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Overview

Synopsis

For much of its recorded history, theatre has been used as a tool to illuminate societal ills. In Luna Gale, playwright Rebecca Gilman explores the difficult subject of teenage pregnancy and drug addiction in an honest narrative about two teens struggling to make the best of their circumstances. When 19-year-olds Peter and Karlie take their months-old infant Luna to the hospital for what turns out to be dehydration, they fall under the attention of veteran social worker Caroline. Crashing from a meth high, Peter is barely coherent and Karlie is beside herself because she isn’t allowed to see her daughter. A custody battle ensues between the teen parents and Karlie’s deeply religious mother, Cindy. Overworked and burned out, Caroline has to decide which side to advocate for in a system that feels like it favors no winners. A number of relevant issues intersect in Luna Gale, including child abuse, drug addiction, and teen pregnancy. These are layered and difficult topics, but with Gilman’s delicate handling, the play is a great option to spur a meaningful dialogue with audiences.

Show Information

Book
Rebecca Gilman
Category
Play
Age Guidance
Thirteen Plus (PG-13)
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
2015
Genres
Drama
Settings
Contemporary, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Present day
Cast Size
small
Orchestra Size
None
Dancing
None
Licensor
Dramatic Publishing Co.
Ideal For
College/University, Community Theatre, Ensemble Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast, Mostly Female Cast, Includes Adult, Late Teen Characters

Context

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Plot

Characters

Name Part Size Gender Vocal Part

Caroline Cox

Lead

Female

Non-singer

Peter

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Karlie

Lead

Female

Non-singer

Cindy

Supporting

Female

Non-singer

Cliff Carlson

Supporting

Male

Non-singer

Lourdes

Featured

Female

Non-singer

Pastor Jay

Featured

Male

Non-singer

Songs

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A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.

Monologues

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Scenes

All scenes are the property and copyright of their owners. Scenes are presented on StageAgent for educational purposes only. If you would like to give a public performance of this scene, please obtain authorization from the appropriate licensor.

Key Terms

    A persistent and intense urge and/or physical dependency on a drug.

    A body of government officials who are not elected and who make policy decisions.

    Emotional, physical, and/or mental exhaustion usually caused by persistent stress and overwork.

    The protective care of someone, usually a minor.

    Deep commitment to religious beliefs.

    A group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together.

Videos

Quizzes

Themes, Symbols & Motifs

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Quote Analysis

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Guide Written By:

Kevan Dunkelberg

Kevan Dunkelberg

Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright