FINDING

A Teenage Musical

by Chip Hill

Musical Script

By Charles H. Hill

Cast of Characters

(In order of appearance. The principal cast members are teens (Seniors in High School).

MEAGAN Cute, popular, curious/thoughtful, going with Mike

JILL Sweet, caring, some self-doubts, has a crush on Mike

MIKE Outgoing, fun loving, group leader, Meagan’s boyfriend

JOE Easy going, sense of humor, initiator, Katie’s boyfriend

KATIE Fun loving, occasionally cynical, Meagan’s friend, going with Joe

LINDA Self-conscious/vain, a bit cynical, rebellious, going with Rick

RICK Laid back, good ol’ boy, ladies’ man, Linda’s boyfriend

KAREN Level-headed, sincere, but occasionally silly, going with Steve

STEVE Smart, quick with his tongue, sense of humor, Karen’s boyfriend

CLIFF Open, thoughtful, spiritual, not part of Meagan’s group

DEBRA Outgoing, fun-loving, a bit of a temper

SHEILA Fun-loving but a little shy, Debra’s friend

Place

There are several locations as described in the musical. The musical follows the activities of a group of high school teens as they react to events over this period. The opening scene, Act I, Scene 1/Prologue does not have a specific location.

Time

The present or recent past. The musical covers a time period of about two weeks.

Musical Numbers

WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN? Meagan and Company

LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE Mike, with Joe, Katie, Rick

WHO IS SHE? Mike, with male Company

TOY SOLDIER Jill

I’M OVERJOYED Cliff

DON’T GO AWAY MAD Rick, with male Company

WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN/LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE Company

THE UNIVERSE IS DARK AND COLD Cliff

WHY? Meagan

NOW I KNOW Meagan and Cliff

OH BLESSED FAITH Company

ACT I

Scene 1/Prologue

Setting: Empty stage, there are no props.

At Rise: The cast (the 9 “friends” characters) is in a line downstage center, holding candles and facing the audience. The cast will individually light and extinguish their candles as they sing the opening number)

(Song: “WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN?”)

WHAT DO WE BELIEVE, IN OUR MINDS,

WHAT CAN WE ACHIEVE IN OUR TIME?

WE’RE A GENERATION, THAT’S OH, SO DIFFERENT FROM THE REST.

Chorus

WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN? WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN? WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND, WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN?

WILL WE WANDER HIGHWAYS AIMLESSLY,

OR WILL WE MAKE OUR MARK, IN HISTORY?

WE’RE A GENERATON, THAT’S FINDING HOW TO LEAVE THE NEST.

Chorus

WILL WE KEEP ON WISHING ON A STAR,

OR WILL WE JUST ACCEPT, HOW THINGS ARE?

WE’RE A GENERATION, THAT HAS TO PUT LIFE TO THE TEST.

Chorus

WILL WE FIND DIRECTION FROM WITHIN,

OR HEAR THE VOICE OF GOD, IN THE WIND?

WE’RE A GENERATION, THAT WANTS TO, NEEDS TO BE THE BEST.

Chorus. (Repeat chorus twice)

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 2

Setting: The props are 1-3 tables with chairs, situated around center/upstage to simulate a club, party room or restaurant. Leave room downstage for performing this Scene’s song.

At Rise: The 9 friends are sitting or standing at the central table, talking and snacking. Karen is finishing a joke with group laughter.

JILL

I can’t believe it. We’ve only been in school for 2 weeks and I’m already 2 months behind! I’m losing sleep, but I’m sooo gaining stress.

MIKE (Looks at her)

That’s crazy. School’s a pain. If it weren’t for weekends and the chance to hang like this, I’d be bored to death.

JILL (Looks up and rolls her eyes)

Don’t you ever take anything seriously, Mike? You can’t just blow off school (pauses), It’s too important.

MIKE (Crosses his arms)

Important? Dude, school don’t mean nothin’. I get by, but it’s just a waste of time. It doesn’t actually teach us anything important, like making money, having fun and being happy.

JILL

Hey, I like a good time as much as the next guy, but I have to think of things like school too, and what comes after that. (Turns to Meagan) Tell him he’s crazy, Meagan.

MEAGAN

I’m not calling anyone crazy. (Shakes her head) It seems like I don’t know what’s okay anymore… now THAT’s stress!

JOE (Acts like he’s eating some French-fries)

What are you getting so worked up about? Mike’s right. Life is short. You gotta live for now, don’t worry all the time. Fries? (Turns and offers bag/box to Linda).

LINDA (Raises a hand)

No thanks.

KATIE

I blame all this stress on our parents. They worry so much about what’s gonna happen to us that we start to worry about it ourselves.

LINDA (Looks up at the ceiling)

Ahhh, stress. Where would we be without it?

RICK (Gets up (if sitting) and looks around at all of them)).

You’re all naive. You don’t know anything about stress. Try working in the oil fields paycheck to paycheck, never knowing if you’re gonna be hurt or laid off, AND having to feed your family. That was my dad for 20 years. That’s stress!

LINDA (Nods her head)

You got a point there.

KAREN (Looks around at the others)

Yeah, I guess our parents may have had some tough times, but things were different back then. It’s a different kind of stress for us now.

JILL

Like with education… there’s so much pressure to get ahead.

LINDA

You think? Like the stupid SAT and ACT (everyone groans). A few hours one morning have such an impact on where you’ll be later on.

JOE (Lifts his hands)

Aren’t we getting a little carried away?

KAREN (Shakes her head)

I don’t think so. So much can happen… this is the time to focus and engage.

MIKE (Looks at Karen)

Sure, stuff happens but things seem to work out. You’re only young once. Go for it now or sit around regretting it for the rest of your life.

MEAGAN

I don’t know, Mike, maybe you’re right. (Pauses and looks at Mike) But everything’s just so confusing. “Going for it” (Does air quotes) isn’t what they teach in Church, but I’m not sure they teach you how to be successful.

KATIE

Church? (Crosses her arms, shrugs her shoulders) Come on, Meagan. You don’t need organized religion to be a spiritual person. Church is all about history. I mean it’s great for some people, but what’s important is learning how to look out for yourself.

MIKE (Nods his head)

Yeah Meg, God just wants us to be happy, right? Listen to me. This is your man talking.

(He walks her toward the front of the stage, a little to the left side).

You gotta learn how to look out for number one!

(He walks back to Joe, Katie, and Rick and they form a line center stage, with their backs to the audience. They then turn around to sing the song).

(Song: “LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE”)

I GOTTA ASK YOU GIRL, WHY DO YOU TRY?

WHY HAVE COMPASSION FOR THE OTHER GUY?

THIS WORLD IS CRAZY AND IT ISN’T FAIR,

YOU GOTTA HUSTLE JUST TO GET YOUR SHARE,

NOBODY ELSE IS LOOKING OUT FOR YOU,

DON’T YOU BE SATISFIED WITH NUMBER TWO.

Chorus

I’M LOOKING OUT, FOR NUMBER ONE.

OPEN YOUR EYES GIRL AND LOOK AROUND,

IF YOU’RE NOT CLIMBING THEN YOU’RE GOING DOWN.

LIKE IT OR NOT IT’S A MATERIAL WORLD,

AND MONEY’S TALKING CAN YOU HEAR IT GIRL?

WHEN LITTLE PEOPLE MAKE A FUSS YOU GOTTA BE STRONG,

‘CAUSE LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE JUST CAN’T BE WRONG.

Chorus

I KNOW YOU LIKE TO HAVE IT FAIR FOR ALL,

THAT WAY OF THINKING’S GONNA BRING A FALL.

ALL THINGS AREN’T EQUAL, NO, THEY NEVER WERE,

SO TAKE WHAT’S GIVEN YOU AND DON’T MAKE A STIR.

IGNORE THE REST OF THEM THAT TELL YOU TO STOP,

AVOID THE BOTTOM GIRL, YOU TAKE THE TOP.

Chorus

I USED TO WORRY ‘BOUT MY PLACE IN LINE,

UNDERSTOOD THE GOLDEN RULE AND THAT WAS FINE.

BUT PEOPLE TOOK ADVANTAGE OF MY INNOCENT WAYS,

AND MADE ME UNDERSTAND THAT SEEKING PLEASURE PAYS.

I ONLY WANT WHATEVER’S BEST FOR ME,

BUT WORLD I WANT IT NOW, AND WORLD I WANT IT FREE!

Chorus, (Repeat chorus twice)

(Mike and Meagan walk toward each other, the other singers return to their seats)

MIKE

You see, Meagan, (puts his arm around her) you take care of yourself first and everything else comes second. (Drops his arm and turns toward the others) So let’s chill!

JILL

(Has come around the table up to Mike and puts her hand on his shoulder)

You know Mike, you could convince me of almost anything. If you weren’t Meagan’s boyfriend…

MEAGAN (Interrupts Jill with her hand or fist raised)

Yeah, well he is, Jill (laughs). (Jill steps back away, smiling). Still, I wish I could be so confident about things. I mean, it’s not like everything’s black or white.

(Meagan and Mike move back toward their seats, Meagan sits)

JOE

Why make it so complex? It’s black or it’s white.

KATIE (Rapidly)

It’s up or it’s down.

MIKE (Rapidly)

You’re in or you’re out… and Meg, (Points at her) You’re in. WE’RE in (Spreads his arms and sits down). Everyone else… (Shakes his head and jerks his thumb) ah, not so much. (Sits down)

MEAGAN (Shakes her head, sighs)

But people are all so different, Mike. I feel everyone has something to offer. (Pauses) Even guys you wouldn’t expect, like that guy Cliff I overheard the other day at school.

KAREN (Puts her hand to her face)

Ooh… you mean that guy in my third period? (Smiles and nods her head) He’s kinda cute. (Steve frowns, touches her shoulder and exchanges looks with her)

MEAGAN (Shrugs her shoulders)

I don’t know about that. But he was saying some interesting things.

KAREN

Yeah? Like what?

MEAGAN (Looks up, thinking)

Well, he seems to be… kind of religious or something. I mean, he doesn’t talk about RELIGION (She does air quotes), but he talks about being at peace with yourself and stuff.

STEVE

Ha! You ever heard the saying, “nice guys finish last?” This dude is the ultimate nice guy.

JOE

You got that right, my man (does a “high five” with Steve, or remote fist pump/other sign if they are separated)

MEAGAN (Puts a hand up)

I’m not trying to defend him or anything. He just seems… different.

MIKE

Look Meg. Think about it. What’s HE ever done? Is he a big deal at school or something? (gets up, starting to act perturbed, with his voice raising) What does he do that makes HIM so special?

KATIE (Points a hand toward each of them)

Hey, cool it guys! We’re here to have fun, not to solve the world’s problems. (Nervous laugh) And certainly not to sit around talking about some Bible geek. If he was that cool, he’d be hanging with US! Right?

ALL THE REST (except Meagan)

Right/Yeah! Etc.

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 3

Setting: It is night and raining. A simulated car is parked nearly parallel with the audience, but at a small angle pointing from downstage right to upstage left. A simulated wall is in front of and to the car’s left.

At Rise: Mike (driver) and Meagan are sitting in the front seat, Joe (behind Mike) and Katie are in the back seat. All of them have their cell phones out, looking at their screens, and/or texting.

KATIE (Groans and looks up from her phone)

Well, my mom’s checking up on me… again! Honestly, like I don’t know what she thinks I must be doing.

JOE (without looking up)

She knows you’re with me, right? I mean, that should put her at ease.

KATIE (punches him on the arm, smiling)

Duh, that’s probably why she’s texting me.

JOE (can react to the punch, rub his arm)

Yeah, whatever. Say, have you guys tried that new app that’s making the rounds? You know, the one that converts a text to a talking version of your selfie?

(Reaches between Mike and Meagan with his phone)

MIKE (Looks)

Yeah, I think it’s pretty stupid. They need to work out some bugs.

JOE

Agreed. But, depending on the selfie it can be pretty funny.

MEAGAN

Or trashy. Have you seen some of the gross images people post of themselves?

KATIE

Uh huh. You gotta wonder what they’re thinking. I guess they forget this stuff can go out all over even when they thought it was gonna be private.

MEAGAN

Absolutely. You’d think they’d be more careful.

MIKE

Yeah, well I know this stuff isn’t private. I mean my dad is ragging on me all the time about some study he’s seen, and about how teens are totally absorbed with social media.

JOE (continues to look at his cell phone)

Right, like parents shouldn’t judge us based on the time we’re on our phones. I mean they shouldn’t think we take all this stuff so seriously.

(After a short pause, looks up and raises his phone)

Oh wait.

(The rest of them look up, raise their phones and everybody laughs).

KATIE

I think the main point is we use our phones for music and lots of other stuff besides just texting with friends.

MEAGAN

And I do use Facebook to stay in touch with family, especially the older ones like my grandma.

MIKE

Uh huh, gives them a little window into our world, to keep up with us.

JOE (laughing)

Besides, the same adults ragging on us get carried away with their own social media stuff. (Pauses, shakes his head) So hypocritical…

MIKE (nodding his head)

A lot of bad stuff going around online, hate speech, bullying…

KATIE

So sad. I guess you heard about that girl at school who left, transferred. Word is, she tried to commit suicide after some online bullying. Hope that’s not true.

JOE

Yeah, I heard that too. Pretty mind blowing.

KATIE

Yeah. But shoot, it’s gettin’ to the point almost anything can trigger someone now. So much overreaction. I mean, there is a difference between just words and actually hurting someone, right?

MIKE

Would like to think so, but you never know anymore.

JOE

True. But a kid with anxieties…, well… (Pauses)

MEAGAN

You know, that’s why we’re lucky to have each other. I mean like a group that’s there if we need support.

MIKE (reaches over and gives Meagan a hug)

Got that right.

Katie and JOE

Right (they hug also).

MIKE

(Putting up his phone and looking back over his shoulder)

Well, good time tonight. What are we doing next time?

JOE

I dunno, we were here last week too. I could use somewhere else to chill.

KATIE (Leans forward)

We could go to the mall, there’s a movie there I wanted to see…

JOE

(Nods his head toward Meagan and laughs in a mocking way)

Yeah, about some girl who’s trying to figure out the meaning of life.

(Reaches forward and puts a hand on Meagan’s shoulder)

She seeks religious counsel with some goofball from her school…

KATIE (Cuts him off)

Oh cut it out Joe. Meagan’s got her head on straight, right Meg?

MEAGAN (Looking back)

Yeah, I guess so. I mean I think so. Everything just comes so easy for you guys, no tomorrows… just todays.

MIKE (Gives her a thumbs up)

Yeah, like we told you. It’s a feel-good thing. If it feels good, you do it. Don’t worry about the rest.

MEAGAN

(After a pause, she leans toward Mike and looks closely at him)

You OK Mike? I mean like, are you OK to drive?

MIKE (Smiles at her)

Sure. No problem.

(Simulates starting the engine and shifting into Drive [engine start sound effect]).

Let’s roll.

JOE [Thunder sound effect] (Leans forward)

This is kind of rough weather man, take it easy.

MIKE

Yeah… whatever. (Leans forward as if trying to see better)

MEAGAN (looking at her phone, laughing)

Too funny! Mom just texted, “Weather getting bad. Be careful driving home.”

MIKE (straining to see the road)

Great —she has a terrific grasp of the obvious.

MEAGAN

Well, she did send a really funny driving emoji. It must be for you Mike. Look… (She holds up phone toward Mike).

MIKE

(Glances over at the phone, then his head snaps back forward, he slams on the brakes and turns the steering wheel [car braking sound]. The group looks up and reacts to the car movement and Meagan screams. Cliff has come up unnoticed to the audience and raises up or falls like he has been hit. Lights go out)

MIKE (After a pause and in a shaky voice)

W-we just hit someone.

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 4

Setting: A room is informally arranged with a couch, and/or chairs and a table, simulating a den or rec room in a house, or party room in a teen club. A doorway goes to center stage left, either a wall prop with a doorway or simulated with curtains or partitions.

At Rise: Katie, Karen, Jill, Mike and Meagan are sitting at the table (right to left), all facing the audience. The other friends are standing or sitting around.

KATIE

Awful quiet lately. That accident’s really got us down.

MIKE (Shakes his head)

Yeah, been less than a week, but seems like it just happened yesterday, (Shakes his head again) I still can’t believe it. Where’d he come from? I didn’t even see him.

JILL (Reaches a hand toward him)

It wasn’t your fault, Mike. The weather was bad. You all said he just walked right out in front of your car.

MEAGAN (Has her head down)

Thank God he wasn’t killed.

JOE (Is standing with his hands in his pockets)

Yeah. And really weird that it was that Cliff guy. I mean we were just talking about him. Anyone know how he’s doing?

KATIE

Some kids at school said he’s paralyzed or something. He can’t walk.

STEVE

Whoa… that sucks.

MEAGAN (Looks up at Mike)

I think maybe we should go visit him in the hospital.

MIKE

But, that would be kinda awkward, we don’t even know the guy. (Looks at the others) We’re probably the last people he wants to see, anyway.

MEAGAN (Pauses)

But it was our fault…

MIKE (Cuts her off, voice rising)

No, it was his fault! He walked right in front of the car (motions with his arm). Like, we all feel bad about it but there’s nothing we can do. We can’t let this ruin our lives.

KATIE (In a tentative voice)

I-I think he’s right, Meagan. We can feel sorry without getting emotionally involved with him.

MEAGAN (Quickly)

We’re already involved…

MIKE (Cuts her off again, voice louder)

No we’re not! (Pauses) If you want to go to the hospital (pointing away), fine, go ahead. We’ve got other things to do!

MEAGAN

Well… maybe I will! (Turns away and crosses her arms in a huff).

JILL (Gets up, reaches out to both Mike and Meagan)

Mike, Meagan, c’mon, let’s not fight.

MIKE (Stands up, faces Meagan)

She needs to get over it, Jill! It all started with that serious talk the other day about life, or whatever. She’s disconnected… forgotten how to have fun.

MEAGAN

(Turns back and glares at Mike and stands up)

That’s the point! There are more important things than having fun!

MIKE (Throws up his hands)

Whatever! I’m done with this. (Pauses). Why don’t you go ask Cliff? (Waves toward the door) Maybe HE’S got all the answers.

MEAGAN (Turns to go, looking sorrowful)

You… just don’t understand… (Walks slowly out the door).

JILL (Reaches out as Meagan is leaving)

Meagan…

JOE (Nods his head in Meagan’s direction)

Let her go, she’ll be back

JILL (Turns around to Mike)

She’s just trying to figure things out, Mike.

MIKE (Turns to Jill)

What’s with her? I mean, really. (Pauses, looks up) It’s like I don’t even know who she is anymore.

(Mike then moves downstage for his song. Other males get in a line, move together, and join in choruses 2 and 3).

(Song “WHO IS SHE?”)

I SEE THE SAME SPARKLE IN THE SAME LITTLE EYES,

SHE’S GOT THE HEADS TURNING ON ALL OF THE GUYS, BUT WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

SHE’S GOT THAT CUTE BODY AND SHE MOVES IT THE SAME,

A VERY DIFFERENT GIRL WITH AN IDENTICAL NAME, SO WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

Chorus

YES, WHO’S THAT LITTLE GIRL, WHO USED TO BE MY SWEET YOUNG THING?

WHOEVER TOOK HER FROM ME, PLEASE BRING HER BACK AGAIN.

WE HAD US SOMETHING SPECIAL, ABOUT AS FINE AS CAN BE,

BUT NOW I GOTTA WONDER, WHO’S LOOKING BACK AT ME? (Repeat line)

SHE’S GOT THE SAME MANNERISMS, GOT THE SAME SMILE,

BUT HAPPY FACE OR NOT SHE’S IN A STATE OF DENIAL, NOW WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

SHE WALKS THE SAME WAY, AND I REMEMBER THE DRESS,

BUT WHO’S INSIDE HER HEAD AND WHY’S HER THINKING A MESS, OH WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

Chorus

I THOUGHT I REALLY KNEW HER ‘BOUT AS GOOD AS CAN BE,

BUT MORE AND MORE SHE’S ACTING LIKE A MYSTERY TO ME, PLEASE WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

SHE’S STILL MY BEST FRIEND I WANT HER CLOSER TO ME, BUT

SHE’S STARING IN THE DISTANCE AT A PLACE I CAN’T SEE, AND WHO IS SHE? LORD, LORD, WHO IS SHE?

Chorus

JOE

(Points his thumb and index finger at Mike like shooting a pistol)

Well, you’ve got her all figured out, man.

MIKE

(Shakes head, goes and sits back down next to Jill)

You’d think, as long as we’ve been going out… you’d think I’d know her better.

RICK

Hey guys, some of us are hungry, we’re taking off.

(All but Mike, Joe, Katie and Jill wave and walk out)

JOE, JILL and KATIE (Mike, still lost in his thoughts)

OK/See you/etc.

(Joe goes and sits in Karen’s vacated seat, between Katie and Jill)

MIKE (Shakes his head again)

You’d think I’d know her better.

JILL (Puts her hand on Mike’s arm)

Well, this is your chance to get to know ME better. That new band from school is playing over at the club. (Looks at the others) Maybe the four of us could go?

KATIE (Smiles)

Yeah, cool. There’s no reason the rest of us have to be miserable.

JOE (Turns to Mike)

What do you think, Mike?

MIKE (Turns his head, thinking)

Well… I don’t know.

JILL

C’mon Mike. (Tugs his arm a little) It’ll be fun!

MIKE (Pauses)

Nah, I don’t think so. (Moves his arms gently so Jill’s hand is disengaged.) Maybe some other time…

(Gets up, puts his hands in his pockets and walks slowly through the door).

JILL (Reaching out a hand)

Mike… (voice trails off).

JOE (When Mike is gone)

Well, it’s your lucky day girls! You get to share me! (smiles, opens his arms wide).

KATIE (Puts a fist in front of Joe’s face)

Who said anything about sharing, you jerk!

JOE

Alright, relax (puts his hands up). Carpe diem. Just seizing the day (laughing).

KATIE (Sarcastically laughs)

I’ll seize your two ears and Twist… Them… Off!

(Simulates with two fists. Joe puts his hands over his ears with a pained expression)

JILL (Smiles and looks at them)

So, this is what it’s like… being in love?

KATIE

No (Shakes her head)… Sometimes (shrugs her shoulders)… (Smiles and nods her head), okay most of the time.

JOE (Smiles and sticks his thumb to his chest)

Katie is such a lucky girl.

KATIE (Chokes)

Give me a break.

JOE

So, Jill, (Turns to Jill) what were you saying about this band?

JILL

I know a couple of the guys in it and they’re pretty good.

KATIE (Nods her head)

That’s what everyone’s saying.

JOE

Sounds good to me. (Sweeps a hand toward the exit) What are we waiting for?

JILL

Well… I was really hoping Mike would come…

JOE (Shrugs his shoulders)

Guess that’s not happening. Can we go? (Makes a motion toward the exit)

JILL (Sighs, head down)

I don’t know…

JOE

Oh great! (Throwing his hands up) Well, come on Katie. (Gets up to go)

KATIE (Comes over and sits by Jill)

I’ll be there in a minute. (Joe walks off).

JILL (Looks up at Katie)

Sorry Katie.

KATIE

That’s OK. I guess it’s still about Mike?

JILL (Sighs again)

Katie… doesn’t Mike see that I like him?

KATIE

He only sees Meagan. (Puts her arm around Jill).

JILL

But they’re wrong for each other, can’t he see that? Why won’t he notice me?

KATIE

Oh, I bet he will. Just give him time, Jill. (Gives Jill a hug and walks off).

(Jill begins her song seated, then moves around the table and downstage center for singing under a spotlight. As soon as Jill moves, the curtains can be closed behind her)

(Song: “TOY SOLDIER”)

Intro

HE DOESN’T NOTICE ME. OH WHY CAN’T HE SEE.

I MIGHT AS WELL BE… A TOY UPON THE SHELF.

Chorus

TOY SOLDIER, WITH A PAINTED SMILE,

LAUGHING ON THE OUTSIDE, BUT CRYING ALL THE WHILE,

I’M YOUR TOY SOLDIER, TO PLACE UPON THE SHELF,

I BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY, AS I FEEL SORRY FOR MYSELF.

YOU DON’T MEAN TO HURT ME I KNOW,

YOU’VE OTHER THINGS ON YOUR MIND.

BUT WHEN I WANT SO MUCH TO BE WITH YOU,

YOU LEAVE ME STANDING THERE BEHIND.

Chorus

YOU HAVE SO MANY TOYS AND PLAYTHINGS,

YOU DON’T NEED A BLOCK OF WOOD.

BUT I HAVE SO MUCH LOVE INSIDE,

YOU KNOW I’D GIVE YOU IF I COULD (repeat line).

Chorus (Repeat last line)

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 5

Setting: A hospital room center stage. The foot of a bed points downstage toward the audience. A chair and a night stand are to the left of the bed. There is a doorway on the left side of the stage or curtain opening to simulate that.

At Rise: Cliff is in a bed wearing a hospital gown/shirt, shoulders and head slightly elevated, reading a book.

MEAGAN

(Acts out knocking and sticking her head through the hospital room door)

Hi.

CLIFF (Looks up, smiles)

Hi yourself.

MEAGAN (Hesitates, raises her arm slightly)

Mind if I come in?

CLIFF

Nah, come on in, (waves her in with his good arm) have a seat.

(Meagan comes in and sits down in the chair beside the bed).

CLIFF (Peering more closely)

I’ve seen you before around school? It’s Meagan, right?

MEAGAN Yeah (Long pause, looks away. Looks back)

How are you feeling?

CLIFF

I’m OK, hanging in there.

MEAGAN (Sighs)

So, you probably know that I was in the car that night.

CLIFF

I figured… thanks for coming by (gives a thumbs up).

MEAGAN (Clasps her hands together)

We all feel terrible about what happened. It… it just doesn’t seem real.

CLIFF

I know. (Nods his head and then winces) But it was mostly my fault. I was coming home from Church and my mind was occupied… (Shrugs his shoulders) Walked right into the street like an idiot.

MEAGAN (Puts her hand up)

No, no… the weather was pretty bad. We had just told Mike…

CLIFF (Interrupts)

Mike?

MEAGAN

Yeah, Mike. Uh, he’s my… (looks down, slight smile) my friend. He was driving. Anyway, we had just told him to be careful.

CLIFF

It wasn’t his fault. (Looks closer at Meagan) I bet it really shook him up.

MEAGAN

Yeah. (Shivers) It was terrifying – you lying there, the ambulances and all. (Pauses) Mike won’t admit it, but I know he was real scared.

CLIFF (Deep breath and release)

Shoulda watched where I was going and none of this would have happened.

MEAGAN (Pauses, looks down)

Are you… are you… paralyzed?

CLIFF

Yeah, sort of. No feeling in my legs. But the good news is something’s messed up in my back (points to his back) but it’s not broken. Some sort of trauma. The doctors don’t want to operate or anything yet. There’s a chance, maybe a good chance, when the swelling goes down, that things’ll heal themselves, and I’ll get the feeling back. It’s not as sore as it was, so I’m hopeful.

MEAGAN (Smiles)

Oh, that does sound better. I was afraid for the worst.

CLIFF

Well, I guess God was looking out for me (smiles).

MEAGAN (Looks surprised)

Really? You think God helps?

CLIFF

Well… yeah (Shrugs his shoulders).

MEAGAN

Sorry, but if I were you, I’d be miserable. (Pauses, shakes her head) I’m miserable now.

CLIFF

Why? What happened is over. I’ve gotta think positive now.

MEAGAN

But the alternatives are scary!

(Gets up, takes a step or two away, then back toward Cliff)

You may never be able to use your legs again…

(Puts her hands over her face with a sob, and then brings them down)

Oh, I’m sorry… I should not have said that. (Sits down)

CLIFF (Reaches out toward her)

I know. You’re scared. (Pauses) It is scary. But I gotta believe things will turn out for the best. It’s in God’s hands now.

MEAGAN

What can He do? Like I believe in God and everything, but He seems so distant. I can’t see myself asking Him for help or anything. (Pauses, puts her head down) And I’m not sure He’d listen if I did.

CLIFF (Chuckles, shakes his head)

That’s because you don’t know Him like I do. He’s there if you need Him, He really is. (Pauses, looks down and then back at Meagan) I’d like to sing you something if it’s OK.

MEAGAN (A look of surprise, she nods her head)

Well, if you want to sing to me from a hospital bed, who could refuse? (She chuckles) Go right ahead!

(Song: “I’M OVERJOYED”)

Chorus

I’M OVERWHELMED WHEN I THINK OF ALL HE GAVE FOR ME.

I’M OVERCOME THINKING OF THE PAIN HE BORE.

I’M OVERAWED JUST HOW SIMPLE SAVING GRACE CAN BE.

I’M OVERJOYED THAT I’M SAVED FOREVER MORE.

OH WALKING DOWN THE ROAD TO ETERNITY,

A MAN CAN WANDER FROM THE WAY.

HE MUST HAVE SOME STRENGTH THAT HE CAN TURN TO,

THE LORD IS THERE IF HE’LL JUST PRAY.

Chorus

SO IF THE WORLD IS CLOSING IN AROUND YOU,

AND DAY IS TURNING INTO NIGHT,

REACH OUT AND TAKE THE LORD’S HAND IN YOUR HAND,

AND TURN YOUR FACE TO HEAVEN’S LIGHT.

Chorus

MEAGAN (Nods her head, sighs)

Wow, that was beautiful. I wish it was like that for me.

CLIFF

It could be Meagan.

MEAGAN

(Sighs again and begins to speak quickly, with emotion)

I don’t know. I’ve just had so many questions lately. I’m trying to understand. My friends tell me TODAY is what‘s important. You talk about God. I know lots of successful people, good people. But THEY don’t talk about God, or do they even believe in Him? But who knows what’s missing in their lives? Like I want to discover ME (points at her chest) and live my OWN life. But I’m not sure I’m ready for God… (opens her hands) and I’m not sure God’s ready for me.

CLIFF (Pauses)

I can see you’ve got a lot on your mind, Meagan. But when the time’s right… you’ll know God’s there.

MEAGAN

I will?

CLIFF

Yeah. And there’s one thing I KNOW for sure… God loves you.

CURTAIN

INTERMISSION

ACT II

Scene 6

Setting: The stage is divided into two sides, right and left.

Right Side: The setting is a room informally arranged with a couch (with pillows), chairs, a small table, and any other furnishings needed to simulate a living room in one of their houses.

Left Side: Staging simulates a bar & grill/pool hall-type establishment. Upstage left (at the back) and parallel to the audience is a gaming table. A bar/counter is on the right side of the stage, perpendicular to the audience, with a couple of barstools. A table and four chairs are placed toward the center of the stage and a little downstage.

At Rise: The cast girls are sitting around on the right side of the stage, in the living room (Meagan, Karen, Katie, Jill, Linda, right to left). The cast guys are in the center and upstage area on the left side. Mike and Joe are sitting at the table, facing the audience. Rick and Steve are shooting pool. There are two new girls sitting on the barstools.

LINDA

(Gets up and shows off a dress she is wearing)

So, what do you think about this dress I picked up? Got it for half price, do you think it works for me?

KAREN (Nodding, making an approving sound)

Nice, Rick will like it.

LINDA

But do you think it’s a little tight in a few places? (indicates a spot) Stepped on the scale this morning and I’ve added a couple of pounds. I almost cried!

KAREN

No, it looks fine. And you definitely don’t need to be worrying about your weight, skinny as you are.

LINDA

Well, I don’t know… (voice trails off). Rick is always checking out other girls. I wanna keep him focused on ME.

JILL

Karen’s right, Lin. You know that girl in 5th period who had the eating disorder? They say if they hadn’t put her in a program, she would have died! She was skin and bones. Took a psychiatrist to get her head straight.

KATIE

Well, we all worry about how we look, it’s hard not to be obsessive.

KAREN

Yeah (stands up and strikes a pose), with our role models being sexy movie stars that our boyfriends would slobber over.

MEAGAN

(Nodding her head, pulls Karen back down on the couch)

Well girls, Mike would love it if I looked like a movie star.

(Strikes a purposefully awkward pose and points at her body)

But it ain’t happenin’ to this body (shakes her head). Hah—I wish!

JILL (Holds up her cell phone)

You know, there is that app that makes your face look prettier.

(Meagan looks quickly at Jill. Jill pauses, then notices Meagan looking at her)

Uh, not saying YOU need it or anything Meagan

(Smiles at Meagan. Meagan does a pretend scowl back at her).

KATIE

You know our parents are always telling us to just be ourselves.

LINDA

Yeah, whatever. That’s fine until one of your so-called “friends” (does air quotes) posts an embarrassing picture of you online. Or posts some snotty remark because you didn’t go along with them on something.

KAREN (Clears throat, puts a hand on her chest)

So-called friends? Present company excluded?

LINDA (looks at Karen surprised and shakes he head)

Oh, yeah! Not you guys! I am so thankful I’ve got you guys.

JILL (getting up and putting her arms out)

Second that emotion, group hug!

(All the girls get up and do a group hug)

High school can be a cruel place, but having friends like you can make all the difference.

MIKE (Looks up from his cellphone)

So, Joe, what did you think of the band?

JOE

The band?

MIKE

Yeah, you know. You and Katie and Jill were going over to the club.

JOE

Oh, yeah. Jill was right, they were really good! The lead guy was doing some amazing things on his guitar (simulates a wild air guitar act, moving his body, etc.)

MIKE

Cool. What did Katie and Jill think?

JOE (Shakes his head)

No, man. Jill didn’t go, just Katie and me. (Pauses) You know, Jill just kind of got a little quiet after you left.

MIKE (Looks at Joe in surprise)

Oh?

JOE

Yeah. It’s sorta like she wanted to see the band, but maybe only if you were going (nods his head).

MIKE

(Looks at Joe again, and then looks away as if thinking. There is a pause, neither of them says anything)

RICK

(Comes over with Steve and they sit down, Rick nearest the bar. He looks at Mike and Joe)

Well I have to say, it’s good to be chilling. Seems like things have really gotten tight since the accident.

STEVE (Takes a drink)

Yeah, a dose of reality, it makes you think.

JOE

Right.

(No one says anything for a moment or two)

RICK

Meagan took it hard, for sure.

MIKE (Nodding)

Yeah, worried about her.

STEVE

I know, she…

DEBRA

(Has approached Rick and interrupts Steve. She’s holding a bottle)

Hey, haven’t I seen you around school? (Points at Rick with the bottle) Aren’t you on the track team?

RICK (Glancing over/up at her)

Yeah, well, I was on the team for a while last year.

DEBRA (Nods)

I thought so, I was telling my friend Shelia over there (nods back at Sheila) I thought I knew you. (Sheila waves)

RICK (Looks at Sheila, sounds bored)

Oh, is that so?

DEBRA

Yeah, I think she’s got a thing for you (pauses, tilts her head and looks at him). You know, I don’t think you’re too bad myself.

STEVE (With a smile)

Well that’s ‘cause you don’t know him sweetie.

(Boys laugh, Steve fist bumps with Joe)

RICK

I don’t need your help Steve (waves his arm at him).

DEBRA

I don’t know, maybe you do, dear (moves closer, taps him on the shoulder). By the way, my name’s Debra.

RICK

Look… uh, Debra (gestures at Debra), we’re kind of in the middle of something here (waves his hand at the other guys).

DEBRA

Doesn’t look like it to me (glancing around, moves around the table a little). So, will one of you guys buy me a drink? (waggles the bottle in her hand)

ALL THE GUYS

(Look awkwardly back and forth at each other)

RICK

(Slowly gets up and turns toward Debra and puts his hands up in a stop sign)

Hold on a minute, okay?

(Song: “DON’T GO AWAY MAD”)

WELL ME AND THE BOYS WERE JUST SITTIN’ ‘ROUND HERE IN THIS HONKY TONK,

HAVING SOME FUN, TALKING AND FEELING FINE,

THEN YOU COME OVER AND STARTED MAKING THOSE EYES AT ME,

RICK (cont.) WELL HONEY, GUESS I’D BETTER LAY IT ON THE LINE.

Chorus

DON’T GO AWAY MAD, JUST GO AWAY,

THERE AIN’T NO REASON FOR A WOMAN LIKE YOU TO STAY,

I’VE BEEN ALL OVER AND I’VE SEEN A LOT OF LADIES, BUT YOU SURE TAKE THE CAKE,

DON’T GO AWAY MAD, JUST GO AWAY.

I LIKE A WOMAN WHO SMILES AND SAYS SHE’D LOVE TO DANCE,

HERE’S THE SITUATION, YOU’VE GONE A LITTLE TOO FAR (READ MY LIPS).

YOU SEE I’M JUST NOT IN THE MOOD, FOR A BIG BUNCH OF ATTITUDE,

SO MAYBE IT’S TIME, TO MOVE IT ON DOWN THE BAR.

NOW I MIGHT SUGGEST, YOU PUT DOWN THE BOTTLE AND EASE OFF THE THROTTLE,

THIS DIDN’T START WELL, AND I HOPE YOU’RE SEEING THAT TOO.

NOW I’M NOT BRAGGING I’M SO DARN SPECIAL I CAN HAVE MY PICK OF GIRLS,

BUT DON’T HATE ME HONEY IF I SAY THAT GIRL IS NOT YOU.

Chorus

(Instrumental bridge)

Bridge

I REALLY DON’T WANNA HAVE TO SAY THIS TWICE

DON’T BE SETTIN’ YOUR SIGHTS ON ME.

NEVER WANNA HEAR YOU CALLING ME DEAR,

YOU’RE BARKING UP THE WRONG DANG TREE.

Chorus (Repeat)

(At the conclusion of the song, the guys high five each other. Debra stalks away with Shelia. The boys sit back down)

STEVE (Looks at the retreating girls)

Well, that certainly made a statement.

RICK

Yeah, whatever.

JOE

Dude (looks at Rick sideways), like you might have come on a little strong. Debra may be looking for a “safe place” (does air quotes) right about now.

RICK

Maybe.

MIKE

Just glad Sheila didn’t have her cell phone out. That’d be all you need, Rick, having that little action go viral.

RICK (His eyes get big, takes a breath)

Whoa, got a point there. Wasn’t trying to be mean, but like she kinda ticked me off.

STEVE (Nodding his head)

She did that…

RICK (Pauses)

Girls were nice enough, I guess. Probably shoulda just chilled a little.

STEVE

Probably. No harm done, most likely.

JOE (Looks at the others)

OK, so now where were we?

RICK

Talking about Meagan.

JOE

Oh yeah.

(The rest of the guys look over at Mike)

JILL

Did you girls see that new movie over at the mall?

KATIE

You mean the one with Keith in it? He is sooo incredible, like he is sooo good looking.

LINDA

Yeah, he’s all right. (Sticks her hand out and looks at her fingernails) Did I tell you I used to go out with him, but I had to shut it down because he kept asking to marry me?

MEAGAN

(Laughing and throwing a pillow at Linda).

In your dreams. As if he would look twice at you with all the chicks he’s got crawling all over him.

KATIE

Didn’t he used to be in a soap opera?

JILL

Yeah, about two years ago, in The Rich and the Wretched. He played the moron intern who was always getting chewed out by Dr. Blakely.

KAREN (Laughs)

Hard to imagine. Every guy in America is probably wishing they could be like him now.

MEAGAN

Speaking of guys, I wonder what our guys are up to tonight?

KATIE

Probably over at someone’s house talking about sports.

JOE

So he throws this air ball up there and the Bomber grabs it in mid-air and does this monster jam behind his back! (Acts it all out).

STEVE

I saw it (nods his head in agreement). The man defies gravity! He is sooo incredible. Like he has sooo many moves (Says it the way Katie said her line).

MIKE Yeah, he’s all right.

(Interlaces his fingers and pushes them out in a stretch)

Did I tell you I used to play him one-on-one, but I had to shut it down because he was such a poor loser?

RICK

(Laughing and throwing a coaster at him)

In your dreams. As if he had time for one-on-one with chicks crawling all over him. (Takes a drink)

STEVE

Didn’t he used to play semi-pro ball?

JOE

Yeah, about four years ago on some little team down in Florida. Believe it or not but he used to regularly get his butt kicked by the Stickman.

MIKE

Hard to imagine. Every guy in America is probably wishing they could be like him now.

RICK

Well, he’s got springs for legs. (Gestures to the rest of the guys) The rest of us will just have to do the school thing to get a decent job.

JILL (Hands on head)

I swear, school is getting harder and harder.

KATIE

Are you on about that again? Why is it always school, school, school?

MIKE

Like school should be illegal. What good is it?

KAREN

It has its ups and downs. What bothers me is I don’t think it’s teaching me enough about life.

STEVE

Makes you wonder. I can’t imagine when I’m going to need Conversational Latin.

LINDA (Immediately)

You mean you don’t get that in Ancient Civilizations?

STEVE (Immediately)

Or Human Geography.

KAREN (Immediately)

Or Music Appreciation? (Can say this in a singing voice)

RICK (Immediately)

Or Introduction to Stagecraft Arts (shakes his head) Sheesh—

(He puts his hands to his mouth to form a megaphone and calls)

Exit stage right and fade to black!”

(Cast members (both sides) all strike different melodramatic poses. Then return to normal).

ALL (Boys and girls, in unison)

But you need the credits for college!

LINDA

(Sighs, says her line as if mimicking adults)

Ah yes, College, the great mystery hanging over our heads.

RICK

Did you hear Gretchen’s brother got into Harvard?

JILL

Like, it’s a mystery to me why some of us get into the good schools and some don’t.

STEVE

That’s no mystery, their family has money.

(Raises one hand and rubs his thumb and fingers together).

He probably bought his way in.

KATIE

I for one will be glad when all this college pressure is over.

MIKE

Can’t we find something more interesting to talk about than college?

LINDA

Well, I’ve got a lot of work to do on my wardrobe before I go to college.

KAREN (Smirks)

You sure do. (Linda gives her a shocked look) Say, have y’all been to that new store in the mall? They’ve got like the hottest fashions.

KATIE

I know, right? They’ve got this adorable little skirt that I would just die for!

KAREN

Yeah, but for a coupla hundred, your Mom would probably die too.

KATIE (Nods)

That’s true. My Mom and I have never seen eye to eye on clothes. She thinks I need to look like the school librarian or something.

JILL

Parents just don’t get it! Have you seen the stuff they wore when they were young?

LINDA

You mean like the ridiculous shoulder pads? And turtlenecks?

KATIE

And neon, and teased-up hair?

ALL GIRLS (Collective groan)

Ugh! or Eww!

LINDA

Oh well, maybe that’s all they could afford. (The girls laugh).

JILL

I could talk about clothes all day. It’s a shame the guys don’t have anything like that to talk about.

RICK

Have you been to that new sports car dealership across town? They’ve got like the coolest cars there.

MIKE

Got that right. They’ve got a little convertible I could just KILL for.

STEVE

Yeah, but at fifty grand plus, your Dad would probably kill YOU.

MIKE (Nods)

That’s true. My Dad and I have never seen eye to eye when it comes to cars. I guess he thinks I should be driving a Minivan or something.

JOE

Like you can’t understand parents. Have you seen the stuff they drove when they were young?

RICK

You mean like those boxy sedans? And how they would trick them up with muffler kits and spoilers?

STEVE

Or chopped off backs with stretched out fronts (opens his arms wide) you could probably live in?

ALL GUYS (Collective groan)

Ugh!

RICK

Oh well, maybe they only drove them ‘cause that’s all they could afford. (The guys laugh).

JOE

You know, I guess there was one thing those old land yachts were good for… (puts his hand out like on a steering wheel) parking with your girlfriend.

JILL

Have ya’ll ever had trouble with a guy coming on too strong?

STEVE

Parking’s kind of dumb, man. There’s plenty of other places to go with your girl.

LINDA (Rolls her eyes)

Oh come on… absolutely! There’s only one thing guys are thinking of when you’re going out…

RICK

Yeah, but just because you go there doesn’t mean you’re getting anywhere (Pauses, tilts his head), if you know what I mean.

KAREN

Oh, I don’t know. At least SOME guys I know are pretty cool. I think they see us as more than just a score.

MIKE

Hey, I think most of the stories I hear are made up anyway. Most guys and their “conquests” (does air quotes) are highly overrated.

KATIE

Yeah, OK, maybe. Like, you might just stumble into someone who wants a relationship, not a conquest. As long as you’re careful, hanging out is better than having them hang up (simulates hanging up a phone).

STEVE

I’ll leave the war stories on those conquests to “most guys” (Does air quotes). (Points to himself) I’m after a meaningful relationship with a girl. (The others laugh). Hey, hanging out is better than having them hang up (simulates hanging up a phone).

LINDA

Well, I tried something else that was pretty cool the other night. I was at a party and I tried some weed.

JOE

Hey, did you hear Marty got busted for drugs last night?

JILL

No kidding? What was it like?

RICK

Is that right? What was he doing?

LINDA

It was cool… kind of like a dreamy high. It was a weird feeling.

JOE

I don’t know, selling some pills. He was selling out of his car in the school PARKING LOT of ALL places!

MEAGAN

Seriously, Linda! What if something went wrong?

MIKE

I’m for fun, but something’s always gonna go wrong if you get wrapped up in drugs. Too much craziness driving down that wild road.

LINDA

What could go wrong? It was just friends there. It’s not like I’m going to make a regular thing of it.

STEVE

Yeah. I guess some think it’s fun, but this is a kid (puts his thumb to his chest) who has nooo desire to experiment with that stuff.

JILL

You never know. It’s dangerous—you never know what’s gonna happen, even if you didn’t mean for it to. It’s just not worth it.

JOE

Well, it’s like anything else… you have to make a decision. Of course, I’m not judgin’ anyone. I’m just sayin’ mind your own business. You have to look out for yourself, you have to look out for number one (points at the other guys).

KATIE

Yep. Ya gotta have your head on straight, ya gotta know what to believe in.

(For the song, the girls and guys come forward individually, starting with Meagan and then Mike, as they repeat the chorus (girls), or say their lines (guys). When Rick comes up the curtains can be closed for scene change)

(Song: “WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN?/LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE”)

WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN OUR MINDS, WHAT CAN WE ACHIEVE IN OUR TIME?

WE’RE A GENERATION, THAT’S OH, SO DIFFERENT FROM THE REST.

*WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN, WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN?

WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND, WHAT DO WE BELIEVE IN?

(*Repeat refrain throughout the song)

I GOTTA ASK YOU GIRL WHY DO YOU TRY, WHY HAVE COMPASSION FOR THE OTHER GUY?

THIS WORLD IS CRAZY AND IT ISN’T FAIR, YOU GOTTA HUSTLE JUST TO GET YOUR SHARE.

NOBODY ELSE IS LOOKING OUT FOR YOU, DON’T BE SATISFIED WITH NUMBER TWO (repeat end phrase)

OPEN YOUR EYES GIRL AND LOOK AROUND,

IF YOU’RE NOT CLIMBING THEN YOU’RE GOING DOWN.

LIKE IT OR NOT IT’S A MATERIAL WORLD,

AND MONEY’S TALKING CAN YOU HEAR IT GIRL?

WHEN LITTLE PEOPLE MAKE A FUSS YOU GOTTA BE STRONG,

‘CAUSE LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE JUST CAN’T BE WRONG (repeat end phrase)

I KNOW YOU LIKE TO HAVE IT FAIR FOR ALL,

BUT THAT WAY OF THINKING’S GONNA BRING A FALL.

ALL THINGS AREN’T EQUAL, NO, THEY NEVER WERE,

SO TAKE WHAT’S GIVEN YOU AND DON’T MAKE A STIR.

IGNORE THE REST OF THEM THAT TELL YOU TO STOP,

AVOID THE BOTTOM GIRL, YOU TAKE THE TOP (repeat end phrase)

I USED TO WORRY ‘BOUT MY PLACE IN LINE,

UNDERSTOOD THE GOLDEN RULE AND THAT WAS FINE.

BUT PEOPLE TOOK ADVANTAGE OF MY INNOCENT WAYS,

AND MADE ME UNDERSTAND THAT SEEKING PLEASURE PAYS.

I ONLY WANT WHATEVER’S BEST FOR ME,

BUT WORLD I WANT IT NOW, AND WORLD I WANT IT FREE! (repeat end phrase)

OPEN YOUR EYES GIRL AND LOOK AROUND,

IF YOU’RE NOT CLIMBING THEN YOU’RE GOING DOWN.

LIKE IT OR NOT IT’S A MATERIAL WORLD,

AND MONEY’S TALKING CAN YOU HEAR IT GIRL?

WHEN LITTLE PEOPLE MAKE A FUSS YOU GOTTA BE STRONG,

‘CAUSE LOOKING OUT FOR NUMBER ONE JUST CAN’T BE WRONG (repeat end phrase multiple times)

CURTAIN

ACT II

SCENE 7

Setting: Cliff’s hospital room with the bed, chair and side table.

At Rise: Meagan is seated next to Cliff’s bed. Cliff and Meagan begin the scene laughing with each other, as if part of an ongoing conversation.

MEAGAN

Glad to see you’re doing better.

CLIFF (Flexes his right arm)

Yeah, I’m not as sore.

MEAGAN

So, what are the doctors saying?

CLIFF

Still too early to tell, but sounds like I may be out of bed and in a wheelchair the next time you come. I’m staying positive. (Smiles)

MEAGAN

I admire you for that (Pauses). (Looks at him) Cliff, do you remember when you said that God loves me? What did you mean…? I mean, how do you know?

CLIFF (Pauses)

I know because that’s what I’ve been taught, He loves all of us Meagan. But more importantly, I know because I feel it in my heart (Taps his chest).

MEAGAN (Shakes her head)

But after what’s happened to you… how can you still believe? Why don’t you hate God?

CLIFF (Frowns)

God didn’t cause what happened. Maybe I ought to hate MYSELF, but I’m trying not to do that (Smiles).

MEAGAN (Puts a hand on her head)

Everything is so complicated…

CLIFF (Interrupts her)

Life is complicated. But people make it even more complicated than it has to be. (He pauses, looks up at her) Sorry, my bad, didn’t mean to sound so uptight. What I mean is, there are a few simple things we can trust in, things that don’t change.

MEAGAN

Like God?

CLIFF

Yeah, like God. But also how God speaks to you when you are open to Him. And the best way to do that is through prayer. He’ll be like a little voice inside you. You need to listen to that voice Meagan.

MEAGAN

I think I know what you mean (her face brightens). I hear it sometimes. (Her face becomes more somber and she sighs) But there are lots of voices speaking inside me now, (Pauses) my friends, my parents, my teachers. They never stop. It’s like the universe, so big you can’t focus on what’s important. It makes me want to close my eyes and put my hands over my ears (she acts this out). Maybe God should save His breath.

CLIFF (Smiles, shakes his head)

You are so hard on yourself, Meagan. You see everything as loud, crazy and confusing. You can be sure God’s talking to you and He’s gonna keep on talking to you. Try reaching out and talking to him too. The next time you hear God, you’ll know it’s right, you’ll be at peace.

MEAGAN

Really?

CLIFF (Nods)

Yeah.

(Song: “THE UNIVERSE IS DARK AND COLD”)

THE UNIVERSE IS DARK AND COLD, A VAST ETERNITY,

TOO LARGE A SPACE TO COMPREHEND, NO END THAT I CAN SEE.

I WALK INTO, A SUMMER’S EVE, AND LISTEN FOR A SOUND,

BUT ALL I HEAR’S THE DEAD OF NIGHT, THE SILENCE DRIFTING DOWN.

THE DANCING STARS LIKE POINTS OF LIGHT, ARE PAINTED ‘CROSS THE SKY,

THEY CAN’T BE MEASURED BUT I FEEL, THE ORDER THEY IMPLY.

YET IF THIS VOID IS SO IMMENSE, WHAT DOES IT SIGNIFY?

AND ARE WE KNOWN OR ALL ALONE, WHERE DOES THE ANSWER LIE?

IS THERE A GOD WHO HAS NO END, BEYOND ALL FORM AND TIME?

AND YET APPEARS TO EACH OF US, INSIDE OUR HEARTS AND MINDS.

A STILL SMALL VOICE TELLS ME HE’S REAL, HE’S WATCHING FROM ABOVE,

HE’S EVERYWHERE BUT YET HE’S MINE, FOR JUST MY FAITH AND LOVE.

MEAGAN (Sighs)

Well, that definitely speaks to me. Like, I wish I could hear that still small voice all the time, instead of all the noise in my head.

CLIFF

Listen for it Meagan. God can speak to you in many ways, even while all that noise in your life goes on. Speaking of noise, (he smiles), sorry… how are your friends?

MEAGAN (Smiles and shrugs her shoulders)

Oh, fine, I guess. It seems like we’re having trouble connecting ever since the accident. But I don’t think it’s them, I think I’m just finally realizing there were some changes building inside me.

CLIFF

And how about… Mike (looks sideways at her).

MEAGAN (Looks at Cliff, then down)

I think it’s been hardest on him. He really doesn’t understand me now. I think he’s confused too, but he… he just hides it (Shakes her head).

CLIFF

I’m sure the accident was really tough on him, I’m praying for him.

MEAGAN (With a look of surprise)

You are something else! I wouldn’t think you’d care about what was going on with Mike.

CLIFF (Shrugs his shoulders)

‘Course I do. And God is reaching out to him too.

MEAGAN

Do you think so?

CLIFF

Absolutely. Don’tcha think Mike wants something to believe in? Yeah, (Nods his head) God will be there for him when he’s ready.

MEAGAN

Oh, I hope so. I know I want something to believe in. I WANT God to speak to me. I WANT to be loved.

CLIFF (Quickly)

And you are, Meagan, you are lo…

(Breaks it off in an embarrassed silence, looks down).

MEAGAN

(Looks quickly at him and then away with slight smile. Keeps silent for a moment).

I know Cliff. Sometimes I do feel God wants me for some special purpose, but I don’t know what or why.

CLIFF

I feel the same way, Meagan.

MEAGAN (Gets up)

So, you’ve just got to get better, OK?

CLIFF (Smiles)

Have faith, I will. Might just surprise you how fast.

MEAGAN (Looks at Cliff for a second)

Thanks Cliff… for everything. (Starts to leave)

CLIFF (Reaches out)

Oh, Meagan. I just thought of something you might like. There’s a group that gets together every two weeks. There’s music and sometimes a talk, and a lot of friendly discussion. Real low key. People helping each other with their Christian faith journey, and people with questions… like you.

MEAGAN (Looks interested)

Really?

CLIFF (Nods his head)

Yeah. I think you know Kristi Lee from school? (Meagan nods) She’s the point of contact. They’re meeting Wednesday night, at the teen center. You oughta check it out.

MEAGAN

Kristi huh? Okay, let me think about it. I’ve got to go now, see you. (She walks to downstage center).

MEAGAN (Talking to herself)

Cliff’s right, I think. Maybe I just need to try harder. To reach out and listen for God.

(Closes her eyes. There is a period of silence. Then she looks up as if she’s speaking to God).

God, I’m so messed up. You’re reaching out for me, aren’t you? You love me, don’t you? But why? Why me?

(Song: “WHY?”)

WHY DO YOU LOVE ME, WHY DO YOU CARE?

WHEN I WAS LOST AND LONELY, YOU FOUND ME THERE,

OH, YOU WHO KNEW THE CROSS LORD, YOU WHO SAVED US ALL,

Meagan (Cont.) OH, WHY DO YOU LOVE ME, SO SINFUL AND SO SMALL.

WHY DO YOU WANT ME, WHY DO YOU TRY?

I FEAR SO MANY THINGS LORD, I FEAR I’LL DIE,

OH, YOU WHO KNEW THE CROSS LORD, YOU WHO SAVED US ALL,

OH, WHY DO YOU WANT ME, SO SINFUL AND SO SMALL.

Chorus 1

USE YOUR GRACE ON MORE DESERVING ONES THAN I,

I’M NOT WORTH IT LORD WHY DON’T YOU PASS ME BY, OH WHY, OH WHY.

WHY DO YOU NEED ME, WHAT CAN I DO?

I HAVE NO THINGS OF VALUE, TO OFFER YOU,

OH, YOU WHO KNEW THE CROSS LORD, YOU WHO SAVED US ALL,

OH, WHY DO YOU NEED ME, SO SINFUL AND SO SMALL.

Chorus 2

YOU SEE I’M WEAK WHILE THOSE AROUND ME ARE SO STRONG,

GIVE YOUR LOVE TO THEM, WHY CAN’T YOU SEE I’M WRONG.

Chorus 1

USE YOUR GRACE ON MORE DESERVING ONES THAN I,

I’M NOT WORTH IT LORD WHY DON’T YOU PASS ME BY, OH WHY, OH WHY.

(Repeat Oh Why three times)

CURTAIN

ACT II

Scene 8

Setting: A minimal amount of the furniture from previous scenes is repurposed to represent a gathering place, and placed upstage to maximize people space. There is a doorway/opening on both the left and right sides of the stage.

At Rise: All the kids except Meagan and Cliff enter from stage right, loudly talking, and grouping mostly into their boy-girl pairs. Jill and Mike are together.

JOE

Well, the good guys won again last night. I think we’re going all the way this year.

STEVE

Yeah, baby.

JILL

The basketball game? Absolutely, that was exciting! (Moves a little closer to Mike)

RICK

Everyone was there.

STEVE

It was a rush, loudest I’ve ever heard it.

(Long Pause)

KATIE

(Looking around, and then looking specifically at Jill and Mike)

Well, this group is awful quiet.

JOE

You know (puts both hands up), I’ll go ahead and say it. This group hasn’t been the same since that accident. We’ve been talking about some heavy stuff. (Shakes his head)

KAREN

Well, it makes you think about what’s really important, am I right?

STEVE

Yeah, like the “S” word for instance.

(Everyone looks at him, confused. Steve looks back at them and smiles)

You know, School? I want you guys to be the first to hear, I just got accepted to State. (Does a fist pump in the air) (Everyone calls out, congratulates him).

KAREN (Hugging him)

Way to go, Steve.

RICK

Great, maybe you can be my roommate as soon as I hear something.

LINDA

Ha! Fat chance! (Everyone laughs).

KATIE

Well, it’s something to celebrate. And I know something else. (Pauses) It’s Jill’s birthday! (Everyone congratulates her).

KATIE (Moves over and gives Jill a hug)

Happy birthday Jill. (Looks around the room) I say we find someplace to go and have a serious party! (Mike also moves closer to Jill)

MIKE

I’ve got a better idea. You guys party while Jill and I get to know each other better. (Puts his arm around her)

(Everyone exchanges surprised looks and/or goes “Ooohh”).

JILL

Oh Mike (with a deep breath)…

STEVE (Looks at Mike and Jill)

Um, didn’t see that coming. And speaking of not seeing, I wonder where Meagan is?

KAREN (Taps Steve on the arm)

Don’t you know anything, Steve? She’s been spending a lot of time with Cliff lately.

STEVE

Yeah, how’s he doing anyway?

(Meagan enters pushing Cliff in a wheelchair)

MEAGAN

Why don’t you ask him? Hey everyone, this is Cliff.

(Everyone crowds around, talking to him. Jill draws Meagan off to the side).

MIKE (Goes up to shake Cliff’s hand)

Hey, Cliff, I’m Mike. (Pauses) So how’re you doing? I feel really bad about what happened.

CLIFF

Thanks Mike. It’s over, don’t sweat it. I’m doing well.

JILL (To Meagan)

Meagan, you’re looking great! Last time I saw you, you were so depressed.

MEAGAN

I know, Jill. (Gives her a hug) I think I’m really starting to find myself. Cliff has helped a lot.

JILL

That’s great! (Pauses) Uh, Meagan… I don’t know how to say this, but Mike and I…

MEAGAN (Interrupts, laughing)

I know Jill, you and Mike have found each other. I’m happy for you.

JILL (Smiles)

Really Meg? I didn’t know how you’d take it.

MEAGAN (Shrugs her shoulders)

Things change, Jill, I know that. Lord knows there’s been a lot of changes in me.

JILL

Well, I don’t think I’ve seen you happier, Meg. It’s like old times again. (Mike joins Jill and Meagan)

CLIFF (To the group)

Hey guys, I heard some talk about celebrating when we came in. (The group gets quiet) I’ve got something to be thankful for too. Meagan…

(She turns to face him. Then he slowly gets up out of the wheelchair and carefully takes a step toward Meagan. As he does this, she moves forward and puts a hand out as if to steady him. The rest watch intently and then express congratulations).

MEAGAN

Cliff, I had no idea.

CLIFF

Sorry to surprise you like this, Meagan, but I was cleared for PT a few days ago and figured this was a good time to show you.

MEAGAN

Oh Cliff, I’m so happy. (She hugs him and then steps back)

CLIFF

Making progress. I’m not 100%, but the swelling’s down, and another week or two, I should be getting back to normal.

MEAGAN

That’s awesome!

CLIFF

Yeah. And Meagan… (he takes her hand) it meant a lot that you were there for me.

MEAGAN

I’m glad, Cliff. It helped me too. (Pauses, then takes his other hand) And I think I’m beginning to see what love can do.

(Song: “NOW I KNOW”)

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, I WAS MAKING BAD DECISIONS.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, OF THE HURT YOU SAW IN ME.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, I WAS SEARCHING FOR JUST WHO I AM,

BUT YOU KNEW THAT IF YOU LOVED ME I WOULD SEE.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, BEING FIRST IS NOT THE ANSWER.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, WHAT IT MEANS TO GIVE YOUR ALL.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, THAT YOU’D STAND BEHIND ME ALL THE WAY,

AND YOU’D BE THERE TO RAISE ME UP IF I SHOULD FALL.

Chorus

BUT NOW I KNOW, WHAT LOVE CAN DO.

NOW I SEE, WHY GOD SENT YOU.

I AM WHOLE, ‘CAUSE PART OF YOU IS IN MY SOUL,

NOW I KNOW, WHAT LOVE CAN DO, WHAT LOVE CAN DO.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, I COULD RISE ABOVE MY TROUBLES.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, HELPING YOU WOULD SET ME FREE.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, GIVING YOU MY HEART WOULD MAKE ME STRONG,

AND I’D BECOME THE PERSON I WAS MEANT TO BE.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, WHAT IT’S LIKE TO LOVE ANOTHER.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, WHAT A PRECIOUS THING WE’D SHARE.

YOU DIDN’T TELL ME, WHAT A HERO YOU’D BE IN MY EYES.

NOW IF I NEED SOMEONE I KNOW THAT YOU’LL BE THERE.

Chorus

MIKE (Coming over)

Well, Meagan, I’m happy for you and Cliff.

MEAGAN

And you and Jill.

JILL

And thank God Cliff recovered.

ALL

Yeah!

(Talking and general words of encouragement, high fives)

CLIFF

It’s good to finally meet you guys.

MIKE

Any friend of Meg’s is a friend of ours.

MEAGAN (Shrugs, sheepish look)

Well, the last time you guys saw me I was pretty confused.

MIKE

I’ll say (Nodding his head).

MEAGAN

It was crazy. (Shakes her head) I was all messed up.

KATIE

It was a tough time. (Looks around) A tough time for all of us.

MEAGAN

But I didn’t just find Cliff since then, I found myself. And you know what? I’m not so crazy after all (smiles).

KAREN

(Comes over and puts her arm around Meagan)

Like, we never believed you were crazy Meg. But you were eating yourself up inside. (Waves at the others) We all were. And we wanted to help but we didn’t know how.

MEAGAN

I know Karen. Guess I kinda had to think about things myself.

CLIFF

Meagan’s right. Thinking about the important things she believes in.

MEAGAN

Thanks Cliff. (Gives him a love tap on the shoulder) I didn’t have the answers then, and mostly I still don’t. But I’m working on having faith.

JILL

You mean like my having faith that Mike and I could be together (Smiles)?

MEAGAN (Laughs)

Well… sort of.

RICK (Stepping forward)

And faith that I’m gonna get into college?

MEAGAN

Not faith in the impossible, Rick (Everyone laughs). But faith in yourself and most importantly, faith in God.

CLIFF

Yeah, that kind of faith is something we can believe in. We can do that.

MEAGAN

You know, when it comes right down to it, our generation, (looks around) and especially you guys, we’re pretty special. (Everyone agrees loudly).

CLIFF

And with faith, blessed faith, anything’s possible for us.

(The “Friends” cast will gather center stage for the final song. As they are gathering, all the other Finding performers, will enter from the left and right and fill in both sides. The cast forms an informal line(s) grouping across the stage with the soloists a few steps in front.)

(Song: “OH BLESSED FAITH”)

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITH THE LORD.

HE TOUCHED MY SOUL AND OH MY SPIRIT SOARED.

I WAS A’RUNNIN’ THROUGH THE MAZE OF LIFE WHEN HE OPENED UP THE DOOR,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITH THE LORD.

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITHIN,

I KNOW JUST WHO I AM AND WHERE I’VE BEEN.

I’M SINGING PRAISE FOR JESUS, ‘CAUSE HE WASHED AWAY MY SIN,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITHIN.

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE IS HERE.

I FIND SUCH COMFORT KNOWING THAT HE’S NEAR.

IT MUST BE BLESSED MUSIC, SENT FROM HEAVAN THAT I HEAR,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE IS HERE.

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE FOR ALL.

WHEN YOU FEEL YOUR DOUBTS AND FEARS BEGIN TO FALL.

THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD WALKS HAND IN HAND WHEN THEY’RE HEARING JESUS’ CALL,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE FOR ALL.

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITH THE LORD.

HE TOUCHED MY SOUL AND OH MY SPIRIT SOARED.

I WAS A’RUNNIN’ THROUGH THE MAZE OF LIFE WHEN HE OPENED UP THE DOOR,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITH THE LORD.

HE TOUCHED MY SOUL AND OH MY SPIRIT SOARED.

I WAS A’RUNNIN’ THROUGH THE MAZE OF LIFE WHEN HE OPENED UP THE DOOR,

OH BLESSED FAITH, PEACE WITH THE LORD. (Repeat last part twice)

BREAK

(Repeat the last verse the same)

CURTAIN

END OF MUSICAL

FINDING

Musical Script

CHIP HILL

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