Self Help

Ted attempts to find power in his life through an increasingly insistent self help cassette. Inspired by the theme "In like a lion, out like a lamb," Ted's journey to empowerment takes him down a dark, desperate road.

PRODUCTION HISTORY

• Originally produced by Playground, June 2000 at A Traveling Jewish Theatre
• Winner 2000 Emerging Playwright Award from Playground.
• Produced at Actors Theatre of Santa Rosa, 2003

Here's the first scene (of the ten minute play. Lots of short scenes)
(Obviously all rights reserved. © 2000 by Peter Nachtrieb)



SCENE 1 - IN BED
Ted is sitting up in bed with Paul asleep beside him.
He is very alert, Paul is very asleep
Ted pulls out a small hand held tape player (and presses play).
An actor separate from the action can read the tape.


CASSETTE TAPE
Behold, I am the master

TED
Behold, I am the master!

CASSETTE TAPE
I am a demon of power and positivity.

TED
I am a demon of power and positivity.

CASSETTE TAPE
I am the emperor of my own kingdom. I carry the staff of joy inside my body.

TED
I am the emperor of my own kingdom. I carry the staff of joy inside my body.

CASSETTE TAPE
I am jiggy. I am very very jiggy

TED
I am jiggy. I am very, very jiggy.

Paul stirs.

CASSETTE TAPE
Do not be afraid to lead.

TED
Good morning!

PAUL
Oh. A little surprised that Ted is still there Hi.

CASSETTE TAPE
Do not be afraid to say what you feel and stick to it.

TED
I had a great time last night. A really great time.
I think I'm in love with you. I want you a lot. Lots and lots. I've never felt this way before. Stay with me forever. I won't take no for an answer.

PAUL
I'm late for a brunch.

TED
What?

PAUL
I'm late for a brunch. I'll email you, OK?

TED
OK. Great. That's cool. Do you mind if I take a shower.

PAUL
Yes I do.

TED
OK. I'll just get dressed.

PAUL
Your clothes are already outside.

TED
(In a positive way) Great! Thanks!




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