Overview
Synopsis
The Giver is a stage adaptation of Lois Lowry’s award-winning novel. In the near future, 12-year-old Jonas lives in a society of Sameness, with no color, climate, or emotional depth. Nobody experiences pain, but nobody experiences joy either, an apparent utopia where everything and everyone is completely equal. But when Jonas is selected as the next Receiver of Memory, his eyes are opened to a world he has never known and a devastating truth forces him to make a decision that could change his community forever. With flexible casting options, minimal tech requirements, and a challenging role for a young actor, it’s an ideal option for middle and high school theatres.
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Context
The Giver is an adaptation of Lois Lowry’s 1993 dystopian novel of the same name. Set in the near future, the story revolves around 12-year-old Jonas and his discovery of life before Sameness eliminated color, climate, and emotional depth from society. The novel is part of many middle school curriculums in the United States but is often challenged or banned from school libraries. It ranked #61 on the American Library Association’s most recent list of the most challenged books, which covered
to read the context for The Giver and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Plot
In darkness, a plane roars overhead. A voice announces that there is no cause for alarm—a pilot simply made a wrong turn and tried to find his way back before anyone noticed. Because of this, he will be released. The lights come up on Father and Mother eating dinner with their children, seven-year-old Lily and 11-year-old Jonas. They wear comfortable gray clothes in a harsh white light, representing a colorless world. As is routine, they share their feelings. Jonas describes being apprehensive
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Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in The Giver.
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Key Terms
An adaptation is a reworking of a story from one medium or cultural context into another, such as turning a novel into a play or updating a classic play’s setting. Adaptations often reinterpret themes, characters, and style for new audiences. They can range from faithful recreations to bold reimaginings.
A dramatic setting depicting a repressive future society, used to explore political and philosophical themes.
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Guide Written By:
Kevan Dunkelberg
Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright