Published Plays
THE LOSERS' CLUB
“The Losers' Club” is a group of outcast students at Clarksville High School in the small town of Clarksville, Texas. On homecoming evening, these students kidnap the Star football player, Joe Taylor, and homecoming queen nominee, Tawny Harris, who have both ridiculed and bullied members of the Club for years. Lead by Trenton, a 17 year old Goth, “The Losers' Club” puts Joe and Tawny on trial for “crimes committed against their fellow students.” Each member of the “jury” details how he/she has been harassed by Joe, Tawny, and their friends and how their lives have been affected by the abuse. What is revealed in the testimonies and the result of the trial is a surprise to all.”
From the Publisher: “An excellent play to serve as a catalyst for realistic discussions about bullying in schools across America.”
Eldridge Publishing
histage.com
Play #: 2348
Pages: 36 pgs
Cast: 8 m, 6 w doubling possible
Winner of over 15 Area and
State High School Theatre Awards
THE LOSERS' CLUB REVIEWS
"This play is a middle school Drama teacher's dream. Let's start with the production requirements. Couldn't be simpler or cheaper to produce. We are talking one set here, and that set is comprised of junky pieces you would find in an abandoned classroom. It is modern, so kids can wear their own clothes as costumes. It is a one act, so the material is extremely manageable. Now let's get to the more important stuff. The kids love it! For the first time in my 15 years of teaching Drama, kids spontaneously erupted into applause at the conclusion of the first read. The script really spoke to them. Our production was hugely successful. Students, parents, and teachers were wowed by it. The discussions it spurred were priceless. I cannot recommend this piece highly enough. Do it, you will not be sorry.”
AFTERMATH
Time and time again, we hear about ordinary people who become extraordinary human beings in the face of traumatic experiences, placing others before themselves in selfless and fearless acts of courage. During two simultaneous therapy sessions, one for students and one for staff, and guided by two grief counselors, we experience the events of a school shooting through those who experienced it firsthand. Blue stage lights mark flashbacks, and ensemble casting allows each character to tell their story. Aftermath allows directors to address the importance of inclusion and recognize the signs of abuse and mental illness through rap and dialogue that is taken directly from actual transcripts and 911 calls. Ultimately, we see how a community overcomes the loss of classmates and friends and how they can begin to move on and cope in the aftermath of such a tragedy. It is not a political play, but rather celebrates the humanity and heroism that people often demonstrate in times of unbelievable trauma. “One of the very few, if only play for high schools that addresses the horrific epidemic of school shootings.”
44 pgs
Cast: 7m, 6w
Some roles are flexible/interchangeable
AFTERMATH REVIEW
"Students grew tackling an emotionally relevant topic…"
When I first read about this play, I was hesitant to try to tackle it with my students because it is such a tough topic for any educator. Smith offered a perusal, and I asked my advanced theatre students if they were interested in doing a table read of it. They loved it and two students requested to direct it. It is a great show to allow students to explore their emotional range with a situation they have sadly imagined themselves having to go through. We took it to our regional play festival and earned 3rd place. If you and your students want a deeply moving piece, I recommend Aftermath. ★★★★★
Freedom High School - Oakley, CA | Date: 1/27/2023
AFTERMATH 1st Thirteen Pages
THE ELECTION
Eight diverse candidates who are running for student body president have two minutes to present their platform and to convince fellow Roosevelt High students to vote for them. From the narcissistic varsity cheerleader, to the disdainful brainiac, and from the star quarterback to the tongue-tied farm boy, every candidate is unique. Their speeches veer from the serious to the hilarious and, with several mimed action scenes, even reach the absurd! During the question-and-answer segment of the forum, however, one student asks the candidates to do something about those students who do not qualify for the free lunch program, many of whom are homeless as well. Learning that fellow students are suffering shocks the candidates so much they all decide to do something about it, uniting them in one cause. As they think of ways to help, they begin to truly listen to one another and realize that working together to end hunger and homelessness -- at least in their school -- is far more important than winning an election.
Eldridge Publishing
histage.com
Play #: 2538
Pages: 40 pgs
Cast: 6 m, 9 w, and ensemble of 10, doubling possible
WHOSE HIGH SCHOOL IS IT ANYWAY?
Read the Play (minus the ending)
A Full-length Play with
Scenes & Monologues for Teens
by Jonathan Turner Smith
Flexible Cast 8-19
Minimum 4F/4M
Approximate Playing Time: 90 Min.
“If you are looking for a great play for teens with the flexibility of adapting the cast size and material content to fit your specific needs, then this is among the best! Whose High School is it Anyway? explores themes from jealousy and insecurity to bullying and sex through a collection of humorous, satirical and serious scenes and monologues which may be cut and adapted to fit your school and your cast. Jonathan Turner Smith uses his extensive experience working with youth to craft relatable characters and situations that will challenge student actors and provide insights into the trials and tribulations of teens in a typical modern high school.” Publisher
Heartland Plays
heartlandplays.com
(406) 431-7680