DUALITY
TIME: Modern
-
PLACE: Cheery Mental Clinic
CHARACTERS:
Lexy-Pleasure
Lassius-Pain
Amora-Love
Otto-Hate
Judy-Order
Cascus-Chaos
Vita-Life
Morris-Death
Fessa-Forgiveness
Billy-Vengeance
COSTUMES: Normal, Vita is wearing a white doctors coat, Morris is wearing a black doctors coat. Lexy has a lot of makeup on.
PROPS and ACTORS: Vita and Morris both have clipboards. Lexy is carrying an oversized bag filled with miscellaneous things. Judy has a planner or notebook. Minimum of nine chairs. Table with tea set will also be necessary in the second scene, as well as a small vial. Lexy, Amora, Judy, Vita, and Fessa must be played by females. Lassius, Otto, Cascus, Morris, and Billy must be played by males.
SCENE 1
(Dr. Vita and Dr. Morris are standing in the middle of a semi-circle of chairs, looking over their clipboards and discussing work)
MORRIS:
You look particularly unhappy today, dear Vita, something wrong?
VITA:
(Sighs, skimming her clipboard) I got an interesting bunch today, one returner, and to be honest I’m not looking forward to it.
MORRIS:
I could take care of them for you.
VITA:
Absolutely not! They came to me, and I won’t let you poison them with your science and your medicine!
MORRIS:
(Shrugs, looking bored) It’s better than those childish feeling talks you force them to sit through.
VITA:
You think I’m forcing them to sit through it? They came to me of their own free will; I’m the one who has to listen to their problems every day!
MORRIS:
If you hate it so much, why are you still here?
VITA:
(Shrugs) Circumstance, I can’t quit my job now, I’ll have nowhere else to go. (Looks at her watch) They’ll be here soon; go back to your office and keep your vile drugs away from my charges.
MORRIS:
(Laughs a little) Well Mrs. Vita, maybe if you were a better therapist I wouldn’t have to drug them, every thought of it like that? Hehe, farewell, dear girl. (Turns and exits)
VITA:
(To herself) The nerve of that man! I’ll show him who’s a better therapist. (Exits)
SCENE 2
(Everyone except Dr. Morris sits in the semi-circle with Dr. Vita in the center, there should be some fighting and commotion as the actors take their seats.)
VITA:
Alright, everyone settle down. (Assembled group goes still and silent) Good. Now, my name is Doctor Vita and I’m your group therapist for today. We will share our thoughts, problems, and feelings, then work together to fix them. Now, most of you are new, but you... (Refers to clipboard)...Amora...you have been here a few times.
AMORA:
Yes, I decided to do one last session, but my report looks good, and I’m feeling a lot better!
VITA:
That’s good; I’m glad we could help. (To the others) Here at Sunnyville Medical Ward, we always listen to your problems and do everything in our power to help.
OTTO:
(Huffs)
VITA:
(To Otto) Yes... (Refers to clipboard)...Otto? Would you like to say something?
OTTO:
No.
VITA:
Are you sure? We can help with any obstacle you might be facing.
OTTO:
Yes.
VITA:
(Pouts a bit) Well, alright, but I really don’t see the reason why you came here if you’re not even going to speak.
OTTO:
Whatever, are we going to start this or not?
VITA:
Well...if someone would like to volunteer...
LASSIUS:
(Raises hand)
VITA:
Yes, you there. (Points to Lassius) Why don’t you go on ahead and introduce yourself?
LASSIUS:
M-my name’s Lassius...I’m here because my parents were getting worried...
VITA:
Worried about what?
LASSIUS:
W-well...they said what I’m doing isn’t healthy for me.
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here that you self-harm, in more than the usual way.
LASSIUS:
(Ashamed) I-I starve myself sometimes too...
VITA:
It’s a good thing you came to us then Lassius, we can help you. Can you tell us why you do these things to yourself?
LEXY:
(Strong sarcasm) Maybe it’s because he’s a little dweeb.
VITA:
(Sharply) Quiet! We will have no negative input here.
LASSIUS:
(Is startled and shrinks back, scared)
AMORA:
It’s okay Lassius, don’t be scared. In fact, you don’t ever have to be scared again, because we’ve got your back.
BILLY:
If you want little man I can punch her in the face.
LEXY:
If you so much as touch my designer makeup I will murder you.
BILLY:
(Stands threateningly)
VITA:
(Stands and puts her hands on her hips) Your name is Billy, right?
BILLY:
Yes ma’am.
VITA:
Listen Billy, everyone gathered has come here for a reason, to seek help and advice. There are...other ways...to help you, but I don’t much hold with those methods. It’s a last resort, but if you won’t simmer down I’ll have to send you to Dr. Morris. That goes for all of you. (Scans the room) Understood?
ALL CHARACTERS:
Yes Doctor Vita.
VITA:
Good, now where were we? (Billy and Vita sit, Vita refers to clipboard) Ah yes, Lassius, can you elaborate on that?
LASSIUS:
(Looks around fearfully) W-well I...can you come back to me?
VITA:
Sure dear, take all the time you need. (Turns to Lexy) Since you were so quick to add input, would you like to go next Lexy?
LEXY:
(Rolls eyes) Fine. My Mom urged me to come here ‘cause she didn’t like the guys I was hanging out with, I dunno, that lady’s crazy. She said I needed to rethink my life or something equally pointless.
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard)It seems to me you have quite the criminal record, everything from drinking to shoplifting.
LEXY:
Pfft...that ain’t nothing. I was just having some fun. Besides, the only way I could get all this cool stuff was to steal it. I’m a...live in the moment type of girl.
VITA:
And what does your mother think of that?
LEXY:
She thinks I need to get my life straightened out, duh. Why else would I be in this miserable dump? You don’t even have a snack bar.
LASSIUS:
(Stands up suddenly, much to everyone’s surprise and yells) It’s people like you that make me not want to eat! You live in so much excess and waste; it makes me sick!
AMORA:
(Grabs Lassius’ arm, trying to calm him down) Lassius! Come on we’re all friends here!
LASSIUS:
(Shrugs her off, glaring at Lexy)
LEXY:
(Sarcasm) Well, I’m sorry twerp if you can’t be as privileged as me.
LASSIUS:
Look at that huge bag you have! (Points to it) How much of that stuff do you actually need? I know people living on the streets who would kill for stuff like that!
LEXY:
(Grips bag) I need everything in here shorty, in case of emergency.
LASSIUS:
Show us what you have then.
LEXY:
What?
LASSIUS:
You heard me, empty the bag.
LEXY:
No! I don’t have to listen to you!
VITA:
I think we’re all curious honey, go on, there are no secrets here.
LEXY:
(Sighing) Fine... (Dumps contents onto the floor, random, useless items fall out)
LASSIUS:
See? You don’t need half that stuff!
LEXY:
Alright fine, you got me. So maybe I’m carrying a LITTLE extra baggage, so what? It makes me feel good to have more than other people, and I do whatever makes me feel good. That’s what makes me better than dweebs like you who have nothing!
AMORA:
Stuff doesn’t make you better or worse than anyone, silly.
OTTO:
I think you’re both insane.
AMORA:
Shh Otto, that is your name right?
OTTO:
Yeah.
AMORA:
Hush. (To Lassius and Lexy) As I was saying, material goods don’t matter, character does, but even character doesn’t make you better than anyone.
LASSIUS:
(Sits back down, arms crossed)
LEXY:
(Crosses arms and rolls eyes) Whatever.
AMORA:
Uh...I can see you’re not very receptive right now...
VITA:
(To Amora) You did just fine dear. (To Lassius and Lexy) We’ll come back if you want to talk some more. (To Everyone) Whose next?
JUDY:
(Raises hand)
VITA:
(Points to Judy) Yes, and you are?
JUDY:
Can I please just request that we get that disgusting pile of junk cleared up? (Indicates the former contents of Lexy’s bag, now on the floor) It’s bothering the heck outta me. I’m Judy by the way.
VITA:
(Nods at Lexy who quickly gathers her stuff and puts it back into her bag) (Addresses Judy) Hello Judy, and why are you here today?
JUDY:
My friends requested I come here to fix my, ah...little problem...
VITA:
And that is?
JUDY:
(Straightens her clothes and hair) I’m a bit of a neat freak...well, it’s more than that...I go absolutely bonkers at anything out of order. I almost couldn’t handle sitting here, because these chairs are just ever so annoyingly crooked. I didn’t say anything because it was not my turn to speak. I would also request we hurry this up, your honor, because I have a strict schedule to keep to.
VITA:
Well...I can’t say for certain how long we’ll need to be here.
JUDY:
(Hyperventilates a bit)I-I have plans! I can’t mess up my schedule, my whole month will be thrown off!
AMORA:
How much time do you need?
JUDY:
(Pulls out planner, skims through it, listing off some of the things she needs to do) Well I have to make the bus stop here...then a fifteen minute trip...arrive at my house here...ten minutes to change into something more comfortable...five minutes to feed the cat...forty-five minutes to make dinner...
CASCUS:
That is absolutely ridiculous! How do you live like that? What kind of cat is it? What if you’re late?
JUDY:
(Slightly confused) Uh...it’s a ginger tom...anyway, I’m never late! I refuse to have anything less than a perfectly planned life!
AMORA:
So...you’re whole life is planned like this?
JUDY:
Of course! Everything is planned so there are no surprises! (Looks over planner again) I’m going to marry in five years...have kids in eight, and my kids will go to school from 7:45 am to 2:30 pm which gives me plenty of time to work from...
CASCUS:
(Interrupts Judy) Stop! I can’t handle this, although I do love cats, and waffles, but you’re crazy lady!
VITA:
And you are?
CASCUS:
My name’s Cascus, at your service. My school counselor suggested I come here.
VITA:
And why is that?
CASCUS:
(Becomes shy) W-well...because she said I have absolutely no direction in life... (Suddenly is energetic again) I just can’t decide on what to do next! Sometimes I do my homework, sometimes I play video games, sometimes I’m a scientist, sometimes I’m a pirate, sometimes I like cats and waffles, I just skip around in my interests. I don’t see the point of being tied down and labeled, and I don’t see what’s wrong with that either!
VITA:
Why would your counselor think there’s something wrong with how you are?
CASCUS:
I dunno, probably because I never finish anything I guess...
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here you also have some emotional issues as well.
CASCUS:
I just can’t help it! One minute I’ll be feeling fine and the next I’m in a rage! Like a penny! The counselor thinks it has something to do with my less than construction worker lifestyle.
JUDY:
See? Disgusting disorder messes you up!
CASCUS:
(Suddenly becomes angry) At least I don’t have to check the clock every few minutes to see when I need to feed the ginger tom cat!
OTTO:
(Sullenly) All of you are idiots.
FESSA:
(Ashamed) I’m sorry...
OTTO:
Why are you...? (Sighs) You know what? Never mind, I give up on trying to understand you people.
CASCUS:
(Shrinks back, ashamed) Was that harsh? I’m sorry...like I said; my moods get away from me sometimes, kites and all.
JUDY:
No, you have a point. It’s hard to live my life, but I just can’t stand the craziness that comes with not having a plan.
CASCUS:
Let go of all that trivial stuff, it only holds you back.
AMORA:
But Cascus, not having a plan at all could be equally bad for you.
CASCUS:
Yeah...I guessed that...
VITA:
I think through practice you can learn to balance your two lifestyles.
JUDY:
Perhaps then, we could help each other?
CASCUS:
(Angrily) But you’re...! (Calms back down) Alright, I’d be glad to help!
VITA:
Looks like that’s settled! Alright, whose next?
FESSA:
I-I’m Fessa and...
BILLY:
(Cutting her off) I’m Billy.
FESSA:
(Shy) Sorry...you go first.
BILLY:
Gladly. I’m Billy and...
VITA:
(Cuts him off) Hey! She was speaking first!
BILLY:
She said I could go.
VITA:
No no, we shall have none of that. Fessa, sweetie, what were you going to say?
FESSA:
Oh, nothing really. It’s okay, he can go first.
OTTO:
This one’s kind of weak, isn’t she?
VITA:
Otto, keep your comments to yourself! (Smiles at Fessa) Are you sure dear?
FESSA:
Really...it’s fine...
VITA:
If you insist, we’ll come back to you. Alright Billy, what’s your story?
BILLY:
Well, my story’s real simple. My Dad was filling up the gas in his car late one night when a man came up and held a gun to his face. He wanted the truck...and when my old man refused he put a lead pellet in his skull. The police got the car back; they even got the man, but he escaped the law through some backhanded bribery, and now a murderer is running lose holding up other people’s fathers for cash. Now, I want to find that man and deliver proper justice.
AMORA:
Oh, you poor thing!
OTTO:
(Laughs) You aren’t some superhero; real life doesn’t work that way.
AMORA:
(Scolding) Otto! What is your problem?!
OTTO:
My problem is this cowboy here is going to get himself killed.
BILLY:
I won’t.
OTTO:
So what are you going to do when you find him? Let him off with a warning?
(At this point things start getting hectic, voices are raised and there is high tension in the room)
BILLY:
Well, I...
LEXY:
Oh my gosh, please don’t tell me you’re actually going to hunt this guy down and kill him; that is so dense!
CASCUS:
So do you have a gun?
VITA:
That is hardly...!
LASSIUS:
I could help you find him if you want.
BILLY:
Well, uh...
VITA:
Now really...!
JUDY:
(Covers ears and yells) Order in the court! Order!
LEXY:
Oh, look neat freak, my bag is all disorganized! (Shows Judy contents of her bag)
JUDY:
(Yelps and covers eyes)
CASCUS:
I want a cookie!
AMORA:
(Desperately trying to calm everyone down) Guys...please calm down.
OTTO:
(Yells) Why am I even here?
VITA:
(Stands up and yells) EVERYONE SHUT UP!
EVERYONE:
(Falls silent)
VITA:
(Still standing) We have three more people to go through! I will have complete obedience or I’ll be forced to send you all too... (Shudders)...him...AM I UNDERSTOOD?!
EVERYONE:
Yes ma’am.
VITA:
Now, would anyone like to say anything or ask a question?
LEXY:
(Raises hand)I have a question.
VITA:
What is it?
LEXY:
(To Billy) When exactly did your daddy die?
BILLY:
(Is silent for a bit, then says quietly) When I was six...
OTTO:
You’ve been after some guy since you were six?!
BILLY:
It’s been all I can think about. Some nights I can’t even fall asleep properly.
LEXY:
How do you know if he’s even still alive? He could be dead or something for all you know.
BILLY:
I’ve thought about that too. I’m hoping he’ll still be alive, it just wouldn’t give me the satisfaction I need if he was already dead.
VITA:
Billy, this hardly seems healthy.
BILLY:
I don’t care.
FESSA:
Y-yeah Billy...maybe you should just...forget him?
BILLY:
Now you know I can’t just do that.
AMORA:
Billy, sometimes you just need to let things go.
BILLY:
And let a murderer go free?
VITA:
You can’t control everything that happens.
BILLY:
Whatever. I’m done talking.
VITA:
Alright then. Otto, share, quickly. I want to get this over with.
OTTO:
Jeez no need to be rude.
VITA:
Just hurry up!
AMORA:
(Raises hand tentatively) Actually Dr. Vita...I think Fessa should go first.
VITA:
Good idea, nobody wants to listen to Otto anyway.
LEXY:
(Whistles, impressed at her sudden attitude)
FESSA:
(Looks down) W-well...I...
AMORA:
Please? We’re here to listen...mostly... (Looks pointedly at Otto)
FESSA:
M-my parents w-wanted me to come her so I could learn to b-be more assertive...
OTTO:
(Otto laughs) Good luck with that.
VITA:
(Vita glares at Otto, finger over her lips)
OTTO:
(Raises hands in mock surrender)
VITA:
It’s okay dear, we can help you.
FESSA:
(Sniffs) O-okay...
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here you’ve been having some trouble with your friends?
FESSA:
W-well...they kind of...use me sometimes...since I don’t put up a fight...
VITA:
How so?
FESSA:
T-they ask me to do homework and stuff for them...and they never pay me back...and I get bullied...sometimes...
BILLY:
That’s why you gotta stand up for yourself doll; you don’t want to be a doormat.
FESSA:
I-I guess...I’ll try...but I just don’t want to let them down. I’m only trying to help.
AMORA:
Well, it’s one thing to help people and another thing to allow yourself to get used.
BILLY:
Why would you even try to help those guys if they bully you?
FESSA:
It’s okay if they get a little mean sometimes...I understand that they have problems too and they’re just trying deal with their feelings...
VITA:
Fessa dear...you can try to help some people, but it seems to me like these guys are just being mean and taking advantage of your kindness.
FESSA:
I’m okay with it...really...
BILLY:
Now that’s just not right. You don’t have to be okay with it, stand up for yourself doll.
FESSA:
O-okay...I guess I can try...
OTTO:
Alright, I guess it’s my turn then?
VITA:
Wait until she’s finished. (To Fessa) Are you done?
FESSA:
(Looks at Otto fearfully and nods)
VITA:
Alright then, Amora, would you go next?
OTTO:
(Throws hands up in the air exasperatedly)
AMORA:
Oh Dr. Vita, I would love to share my story, but it was thanks to you guys that I’ve come so far.
OTTO:
(Huffs and rolls his eyes)
AMORA:
(Puts on forced smile) Even such a tough case like you, Otto, can be fixed.
LEXY:
Doubt it.
AMORA:
Well, it’s kind of complicated! You see, I get kind of emotional sometimes, and so my parents signed me up for these sessions to help balance my feelings. I thought I was doing so much better, but then I met this guy who was so perfect and amazing in every way, and I just loved him so much, but I never had the courage to talk to him. One day I finally managed to ask him out, and he said he was already seeing someone else! So, despite my improving record, I decided to come back here one last time, just to share my thoughts and make sure I’m still well enough to leave.
VITA:
And so far I think you’re doing just fine Amora.
OTTO:
(Laughs) Oh that is hilarious! The thing that drove you over the edge to end up with us basket cases is an unrequited crush? Are you seriously that weak and pathetic?
AMORA:
It affected me deeply!
OTTO:
(Mocking) Oh a boy doesn’t like me so I’m just going to sit in a circle and talk about my feelings! (Hisses in rage) Absolutely sickening.
AMORA:
What is wrong with you?!
OTTO:
What’s wrong with me? Ha, I think we’re talking about what’s wrong with you right now sugar.
AMORA:
Well, I’m done sharing. Your turn.
OTTO:
(Huffs and looks away) My story isn’t all that more different from all of yours. I grew up, lived, made mistakes, continued on, lived again. I didn’t do anything special or different, so why do you all hate me? I never even met you guys before, and suddenly I’m the outcast, even though Lexy over there is just as much of a bully as me. You aren’t the first ones either. People just hate me, so how am I not supposed to hate them back?
LEXY:
Well maybe that’s because you’re a...
AMORA:
(Cuts off) Lexy! Please! (To Otto) Oh Otto, I had no idea you felt like that! Do you want a hug? (Opens arms)
OTTO:
(Sullen) No. I don’t need your sympathy, or anyone else’s sympathy.
AMORA:
(Crestfallen) B-but Otto!
OTTO:
(Angry) I said no! You think just because you can be all happy-go-lucky everyone can be, but it doesn’t work like that! Some people are just meant to be hated, others are doomed to fail, and one girl with one hug can’t change that!
AMORA:
(Stands and stomps foot, yelling) I’m not always happy! What if I need to believe that one hug CAN change someone’s life, but mean old bullies like you keep telling me otherwise? What if all I want to do is help, and the only way I can is through a simple hug? (Sits back down, crying) I only want to help...
OTTO:
(Ashamed) Amora...I’m sorry...
VITA:
No Otto, you’ve done quite enough already.
OTTO:
I said I’m sorry! I didn’t know she would cry about it!
AMORA:
(Sniffs) No Otto...it’s okay. If I told myself these sessions would help I was being delusional. I want to go see Dr. Morris.
VITA:
(Astounded) B-but Amora!
LEXY:
Ew, I heard things about that guy, he’s a total creep.
VITA:
That is a last resort only, are you sure?
AMORA:
Yes, I’m sure.
FESSA:
B-but...! Okay...
BILLY:
I’m not too sure about this doll.
LASSIUS:
Yeah, you could just stay here with us.
CASCUS:
Is he a redhead?
JUDY:
Wouldn’t you have to make an appointment?
MORRIS:
(Enters) Amora?
AMORA:
(Looks at him in surprise) Y-yes?
MORRIS:
My name is Dr. Morris. You’re next on my list. (Holds up clipboard)
SCENE 3
(Everyone except Amora and Morris exit. They leave two chairs and someone brings out a table and tea set. Morris and Amora sit at the chairs.)
MORRIS:
Tea? (Indicates to the teapot)
AMORA:
Yes please.
MORRIS:
(Pours them both tea and takes a sip) Delicious. I find tea always calms the nerves.
AMORA:
(Takes a small sip and nods)
MORRIS:
(Refers to clipboard) Oh you poor girl, this is your third relapse?
AMORA:
(Nods) It’s not that I don’t try...because I do...it’s just, sometimes I think I’m doing so well, then something triggers me and I go off again. Therapy isn’t working.
MORRIS:
(Nods) I understand. Several of my clients feel they have no other choice, like nothing else is working. My methods are often a last resort, and although Dr. Vita doesn’t hold with it, I get results.
AMORA:
(Suddenly) Will it hurt?
MORRIS:
(Chuckles) My dear girl what has that woman been telling you? It’s just a simple drug, to be taken merely once, as painless as falling asleep.
AMORA:
A-and what does this drug do, exactly?
MORRIS:
To put simply, it will dull your emotions. You won’t feel pain or anger, but you also won’t feel happiness. Some say it’s worth it. Think carefully before you decide.
AMORA:
Can I reverse it?
MORRIS:
(Chuckles) I’m afraid not my dear. It doesn’t work that way.
AMORA:
(Thinks for a bit, and then sighs) I really don’t feel like I have a choice. Anything would be better than the hurt I have to go through every day.
MORRIS:
Is that your final decision?
AMORA:
(Nods once) Yes.
MORRIS:
(Pulls out a small vial and pours it into her tea) You can still change your mind.
AMORA:
No, I can do this. I’m not afraid. (Drains cup and sighs deeply, closing her eyes)
MORRIS:
How do you feel dear girl?
AMORA:
(Opens her eyes and smiles) I feel...at peace.
CURTAINS
TIME: Modern
-
PLACE: Cheery Mental Clinic
CHARACTERS:
Lexy-Pleasure
Lassius-Pain
Amora-Love
Otto-Hate
Judy-Order
Cascus-Chaos
Vita-Life
Morris-Death
Fessa-Forgiveness
Billy-Vengeance
COSTUMES: Normal, Vita is wearing a white doctors coat, Morris is wearing a black doctors coat. Lexy has a lot of makeup on.
PROPS and ACTORS: Vita and Morris both have clipboards. Lexy is carrying an oversized bag filled with miscellaneous things. Judy has a planner or notebook. Minimum of nine chairs. Table with tea set will also be necessary in the second scene, as well as a small vial. Lexy, Amora, Judy, Vita, and Fessa must be played by females. Lassius, Otto, Cascus, Morris, and Billy must be played by males.
SCENE 1
(Dr. Vita and Dr. Morris are standing in the middle of a semi-circle of chairs, looking over their clipboards and discussing work)
MORRIS:
You look particularly unhappy today, dear Vita, something wrong?
VITA:
(Sighs, skimming her clipboard) I got an interesting bunch today, one returner, and to be honest I’m not looking forward to it.
MORRIS:
I could take care of them for you.
VITA:
Absolutely not! They came to me, and I won’t let you poison them with your science and your medicine!
MORRIS:
(Shrugs, looking bored) It’s better than those childish feeling talks you force them to sit through.
VITA:
You think I’m forcing them to sit through it? They came to me of their own free will; I’m the one who has to listen to their problems every day!
MORRIS:
If you hate it so much, why are you still here?
VITA:
(Shrugs) Circumstance, I can’t quit my job now, I’ll have nowhere else to go. (Looks at her watch) They’ll be here soon; go back to your office and keep your vile drugs away from my charges.
MORRIS:
(Laughs a little) Well Mrs. Vita, maybe if you were a better therapist I wouldn’t have to drug them, every thought of it like that? Hehe, farewell, dear girl. (Turns and exits)
VITA:
(To herself) The nerve of that man! I’ll show him who’s a better therapist. (Exits)
SCENE 2
(Everyone except Dr. Morris sits in the semi-circle with Dr. Vita in the center, there should be some fighting and commotion as the actors take their seats.)
VITA:
Alright, everyone settle down. (Assembled group goes still and silent) Good. Now, my name is Doctor Vita and I’m your group therapist for today. We will share our thoughts, problems, and feelings, then work together to fix them. Now, most of you are new, but you... (Refers to clipboard)...Amora...you have been here a few times.
AMORA:
Yes, I decided to do one last session, but my report looks good, and I’m feeling a lot better!
VITA:
That’s good; I’m glad we could help. (To the others) Here at Sunnyville Medical Ward, we always listen to your problems and do everything in our power to help.
OTTO:
(Huffs)
VITA:
(To Otto) Yes... (Refers to clipboard)...Otto? Would you like to say something?
OTTO:
No.
VITA:
Are you sure? We can help with any obstacle you might be facing.
OTTO:
Yes.
VITA:
(Pouts a bit) Well, alright, but I really don’t see the reason why you came here if you’re not even going to speak.
OTTO:
Whatever, are we going to start this or not?
VITA:
Well...if someone would like to volunteer...
LASSIUS:
(Raises hand)
VITA:
Yes, you there. (Points to Lassius) Why don’t you go on ahead and introduce yourself?
LASSIUS:
M-my name’s Lassius...I’m here because my parents were getting worried...
VITA:
Worried about what?
LASSIUS:
W-well...they said what I’m doing isn’t healthy for me.
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here that you self-harm, in more than the usual way.
LASSIUS:
(Ashamed) I-I starve myself sometimes too...
VITA:
It’s a good thing you came to us then Lassius, we can help you. Can you tell us why you do these things to yourself?
LEXY:
(Strong sarcasm) Maybe it’s because he’s a little dweeb.
VITA:
(Sharply) Quiet! We will have no negative input here.
LASSIUS:
(Is startled and shrinks back, scared)
AMORA:
It’s okay Lassius, don’t be scared. In fact, you don’t ever have to be scared again, because we’ve got your back.
BILLY:
If you want little man I can punch her in the face.
LEXY:
If you so much as touch my designer makeup I will murder you.
BILLY:
(Stands threateningly)
VITA:
(Stands and puts her hands on her hips) Your name is Billy, right?
BILLY:
Yes ma’am.
VITA:
Listen Billy, everyone gathered has come here for a reason, to seek help and advice. There are...other ways...to help you, but I don’t much hold with those methods. It’s a last resort, but if you won’t simmer down I’ll have to send you to Dr. Morris. That goes for all of you. (Scans the room) Understood?
ALL CHARACTERS:
Yes Doctor Vita.
VITA:
Good, now where were we? (Billy and Vita sit, Vita refers to clipboard) Ah yes, Lassius, can you elaborate on that?
LASSIUS:
(Looks around fearfully) W-well I...can you come back to me?
VITA:
Sure dear, take all the time you need. (Turns to Lexy) Since you were so quick to add input, would you like to go next Lexy?
LEXY:
(Rolls eyes) Fine. My Mom urged me to come here ‘cause she didn’t like the guys I was hanging out with, I dunno, that lady’s crazy. She said I needed to rethink my life or something equally pointless.
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard)It seems to me you have quite the criminal record, everything from drinking to shoplifting.
LEXY:
Pfft...that ain’t nothing. I was just having some fun. Besides, the only way I could get all this cool stuff was to steal it. I’m a...live in the moment type of girl.
VITA:
And what does your mother think of that?
LEXY:
She thinks I need to get my life straightened out, duh. Why else would I be in this miserable dump? You don’t even have a snack bar.
