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The Guys

Play

Anne Nelson

Overview

Synopsis

In the wake of the September 11 attacks, New York City fire captain Nick has the monumental task of writing eulogies for eight of his men who were killed. Unable to adequately put his memories and sentiments into words, he enlists the help of Joan, a news editor and former journalist. Nick and Joan come from completely different worlds and, were it not for the attacks, never would have met. United through tragedy, Nick and Joan discover a shared humanity as they craft poignant remembrances of “the guys”. The play is somewhat autobiographical; playwright Anne Nelson based the character Joan on herself and her own experiences as a foreign journalist in Central America. One of the first plays written immediately after September 11, Nelson’s one-act is a sensitive examination of loss, connection, and the power of language.

Show Information

Book
Anne Nelson
Category
Play
Age Guidance
Thirteen Plus (PG-13)
Number of Acts
1
First Produced
2001
Genres
Drama
Settings
Contemporary, Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
A living room in New York City., September 2001.
Cast Size
small
Orchestra Size
None
Dancing
None
Licensor
Dramatists Play Service
Ideal For
Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast, Includes Adult Characters

Characters

Lead

Joan
Female
Non-singer
View Breakdown
Nick
Male
Non-singer
View Breakdown

Character Portrayals

See StageAgent members who have performed roles in The Guys.

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Monologues

All monologues are the property and copyright of their owners.. Monologues are presented on StageAgent for educational purposes only. If you would like to give a public performance of this monologue, please obtain authorization from the appropriate licensor.

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

    Autobiographical

    A type of performance or script that draws directly from the playwright’s or actor’s personal life and experiences.

    Direct Address

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

    Monologue

    An extended speech delivered by a single character, either to another character or the audience. Monologues are used for character development and to reveal inner thoughts.

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Guide Written By:

Kevan Dunkelberg

Kevan Dunkelberg

Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright