Ideas from the Playwright

Idea for a musical, “Requiem!“ Based on the 2000 sleeper hit Requiem for a Dream. It’s about time we got back to dealing with real issues in a song and dance format.

A short tribute to Beckett. Ten chairs are set in a row facing the audience. Actors assemble, sit motionless for 45 minutes, then leave for intermission. Upon return, only six are left who sit silently for the remaining 30 minutes. Title: “The Trial of Sir Francis Drake.”

There is nothing more boring than A Christmas Carol. Idea for a rewrite: “Ebenezer and Bob.” Really bring out the suppressed homo-eroticism between this pair. I want to really blow this story wide open. Dialog: “Oh, Mr. Scrooge, don’t treat me so harshly!” “You’ll take it and like it, Bobby Boy. Don’t you fucking look at me! Get that nasty tongue back to work.” Yes, I like it. Then Marley shows up in Ebenezer’s bedroom? Dickens is serving this up on a platter.

Cats 2: Dogs

Character study of a struggling artist or writer. The trials and tribulations of choosing the road less travelled. Yes. The opportunities lost for the dream of fame. No, not fame, the dream of impressing people and getting laid.
Dialogue: Manager: “Donny, we’d like to talk to you about an opening as assistant manager at the Starbucks on Oak.”
Donny: “The one across from the bowling alley?”
Manager: “No.”
Donny: “The one next to the Kinko’s in the strip mall?”
Manager: “Nope, it’s—“
Donny: “—I know, the one across the street from the one by the Kinko’s.”
Manager: “No, it’s the one inside the Ben and Jerry’s.”
Donny: “I’m sorry, Brad. I’ve got to keep my hours flexible so I can follow my dream of becoming a famous playwright and getting laid.”
Manager: “I understand completely. Do you need any money to help you get your start?”

An impressionist piece, fabulous costumes, mostly communicated through motion, heavy choreography and possibly wire work, based on my favorite poem, “The Red Wheelbarrow.” Possibly Mandy Patinkin in the title role.