Overview
Synopsis
Adapted by Sue Townsend from her hugely successful novel of the same name, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾ follows the fortunes of a spotty teenager, his dysfunctional family, and his efforts to navigate the confusing world of early teenhood in 1980s Leicester. Frequently speaking directly to the audience, Adrian reveals his naive awkwardness and intellectual aspirations as he fantasizes about his future writing career, finding love with the new girl at school, and finally having something exciting happen to him. In the meantime, he must deal with the local bully, an alarming number of spots appearing on his chin, the breakdown of his parents’ marriage, a curmudgeonly old pensioner, and fumbling first kisses with the beautiful Pandora. A witty and satirical adolescent comedy of manners, this play with music takes us back in time to those awkward early teenage years.
Show Information
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone, Bass |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Alto, Mezzo-Soprano, Soprano |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone, Bass |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto |
|
|
Featured |
Female |
Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto |
|
|
Featured |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Featured |
Female |
Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Non-singer |
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
An adaptation is a reworking of a story from one medium or cultural context into another, such as turning a novel into a play or updating a classic play’s setting. Adaptations often reinterpret themes, characters, and style for new audiences. They can range from faithful recreations to bold reimaginings.
A character in their teenage years, often portrayed as navigating identity, rebellion, and emotional growth.
An anti-hero is a central character who lacks traditional heroic qualities such as morality, bravery, or idealism. Often flawed and complex, anti-heroes appear frequently in modern drama and literature.
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Quizzes
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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Guide Written By:
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher