MUSICAL THE MUSICAL

MUSICAL THE MUSICAL

Book and Revised Lyrics by

Garrett Kilgore

Music and lyrics by:

Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, Howard Ashman/Tim Rice, John Kander/Fred Ebb, Marvin Hamlisch/Edward Kleban, Frank Wildhorn/Leslie Bircusse, Jerry Herman, Benny Andersson/Bjorn Ulvaeus, Robert Lopez/Jeff Marx, Howard Ashman/Alan Menken, Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice, Michael Gore/Dean Pitchford, Marc Shaiman/Thomas Meehan

Cast of Characters:

The Narrators:
Aarika

Brittney

Kristen

Kristina

The Couples:
Meaghan

Garrett

Jacob

Randi

Jordan

Cameron

Musical Numbers:

Part One:

ACT ONE:

Prologue- The School Hall

Facade………………………………………………Company

Scene One- The Theatre Room

And I am Telling You I’m Not Going………………. Randi

Scene Two- The Hallways

Nothing……………………………………………... Kristen

No One is Alone……………………………………..Brittney and Jordan

I am Changing………………………………………Randi

Scene Three- Jordan’s House

A Dangerous Game………………………………….Jordan and Garrett

ACT TWO

Scene Four- The Park

I am What I am……………………………………... Garrett and Jordan

Somewhere out There………………………………. Garrett and Jordan

Ten Minutes Ago…………………………………….Garrett and Jordan

Scene Five- A Waiting Room

Out Here on my Own……………………………… Jordan

Scene Six-Separate Rooms:

Contact……………………………………………..Company

Scene Seven-The Hallways

Role of A Lifetime…………………………………. Garrett

Scene Eight- The Foyer/The Roof

Defying Gravity……………………….……………. Garrett, Jordan and Company

DAY LONG INTERMISSION

Part Two:

ACT ONE

Scene One- The Cafeteria

The Money Song……………………………………. Company

And I am Telling You I’m Not Going (Reprise)……. Meaghan and Garrett

Scene Two- The Theatre Room

Move On……………………………………………. Aarika, Meaghan and Garrett

Somewhere That’s Green..…………………………. Randi

Mamma Mia…………………………………………Meaghan

Someone Like You………………………………….. Cameron

Scene Three- The Auditorium

Once Upon a Dream……………………………….. Garrett

Scene Four- Various Bedrooms

In His/Her Eyes…………………………………….. Meaghan and Cameron

If I Can’t Love Him………………………………… Jordan

Scene Five- The Theatre Room

I’ve Got you to Lean on………………………….…. Jacob, Randi, Meaghan and Cameron

The Winner Takes it All……………………………...Garrett

Scene Six- The Foyer

We Do Not Belong Together…………………………Garrett and Jordan

For Good…………………………………………… .Company

Curtain Call

You Can’t Stop the Beat………………………………Company

I Sing the Body Electric………………………………Company

Scenic Description:

There is a false proscenium, designed to be the roof of a school, with a slight awning and access to it. The show drop is painted to be the front doors of a school. When the curtain rises we see a large structure, 24 feet across, 30 feet high. It has 3 levels each with two doors and lockers in between. There are stairs that lead to them. The set will revolve to reveal a platform that raises and lowers to different levels for the different areas in the school. The set also splits in half for some of the other scenes.

Act One:

The Curtain Rises on the hallway of George Washington High School. It is a drop painted like the halls of a school. There are two classroom doors separated by banks of lockers.

After the overture dies down, the stage lights come up on Aarika. The rest of the cast is in a frozen picture, representing the day-to-day school routine.

Prologue: The School Dance

AARIKA:
This is an examination of Garrett’s senior year in high school, with a few additions. There are two groups. The Narrators. (Slowly the lights hit them) Myself, Aarika, A-A-R-I-K-A, yes, that’s how you spell my name. Kristen, a slight spaz, but nonetheless, a good kid. Finally, Brittney, also a good kid, who makes more sociological commentary than others. And, lastly comes sweet, innocent Kristina.

Then there is the other group, the Couples. These include: Randi, an All-American kind of girl with a heart of gold. Meaghan, a more artsy, independent type, she’s got a great sense of humor and biting wit. Jacob, the pretty boy, the one who could easily be popular but hangs around with the theatre kids, go fig. Cameron, the second of our minorities tonight, an amazing dancer, a sensitive aesthete, and all around fun guy to be around. Jordan, a nice, smart guy who is a bit shy, he tends to shy away from crowds, but is kind and warm when you get to know him, he won’t be in the opening number, he hasn’t moved to our school yet. Finally, our beloved friend and author, Garrett. What can I say about him? If I started you wouldn’t hear the end because he is a truly vain person. Anyhow. Let’s go on with the show.

(The bell rings, the “popular kids appear and strike a pose, the flounce about.)

Kristina:

If you live around here

Cameron:

You need cash in the bank

Meaghan:

‘Cause the cars around here

Jacob:

Are all flashy and swank

Brittney:

And the front bit

Garrett:

Is what’s called a façade!

Randi:

All the people ‘round here

Aarika:

Are as posh as can be

Kristen:

You won’t see ‘em hob-nobbin’

All:

With rubbish like me!

It’s the snob bit

Also called a façade!

Everyday,

People in their own sweet way

Like to add a coat of paint

An’ be what they ain’t!

That’s how their little game is played

Living in a masquerade

Getting’ rich and

Getting’ laid

Meaghan:

Who’d want to trade?

All:

But there’s one thing I know

And I know it for sure

The disease they have got

Has got no ready cure

An’ I’m certain

Life is terribly hard

When your life’s a façade!

There’s a face that we wear

In the cold light of day

It’s societies’ mask

It’s societies’ way

And the truth is

That it’s all a façade

There’s a face that we hide

‘Till the nighttime appears

And what’s hiding inside

Behind all of our fears

Cameron;

Is our true self,

All:

Locked inside the façade!

Look around you

I have found

You cannot tell you, by lookin’ at the surface

What is lurking there beneath it.

See that face?

Now I’m prepared to bet you

What you see’s not what

‘Cause man’s a master of deceit

So what is this sinister secret?

The lie he will tell you is true

Is that each man you meet

On the street

Kristina:

Isn’t one man, but two!

Nearly everyone you see

Like him an’ her

And you and me

Pretends to be a pillar of society

A model of sobriety

Kristen:

Propriety

Jacob:

And piety

All:

Who shudders at the thought-

-Of notoriety.

The ladies and gent’s here before you

Which none of ‘em ever admits

Aarika:

They may have saintly looks

All:

But they’re all sinners and crooks

Hypocrites!

You must seem to be rich

And have money to burn

Garrett:

Even though it’s a bitch

Randi:

Spending more than you earn

All:

That’s the game here

And the name is façade

One or two

Might look well to do

But I betcha precious few

Have paid for their boots!

Brittney:

I’m inclined to think

All:

Half man-kind

Thinks the other half is blind

Wouldn’t be surprised to find

They’re all in cahoots

At the end of the day

They don’t mean what they say

They don’t say what they mean

And they never come clean

And the answer

Is it’s all a façade

Call a walk “Promenade”

Call a street “Boulevard”

Grease your hair with “Pomade”

You’ll be held in regard

And I betcha

If you stay on your guard

They’ll all say you’re a card

People love the façade

What’s behind the façade?

Look behind, the façade.

Scene One: The Theatre Room

The scene begins with the focus on Kristina, Aarika, Cameron and Brittney talking as they enter.

AARIKA:
You know, for a start of school dance that wasn’t bad.

Cameron:

No, it really wasn’t. It wasn’t the traditional crepe paper disaster.

Brittney:

Yeah. God, I can’t believe school starts so soon, by the way, what lunch do you have, Kristina?

Kristina:
Sixth, again. Maybe I’ll have it with Garrett again. Hey, Garrett? What lunch do you have?

Garrett:

I have sixth, of course.

Kristina:

Cool, we have it together again.

Garrett:

Cool.

(The focus now shifts over to Randi, Jacob and Kristen.)

Jacob:

You know, I really like Meaghan, but I dunno if she’s right for me.

Kristen:

This is because she’s got that special conditon, isn’t it?

Jacob:

You mean the fact that she’s a free spirit? You know you can call her one, right?

Kristen:

She will hear you. Uhhhhhh. You are so rude Jacob. Let me ask you, if Nicole Kidman was had a similar condition, would you be less attracted to her? Huh? Would you?

Randi:

Easy there, killer.

(The focus shifts across to Meaghan and Garrett)

Jacob:

Hey all, I think we’re uh, gonna meet over at IHOP about now.

Randi:

Coolness, Gar, sweetie can I get a ride?

Garrett:

Sure.

MEAGHAN:
Do it now.

GARRETT:
I can’t.

MEAGHAN:

Wanna bet? Hey, Randi! Garrett needs to talk to you! They’ll catch up with us.

GARRETT:

Meaghan!

RANDI:

What’s up?

GARRETT:

Um, Randi, I can’t date you anymore.

RANDI:

Why?

GARRETT:

Because I don’t like you that way anymore.

RANDI:

Excuse me? What happened?

GARRETT:
For one thing, I want a relationship that’s equal, not one that makes clear delineations between the male role and female role. And, I’ve met someone else that I like.

RANDI:
Who?

GARRETT:
I can’t tell you.

RANDI:
Why?

GARRETT:
It’ll make you even madder with me.

RANDI:
I’m not mad; I just want to know what the deal is. Why won’t you tell me?

GARRETT:
Because I can’t, okay?

RANDI:
No! I want a legitimate answer! Who is she?

GARRETT:
It isn’t a she.

RANDI:
What the hell? It’s a guy?

GARRETT:
Yeah.

RANDI:

No, no this isn’t happening. Who is it? Who?

GARRETT:

You met him, at the start of year dance.

RANDI:
Jordan? Jordan? That’s who you want? That weirdo? What does he have that I don’t? Wait, don’t answer that, I really don’t want to know. Let me ask this though; did you ever like me as more than a friend?

GARRETT:

No. I thought I did, but I really didn’t.

Randi:

How could you?

Garrett:

It’s not like I woke up one morning and decided I was gay, I’ve always felt this way.

RANDI:

No…

GARRETT:

I’m sorry. This wasn’t how I wanted to tell you. We’re going to be late, let’s go.

RANDI:

How were you planning to tell me? Or were you going to tell me? That would’ve been real nice, screwing him behind my back. Tell me, when we kissed didn’t that mean anything?

GARRETT:

In a sexual way, no. In an emotional, friend way, yes.

RANDI:

I don’t believe this.

GARRETT:

Would you have preferred me to stay quiet about it? Stayed silent?

RANDI:

Yes!

GARRETT:

Well I couldn’t do that. Okay? I couldn’t continue lying. If that isn’t a legitimate enough answer for you, then I’m wasting my breath.

RANDI:

(Breakdown)

No, no I can’t take it like that. How can this be? I turned him gay? No I didn’t. I’m not finished with him. I’m not.

And I am telling you

I’m not going

You’re the best man

I’ve ever known

There’s no way I can ever go

No, no, no, no way

That I’m living without you

I’m not living without you

I don’t want to be free

I’m staying

And you,

You’re gonna love me!

(He leaves)

And I am telling you

I’m not going

Even though the rough times

Are showing

There’s just no way

No way

We’re part of the same place

We’re part of the same time

We both share the same blood

We both share the same mind

And time, and time we both had so much to share

No, no, no, no, no I’m not waking up tomorrow morning,

Ha, ha

And finding that there’s nobody there!

No, no, no, no way

That I’m living without you

I’m not living without you

See there’s just no way

No way

Tear down the mountains

Yell, scream and shout
you can say what you want

I’m not walking out

Stop up the rivers

Push, strike and kill

I’m not gonna leave you

There’s no way I will

And I am telling you

I’m not going

You’re the best man

I’ve ever known

There’s no way I can ever go

No, no, no, no way

That I’m leaving without you

I’m not leaving without you

I don’t want to be free

I’m staying

And you,

You’re gonna love me!

Love me!

You’re gonna love me!

(The Hall drop flies back in. Kristen is outside her locker talking to Meaghan, Aarika and Brittney.)

Scene two: The Hallways

KRISTINA:

The weekend has now passed. It is Monday morning just after 2^nd period. Before we continue, I should explain a little. First off, our school has recently joined a national program to make our school stronger, as a result two to three times a six weeks; we meet in a sort of counseling class. Next, we have eight periods, one of which is lunch, and school goes from 8:20 to 3:45 Monday to Friday. Also, after the recent school shootings in our nation the district now requires that all students wear visible ID’s. A real nuisance. I guess that really fills you in, so we resume our story.

KRISTEN:

ERGGGG!

AARIKA:
What’s wrong now Kristen?

KRISTEN:
I don’t understand Mr. G’s directions.

KRISTEN:

I’m nothing, nothing. I remember, back in Theatre I, when we had Mr. Karp, I didn’t get it. And I still don’t.

Ev’ryday for a week
We would try to feel the motion, feel the motion
Down the hill
Ev’ryday for a week
We would try to hear the wind rush, hear the wind rush
Feel the chill
And I dug right down to the bottom of my soul
To see what I had inside
Yes, I dug right down to the bottom of my soul
And I tried, I tried

And everybody’s going 'Whoosh, whoosh. I feel the air! I feel the cold! I feel the snow!' And Mr. Karp turns to me and says 'Okay, Moresi, what do you feel?'

And I said nothing; I’m feeling nothing
And Karp said nothing could get a girl transferred
they all felt something, but I felt nothing
except the feeling that this bullshit was absurd.

But I said to myself, don’t worry about it. Maybe it’s genetic; they don’t have bobsleds in Texas!

Second week more advanced and we had to
Be a table, be a sports car
Ice cream cone
Mr. Karp, he would say very good,
Except Moresi, try Moresi
All alone
And I dug right down to the bottom of my soul
To see how an ice cream felt.
Yes, I dug right down to the bottom of my soul
And I tried to melt

And the kids yelled nothing, they called me nothing
And Karp allowed it, which really makes me burn
They were so helpful, they called me hopeless
Until I really didn’t know where else to turn

And Mr. Karp comes up to me and says, 'Moresi, I think you should transfer to girl’s high. You’ll never be an actress. Never.' Jesus Jacobt!

Went to church praying Santa Maria
Help me feel it, help me feel it
On my knees
Went to church praying Santa Maria
Help me feel it, help me feel it
Pretty please
And a voice from down at the bottom of my soul
Came up to the top of my head
Yes a voice from down at the bottom of my soul
Here is what it said:

This man is nothing, this course is nothing
If you want something go find another class
And when you find one you’ll be an actress
And I assure that’s what finally came to pass

So I transferred into Theatre Select, and while it was harder, Mr. G was way nicer.

Six months later I heard that Karp had died,

And I look way down to the bottom of my soul

And cried…

Cause I felt…nothing!
Brittney:

My name’s Brittney.

Jordan:

Jordan. I’m new I transferred here from Upstate.

Brittney:

Cool. So what sorts of things are you interested in?

Jordan:

Computers, school, math, you know, the little computer nerd.

Brittney:

Your cute for a computer nerd.

Jordan:

Thank you. I hate this place.

Brittney:

Why?

Jordan:

We’re in the fourth week of school, right? Well, in those weeks you are the first person to even talk to me, except at the dance, and then it was this one girl trying to set me up with her gay friend.

Brittney:

Are you?

Jordan:

I don’t know. I don’t think so, it’s just so confusing.

Brittney:

Maybe you should talk to Garrett, he might be able to help, he has been there, after all.

Jordan:

Oh no, nowhere near that point yet. I just feel alone.

BRITTNEY:
Mother cannot guide you

Now you’re on your own

Only me beside you

Still you’re not alone

No one is alone,

Truly,

No one is alone.

Sometimes people leave you

Halfway through the wood

Others may deceive you,

You decide what’s good.

You decide alone

But you are not alone.

Mother isn’t her now

JORDAN:

Wrong things, right things…

BRITTNEY:

Who knows what she’d say?

JORDAN:

Who can say what’s true?

BRITTNEY:

Nothing’s quite so clear now

JORDAN:

Do things; fight things…

BRITTNEY

Feel you’ve lost your way?

You decide but,

You are not alone

Believe me,

No one is alone

Truly

You move just a finger

Say the slightest word

Something’s bound to linger

Be heard

No one acts alone,

Careful,

No one is alone

People make mistakes

JORDAN:

Fathers,

BRITTNEY:

Mothers

BOTH:

People make mistakes

Holding to their own

Thinking their alone

BRITTNEY:

Honor their mistakes

Fight for their mistakes

Everybody makes

One another’s terrible mistakes

Witches can be right

Giants can be good

You decide what’s right

You decide what’s good.

Just remember:

Someone is on your side

JORDAN:

Our side

BRITTNEY AND JORDAN:

Our side

Someone else is not

While we’re seeing our side

JORDAN:

Our side

BRITTNEY:

Our side

DUO:

Maybe we forgot

They are not alone

No one is alone

BRITTNEY:

Hard to see the light now

Just don’t let it go

Things will come out right now

We can make it so

DUO:

Someone is on your/my side

No one is alone.

JORDAN:

Thank you. I really needed that.

Aarika:

Well, that’s the important part of this, let’s fast-forward time just a little bit to October. Randi has realized her faults and is going to change, if she can get help from Meaghan. Garrett and Jordan have become good friends, and are working on a project together.

Randi:

You know, maybe Garrett was right. Maybe I should change.

Meaghan:

That depends; do you like yourself now?

Randi:

Not really. All my life I’ve depended on people, but we graduate this year. I need to be independent. I need to change.

Look at me,

I am changing.

Trying every way I can.

I am changing.

I’ll be better than I am

I’m trying to find a way

To understand

But I need you

I need you

I need a hand

Oh, I am changing

Seeing everything so clear

I am changing

I’m gonna start right now

Right here

I’m hoping to work it out

And I know I can

But I need you,

I need a hand

All of my life

I’ve been a loner

Who said I could do it alone?

How many good friends have I already lost?

How many dark nights have I known?

Walking down the wrong road

There was nothing I could find

All those years of darkness

Can make a person blind

But now I can see

That I’m changing

Trying every way I can

I am changing

I’ll be better than I am

But I need a friend

TO help me start all over again

That would be just fine

I know it’s gonna work out this time

‘Cause this time I am

This time I am

I am changing!

I’ll get my life together

I am changing

Yes, Yes,

And I know how

I’m gonna start again

I’m gonna leave my past behind

I’ll change my life

I’ll make a vow

And nothing’s gonna stop me

Now!

Meaghan

Well, here he is, tell him.

Randi:

Garrett, I took your advice. I am going to change. I am going to be independent, and I don’t need you.

Garrett:

Okay.

Randi:

And further more, I hope you find a good man.

(She and Meaghan exit. Cameron enters)

(The focus shifts to Notnilc, Brittney and Aarika)

Aarika:

Thank you, that’s so nice.

(They hug)

Notnilc:

Excuse me ladies, that would be a violation of the PDA rule, you’re going to have to come with me.

(Back to Garrett and Cameron)

Cameron:

Did you see that?

Garrett:

I don’t believe it; we’ve got to do something about this. Call out the troops. WE can’t let this go by idly.

(The lights fade out.)

Scene Three: Jordan’s Room

Jordan:

And this is my room.

Garrett:

Not bad. Not bad. So, shall we get started?

Jordan:

Yea I guess so.

(they begin to work, soon supplies are scattered around)

Garrett:
Have you seen the glue?

Jordan:

Glue? It was here earlier…(they see it and reach at the same time. Their hands touch.)

Garrett;

Sorry.

Jordan:

It’s ok.

I feel your fingers

Cold on my shoulder

Your tempting touch

As it tingles my spine

Watching your eyes

As they invade my soul

Forbidden pleasures

I’m afraid to make mine.

AT the touch of your hand

At the sound of your voice

At the moment your eyes meet mine

I am out of my mind

I am out of control

Full feelings I can’t define

Garrett:

It’s a sin with no name

Like a tiger to tame

And my senses proclaim

Both:

It’s a dangerous game

Garrett:

A darker dream

That has no ending

Something familiar

That you want to be true

A strange romance

Part of a mystery tale

The freighted princess doesn’t know what to do

Will the ghosts go away? (Jordan: Oohhh)

Will she will them stay? (Jordan: Oohhh)

Either way there’s no way to win

Jordan:

All I know is I’m lost (Garrett: oooh)

And I’m counting the cost (Garrett: Oohhh)

My emotions are in a spin

And though no one’s to blame

Garrett:

It’s a crime and a shame

Both:

And it’s true all the same

It’s a dangerous game

No one speaks

Not one word

All the words

Are in our eyes

Jordan:

Silence speaks

Garrett:

Silence speaks

Jordan:

Loud and clear

Garrett:

Loud and clear

Both:

All the words

We want to hear

At the touch of your hand

At the sound of your voice

At the moment your eyes meet mine

I am out of mind

I am out of control

Full of feelings I can’t define

Jordan:

It’s a sin with no name

Garrett:

No remorse and no shame

Fire, fury and flame

Jordan:

And the devil’s to blame

Both:

And the angel’s proclaim

It’s a dangerous game

Such a dangerous game

(They pull from each other. Garrett leaves. Jordan sits there, holding his hand as the lights fade)

INTERMISSION

ACT TWO:

(Kristina gets hit with a spot light.)

Scene Four: The Park

KRISTINA:

A few weeks have gone by since we last left our friends. It is now Halloween. They have congregated at a park to discuss the new policies being enacted by the bigwigs of the school district. The new policies affect everyone pretty much, but it hits a certain group more than it should. Garrett and Meaghan are heading up the rally of students. However, they have decided they will first meet with Principal Notnilc.

(The lights come up on the park, a few days later. Meaghan and Garrett are leading a meeting.)

Brittney:

Jordan! I’m glad to see you here! Is it because of the issues, or Garrett?

Jordan:

It’s a little of column A, a little of column B, and a whole lot of column C.

Brittney:

Silly kid. C’mon.

Meaghan:

I am now calling this meeting to order.

Cameron:

We need to stop this Anti-PDA campaign.

Random Student:

Why?

GARRETT:
It’s directed mainly at those of the same-sex. I saw Brittney and Aarika, two best friends hug each other get in trouble, while Daniel and Laura have made out in front of Notnilc, and he’s done nothing to them.

RANDOM STUDENT:

Oh.

MEAGHAN:

Exactly, so we have a meeting with him in two weeks, and we need to present our case. SO, any help we can get is good.

GARRETT:

We’re trying to get the signatures of at least 50 students, but more will always be a bonus.

KRISTINA:
Can’t we get into trouble?

MEAGHAN:
I did the research on that, and as long as we are peaceful and don’t disrupt class for those who want to actually learn, the school cannot touch us. God bless the first amendment.

AARIKA:

So, we’re supposed to sign? Is there anything else we can do?

MEAGHAN:
We’re making posters, and will be passing out flyers around school, so anyone who is willing will be welcome to help with that too.

(He is joined by the ab libs of others)

GARRETT:

All right, we need to divide into groups; we need a group working on getting research about previous issues like this, and see if we have any legal actions about this. The other group needs to work on the flyers and posters. We want snazzy and attention getting. Oh, we have decided that we are AAPDAC, the Anti-Anti-PDA Coalition.

MEAGHAN:

You know, we should have teamed up a long time ago.

GARRETT:
Yep, I think we got ourselves a campaign.

BRITTNEY:

You’ve done a good job, I don’t see how you can possibly not succeed.

AARIKA:
Isn’t that what they said about New Coke?

GARRETT:

Hey, a little faith.

AARIKA:

Well, you know this is Texas, and this is not the most liberal school system in the state, so…

MEAGHAN:

Aarika, get over yourself.

(They disperse into groups and start talking. Jordan heads to the slide and sits on top of it. Meaghan and Garrett retire to the monkey bars. They sit quietly with Garrett staring at Jordan.)

JORDAN:

You know something Gar? I would kill to be as open as you. How do you do it?

GARRETT:

Simple. I say to hell with what people think of me.

I am what I am

I am my own special creation

So come take a look

Give me the hook or the ovation

It’s my life that I want to have a little pride in

My life, and it’s not a place I can hide in…

JORDAN:

I just don’t get it I guess. I just can’t push past that. I care what other people think.

GARRETT:

Life’s not worth a damn ‘till you can say:

“Hey world, I am what I am!”

And then you follow that with:

I am what I am

I don’t want praise

I don’t want pity

I bang my own drum

Some think its noise

I think it’s pretty!

And so what if I love each sparkle and each bangle?

Why not try to see things from a different angle?

JORDAN:

My life is a sham ‘til I can shout about:

“I am what I am”

I am what I am

And what I am needs no excuses

I deal from my own deck

Sometimes the ace

Sometimes the deuces

GARRETT:

Good.

BOTH:

It’s one life and it’s no return and no deposit

One life, so it’s time to open up your closet!

Life’s not worth a damn ‘till you can shout:

“Hey world, I am what I am!”

JORDAN:
Thanks for the help.

GARRETT:

Any time. Good kid. Closet case, but good kid.

MEAGHAN:
You like him don’t you?

GARRETT:

Am I that obvious?

MEAGHAN:
Yeah. Besides, even if he is, he probably isn’t comfortable enough with it to tell everyone like you did.

GARRETT:

Oh, why is my life so difficult?

MEAGHAN:
You took the tough road sweetie, now you have to follow it. Yellow brick road isn’t quite as golden as it was originally is it?

GARRETT:
No, and now that they’re instilling the whole anti-gay policy it’s even less gold. I just wish I could find someone.

MEAGHAN:
You will, someday. And, there’s still hope for Jordan.

GARRETT:
True.

(The focus shifts to Jordan and Brittney)

BRITTNEY:

I’m glad you came.

JORDAN:

Me too.

BRITTNEY:

I’m gonna join the others, you want to come? Or are you going to stay and stare at Garrett?

JORDAN:

I’m gonna go for the later of the two.

BRITTNEY:

Have you given anymore thought to your situation?
JORDAN:

Yeah. I really don’t want to be gay, I just can’t get over it.

BRITTNEY:

How do you know?

JORDAN:

You remember when Titanic came out? All the boys were so into Kate Winslet and her breasts, well I was thinking about how gorgeous I would look in that necklace and how much I wanted Leonardo DiCaprio to sketch me naked. I just always have been more attracted to boys, I don’t know why, but I have.

BRITTNEY:

But if you don’t want to be, can’t you change?

JORDAN:

I’ve tried, for 18 years I’ve tried, and look what it’s gotten me.

BRITTNEY:

I guess I just don’t understand, not having been there before.

JORDAN:

I just need more time.

BRITTNEY:

‘Kay.

(Focus shifts to the remander of the group)

JACOB:

She’s so out there, and uninhibited.

ZACH:

Personally, I think it’s a bit much.

BRITTNEY:

What’s a bit much?

JACOB:

Zach and I are arguing about how Meaghan is way to outspoken. He thinks she should be more mellow.

MEAGHAN:

Excuse me? Did he really say that? Did you?
JACOB:

Yes-

MEAGHAN:
I am asking Zach.

ZACH:
No ma’am.

MEAGHAN:

Don’t tell me not live, just sit and putter

Life’s candy and the sky’s a ball of butter

Don’t bring around a cloud

To rain on my parade!

Don’t tell me not to fly, I simply got to

If someone takes a spill it’s me and not you!

Who told you you’re allowed to rain on my parade?

I’ll march my band out

I’ll beat my drum

And if I’m fanned out

Your turn at bat, sir

At least I didn’t fake it

Hat, sir?

Guess I didn’t make it!

But whether I’m the rose of sheer perfection

A freckle on the nose of life’s complexion

A cinder on the shiny apple of it’s eye

I gotta fly once, I gotta try once

Only can die once, right sir

Ooh, life is juicy, juicy and you see

I gotta have my bite sir!

Get ready for my love, cause I’m a comer

I simply gotta march; my heart’s a drummer

Don’t bring around a cloud to rain on my parade!

I’m gonna live and live now

Get what I want I know how

One roll for the whole shebang

One throw that bell will go clang

Eye on the target and wham

One shot, one gun shot and…

BAM!

Hey, world, here I am!

I’ll march my band out

I’ll beat my drum

And if I’m fanned out

Your turn at bat, sir

At least I didn’t fake it

Hat, sir?

Guess I didn’t make it!

Get ready for my love, cause I’m a comer

I simply gotta march, my heart’s a drummer

Nobody, no, nobody

Is gonna rain on my parade!

Got any more choice words, Mr. Brown?

ZACH:

No’m.

BRITTNEY:

Hmm. Awkward silence. Hey, why don’t we play elbow tag? Jordan, Garrett, come join us!

(They come from their spots and join the group.)

JORDAN:

I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said. You know-

Somewhere out there, beneath the pale moonlight

Someone’s thinking of me and loving me tonight

GARRETT:

Meg you we’re right. I am wasting my time, because-

Somewhere out there, someone's saying a prayer

That we'll find one another in a big somewhere out there

And even though I know how very far apart we are

It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star

JORDAN:

And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby

It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky

BOTH:

Somewhere out there

If love can see us through

Then we'll be together

Somewhere out there

Out where dreams come true

(By the time they have reached this part of the song, Jordan is it and is chasing Garrett.)

JORDAN:

And even though I know how very far apart we are

It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star

GARRETT:

And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby

It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky

BOTH:

Somewhere out there

If love can see us through

Then we'll be together

Somewhere out there

Out where dreams come true

(The rest of the group is in shock as the two come together and kiss. The meeting slowly breaks up as they kiss. Jordan exits. Garrett jumps in glee. The lights go to a silhouette, and some guys come on and proceed to beat him up. Jordan appears in spotlight on a side of the stage.)

Jordan:

Ten Minutes Ago I saw you
I looked up when you came through the door
My head started reeling you gave me the feeling
the room had no ceiling or floor
Ten Minutes I met you
And we murmured our how-do-you do's
I wanted to ring out the bells, and fling out my arms and to
sing out the news:

I have found her, he's an angel
with the dust of the stars in his eyes
We are dancing, we are flying
and she's taking me back to the skies

In the arms of my love, I'm flying
over mountain and meadow and glen
And I like it so well that for all I can tell
I may never come down again.
I may never come down to earth again.

(A spotlight comes up on Garrett, it is a fake him who is being mauled.)

Garrett

Ten Minutes Ago I saw you
and we murmured our how-do-you do's
-I wanted to ring out the bells
and fling out my arms and to sing out the news:

Jordan

I have found him!
Garrett

I have found him!
(Instrumental)

Both

In the arms of my love I'm flying
over mountain and meadow and glen
and I like it so well that for all I can tell
I may never come down again
I may never come down to earth again

(Lights go to black, we see cop car lights go off, and the thugs run off. Two officers run after him, one after the thugs.)

Scene Five: The Waiting Room

(Brittney, Jordan, and Meaghan are present)

AARIKA:

It has been two days since the park meeting. Garrett was attacked as he left by a group of thugs for being gay. He has woken up after being unconscious for two days with a concussion. His recovery will be soon, and all he should be left with are a few bruises and a black eye.

JORDAN:

I don’t believe this. It’s my fault.

BRITTNEY:

How, how is it your fault? You weren’t there, you didn’t have anything to do with it.

JORDAN:

I know, I just feel guilty, like I could have stopped it somehow.

MEAGHAN:

You did nothing wrong. You helped us pull them off of him before he was killed. IF you had just stood by, then yes, you would have been responsible. Look, go sit with him, it’ll make you feel better.

JORDAN:

I don’t know…

BRITTNEY:

Do it, now! Go.

(They squabble for a few seconds before she finally wins, he goes into the hospital room. The set revolves to show Garrett asleep at his bed.)

JORDAN:

I’m so sorry, I, I…

Sometimes I wonder where I’ve been

Who I am, do I fit in?

Make believein’ in hard alone

Out here on my own

We’re always proving who we are

Always reaching for that rising star

To guide me far, and shine me home

Out here on my own

When I’m down and feelin’ blue

I close my eyes so I can be with you.

Oh, baby be strong for me,

Baby belong to me,

Help me through, help me need you

Until the morning sun appears

Makin’ light of all my fears

I dry the tears I’ve never shown

Out here on my own

When I’m down and feelin’ blue

I close my eyes so I can be with you.

Oh, baby be strong for me,

Baby belong to me,

Help me through, help me need you

Sometimes I wonder where I’ve been

Who I am, do I fit in?

I may not win, but I can’t be thrown

Out here on my own

Out here on my own.

Group A (Garrett and Meaghan)

Hot-hot-sweat-sweet

Wet-wet-wet-red-heat

Hot-hot-sweat-sweet

Wet-wet-wet-red-heat

Please don’t stop

Please don’t stop stop

Stop stop stop don’t

Please, please, please, please

Hot-hot-hot-sweat-sweet

Wet-wet-wet-red-heat

Sticky-licky-trickle-tickle

Steamy-creamy-soaking-stroking

Group B (Jordan and Jacob)

Hot-hot-hot-sweat-sweet-wet-wet-wet-red-heat

Jordan:

Touch

Meaghan:

Taste

Garrett:

Deep

Jacob:

Dark

Meaghan:

Kiss

Jordan:

Beg

Garrett:

Slap

Jacob, Meaghan, Jordan:

Fear!

Garrett:

Thick

Garrett, Meaghan, Jordan:

Red, Red

Red, red- please

Meaghan:

Harder

Jordan:

Faster

Jacob:

Wetter

Garrett:

Wetter

Meaghan:

Bastard

Jacob:

You whore!

Jordan:

You cannibal

Garrett and Meaghan:

More!

Jacob:

You animal!

Jordan, Jacob, and Garrett:

Fluid no fluid no contact yes no contact

All:

Fire, fire burn- burn yes

No latex rubber, rubber

Fire, latex rubber latex bummer lover bummer!

Meaghan:

Take me

Today for you

Tomorrow for me

Today me

Tomorrow you

Love

You

Love you

I love you

I love

You I love

You! Take me

Take me

I love you
All:

Whoa-whoa-whoa!

Jacob:

Shit, the condom broke.

Scene Six: The Theatre Room

KRISTEN:
Three weeks have gone by. Garrett and Jordan have completely fallen for each other, unfortunately, Jordan doesn’t want to be all that open about his feelings, but nonetheless has become the third member of the voice. The school’s new ID and anti-gay policy has had mixed reception. While not really anti-gay, it does say that students of the same sex shall not exhibit PDA on school grounds without serious penalty. The new ID policy just makes people mad.

(The bell rings and they begin to go to class. Garrett and Jordan acknowledge each other. The lighting becomes very stagy; Garrett is thrust into a solo spot.)

Garrett:

Everything’s an act

When you’re pleasing everyone

And he assumes a world of such renown

He plays a perfect part

Straight from his heart

Knowing the risk he takes

And hoping the house does not fall down

The role of a lifetime

Is living a fantasy

A trauma that you struggle to erase

Thoughts battle words over deeds

A war with such casualties

All played out behind a smiling face.

(Another light from the top comes from the side.)

God I need your guidance

Tell me what it means

To live a life where nothing’s as it seems

Spending days in silent fear

Spending nights in lonely prayer

Hoping that one day when you wake

Those feelings won’t be there.

(That light goes out, and another down lights Jordan on one side)

So confused, because I feel complete with him

And here alone it all somehow makes sense

Look into his eyes

For some compromise

Remember the word forget

And try to bury something so intense

(All lights come up, and Garrett continues to walk through the hall)

You learn to play the straight man

Your lines become routine

Never really saying what you mean

But I know the scene will change

White picket fences and a dog

A trophy bride and children

God, I know that’s what he wants

But Jordan, what role do I play?

Am I a savior or a phase?

Am I here to damn you or to help you navigate this maze?

Where confusion is a crime

SO you fill your life with sound

And if you dance like them

You hope you never touch the ground

What happens when the music stops?

In the silence will he stay?

One day realize these feelings aren’t going away.

So, we drive ourselves insane

Spinning circles in our souls

As we dance around and play pretend

And once again

Reprise our role.

Scene Seven: The Foyer

Brittney:

A few more days have passed. The meeting is today, a few days before Jacobtmas Break. As we return to the story of our friends, the road is getting much more rocky.

MEAGHAN:

Oh God, what’s going on?

KRISTINA:

It leaked out to the press, they’re everywhere.

GARRETT:

How?

KRISTINA:

I don’t know, I wish I did.

(Meaghan starts sobbing)

KRISTINA:

What’s wrong, Meg?

MEAGHAN:
Garrett, can you go-?
GARRETT:

Gee, is that the new C2? I think I’ll go try it out.

MEAGHAN:
Kristina, something’s horribly wrong.

KRISTINA:

What?

MEAGHAN:
The painters are late

KRISTINA:

For what?

MEAGHAN:

The painters. They should have come by several weeks ago.

KRISTINA:

SO hire new ones.

MEAGHAN:

I can’t do that.

KRISTINA:
Why?

MEAGHAN:

Or at least not for another nine months.

KRISTINA:
You mean? Oh, no. Meg, are you sure?

MEAGHAN:

Not yet, I still have to wait, I’ll know after Jacobtmas.

GARRETT:

Jacob, do you know who leaked this to the press?

KRISTEN:
Gar, I’m so sorry, I only told this person I knew and apparently it went a lot farther than I meant to.

GARRETT:

Thanks. Thanks a lot.

(Secretary enters)

SECRETARY:
Mr. Kilgore? Principal Notnilc will see you and your friends now.

GARRETT:
I’m so nervous. Meg! It’s time. Nervous?

MEAGHAN:

A little. Where’s Jordan?

JORDAN:

I’m here! Let’s do this, and get it over with. Remember, if this doesn’t work, send out the signal for the protests to start.

(The enter his office.)

NOTNILC:

Let’s cut to the chase, you are proposing what?

JORDAN:

We have here the signatures of 300 students who disagree with the new polices. And we have our own solution. Meaghan.

MEAGHAN:

Thank you, now then; while the ID policy has been enacted for security reasons, we have an idea. What if instead, we had those things that you swipe your credit card in. And before the doors would unlock we could swipe a card, clearing us to enter, and all visitors are only able to enter through the main door.

NOTNILC:

We have tossed several ideas back and unfortunately this is the most economical. And you’re other.

GARRETT:

This is a simple request. Instead of blanketing all PDA, how about we allow at least hugging. Then, everyone has the same chance.

NOTNILC:

What’s wrong with it now?

GARRETT:

Let’s see, the fact that you’re a homophobe? The fact that, I can’t touch the guy I care about because it make someone uncomfortable, yet a guy and girl can basically get it on in the hallways? It doesn’t make sense to me at all.

NOTNILC:

You, sir, are jumping to conclusions. I have nothing against the schools homosexual population, but-

GARRETT:

But what? It makes people uncomfortable? Well, straights make me feel uncomfortable, but I stay silent. Besides, how many people are so uncomfortable that they have come to you?

NOTNILC:

None.

GARRETT:

Exactly! All you want is for everything to fit into your perfect biblical world and life. Well you know what? I’m gay. I’m proud, and I’m not going to change to please you.

NOTNILC:

All right, then I’m not going to change the policy. Good day.

GARRETT:

Fuck you.

MEAGHAN:

Okay, Garrett, let’s go.

JORDAN:
Come on.

GARRETT:

You think you’re right? Well fuck you! Fuck you!

NOTNILC:

That is quite enough! One more word and it is alternative school for you. Good day!

(Jordan and Meaghan drag a reluctant Garrett out of the office where the rest of the crew are waiting.)

CAMERON:

Well, what happened in there?

JACOB:

Come on tell us?

MEAGHAN:

I’ll tell them, you go calm him down.

GARRETT:

Start up the rally!

(The wagon and the rest head off. Meaghan filling them in. Eventually the rest will join him, while Meaghan joins Jordan.)

PRESS ONE:

Mr. Kilgore, what is the outcome? Are you successful?

JORDAN:
Did you not listen to what he just said? No we weren’t. No go away, we need a moment before we can give a statement of any sort. Besides, isn’t there something else you can do?

PRESS ONE:

Well, yes.

GARRETT:

Then go do it now and come back in an hour, okay? I need to calm down or else I’ll rip someone’s Goddam head off.

PRESS ONE:

All right then.

GARRETT:

Well that settles it.

JORDAN:

What? We still have a shot.

GARRETT:

No we don’t you heard how he talked. He won’t do it he’s a homophobe. End of discussion. Why? Why? God, it makes me so mad. How can he just sit there all smug?

JORDAN:
We gave it our best shot.

GARRETT:

No we didn’t.

JORDAN:

Yes we did.

GARRETT:
We needed more planning.

JORDAN:

More like we needed duck tape.

GARRETT:

We could have done better.

JORDAN:

Well, we would have if you had stayed calm for once, instead of flying of the handle!

I hope you’re happy,

I hope you’re happy now

I hope you’re happy how you

Hurt your cause forever

I hope you think you’re clever

GARRETT:

I hope you’re happy

I hope you’re happy too.

I hope you’re happy how you

Would grovel in submission

To feed your own ambition

BOTH:

So though I can’t imagine how,

I hope you’re happy right now.

JORDAN:

Garrett, listen to me. Just say you’re sorry.

You can change the rule

What you’ve worked and waited for

You can have all you ever wanted…

GARRETT:

I know. But I don’t want it…no. I can’t want it.

Anymore…

Jordan:

Garrett, don’t be afraid.

Garrett:

I’m not afraid. It’s the principal who should be afraid…of me!

Something has changed within me

Something is not the same

I’m through with playing by the rules

Of someone else’s game.

Too late for second guessing,

Too late to go back to sleep

It’s time to trust my instincts

Close my eyes, and leap.

It’s time to try defying gravity,

I think I’ll try defying gravity

And you can’t pull me down

JORDAN:

Can’t I make you understand, you’re

Having delusions of grandeur?

GARRETT:

I’m through accepting limits

‘Cuz someone says they’re so

Some things I cannot change

But until I try, I’ll never know

Too long I’ve been afraid of

Losing love, I guess I’ve lost

Well if that’s love,

It comes at much to high a cost!

I’d sooner buy defying gravity

Kiss me goodbye, I’m defying gravity

And you can’t pull me down!

Jordan— come with me. Think of what we could do, together.

Unlimited,

Together we’re unlimited

Together we’ll be the greatest team,

There’s ever been,

Jordan,

Dreams the way we planned ‘em

JORDAN:
If we work in tandem

BOTH:

There’s no fight we cannot win

Just you and I defying gravity

With you and I defying gravity

GARRETT:

They’ll never bring us down. Are you coming?

JORDAN:

Garrett, you’re trembling. (Gives him his jacket. They kiss)
I hope you’re happy,

Now that you’re choosing this.

GARRETT:

You too. –I hope it brings you bliss

BOTH:

I really hope you get it

And you don’t live to regret it

I hope you’re happy in the end!

I hope you’re happy, my friend.

(Garrett and Jordan part, he runs offstage. Jordan crosses down to the house, which is now full of students. As he does… )

Notlic:

There they are. (Cops grab him and Meaghan)

Jordan:

Let go of me, do you hear?

Meaghan:

You have no right to do this. WE are protected!

(Garrett appears at the top of the proscenium, on the balcony)

Garrett:

It’s not them you want. They have nothing to do with it. I’m the one you want. It’s me.

Jordan:

Garrett?

Garrett:

It’s me!

Up here!

It’s me!

So if you care to find me,

Look to the western sky

As someone told me lately

‘Ev’ryone deserves a chance to fly’

And if I’m flying solo,

At least I’m flying free

To those who’d ground me

Take this message back from me!

(He triumphantly pulls his ID off)

Tell them how I am defying gravity

I’m flying high, defying gravity

And soon I’ll match them in renown!

And nobody in this whole school

No principal or silly rule

Is ever gonna bring me down!

MEAGHAN AND JORDAN:

I hope you’re happy!

(The rest of his friends join him on the apron.)

OFFICIALS:

Look at him, he’s wicked!

Get him!

STUDENTS, PRESS AND FRIENDS:

Look at him, he’s cool!

Follow him!

GARRETT:

Bring me down!

OFFICIALS:
No one helps the wicked!

So we’ve go to bring him…

GARRETT:

AHHHH!

OFFICIALS:

Down!

(The students run up onstage throwing their ID’s into the pit. The press line the auditorium and steps and hold up their cameras. The officials storm off.)