Step into the intricate web of familial dynamics with these three captivating one-act plays, each poignantly reflecting the complexities that define family bonds. As the curtains rise, you'll find yourself immersed in narratives that resonate deeply, perhaps mirroring the dynamics of your family or those you've encountered.
In the first act, we delve into the gripping tale of a possessive mother whose love for her son borders on obsession. Faced with the prospect of sharing her son's affection with another woman, she becomes a force of destruction, tearing at the very fabric of their relationship. Through her chilling portrayal, we confront the lengths to which familial love can be twisted and warped.
Next, we encounter the intriguing interplay between two sisters, each embodying contrasting facets of femininity and culture. As the "cultured" sister seeks to mend the estrangement with her more "earthy" sibling, a hidden agenda emerges, revealing the intricate layers of envy, desire, and manipulation that underlie their seemingly ordinary interactions. In their quest for reconciliation, they unearth buried truths that redefine the meaning of sisterhood.
Finally, we are introduced to the prodigal son, whose return ignites a maelstrom of emotions within his family. Armed with a potent mix of charm and guilt, he manipulates his way back into their lives, demanding attention and catering to his every whim. Yet, beneath the surface lies a tumultuous struggle for acceptance and belonging as each member grapples with their own demons and desires.
These riveting portrayals remind us that family is a tapestry woven from the threads of love, loyalty, and longing. Despite their flaws and imperfections, these characters are bound together by a shared heritage, a common history, and an unbreakable bond that transcends their trials. Ultimately, they are not just relatives—they are family, united by the intricate dance of cultural dynamics; they are ...Kinfolks.
kinfolks Breakdowns
CASTING AND CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS
Each of the stories were written with African American actors in mind, however, except for
Daisy Horne, the plays could be cast with actors of any race.
THE STAGE MOTHER; A LOVE STORY: SET IN LATE 1980’s
MOTHER - Female, Mid 30’s.
She is street wise, brash, pushy and outspoken but she loves her son deeply and wants to totally
control and possess him. She dresses in somewhat flashy/tacky and maybe a little sexy,
cheap, poor quality clothing. She is jealous and critical of anyone who
has what she wants. She is a person who will always find an excuse to justify her actions no matter how bad. She has had some tough times but she has a strong spirit and will fight her way through her many bad decisions.
ASA – Male, about 19 years of age.
He has a youthful build. He dresses in the
everyday casual clothes of a young man during that time period (about 1989) - oversized jeans
and a white t-shirt. He is a good kid, decent. He has a good heart and loves his mother but he
also wants to have love in his life.
CATHOLIC GIRLS: SET IN EARLY OR MID-1970’s
MARGUEX – Female, late 20’s to early 30’s.
She is a second-grade teacher at the Catholic
school. She is attractive and well-groomed with a straightened hairdo, polished nails, an
attractive office outfit and heels. She is very arrogant, pretentious and condescending to
anyone who she considers to be beneath her. She tries to be part of the upper echelon of
society but she is a phony and a hanger on. She wants to be envied and admired. She imagines
herself married to a very successful and wealthy man who adores her. She hates animals,
unless it would be a rare and expensive pet that is coveted by the wealthy.
CARRIE – Female, mid-to-late 20’s.
She is not as concerned about her appearance, dresses more like a hippy. She has unruly hair or wears a scarf.
She is open, happy friendly, goofy, forgetful, disorganized, down to earth, empathetic and easy to talk to. She makes friends with most people. She is artistic and a free spirit.
WISHBONE – Male, any age between late 20’s to late 50’s.
He is a janitor at the school.
Dressed in regular janitorial wear. A kind man who is used to cleaning up after others
GIVE A LITTLE/GIVE A LOT: SET IN RECENT TIMES
SARAH – Female, early 30’s.
Attractive, professional woman. Dressed in office attire. She is a
kind, caring person, kind but worrisome.
CAPONZO (“CAPE”) - Male, early 20’s.
He is adventurous but he is lazy, careless, reckless and
manipulative. He is dressed in pajamas and maybe a stocking cap. He may be aware that he is
taking advantage of his sister but he will not stop as long as it is allowed.
DEVON – Female, any age from late 20’s to late 50’s.
She is abrasive and outspoken. She may have been a smoker and heavy drinker at some point.
You would expect to see her working at a dive bar or bowling alley rather than in a mortgage
office. She knows how to handle rough customers. She wears casual, non-descript bland office attire.
DAISY HORNE - (Monologue): - SET IN SUMMER 1968
DAISY HORNE – Black female, appears to be about 19-years old to early 20’s. She is a sweet
girl, very old-fashioned and country but she has a strength and determination. She is dressed in
a plain cotton dress, flat shoes, straw hat (maybe with some small daisy flowers in the brim),
short white gloves and she carries a purse, a 60’s style purse, sweater and one small suitcase.