

MOM

Why don’t you go upstairs now, okay?

(Daniel trudges offstage.)

MOM (Angry, to herself) How did I not know about this??

(Daniel curiously pops his head back in, but his parents don’t notice. He takes a step in and stands in the back, listening. On the other side of the stage, Hassan’s family are conversing, silently.)

DAD Honey, you couldn’t have known. Look, it’s not like these people are going to be in our lives or affect us whatsoever. This friendship is harmless…

(Hassan’s family agree on something and hug, on the other side of the stage.)

MOM That so-called “religion” that they practice. They’re taught to hate. It’s an abomination!

SCENE 5

(We are back at the cafeteria. Hassan and Daniel are next to each other. Hassan is sitting, frozen, and Daniel is standing, facing the audience. Lights are off, except for a spotlight on Daniel.)

DANIEL (Confused look. Speaking to the audience) I don’t understand. Why is Mom so mad? Is Hassan a friend? Is he still the same or is he an (unsure of how to say the word correctly) ...abobilition?

(The scene comes alive. The lights come on. Daniel sits so Hassan and Daniel are sitting next to each other. Hassan is eating, but Daniel is looking at him, his normal clothes and his normal food, observing. Hassan looks up and notices Daniel staring at him.)

HASSAN Are you okay?

DANIEL (Still looking) I don’t know. (Shrugs)

HASSAN (Stares back at Daniel, looking to see if he is really alright.) Are kids being mean to you? I know what that’s like! If someone’s being mean to you, I’d take this bowl of soup, and pour it in their shoes!

DANIEL (Cheers up) If someone was mean to you, I would put my stinky sock in his lunchbox!

(They crack up.) (Beat.)

HASSAN Do you want a cookie?

DANIEL (He smiles.) Always.

HASSAN Good, cause my mom packed an extra. (Hands a cookie over)

(The kids freeze as the lights go out. Then, Daniel stands up towards the audience, as a spotlight shines.)

DANIEL (Smiling) Nope, Hassan’s still his same old self. Still my best friend.

SCENE 6

(Daniel and Hassan standing center stage, playing. Mom and Hassan’s Mom are on opposite sides of the stage.)

MOM (Looking at watch) We have to go now, Daniel.

DANIEL Okay! (The boys do a secret handshake. Daniel runs to Mom.)

HASSAN (Sees his mom.) Oh! My mom’s here! The two moms are facing each other and there is a tension. (Scene fades to black) ------(Mom and Daniel are sitting together.)

MOM Honey, I need to talk to you about something important. Some parents have been telling me that you have been playing with the new kid, every day. Why don’t you maybe try to play with some of the other kids?

DANIEL He’s my best friend, Mom.

MOM (Taken aback) Oh! Your best friend! Well, that seems awfully sudden. You barely even know this boy and now you’re saying he’s your best friend? Honey, real friendships take a long time to form. And, you realize that you two come from completely different worlds. You’re going to learn this sooner or later.

SCENE 7

(Daniel and Hassan are standing together. Daniel is still confused and sad. Hassan doesn’t know why.)

HASSAN (Trying to help) Do you wanna play monkeydunkey?

DANIEL No. No thanks.

HASSAN Okay.(beat)You know, when I first came to this school, my parents said that some kids might not like me because of who I am. They said some people might have the wrong idea about me. (beat) I’m glad my parents were wrong.

(Daniel smiles at Hassan.)

HASSAN (Smiling) You know, when I first saw you, I thought you were kind of weird.

DANIEL If somebody seems “weird” to you, it only means you need to get to know them more.

(The lights go out. Then, Daniel faces the audience and a spotlight shines on him.)

DANIEL Those people older than us? They seem to think they know everything about everyone. But they don’t know everything. How can they say they know someone when they’ve never gotten to know them. Hassan...well he’s my best friend. Yeah, we may be different, but we’re mostly the same. People need to look at their similarities, not their differences. (beat) Okay, I gotta go. I don’t want to be late for the world championship of monkeydunkey!

END OF PLAY