The Prodigal's Song Music and Book by John Pattison Summary The story of the Prodigal Son, done as a musical set in the Prohibition Era (1920s/30s) Characters Philip- …
The Prodigal's Song
Music and Book by John Pattison
Summary
The story of the Prodigal Son, done as a musical set in the Prohibition Era (1920s/30s)
Characters
Philip- Twenty, naïve, dreamer, restless
Annie- Sweet, Christian young woman, 19 or 20 years old
Reverend Gudegai- Old time traveling preacher, charismatic
Trio- Serves as back up to R.G., gospel trio
Mother- Warm, good-hearted
Father- Farmer, solid, sensible
Jason- Philip’s brother, close in age
Bus Driver- in uniform
Bum- in overcoat
D. Badden- Demon in human form, pimp-like, also called D.B.
Students 1 and 2- D.B.’s young accomplices.
Belle- Pretty, trashy, flashy, Betty Boop-like
Charlie- World-weary bartender, works for D.B., male or female, middle-aged or older
Inspector- Plain-clothes policeman. on the take.
Policeman 1 and 2- In proper Police attire
Chorus- play townspeople and inner city folk
(Townspeople are circa 1930 small town,
good folk. City people are all types, including
bums.)
SETS-
ACT I
Scene 1 (Pre-Act)- Early summer
Pool of light to one side of stage in front of Curtain. Setting indicates a picnic under a tree outside of town.
Scene 2- Same evening. Small town (1920's or 30’s). Church in middle with front that opens to interior from which benches are pulled out for congregation and pulpit, with three chairs (for trio) upstage. At stage left you can see a small store with a bus sign.
Scene 3- Later same evening
Interior of Living Room, Modest Home. This can be a portable set to be moved on and off stage as needed. Exterior door and window on one side. Interior door on other side.
Scene 4- Two weeks later
Same as ACT I Scene 2
Scene 5- Two days later, evening time
Big City Street scene. Run down and trashy. Garbage can under street light upstage next to park-type bench. Bus station at stage right? D.B.'s Club exterior on stage left which opens to reveal interior of speak-easy.
Scene 6- Later, same evening
Inside a prohibition speak-easy called "D.B's". By day a restaurant of some kind, by night a gin joint. On one side is exterior door. Behind counter at back wall is interior door. (Also could be a portable set moved on and off stage)
Scene 7- Three months later, mid-day
Same as Act I Scene 6
Scene 8- Same evening
Same as Act I Scene 6
ACT II
Scene 1- Mid-December, evening
Same as Act I Scene 3
Scene 2- Same evening
Same as Act I Scene 5
Scene 3- Two days later
Same as Act I Scene 3
List of songs-
THERE'S GONNA BE A MEETING--Townspeople
Lots of bustle, energy, movement and excitement over revival meeting.
GET OUT OF THE MIDDLE--Preacher, Trio and People
Jazzy, energetic, lots of interaction
I WANNA GO--Philip
To audience, show frustration
GOODBYE AT BUS STATION--Mother, Father, Annie, Jason
Gentle, simple, sung facing audience
TANTALIZE, TITILLATE-- D.B., STUDENTS 1 & 2, and BELLE
Evil, sly
I WANNA GO (reprise)--D.B. and Philip
Big, exuberant
JEZEBELS--Belle with Customers
Jazzy, dancey
THIS IS THE LIFE!--Philip, Charlie and Belle
Exuberant, intense
THIS IS THE LIFE! (reprise)-Instrumental
Charleston style,
TANTALIZE, TITILATE (reprise)-D.B., STUDENTS 1 & 2, and BELLE
SAY YOU NEED ME--Mother
Simple, loving, mother's prayer
BRING UP A CHILD--Father with Men's Chorus
Gregorian chant feel, change to moderate tempo, intense
BY AND BY-R.G. and Trio (solo by either) and chorus
Gospel style, lots of interaction, joyful
TROUBLE--Philip, D.B. and Trio
Negro spiritual, blues, then jazzy, again lots of interaction on stage
WHO AM I?--Charlie
Ballad
THE PRODIGAL'S SONG--Philip
To audience, sums up story, soulful
THE HOPE WITHIN ME--All with solos by Father, Mother, Jason, Philip
Exuberant finale
SCRIPT
ACT I Scene 1 (Pre-Act)
ANNIE and PHILIP have just finished a happy picnic of fried chicken. ANNIE sits and PHILIP reclines on an elbow. Birds sing in background.
ANNIE: I’m glad your father let you off chores today, Philip. I’ve had a nice time.
PHILIP: Me too, Annie. But you know why, don’t you?
ANNIE: (teasing) Was it because of my sparkling conversation?
PHILIP: No.
ANNIE: (reacting) Excuse me?
PHILIP: (laughing) I mean, yes about the sparkling conversation. But, do you know why mom and dad were so easy about letting me out of chores?
ANNIE: Because tomorrow’s your birthday.
PHILIP: No. Because they like you.
ANNIE: Well, I like them too.
PHILIP: They think you’re about perfect.
ANNIE: I knew there was a reason I liked them!
PHILIP: They’re right, Annie. You are. Not only are you about the prettiest girl around, you can cook too! That chicken was great!
ANNIE: It wasn’t too greasy?
PHILIP: Nope, it was just right. And the cake was a masterpiece.
ANNIE: Oh! Thank you. You deserve the best for your twenty-first birthday. But I can’t cook like your mother can.
PHILIP: Well, she’s had years of practice. (pause) I guess that’s one thing I’m going to miss.
ANNIE: What?
PHILIP: Mom’s cooking.
ANNIE: (turning away) I wish you wouldn’t talk about that.
PHILIP: Mom’s cooking?
ANNIE: (standing) No! Leaving! I wish you wouldn’t talk about going away.
PHILIP: (sitting up) Annie, I’ve told you…
ANNIE: (interrupting) I don’t want to hear about it now, okay? Not today.
PHILIP: (standing, crossing to Annie) Haven’t you ever wanted something different? An easier life? More fun? We’re young! Let’s live a little!
(A church bell rings in the distance and Annie starts)
ANNIE: Oh, we’ve got to hurry! I forgot about the revival meeting tonight! (She begins gathering the picnic things)
PHILIP: (Groaning) Ah, that’s right. I told Mom and Dad I’d be there. Here, let me help. (They hurriedly pick up and he gathers up the blanket while she holds the basket) Look Annie, I haven’t made any decisions yet, okay? (He takes her hand) Come on. We’ll be late.
(PHILIP and ANNIE hurry off stage as bells fade off and music intro for THERE’S GONNA BE A MEETING begins. Curtain opens and lights go up to reveal…
Act I Scene 2
lights up slowly on small town street
(start intro to THERE'S GONNA BE A MEETING)
MALE VOICE: Hey, Ma! Hurry up! The meeting is about to start!
VOICES during intro: "How do I look?" , "Come on, kids", "I'm coming!",
"The Traveling Preacher is here!", etc.
THERE'S GONNA BE A MEETING
ALL- There's gonna be a meeting today! (PEOPLE bustle
Gonna chase the Devil away! about, greeting
Come on and join us. Just pull up a chair. each other on
You're gonna find people who care. way to church.
PHILIP acts
There’s gonna be a meeting tonight! pouty)
Gonna give that devil a fight!
Preacher come preach it. Just shout it out clear.
We're gonna let everyone hear.
WOMAN- I came to the Lord as a young one (Her children run around
at a meeting like this one today. till she swats them at
Now I have children of my own the end of solo)
who need to know the way.
BASS- Christians need one another (to audience)
to help them rise to the test,
add TENOR- Turning together to the Lord, (joins BASS and puts arm
asking Him to be our guest. around his shoulder)
ALL- Holy Father, be our guest!
Sing a celebration of love!
Sing about new life from above.
Let the world know there is nothing to fear.
The strength of the Father is near.
MEN- And as we join together
WOMEN- and let our voices rise
ALL- We know that hosts of heavenly angels
join with us on high--!
There's gonna be a meeting today!
Gonna chase the Devil away!
Come on and join us. Just pull up a chair.
-2- THE PRODIGAL’S SONG
Preacher come preach it. Just shout it out clear.
Let the world know there is nothing to fear.
There's gonna be a meeting today--To-Day!
(On last beat ALL sit in unison in pews that have been pulled out of church as part of choreography during song. PASTOR is at podium with TRIO in robes behind him. PHILIP leans against wall in back as if bored.)
R.G.: My good people! It is hard to believe it has been a whole year since I was last in your lovely community. First, I want to thank you for the great support you have always given our mission in the city. We so appreciate your prayers and your wonderful financial support as well. But folks, I have grave news for you today. Grave news! As I have traveled across this great land of ours, I have seen the most terrible war! (PEOPLE react) That's right!-- A war! There is a war being waged between Good and Evil! Between God and the Devil! (PEOPLE- Amen) So what is so new about that, you might wonder? Well, let me tell you! Brothers and Sisters, the people of God are falling! (PEOPLE gasp)They are giving up! (music begins) Christians are afraid to take a stand! Listen to me...
GET OUT OF THE MIDDLE
R.G.- You lean to the left just a little, (PEOPLE lean, react
And then it's a bit back to the right. to R.G.)
Don't have an opinion- they might think you're dense!
It's hard to keep your balance when you straddle the fence.
TRIO joins- And just like a good politician
You sit in the middle of the road.
You don't stick your neck out--they might cut your throat!
You never want to be the one who's rocking the boat.
But living, for Jesus, was never like that.
He always would stand for the good.
And even when faced with insurmountable odds,
You always would find him just doing what he should.
So, why don't you jump off the deep end
And let your faith take you away!
You never can tell, you just might learn to swim.
You really start in living when you're living for Him!
You gotta get out!
PEOPLE- Get out of the middle! (PEOPLE raise hands on
R.G.- You gotta get out! each line)
PEOPLE- Get out of the middle!
R.G.- You gotta get out!
-3- THE PRODIGAL’S SONG
PEOPLE- Get out of the middle!
R.G.- You gotta get off the fence and do what you should!
So why don't you jump off the deep end
and let your faith take you away.
You never can tell-- you just might learn to swim.
You really start in living.
PEOPLE- (spoken) "you really start in living" (PEOPLE look at each
R.G.- You really start in living. other on spoken lines)
PEOPLE- (spoken) "you really start in living"
R.G.- You really start in living--
When you're living for Him.
You really start in living when you're living for Him!
R.G.- Amen?
PEOPLE- Amen!
R.G.- Amen!
(Scene freezes except for PHILIP. PHILIP moves away from church as he sings. Lights on church fade. Spot on PHILIP.)
PHILIP: (To audience, sarcastically) "Amen." "Amen"? Every year, that traveling preacher comes and it's the same old thing. What good has all this done anyone? Look at those people. These revival meetings are the highlight of their lives! I wonder if that preacher knows how boring this place really is? (Philip looks around as intro starts) I need something more!
I WANNA GO
PHILIP- I wanna go. I wanna go!
I want to see the faces that he has seen.
I want to be the places he's been.
And when I've seen them all then I'll see them all once again!
I want to fly! I want to soar!
I've gotta get out of this one-horse town.
I want to see the world as it is.
I know there's got to be more to life than just this!
I want to fly through the heavens, swim every sea,
and live each day to the fullest! This ain't enough for me!
Get out of this one-horse town.
(Fade music under dialogue, ANNIE enters spotlight from the church.)
ANNIE: Philip? Philip, what are you doing out here?
PHILIP: Oh Annie, I’m sick of this place, this whole town! I gotta get outa here!
ANNIE: So, you're still planning to go? But, where?
PHILIP: I don't know. Anywhere!
ANNIE: Philip, this is our home. I love it here. I thought you did too.
PHILIP: You can’t be serious, Annie! Do you want to end up like those people in there? Look at them! Their idea of a good time is listening to some traveling preacher!
ANNIE: I like him. He’s doing some very important work.
PHILIP: I can’t believe it! You’re just like the rest of them. Don't you realize there’s a whole world out there? Real people! Real places. Real life!
ANNIE: (hurt) If you don't want to be here, fine. But don't be so quick to judge
these people. They are real. They’re good, and they’re your family. They care about you. (pause) I care about you.
PHILIP: I know, Annie. I didn't mean it that way.
ANNIE: Philip, I wish there were something I could say...
PHILIP: You can't Annie. It's not you, all right? It's me. I just feel like I'm all penned up and I need to escape! (music begins again) This is my life, Annie, and I don’t want to waste it here!
I WANNA GO (cont.)
PHILIP- I've gotta get out of this one-horse town.
I want to see the world as it is. I know there's got to be more to life than just this!
I want to fly through the heavens, swim every sea,
and live each day to the fullest! This ain't enough for me!
Get out of this one-horse town.
(Vamp music under dialogue)
ANNIE: Philip, I have to get back. My parents will be worried.
PHILIP: Annie. You could go with me you know.
ANNIE: I can't. It wouldn't be right.
PHILIP: See! That's just it. Who cares what they think?
ANNIE: I do... And I care what God thinks. Write me, okay?
(ANNIE quickly kisses PHILIP on cheek and runs back to church)
PHILIP (singing)- I wanna go. I wanna go.
I 've got to go!
(Lights out)
ACT I Scene 3
Living room. PHILIP is already at home, seated, when FATHER, MOTHER and JASON enter talking.
MOTHER: Wasn't that just wonderful? His words are always so inspiring.
FATHER: You're right, dear. I believe he gets better every year.
JASON: (Pointing at PHILIP) Hey! Here he is.
MOTHER: (seeing PHILIP) Philip! Are you feeling well, honey? We worried
about you when you left the meeting early.
PHILIP: Yes, Mom. I'm fine. I just needed to get some air... and to think.
MOTHER: (crossing to PHILIP) Are you sure, Dear? You look flushed. (feels his forehead and cheeks, then caresses his hair)
JASON: He's not sick...except maybe of church.
FATHER: Jason! That was not necessary.
(JASON retreats at reprimand)
FATHER: You've been moody lately, Philip. What's been bothering you?
PHILIP: (Standing, seizing his opportunity) Dad and Mom, I've been wanting to discuss this with you for a long time now.
FATHER: (sitting) Go on.
PHILIP: Remember when you promised me a share in the farm? You said that I could have it when I got married or…or when I was ready.
FATHER: Yes. (JASON is looking really suspicious)
MOTHER: (excitedly) You and Annie are getting married!
PHILIP: No, Mom, no. But I've been thinking. I'll be twenty-one tomorrow. I want to sell my portion of the farm. (speaking quickly to stave off interruption) I've got it all figured out! This summer, I want to go to the city. I'll get me a job and go to the university in the fall. I'll only use what money I need until I get set up, you know?
JASON: What?! You've got to be kidding!
(almost in unison)
MOTHER: This summer! You can't be serious!
PHILIP: (ignoring JASON) But I am Mom! I've thought about it a long time.
FATHER: (standing, holding up hand, palm out) Slow down, Philip. You want to break up the farm?
PHILIP: (pause) I don’t want to be a farmer, Dad. I’m sorry.
FATHER: I wish you had told me this before now.
PHILIP: I know Dad. I probably should have. But it’s just my share of the farm anyway. There’s still a lot left! I’m just not cut out to be a farmer. I want something different.
JASON: Like what?
PHILIP: I don’t know yet. I just know I don’t belong here.
MOTHER: What about Annie? Does she know about this?
PHILIP: Well, yes. But she doesn’t want to go.
MOTHER: You’re not going to find another one like her.
PHILIP: I know, Mom.
FATHER: (trying one more time) Philip, take some time off. Just think everything through.
PHILIP: I have Dad. In fact I already have a buyer for my share of the land.
FATHER: (shocked) What?
JASON: You’re kidding!
MOTHER: Who?
PHILIP: Mr. Davies. My land is right next to his. He promised to pay a good price for it.
FATHER: Philip, I don’t think you realize what you’re doing. That land was to help you get started. When it’s gone…that’s it.
JASON: (shocked) You're going to give it to him?!
FATHER: It's not mine to give or not to give, Jason. It's his land. I promised it to him. (sighing) It’s Philip’s decision.
JASON: But school doesn't even start till fall. What about all the summer chores?
FATHER: If your brother wants to leave now, that's his choice. He's a man
now. He can decide for himself. (to PHILIP) Philip, we could use you around here. It would be helpful if you could stay till fall.
MOTHER: (Hopefully) And that would give us time to prepare.
PHILIP: (Firmly) Dad and Mom, I really want to leave right away. I know it seems sudden, but I’ve been planning this for a long time. I just didn’t know how to tell you.
FATHER: (Hesitates, making a decision) All right then... I guess you’ve made up your mind. You know, that seems like a lot of money to you now, but you can’t just fritter it away. You're really going to have to be frugal to make it last.
PHILIP: I'll use it wisely, Dad. I will! (hugs MOTHER) Don't worry, Mom. I'll be fine. You'll see! I'm going to go pack!
(PHILIP leaves happily, leaving MOTHER and FATHER dazed and looking at each other while JASON just shakes his head, disgusted)
(lights out)
ACT I Scene 4
Two weeks later, At stage left, near bus sign. MOTHER, FATHER, JASON, and ANNIE are arriving at Bus Stop with PHILIP. MOTHER is carrying a Bible still in its box. PHILIP has a duffel bag.
DRIVER’S VOICE: Bus #29, boarding now for Marysville, Auburn, Bridgetown, Ormandy and all points west. Please have your tickets ready.
MOTHER: (to Philip) Are you sure you have everything you need? Do you have your ticket?
PHILIP: (anxious to get going) Yes, Mom. It’s right here.
FATHER: Be careful, son. You have to be on your guard at all times.
PHILIP: I know, Dad.
FATHER: Of course you do. You'll be fine.
ANNIE: Philip, don't forget to write, okay?
PHILIP: I'll write every day, Annie. And I'll write you too, Mom.
MOTHER: (handing him a Bible) Philip, your father and I got this for you. It’s a Bible. It has a concordance and everything. It’ll help you with your personal devotions.
DRIVER: (entering from side, to PHILIP) Last call for boarding, son.
PHILIP: I’m coming. (DRIVER leaves) Thanks, Mom and Dad. (places Bible in bag) It's great. (ALL hug, and even JASON joins in tentatively and mutters a goodbye with the others. PHILIP heads toward bus off-stage)
FATHER: (calling after PHILIP) Remember, you represent your family and you represent God. Make us proud.
PHILIP: (exiting to bus) I will Dad. I love you all! Bye!
ALL: (waving) Bye, Good bye, etc.
MOTHER: (To FATHER) I hope he'll be all right.
FATHER: I do too, dear. I do too.
ANNIE: Well, I guess I'd better be going.
MOTHER: I’m glad you came, Annie.
ANNIE: Me too. Well, good bye.
JASON: I'm going to walk her home, okay?
FATHER: (to JASON) Don't be too long, Jason. We've got to feed the animals.
JASON: I won't.
(JASON and ANNIE walk ahead while MOTHER and FATHER stay at stage right. All four face out as they sing out their thoughts. Lights dim except on actors. Begin music intro)
FATHER: (Sigh) He's really gone. I hope we did the right thing.
MOTHER: The house is going to seem so quiet now.
FATHER: Yes. It will.
GOODBYE SONG
MOTHER(singing)-
It's so hard letting my children go.
FATHER- I always knew this day would come.
MOTHER- The ache inside me begins to grow.
FATHER- But, now it's here I pray
M. AND F.- Dear Father, look on our son with eyes of love
and keep him safe until he's home.
ANNIE- I wonder if he will think of me.
JASON- I'm going to miss him now he's gone.
ANNIE- It's not the way I dreamed it would be.
JASON- I only hope and pray
A. AND J.- Dear Father, watch over him with eyes of love.
Be with him wherever he may go.
FATHER- I always knew this day would come.
MOTHER- The ache inside begins to grow.
JASON- I'm going to miss him now he's gone.
ANNIE- I love him more than he can know.
(music continues during dialogue)
FATHER: (to MOTHER) You've been a good mother. He'll do okay.
MOTHER: And you have been a wonderful father. (sigh) We've done our best.
FATHER: It's up to him now.
ANNIE: (to JASON) Do you think he'll be all right?
JASON: Yeah, sure. He'll have a blast! (reassuringly) He'll be back for you, Annie. Don't worry.
ALL FOUR (sing)- Father, watch over him with eyes of love.
Be with him wherever he may go.
FATHER- I always knew this day would come.
MOTHER- The ache inside begins to grow.
JASON- I'm going to miss him now he's gone.
ALL- I love him more than he can know.
(Lights out)
Act I Scene 5
Nighttime, Big city street, Garbage can, street light and park bench upstage center. At stage left is facade of D.B.'s SUPPER CLUB. A bum in an overcoat is rummaging through the trash can, his back to the audience. As lights go up, D.B., STUDENT 2 and BELLE are watching STUDENT 1 chase BUM away.
STUDENT 1: Hey, you bum! Get outa’ here. This ain’t no restaurant! (Others laugh)
STUDENT 1: (turning back to D.B., joking) Hey D.B., I think I recognized him. Didn’t he use to work for you?
D. B.: (sneering) Who knows? They all look the same after awhile. (to all) Listen up now, I think it's time I gave you all a lesson in fishing.
BELLE: (gleefully) Is this where we throw them into the frying pan and watch them sizzle?
D.B.: No, that is the last lesson. This is the one where we find our unsuspecting little fish and lure them along until they are hooked. (Cupping Belle’s chin playfully) THEN you can sizzle them all you want. (Belle giggles) The higher we take them, the farther their fall… and the more fun for us! The trick is to find just the right bait. Remember... everyone has their weakness. (play chord) You've got to...
TANTALIZE, TITILLATE
D.B.- Tantalize, titillate,
Find a spot and aggravate.
Pick apart and whittle down.
Make it fun!
Then, hit'em on the run
and leave them lying on the ground.
Analyze, supervise,
lead them with your wicked lies.
Never let them know you're there.
When you're through,
they'll never know that you
have ruined them beyond repair.
Make it seem the easy way and they'll follow till there's no return.
Analyze, supervise, lead them with your wicked lies.
Then sit back and watch them burn!
You know the enemy is tricky!
While we are evil--He is good!
So, never let them know they're unhappy
and we'll have them like we should!
add TRIO- (repeat vss. 1 and 2 with echo)
D.B.- Make it seem the easy way and they'll follow...
They'll follow! They'll follow till there's no return.
Analyze, supervise,
lead them with your wicked lies.
Then sit back and watch them burn! (D.B. laughs evilly)
(PHILIP enters with bag SR, in awe at the big city)
STUDENT 2: (pointing at PHILIP) Look Sir! What about that one?
D.B.: Ahh. You've got a good eye. He's young, fresh-faced. Too old to
be a run-away so he probably has some money. He's perfect. Follow me and watch closely. (D.B. and TRIO approach PHILIP. D.B. grins broadly)
D.B.: Well, hello my young friend. Welcome to our city!
PHILIP: (startled) Uh, who? Me? Uh, hello?
D.B.: Surprised you, huh? Well, not all city folk are stuck-up and rude, you know. Where do you call home?
PHILIP: (cautious) Oh, it's a small town. You've probably never heard of it.
D.B.: Ah, I'll bet I have. I get around, you know. Do a lot of traveling.
PHILIP: (curious) Really?
D.B.: Oh sure! I like to fish (winks at others)...in a sense. Hey, listen! Are you planning on staying in town for awhile or just passing through?
PHILIP: Uh, I plan on staying awhile...get a job, go to school, maybe. I don't know. I might travel a bit if I feel like it.
D.B.: (To TRIO) Now this is a smart kid! Look around a bit. Spread your wings. Try new things. That's what I like to do. Look where it got me! I run my own show, do what I want, go where I like.(Touching PHILIP's shoulder) You know kid, I like you. Stick with me. I'll show you the time of your life!
PHILIP: (pulling away) Well, I don't know.
D.B.: (acting hurt) Oh. Hey, don't worry about it! But, if you change your mind...here's my card. (gives PHILIP card)
PHILIP: (reading) D. Badden... What does the D stand for?
D.B.: Oh, it's a name I hate. I don't use it much. (offers hand) Just call me D.B..
PHILIP: (shakes hand and smiles) All right. D.B., I'm Philip, Philip Michaels.
D.B.: Good to meet you, Philip, Philip Michaels! Have you found a place to stay yet?
PHILIP: Well, actually, I was just kind of looking around, you know?
D.B.: Look no more, Philip. I run a little place right over there. (points to gin joint) We've got a room available. It's not much, but it's clean...
PHILIP: Uh, I don't know.
D.B.: ...And cheap.
PHILIP: (laughing) Cheap is good!
D.B.: Tell you what. Seeing as it’s late, tonight you stay free. If you like it and want to stay on you can tell me tomorrow. If you don't, no sweat. At least it'll get you off the street for tonight. (PHILIP begins to remonstrate) No, no, it's not a problem. You seem like a nice kid. I'd be honored to help.
PHILIP: Thank you so much. That's really nice of you.
D.B.: Don't mention it. Hey, maybe sometime you can help me out... You know, I could always use a smart young man on my payroll. Maybe later we can discuss a job after you get settled in.
PHILIP: I think...well...sure, that would be great!
D.B.: No problem. You're a nice kid. I like helping nice kids. It makes me feel good. Stick with me Philip. You're gonna have a great time!(music cue)
I WANNA GO (REPRISE)
D.B. and PHILIP (singing)-
We're gonna fly through the heavens, swim every sea,
and live each day to the fullest!
PHILIP- There's not enough for me!
D.B.- You're out of that one horse town.
(Accompaniment continues through end of dialogue)
D.B.: (motioning to BELLE) Hey, Belle, why don't you take Philip here to his room. The boys and I have delivery to make. We'll meet you both later at the club.
BELLE: (sidling up to PHILIP) Sure, D.B.. No problem.
D.B.: Philip, this is Belle. If she can't show you around, believe me, noone can.
PHILIP: (flustered) Uh, Hello.
BELLE: Hi, Philip. You're kinda cute. (she takes PHILIP'S arm in a leading way. As they go toward SL she picks his pocket and flashes it at D.B.. Music ends and lights go out)
ACT I Scene 6-
Inside Gin joint. CHARLIE is at counter and several customers sit at tables when
BELLE walks in with PHILIP and his bag.
BELLE: Hey, Charlie!
CHARLIE: Hey there, Belle. Who you got there? That your new boyfriend?
BELLE: (giggling) Oh, Charlie! (to PHILIP) Charlie here is such a kidder. Of course, you're so cute, I just might make you my boyfriend after all. (to CHARLIE) This is Philip, Charlie. Isn't he the sweetest thing you ever saw? (PHILIP looks embarrassed)
CHARLIE: Hello, Philip. Nice to meet you.
PHILIP: Hi.
BELLE: D.B. is giving him the room upstairs. Philip's gonna be working for him.
CHARLIE: Guess that means I'll be seeing you around, huh?
PHILIP: Well, I haven't decided yet...
CHARLIE: Hey kid, if you're smart you'll take up with D.B. He's about the biggest operator this side of town. And he pays good. Besides, it looks like Belle is getting sweet on you.
BELLE: Look at him! He's blushing! (guiding PHILIP to back door) Come on, Philip. We'll be back down soon, Charlie. Save me my table, okay?
CHARLIE: You betcha, Belle. (BELLE winks and takes PHILIP out back door while CHARLIE. starts setting up bar, etc.) (D.B. and STUDENTS 1 and 2 enter from outside.)
CHARLIE: (to D.B.) Hi there, Boss.
D.B.: Good evening, Charlie. Busy tonight.? (STUDENTs sit at a table while D.B. crosses to CHARLIE)
CHARLIE: Not too. It looks like you got yourself a new associate. (slyly) Been fishing, huh?
D.B.: Philip? Yeah, I need a fresh face for some of my runs. He looks innocent enough to get by th police.
CHARLIE: (concerned) It's really too bad the last kid didn't make it longer.
D.B.: Goes with the territory. But hey, there's always a new kid.
CHARLIE: I suppose so, but,...
(BELLE and PHILIP, without bag, reenter giggling)
BELLE: D.B., you're back! I was just telling Philip here about my real name.
D.B.: (laughing) You mean Gertrude?
BELLE: (to PHILIP) See?! Isn't that just awful? But, D.B. here found me a better one in, of all places, you won't believe it, the Bible!
PHILIP: The Bible? I don't remember there being any Belles in the Bible.
BELLE: Oh, sure. D.B. knows all about the Bible. He says I remind him of one of his favorite characters. Jezebel!
PHILIP: Jezebel? I thought she was a murderer or something.
BELLE: Yeah, that's what I thought. But she was really just a woman in love. She loved her husband so much she would do anything for him. (wistfully) Isn't that romantic?
PHILIP: Well, I guess so.
BELLE: (Sighing) Yeah! And D.B. says I'm like that too. (pointedly) I'll do
anything.
PHILIP: (gulping) Really?
BELLE: Sure! (music intro begins) And there are lots of other ladies in the Bible just like us.
JEZEBELS (customers enjoy song as BELLE entertains them)
BELLE- Jezebels. Those Jezebels.
Those ladies in the stories that the Bible tells.
They were evil and conniving, but they did it well.
Talking 'bout those Jezebels.
Jezebels. Those Jezebels,
The ones that everybody says were just no good.
They were really not bad, they're just misunderstood.
Let's hear it for those Jezebels.
Sweet, lovely Delilah,
She found out what made her man strong.
So one day he woke up beside her
to find that his strength was all gone.
She was history's first beautician.
Jezebels. Those Jezebels.
Those ladies in the stories that the Bible tells.
They were evil and conniving, but they did it well.
Talking 'bout those Jezebels. Jezebels! Jezebels!
The ones that everybody says were just no good.
They were really not bad, they're just misunderstood.
Let's hear it for those Jezebels.
And think of King Herod's stepdaughter
Who danced for the crowd while they ate.
The King said, "May I take your order?"
She said, "Give me John's head on a plate!"
Not too appetizing.
Band plays half of chorus in waltz time,
BELLE(spoken)-They weren't really bad they were just misunderstood!
(sung)- Let's hear it for those Jezebels!
CUSTOMERS- Jezebels! Jezebels!
Belle- Those ladies in those stories that the Bible tells.
They were evil and conniving, but they did it well!
Talking 'bout those Je-ze-bels!
(Lights out.)
ACT I Scene 7
Inside the speak-easy three months later, mid-day, D.B. is doing books, CHARLIE is cleaning.
CHARLIE: D.B.?
D.B.: (looking at his books) Yeah?
CHARLIE: The kid’s been here about three months, right?
D.B.: You mean Philip? Yes, about three months now.
CHARLIE: How's he doing?
D.B.: (not looking up) Oh, he's working out fine. Belle has him wrapped around
her little finger.
CHARLIE: So I noticed. (pause) You're not worried about him using the junk he sells for you, are you? I mean, I'd hate for him to turn out like the last kid.
D.B.: (looking up) Look, Charlie, don't get soft on me. I run a business. One of
the reasons I took Philip into it was because I knew he had some money. (looking back at books) Sure he's using the stuff. I expected him to. Belle knows how to do her job.
CHARLIE: Yeah, I suppose so. (long pause) It's just that Philip seems like a nice kid.
D.B.: (annoyed) He is a nice kid. That is precisely why I hired him. He's also a greedy one. Always looking for something better. Noone is twisting his arm, you know. He takes the bait without a fight. (smiling) Hmph. It's almost too easy. CHARLIE: I'm just worried...
D.B.: (angrily shutting books) Look, Charlie, enough said! Philip wants to do what he's doing. And that's just fine with me!
CHARLIE: (chastened) Okay boss.
(BELLE enters from back wearing a new gown)
BELLE: D.B.! Look at me. Isn't this dress just gorgeous?
D.B.: (grinning) Belle, you look ravishing! Another gift from Philip?
BELLE: Uh huh. One thing you can say, he sure is generous!
D.B.: You've earned it Belle. How much has he got anyway? He spends money like it's going out of style.
BELLE: Well, I'm not sure. But his family wasn't rich so I expect he'll run out soon. (whining) Besides, D.B., I'm getting bored with him. He's starting to use the drugs a lot more and he's getting, you know, like all the rest of them. He thinks he's some kind of hot stuff!
D.B.: (seriously) Belle, if he's got more money, we want it. I know you. You can stick it out. Just a little while longer till we can find a new kid.
BELLE: (pouting) All right. But he's started calling me 'Doll' now. I hate being called Doll.
(PHILIP enters from outside, dressed to a “T”)
PHILIP: Hey everyone! (noticing BELLE) Wow, Belle, you look great!
BELLE: (preening and cooing) I was just showing off. I really love the dress,
Philly. (pouting) But I don't have any earrings to go with it yet. I can't wear it without the earrings!
D.B.: Nonsense! Philip will buy you new earrings. Won't you, Philip? (PHILIP looks a bit shocked) If he keeps doing the good job he's been doing, I'm going to double his salary in a few months.
PHILIP: (grinning, relieved) Thanks, D.B.!
D.B.: Glad to do it! (gathering his books into his case) Well, you two have fun. But be here for the party tonight. (Mysteriously) I think you’ll be surprised. (Crosses to exterior door) I'll be back soon.
PHILIP: Good by.
CHARLIE: See you later, Boss. (D.B. leaves)
BELLE: (running over and hugging PHILIP) Oh, Philly. Isn't that great? D.B.
was just telling me what a great asset you were to his organization.
PHILIP: (relieved) You don't know how great it is. To tell you the truth, I was a little worried about my funds, but now with a raise...! Go change, Doll! We're gonna go out and get you those earrings.
BELLE: You bet, Philly! (giving PHILIP a hug and kiss) I just love it when you call me ‘Doll’. Don't go away! (BELLE goes out back door)
CHARLIE: (approaching Philip and speaking as if confidentially) Philip. I'm getting worried about you.
PHILIP: Why, Charlie?
CHARLIE: You’re a good kid, Philip. But you’ve gotten into some pretty bad stuff--you know, the girls, the drugs, the booze. I don’t think you know what you've gotten into.
PHILIP: You don't have to worry about me, Charlie. I can handle it. I've never been better in my life.
CHARLIE: You know those letters you used to always bring down to mail?
PHILIP: (start music intro) Charlie, I’m fine! This is the most fun I’ve ever had!
THIS IS THE LIFE!
PHILIP(singing)- This is the life that I've dreamed of.
CHARLIE(spoken)- Surely there is someone back home?
PHILIP- Out on my own, running free.
CHARLIE- Your parents, maybe? A girlfriend?
PHILIP- This is the place that has everything for me.
This is the life that I longed for.
CHARLIE- Watch out, Philip. It's dangerous.
PHILIP- All that I've wanted to see.
CHARLIE- I don't think you know how dangerous.
PHILIP- Here I can be anything I want to be.
This is the life for me. This is the life for me.
CHARLIE- Philip, these people aren't as nice as they seem.
PHILIP(spoken)- You're sounding like my parents now. Like I said, don't worry
about me. I know what I'm doing.
(singing)- Now, nobody questions my thinking.
Nobody here tells me no.
Now, I decide if it's right or if it's wrong.
Nobody says 'you can't do that!'
If I want to go I just go.
Now, I can rise to the top if I am strong.
This is where I belong, this is where I belong.
I've got an attitude that's 'Devil may care',
Nobody's bossing me around.
And if someone should try, they'd better beware.
I won't let noone bring me down!
This is the life that I've dreamed of.
Out on my own, running free.
This is the place that has everything for me.
CHARLIE(sung)- There'll come a day, you're gonna fall.
PHILIP- This is the life that I longed for.
All that I've wanted to see.
Here I can be anything I want to be.
This is the life for me. This is the life for me.
(STUDENTS 1 and 2 poke their heads in from outside, dialogue during music interlude)
STUDENT 1: Hey Philip, You're coming to the party tonight, right?
PHILIP: You bet! Belle and I wouldn't miss it.
STUDENT 1: Great! We'll see you there.
STUDENT 2: You're bringing the dope aren't you?
STUDENT 1: The good stuff, remember.
PHILIP: Don't I always?! Only the best for me and my friends!
(STUDENTS 1 and 2 leave)
CHARLIE: That's just exactly what I'm talking about.
PHILIP: Aw, quit worrying!
(singing)- I've got an attitude that's 'Devil may care',
Nobody's bossing me around.
And if someone should try, they'd better beware.
I won't let noone bring me down!
This is the life that I've dreamed of.
Out on my own, running free.
This is the place that has everything for me.
BELLE: (entering) Okay, Philly, I'm ready to go.
PHILIP- This is the life that I longed for. (BELLE takes PHILIP's
All I've wanted to see. arm and they head
Here I can be anything I want to be. for door)
This is the life for me.
PHILIP and BELLE(sung)-
This is the life for me. This is the life for me!
(Door closes behind PHILIP and BELLE on last beat)
(Lights out)
ACT I Scene 8
THIS IS THE LIFE (insrumental, Charleston style) Later same evening. Inside club. Short reprise of last chorus of song as lights go up. D.B., BELLE, PHILIP, STUDENTS 1&2 and chorus are in party clothes. All are dancing, drinking and making merry. PHILIP is obviously drunk or stoned. CHARLIE is behind bar. As reprise ends, sirens are heard and ALL scream and scramble to hide drinks in coats and purses. PHILIP hides drug paraphernalia in coat pocket. As INSPECTOR and 2 POLICEMEN enter, STUDENTS 1&2 and BELLE exit back. Charlie stays behind bar.
INSPECTOR: All right, everybody. Stay calm. I’m only here for one person.
D.B.: Inspector! What can I do for you?
INSPECTOR: Sorry to drop in like this D.B., but I got a warrant here for one of your boys. A Philip Michaels? (PHILIP looks up in distress)
D.B.: (putting hand on PHILIP’s shoulder) You must have the wrong man, Inspector! Philip’s just a nice country boy, visiting us for awhile.
(POLICEMEN 1&2 handcuff PHILIP and begin to frisk him)
INSPECTOR: Well, the rest of your friends can go, (chorus leaves mumbling) but it seems your visitor here has been seen delivering drugs around town.
D.B.: Philip? Oh, you must be mistaken!
POLICEMAN 1: (pulling drugs out of Philip’s pocket) Hey, Inspector, look what I found.
INSPECTOR: (to Philip) Those yours, boy?
D.B.: (pulling away from Philip) This is just terrible! Such a nice kid, too.
PHILIP: D.B.? What do I do?
D.B.: Just don’t say anything and don’t you worry, Philip. You’ll be out in no time. I am sure this is just a big misunderstanding. You sit tight until I can send you a lawyer.
PHILIP: (as POLICEMEN 1 and 2 take him away) Okay, sir. I will. I promise. Not one word.
D.B.: (pulling INSPECTOR aside) I don’t know about kids these days, how they get mixed up in these things. (He takes out wallet) I trust this will not reflect badly on my establishment.
INSPECTOR: (smiling knowingly) Oh, you know how these country bumpkins are. Coming into the city to have a good time. I guess he found it.
D.B.: (slipping the INSPECTOR some bills) Thank you for your understanding.
INSPECTOR: Always a pleasure doing business with you, D.B.. (INSPECTOR leaves as STUDENTS 1&2 and BELLE enter from back door.)
STUDENT 1: Hey Boss, we searched his room. Philip is broke!
D.B.: Are you sure?
STUDENT 2: We checked everything. Just a few bucks.
STUDENT 1: All’s he has is some clothes and a Bible.
STUDENT 2: And some old letters.
D.B.: Well, maybe he keeps his cash on him.
BELLE: No, I watched him get dressed. He left everything upstairs except the
drugs he brought to the party. I TOLD you I thought he was about out of money!
D.B.: Okay, then. That settles it. Philip is history.
CHARLIE: But, Boss, you told him you’d send him your lawyer.
D.B: I know very well what I told him, Charlie.
CHARLIE: But he could get a lot of time for this.
D.B.: Naw, it’s his first time. Besides, It will do him good to sit in jail a day or two. Clean him up. That’s what you wanted, right?
CHARLIE: Well, yeah, but…
D.B.: Then this is for his own good, isn’t it? Now get this place cleaned up!
(Charlie defeatedly begings to clean as the others continue talking downstage. Charlie watches them as they continue.)
BELLE: But, what if he talks, D.B.?
D.B.: Not Philip. He’s no snitch. (sarcastically) He’s a man of honor. He’ll want to protect his friends, now won’t he. (D.B. looks around at their worried faces) All right, look. I’ll send my lawyer. He’ll cop a plea and get off easy. Go get his things together so we can send them down too. I’ll make sure he stays away from us and keeps his mouth shut.
STUDENT 1: He’ll think he’s helping us.
STUDENT 2: (Snickering) Yeah, especially Belle.
D.B.: He’ll be a hero!
BELLE: Good riddance.
D.B.: (to BELLE) That, my Dear, is how you throw them into the frying pan and watch them sizzle.
BELLE: Sizzle?
STUDENT 2: Yeah, Belle, the Fish! Philip!
BELLE: Oh, that’s right! (chord for TANTALIZE, TITILATE Reprise)
TANTALIZE, TITILATE (REPRISE)
D.B.- You know the enemy is tricky!
While we are evil--He is good!
So, never let them know they're unhappy
and we'll have them like we should!
Add Trio- Tantalize, titillate,
Find a spot and aggravate.
Pick apart and whittle down.
Make it fun!
Then, hit'em on the run
and leave them lying on the ground.
Analyze, supervise,
lead them with your wicked lies.
Never let them know you're there.
When you're through,
they'll never know that you
have ruined them beyond repair.
D.B.- Make it seem the easy way and they'll follow...
TRIO- They'll follow!
D.B. & TRIO- They'll follow till there's no return.
STUDENT 1- Analyze,
STUDENT 2- Supervise,
BELLE- Lead them with your wicked lies.
D.B.- Then sit back and watch them burn!
(D.B. and TRIO all laugh as last chords play)
(Lights out.)
--------------------------------INTERMISSION------------------------------------------------------
ACT II Scene 1
Mid-December. House interior. It is evening. Partially decorated Christmas tree is up. MOTHER is alone, decorating the tree as lights go up slowly. She moves around room slowly as she sings and ends up at window.
SAY YOU NEED ME
MOTHER- Do you laugh? Do you weep?
Do you rise? Do you sleep?
Do the stars above you break the night to light your way?
When you smile, is it real?
When you cry, do you feel
someone who will understand?
Live your life for yourself and you just cry alone. So,
When you laugh--call me.
When you cry--call me.
Say you need me--I'll be there.
MOTHER: (to audience) Oh, Philip. My son. Where are you tonight? Are you safe? What are you thinking?
When you smile, is it real?
When you cry, do you feel
someone who will understand?
Live your life for yourself and you just die alone. So,
When you laugh, when you weep,
when you rise and when you sleep,
say you need me--I'll be there.
(FATHER enters from outside)
FATHER: Hey, how’s the tree coming along? (sees MOTHER) Honey, are you okay? (crosses to MOTHER at window)
MOTHER: I'm fine. I know it is silly, but I keep hoping that someday I'm going to
see him walking up that road.
FATHER: (holding MOTHER) It's not silly dear. I often find myself doing the
same thing. (pause)
MOTHER: (looking around) Where is Jason?
FATHER: (moving to hang up coat on rack) He’s just closing up the barn. He’ll be along soon.
(There is a knock on the door. FATHER opens it and ushers ANNIE into room carrying a plate of cookies)
FATHER: Annie! Come in out of the cold.
ANNIE: Hi Mr. and Mrs. Michaels. I brought you some Christmas cookies.
MOTHER: (taking plate) Oh, how sweet of you. (anxious) Have you heard from Philip?
ANNIE: No. I haven't heard from him in weeks. I was hoping you had heard
something.
MOTHER: I'm afraid not. I do hope he's all right.
(Jason enters during next line and takes off coat)
FATHER: (not very reassuring) You know how bad he is about writing. I'm sure he's fine.
MOTHER: I just can't help worrying. I don't trust that Badden man he wrote about.
JASON: (crossing from doorway) Why, Mom? I think he sounds great! I hope he gets out this way. I'd like to meet him. (to ANNIE) Hey, Annie.
ANNIE: Hello, Jason.
FATHER: (to JASON, a little harshly) Jason, don’t be a fool! There are characters like that everywhere. I was hoping your brother would be wise enough to see through him by now. I worry about him too.
JASON: (upset) All you two do is mope about Philip!
MOTHER: (moving to hug him) Now, Jason dear...
JASON: Aw, Mom...(he pouts out of the room. MOTHER is left standing with empty arms.)
FATHER: I'll go talk to him. (gives MOTHER a reassuring touch and follows JASON)
ANNIE: I'm sorry, Mrs. Michaels.
MOTHER: It’s not your fault, Annie. Things have been a little tense around
here, lately. Mr. Michaels and I just don’t know what to do. He’s talked about going to look for Philip after the holidays. We thought maybe he would come home for Christmas.
ANNIE: I was kind of hoping he would come home for me. But, it doesn’t look like that’s going to happen.
MOTHER: (taking ANNIE’s hand in both of hers) Annie, I know that sooner or later Philip will realize what a jewel he has in you.
ANNIE: Thank you, Mrs. Michaels. (moving toward door) I’d better be going. I’ll be praying for you and Philip.
MOTHER: Thank you, dear. And we’ll let you know if we hear anything at all. (opens door) Good bye.
ANNIE: Good bye Mrs. Michaels. (she hugs MOTHER and leaves. MOTHER closes door as FATHER returns)
FATHER: Where is Annie?
MOTHER: She had to leave. Did you talk to Jason?
FATHER: I tried to explain to him that we love him just as much as his brother, but he seems to be intent on feeling sorry for himself.
MOTHER: I'm sure you did fine... I guess we really have spent a lot of time talking about Philip lately. I know I pray for him constantly. It is so difficult not knowing anything about how he is or what he’s doing.
FATHER: I don’t know. Maybe it’s better we don’t know exactly what he’s doing.
(pause)) You look tired, dear. Why don’t you go on to bed? We can finish the tree tomorrow.
MOTHER: Well, I guess I am pretty worn out. It’s been a long day. Aren’t you coming?
FATHER: No, not yet. I still haven’t done my devotions tonight.
MOTHER: All right then. Good night. (they kiss)
FATHER: Good night. (MOTHER leaves. FATHER picks up Bible and reading glasses and sits. As he opens the Bible and begins to read Music intro starts and lights dim. Spot on FATHER)
BRING UP A CHILD
MALE CHORUS-
Bring up a child in the way that he should go and in the end he will not depart from it. (repeat 3 X)
FATHER- Bring up a child in the way... What is the way?
Have I done all that I could?
As he walks alone in the world today
will he behave the way that he should?
Will he think before reacting?
Did I teach him well?
Will he be a man?
Only time will tell.
Was my life a good example?
Did I listen when he called?
Will he stumble or stand tall?
FATHER and MALE CHORUS-
Bring up a child in the way that he should go and in the end
he will not depart from it. (repeat)
FATHER- There is so much more to tell him,
but the time for that is past.
How the years have flown!
Where'd they go so fast?
If I had him here beside me and could talk to him somehow,
would it make a difference now?
FATHER- Bring up a child in the way. M Chorus- Bring up a child in the
What is the way? way that he should go
Have I done all that I could. and in the end he will not
depart from it.
As he walks alone in the (repeat)
world today, will he behave
the way that he should.
FATHER- Bring up a child in the way that he should go.
MALE CHORUS- Bring up a child in the way that he should go. (repeat)
FATHER- Bring up a child in the way that he should go.(lights fade)
Act II Scene 2
City again, decorated for Christmas. A bum, actually Philip, in overcoat is again at garbage can, duffel bag behind can. D.B. and trio enter, counting money and laughing.)
D.B.: Here you go. 1 for you, 1 for you, 1 for you. 2 for me. 1 for you, 1 for you, 1....
STUDENT 1: D.B., you were right. That new kid is great!
BELLE: But he's such a tightwad. At least Philip knew how to spend money.
D.B.: Well, Belle, maybe you're losing your touch. Philip was just too easy.
BELLE: D.B.! He was not!
PHILIP: (turning around to reveal who he is to audience) D.B.? D.B. is that you? Where have you been? (D.B. and TRIO stare at him in disgust and PHILIP notices the money) Hey, do you think you could spare a little... you know... just for some food? I hate to ask, but...
D.B.: Well, well, well. If it isn't our old friend Philip. (chuckles) Sorry, kid, no can do. You would probably just waste it on booze or drugs anyway.
PHILIP: Listen, I won't, Honest! I haven't had anything since that last stuff I got
from you.
D.B.: No way, Sucker. (starts to go)
PHILIP: (crossing to BELLE) Belle? How about you? Just for old times' sake? I don't know what happened to all of my money!
BELLE: (pulling away) Ooh! Get away! You stink..."Doll". What a loser! (students laugh and leave toward club with D.B.)
PHILIP: (pleading) But I thought we meant something to each other! I thought (to himself)...you really cared.
(D.B. and TRIO exit, laughing.)
STUDENT 2: Can you believe him?
BELLE: (turning back one last time) You're right, D.B., he was too easy!
(They enter D.B.’s. PHILIP is left alone at center stage)
PHILIP: (looking around) I can't believe I've ended up like this. What do I do
now? (sits dejectedly on bench, rummages around in his bag, pulling out a few
rags, etc. and finally pulls out his Bible from the bottom.) Oh God, help me. I've
made a mess of things. I've been lazy, foolish... I've wasted all my inheritance. I'm so ashamed. You know I can't go back! What do I do? (CHARLIE approaches from direction of club carrying a paper package)
CHARLIE: Philip. I heard you were out here.
PHILIP: What? Are you coming out to gloat too? So you were right. I ended up
at a dead end.
CHARLIE: No, Philip. I brought you some food. Here. (sits next to PHILIP)
PHILIP: (gratefully takes package) Thank you, Charlie. I really appreciate it. It's been awhile since I've eaten. (starts to eat)
CHARLIE: I was thinking maybe it had been. Philip, I hate to see you like this. Don't you think now would be a good time to go home?
PHILIP: (Shaking head) Oh, I couldn't! Not now. It's been too long. I've, well... I just couldn't. (pause)
CHARLIE: (Rising) I gotta get back to work. D.B. doesn't know I'm here. And he wouldn't like it. But think about what I said. If your family is like I suspect, they'll probably be real glad to see you. They're probably worried about you. (noticing R.G. and TRIO entering) Hey, that guy from the mission is coming. I think he's a decent type. Maybe he can help. (turning) I've got to go.
PHILIP: Bye, Charlie. Thanks for all your help.
CHARLIE: (looking back) I wish I had done more. Take care of yourself Philip.
(CHARLIE heads toward club, but stops and watches as REV. GUDEGAI and his TRIO enter from other side. R.G. carries an old wooden soap box)
R.G.: Well, this street corner looks as likely as any. (places soap box downstage from PHILIP)
TRIO: But there aren't any people around.
R.G.: Oh, don't worry about the people. They're around. Some good gospel music will bring them out. You'll see. Why don’t we start with an old song…BY AND BY.
(TRIO murmurs assent as intro begins. During song INNER-CITY PEOPLE
begin to gather around and join in. After a time PHILIP also sits up to listen. As
people gather, R.G. passes out pamphlets and "works the crowd" while singing.)
BY AND BY
ALL, with solo by R.G. or TRIO member-
Won't be satisfied until I get to heaven.
Nothing on earth is good enough for me.
Won't be home until I'm with my Jesus
Living in heaven for eternity.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Living in heaven for eternity.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Nothing on earth is good enough for me.
Won't be any trials when I get to heaven.
Golden streets will make a path for me.
Won't be any sorrow when I'm with my Jesus.
This old life will be a memory.
By and by, with my Jesus,
This old life will be a memory.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Golden streets will make a path for me.
Won't you come with me. (echo)
Won't you come with me. (echo)
Won't you come with me. (echo 2x)
Won't you come and join me when we get to heaven?
He made a promise there's a place for you.
When we get there we can have a talk with Jesus.
Tell Him in person that our love is true.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Tell Him in person that our love is true.
By and by, with my Jesus,
He made a promise there's a place for you.
By and by, with my Jesus,
This old life will be a memory.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Golden streets will make a path for me.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Living in heaven for eternity.
By and by, with my Jesus,
Nothing on earth is good enough for me. Amen.
R.G.: (Preaching from soap box) Children of God, turn to your heavenly Father.
Come back to the One who loves you. He will not turn you away. It does not matter what you have done. It does not matter where you have been! Jesus died for your sins and He will wash you white as snow! He can give you a new start, a new life. Will anyone stand with me today?... Come here beside me and take a stand for Jesus! (pause, CROWD looks at each other uncomfortably) Don't be afraid or ashamed. God knows the mistakes you have made. The Bible says He loves you right where you are. It is never too late. Won’t you come? (PHILIP slowly moves to R.G. through crowd which parts for him as he speaks)
PHILIP: Sir, I don't know. I used to follow God. But, I don't see how He could ever want me back. You don't know what I have done.
R.G.: (stepping down to meet PHILIP) Son, the Shepherd loves all of his sheep. When one loses his way, the Shepherd searches high and low and rejoices when
he is found. Come to Him now. He is waiting for you.
TROUBLE (people react throughout, CHARLIE
PHILIP- Trouble is all I ever see. inches closer and joins in)
Tears and tribulation have taken their toll on me.
And it's time for a big change!
A big, big change!
add TRIO
R.G.- When that Devil gets you down
don't run away. Just turn around
and say, 'I don't love you any more. No more!'
PHILIP- Just like Jonah in the belly the whale,
He told that Devil to hit the trail,
He said, 'I don't want you any more. No more!'
BOTH- What the Lord says is true.
Yeah, you know that it's true.
What He's told me is that I won't be needing you.
R.G.- When I die won't that be grand!
Gonna fly away to that Glory Land
Because I don't need you anymore. No more!
BOTH- Do-be do-be do-wop, bop bop ba da da do way
Wa-wah.
Do-be do-be do-wop ba da da do way
I don't need you.
You know, I don't need you!
PHILIP- When I die won't that be grand!
Gonna fly away to that Glory Land
Because I don't need you any more. No more!
R.G.- Just like Noah these friends of mine
say, I'm half crazy, but
I'm just fine because,
I don't want you any,
PHILIP- I don't need you any,
BOTH- I don't love you any more......
Do-be do-be do-wop Oh Yeah!
(PEOPLE and trio leave slowly talking among themselves, but CHARLIE lags behind)
PHILIP: Thank you, Reverend. You probably don't remember me, but you
used to come and speak at my church back home every year.
R.G.: I thought you looked familiar. What's your name, son?
CHARLIE: Philip, you know this guy?
PHILIP: (surprised) Charlie! I thought you had gone back to work.
CHARLIE: I'm not sure I want to. I don't like what D.B. and Belle did to you.
And you're not the first one they’ve worked over, either.
PHILIP: Reverend, this is Charlie, a friend of mine. Charlie tried to help me out a long time ago, but I wouldn't listen.
R.G.: (Shaking hands) It's good to meet you, Charlie.
CHARLIE: Thanks Reverend. I was listening to what you said. I've heard stuff like that before. It's never really made any sense to me.
R.G.: Oh? What part?
CHARLIE: Like the part about Jesus dying and his blood washing us white as snow. How is that supposed to work?
R.G.: Let me get my Bible and I'll show you.
PHILIP: (grabbing his Bible from bench) Here, use mine. I almost pawned it, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it.
R.G.: That's a nice Bible, Philip. Looks new.
PHILIP: (sheepish) I'm afraid I haven't read it much. (hands Bible to R.G.)
R.G.: Charlie, God tells us in His Word that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. " Not one of us is good enough to live in God's presence. I have sinned. Philip has sinned. You have sinned.
CHARLIE: You don't know the half of it.
R.G.: (smiling) No, but God does. And He said, "the wages of sin is
death."
CHARLIE: Great. That about finishes me off.
R.G.: (laughing) No, it doesn't stop there. The wages of sin is death but the free gift of God is eternal life! In John, we read that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, Jesus, that whosoever believes on him will not
die, but have everlasting life. Don't you see? God loves you. He loves you so much that he came as a baby, lived as a man, he went through torture and the pain of death on the cross in your place so that you could have life. And he promises that life will be abundant and free. You can be free from the chains of sin and of this world.
CHARLIE: (shaking head) It all sounds too simple.
R.G.: It is simple. But it is also very difficult. A lot of people never make a decision for Christ because it is so difficult. Making God the Lord of your life is a scary thing to do. It is also the smartest.
CHARLIE: So what do I do? Just go to church and quit all my bad habits?
R.G.: No. I mean that is all well and good, but all you have to do is accept God's
gift. The rest will come later as you grow in your walk with Him. Just take one step at a time.
CHARLIE: Reverend, I've been around the block a few times. Nothing I have tried has made me happy. Not really... I'm tired of being dirty. (start music intro) I'm tired of living a lie.
WHO AM I?
CHARLIE (singing)-
If the people that I know could look inside of me
the darkness and the lies are all they'd ever see.
I'd turn away, shamefacedly,
if the people that I know could look inside of me.
Who am I? Who am I
that God should think of me?
Who am I? What have I done
to deserve a place in His love?
Trying hard to hide the guilt behind the smile,
hoping it would leave in just a little while.
But, with every sin it burns within.
Lord only you can know the guilt I hide behind the smile.
Only You can give the hope that makes a life worthwhile!
Only You. Only You.
Who am I? Who am I
that you should think of me?
Who am I? Nothing that I have ever done
could buy the love You've given me.
I'll never leave this place in your love.
R.G.: (taking PHILIP and CHARLIE by the shoulders) Let's pray .
(All three kneel as lights fade)
ACT II Scene 3
House, three days later (FATHER is standing at the window looking out. Tree
is decorated. BROTHER is sitting)
JASON: Is it snowing yet?
FATHER: No, but it looks as if it could at any time. (pause) Jason? Jason! (looking back excitedly) It…it's Philip! Go get your mother! Tell her Philip is home! (JASON leaves as FATHER opens door to meet an embarrassed PHILIP who is still in rags and hugs him) Philip! It's so good to see you. We’ve been so worried about you.
(Mother and Jason hurry in from other room)
MOTHER: (ecstatic) Oh, Philip it is you! (hugs, JASON stands off a bit)
MOTHER and FATHER: How are you? Have you eaten? You've lost weight! You must be freezing! (etc.)
PHILIP: (interrupting) Mom and Dad, before we go on, I need to tell you... I’ve really made a mess of things. All the money, it's gone. I blew it all, I guess. I know you trusted me and I did everything wrong. I've even eaten out of garbage cans. I'll work for you and pay room and board. I just didn't know where else to turn.
FATHER: Philip, don't be ridiculous. We are your family. We love you!
(to MOTHER) Honey, call the neighbors. We're going to have a party!
MOTHER: Oh yes! (turns to JASON) Jason, go to Aunt Claire's and have her call the whole church. (to PHILIP) I'll cook up the best meal you've ever had.
JASON: (pouting) Sure, Mom.
FATHER: Hey, what's the matter with you?
JASON: It's just not fair, that's all! I mean I've never run away. I always
obey you. I work hard around here! Now, he walks in...he's a bum! And you want to throw a party!?
MOTHER: Now stop that right now!
JASON: But he is! Just look at him!
FATHER: Son, that will be all!
PHILIP: No, Dad. Jason is right. (music intro starts) I can't walk in and just pretend nothing has happened.
PRODIGAL'S SONG
PHILIP- Once upon a time, seems like so long ago,
I made my mind to leave.
Taking what was mine and running away,
finally to be free.
With the ones that I loved behind me,
I'd take whatever road lay before me
and never once would I think of the ones I'd left behind.
Finally I've come to the place where I see
what a fool I am.
Living out my life thinking only of me,
taking what I can.
Now the friends that I'd bought have left me.
And so I stand here so sad and lonely,
my one desire to return to the place that once was mine.
So take me home.
I can't go on.
I need your love to make me strong.
Now it's up to you. Do I go? Do I stay?
Tell me what to do.
Tell me you forgive me for running away
and you'll let me prove
that I can't live my life without you.
And when I'm home with my arms about you,
I'll show you then that I never could leave my home again.
FATHER: You’re right, Philip. None of us can pretend that nothing has
changed. It would be foolish to do so. (to JASON) Jason, you have always been with us, helpful, gentle, a wonderful son. Nothing can ever diminish my
love for you. But, please understand. I have another son, one that I feared I had lost. Don't take away the pleasure I have in his return.
JASON: I'm sorry, Dad, Mom... Philip? (shaking hands) Welcome home, brother.
PHILIP: Thanks, Jason. I've really missed you. (JASON and PHILIP hug)
JASON: I've missed you too. And so has Annie.
PHILIP: Annie. Is she okay? I'll bet she has a new boyfriend by now. I've really made a mess of things with her too, haven't I?
MOTHER: She asks about you all the time.
PHILIP: Really?
MOTHER: Annie loves you very much, Philip. She’ll be so happy to see you home.
PHILIP: But Mom, you don't know...
MOTHER: Oh, yes I do. At least I have a good idea. But that doesn't matter now. And Annie will feel the same. You'll see. (to JASON) Jason, before you go to Aunt Claire's, stop by Annie's house.
JASON: You bet, Mom! (JASON opens door excitedly but immediately turns around) Hey everyone, look who’s here! (Annie enters out of breath)
ANNIE: Philip? They said you were back! (ANNIE and PHILIP hug passionately) Oh, Philip! I’ve been so worried about you!
PHILIP: I’ve missed you so much, Annie. (pulling back, embarrassed) Wow, I must really stink!
ANNIE: (laughing) You smell wonderful to me!
(Everyone laughs, holds noses, etc.)
PHILIP: You know, I left to find a "real life, real people". But, all I found were phonies. The parties, the big life, it was all just a mirage. There are no more real people than you all... And, Mom and Dad, I have finally turned
my life over to God. No more trying to do things my own way. From now on, I follow His way. I know it's better than mine! I've proven it!
FATHER: Son, you don't know how often we have prayed to hear you say
that. (To audience, reaching up) Thank You, Lord! (music intro begins) My family is whole once more, not just here on earth, but for eternity!
(As family moves center stage front, the rest of cast and chorus fall in behind and to sides for song)
THE HOPE WITHIN ME
FATHER- There is a hope that is always within me,
One that I know will never die!
MOTHER- Jesus is coming to take back His believers.
We'll rise to meet Him in the sky!
ALL- Jesus! See Him returning in His glory!
The Bridegroom coming to take Himself a bride.
Jesus has come! Loving us from the world's beginning,
For He made us, saved us, now He is returning for His own.
WOMEN- There'll be a time when the world will be united.
Satan can't hurt us anymore.
MEN- Under God's hand we will build the new Jerusalem.
Jesus will reign forevermore!
ALL- Jesus! See Him returning in His glory!
The Bridegroom coming to take Himself a bride.
Jesus has come! Loving us from the world's beginning,
For He made us, saved us, now He is returning for His own.
PHILIP- Coming to take us home.
JASON- Coming to claim His own.
ALL- Everyone shout your hallelujahs-
Jesus sits upon the throne!
Jesus! See Him returning in His glory!
The Bridegroom coming to take Himself a bride.
Jesus has come! Loving us from the world's beginning,
For He made us, saved us, now He is returning,
For He made us, saved us, now He is returning,
For He made us, saved us, now He is returning for His own! Lights out, then bows
...................................................................
Copyright John Pattison, all rights reserved.
Music for this play may be obtained from the author, by contacting him through his website, GoldenMusicAndDrama.org or by emailing