Play Synopsis

Sam is a 16 year old sleepwalking through life.  They have been through a lot and at some point decided things would be easier if they were more of a spectator than a participant.  Through anger, fear and courage Sam is able to emerge as an active player in their own existence.  The question is, is it worth it?

CAST OF CHARACTERS

ALL CHARACTERS CAN BE PLAYED BY EITHER SEX. 

Feel free to change they/their/them in the script once the roles are cast .

1. SAM – 16 years old.  Ari has been their guardian since they were  about 10.  The only living relative of their parents who were killed in a fire.  Their brother and dog died too. 
2. ALT SAM – Sam’s inner dialogue. What Sam used to be before he lost so much. They help Sam come to terms with their truth.
3. ARI – 45 years old. Sam’s guardian.  Works two jobs.  A bit bitter about how their life changed after their sister died.  Never married.  Has addiction issues and money problems.
4. TONI – 16 years old.  Sam’s best friend.  They met after the fire. Parents own a restaurant where Sam sometimes washes dishes.  On the debate team.  Very competitive.
5. MAX/THERAPIST – 16 year’s old. Another friend who is an athlete.  Tends to want to down play problems.  Very positive. Sam’s in- patient therapist.
6. RYAN – 16 year’s old.  Sam’s crush.  Artist.  Observer. Not shy but doesn’t talk much.
7. LARKIN/TEACHER – 18 year old.  Skater. Has been through the foster care system./Sam’s English teacher.
8. DRE/EMCEE – 17 year old.  Anger issues.  Drop out./Coffee shop Poetry Host
9. JESSE – 16 year old. Outspoken.  Has moved around a lot. 

CHORUS – PLAY ALL THE NAMELESS CHARACTERS AND EXTRAS. EMCEE, TEACHER and THERAPIST can be played by the chorus.

Time: Modern Day

Place: Suburb of a major city