The Book of Liz

Play

Writers: David Sedaris

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
1
First Produced
2002
Genres
Comedy, Satire
Settings
Multiple Settings
Time & Place
A religious community and the surrounding area. Present day.
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
None
Dancing
None
Ideal for
Ensemble Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes

Includes mature adult, adult characters

Synopsis

Mr. Peanut, orthodox religion, and cheeseballs may sound like strange bedfellows, but Amy and David Sedaris have found a way to smash them together in a story about piety, community, and devotion. Sister Liz is a faithful member of the Squeamish, a highly orthodox religious community obviously derived from the Amish. The Squeamish are famous for their cheeseballs, the production of which is Liz’s primary responsibility. But when the community’s leader, Reverend Tollhouse, orders Liz to turn over the recipe to the newly-arrived Brother Brightbee, she decides that it’s time to leave the confines of the tightly-knit community once and for all. What follows is her journey to discover a new life and a new identity while struggling to reconcile her religious doctrine with the realities of the outside world.

As much a series of comic sketches as it is a play, The Book of Liz is a rapid-fire tongue-in-cheek satire with opportunities for tour-de-force comedic performances.

Lead Characters


The Book of Liz guide sections