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Natural Shocks

Play

Overview

Synopsis

When we first meet Angela, she says she’s taking shelter from an oncoming tornado. But as she admits, she’s not a reliable narrator. As a storm rages just outside, Angela reflects on her career as an insurance agent, her love of statistics, and her mother. But from the beginning, it’s clear that something isn’t quite right. Eventually, Angela admits there is no storm, revealing that the tornado is a metaphor for something far worse. Lauren Gunderson is known for devastating twist endings, and this one-woman play is no exception. What starts as a comedic one-act becomes a raw, heart-racing snapshot of domestic violence. Framed around Hamlet’s “to be or not to be” soliloquy, Natural Shocks offers a star vehicle for an actress who can embody Angela’s charm and raw vulnerability as she faces her own existential crossroad.

Show Information

Category
Play
Age Guidance
Thirteen Plus (PG-13)
Number of Acts
1
First Produced
2018
Genres
Drama
Settings
Contemporary, Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
A half-finished basement in a normal house in America right now
Cast Size
small
Ideal For
Community Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast, Star Vehicle Female, All-Female Cast, Diverse Cast, Includes Adult Characters

Characters

Character Portrayals

See StageAgent members who have performed roles in Natural Shocks.

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Monologues

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Key Terms

    A performance technique where an actor speaks directly to the audience, breaking the fourth wall for dramatic or comedic effect.

    A character or voice that tells part of the story, offering commentary or background. Narrators are frequently used in children’s theatre and epic productions.

    A speech delivered by a character alone on stage, revealing inner thoughts or emotions to the audience. Common in Shakespearean plays.

    A production created to showcase the talents of a specific star performer, often tailored to their strengths.

Videos

Quizzes

Guide Written By:

Kevan Dunkelberg

Kevan Dunkelberg

Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright