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Overview

Synopsis

Manipulation is the name of the game in Gina Gionfriddo’s character-driven Becky Shaw. Whether they’re conscious of it or not, every character manipulates to get what they want (usually what they want is the dependence of another person). When the sensitive Andrew sets up his strange co-worker Becky on a date with the caustic Max, things seem to start well. But the evening quickly goes horribly wrong and the ensuing emotional tidal wave forces passions and secrets to collide. Crafted with a level of ambiguity, Becky Shaw will invariably provoke lively audience responses and conversations about blame, manipulation, and who owes what to who.

Show Information

Book
Gina Gionfriddo
Category
Play
Age Guidance
Mature Audiences (M)
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
2008
Genres
Dark Comedy, Drama
Settings
Contemporary, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
New York City, Providence, and Boston. 2009.
Cast Size
small
Orchestra Size
None
Dancing
None
Licensor
Dramatists Play Service
Ideal For
College/University, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast, Ensemble Cast, Mostly Female Cast, Includes Adult, Mature Adult Characters

Context

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Plot

Characters

Name Part Size Gender Vocal Part

Max Garrett

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Andrew Porter

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Becky Shaw

Lead

Female

Non-singer

Suzanna Slater

Lead

Female

Non-singer

Susan Slater

Supporting

Female

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

    When a person threatens to reveal embarrassing or damaging information about someone unless they are given money or some other benefit

    Also called “black comedy,” takes a pessimistic view of the world.

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

    A state of mind in which a person defines themselves by helping others, even if help is not needed.

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