Overview
Synopsis
Beckett's short play takes place in a desert illuminated by a "dazzling light". The cast consists of just one man, who is thrown on stage at the start of the play and is thrown back each time he attempts to exit. The main action is of the man trying to reach a small carafe of water, which is always just out of reach, suspended from the flies of the theatre. The entire story is conveyed through mime. After numerous attempts and a failed suicide, the man gives up and is left sitting on the ground.
Show Information
- Book
- Samuel Beckett
- Category
- Play
- Age Guidance
- Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)
- Number of Acts
- 1
- First Produced
- 1957
- Genres
- Fairy Tale/Fantasy
- Time & Place
- desert
- Cast Size
- small
- Ideal For
- All-Male Cast, Includes Young Adult, Adult Characters, Small Cast
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Male |
Silent |
Songs
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
Scenes
Key Terms
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Videos
Quizzes
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Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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