LASSIUS:
(Stands up suddenly, much to everyone’s surprise and yells) It’s people like you that make me not want to eat! You live in so much excess and waste; it makes me sick!
AMORA:
(Grabs Lassius’ arm, trying to calm him down) Lassius! Come on we’re all friends here!
LASSIUS:
(Shrugs her off, glaring at Lexy)
LEXY:
(Sarcasm) Well, I’m sorry twerp if you can’t be as privileged as me.
LASSIUS:
Look at that huge bag you have! (Points to it) How much of that stuff do you actually need? I know people living on the streets who would kill for stuff like that!
LEXY:
(Grips bag) I need everything in here shorty, in case of emergency.
LASSIUS:
Show us what you have then.
LEXY:
What?
LASSIUS:
You heard me, empty the bag.
LEXY:
No! I don’t have to listen to you!
VITA:
I think we’re all curious honey, go on, there are no secrets here.
LEXY:
(Sighing) Fine... (Dumps contents onto the floor, random, useless items fall out)
LASSIUS:
See? You don’t need half that stuff!
LEXY:
Alright fine, you got me. So maybe I’m carrying a LITTLE extra baggage, so what? It makes me feel good to have more than other people, and I do whatever makes me feel good. That’s what makes me better than dweebs like you who have nothing!
AMORA:
Stuff doesn’t make you better or worse than anyone, silly.
OTTO:
I think you’re both insane.
AMORA:
Shh Otto, that is your name right?
OTTO:
Yeah.
AMORA:
Hush. (To Lassius and Lexy) As I was saying, material goods don’t matter, character does, but even character doesn’t make you better than anyone.
LASSIUS:
(Sits back down, arms crossed)
LEXY:
(Crosses arms and rolls eyes) Whatever.
AMORA:
Uh...I can see you’re not very receptive right now...
VITA:
(To Amora) You did just fine dear. (To Lassius and Lexy) We’ll come back if you want to talk some more. (To Everyone) Whose next?
JUDY:
(Raises hand)
VITA:
(Points to Judy) Yes, and you are?
JUDY:
Can I please just request that we get that disgusting pile of junk cleared up? (Indicates the former contents of Lexy’s bag, now on the floor) It’s bothering the heck outta me. I’m Judy by the way.
VITA:
(Nods at Lexy who quickly gathers her stuff and puts it back into her bag) (Addresses Judy) Hello Judy, and why are you here today?
JUDY:
My friends requested I come here to fix my, ah...little problem...
VITA:
And that is?
JUDY:
(Straightens her clothes and hair) I’m a bit of a neat freak...well, it’s more than that...I go absolutely bonkers at anything out of order. I almost couldn’t handle sitting here, because these chairs are just ever so annoyingly crooked. I didn’t say anything because it was not my turn to speak. I would also request we hurry this up, your honor, because I have a strict schedule to keep to.
VITA:
Well...I can’t say for certain how long we’ll need to be here.
JUDY:
(Hyperventilates a bit)I-I have plans! I can’t mess up my schedule, my whole month will be thrown off!
AMORA:
How much time do you need?
JUDY:
(Pulls out planner, skims through it, listing off some of the things she needs to do) Well I have to make the bus stop here...then a fifteen minute trip...arrive at my house here...ten minutes to change into something more comfortable...five minutes to feed the cat...forty-five minutes to make dinner...
CASCUS:
That is absolutely ridiculous! How do you live like that? What kind of cat is it? What if you’re late?
JUDY:
(Slightly confused) Uh...it’s a ginger tom...anyway, I’m never late! I refuse to have anything less than a perfectly planned life!
AMORA:
So...you’re whole life is planned like this?
JUDY:
Of course! Everything is planned so there are no surprises! (Looks over planner again) I’m going to marry in five years...have kids in eight, and my kids will go to school from 7:45 am to 2:30 pm which gives me plenty of time to work from...
CASCUS:
(Interrupts Judy) Stop! I can’t handle this, although I do love cats, and waffles, but you’re crazy lady!
VITA:
And you are?
CASCUS:
My name’s Cascus, at your service. My school counselor suggested I come here.
VITA:
And why is that?
CASCUS:
(Becomes shy) W-well...because she said I have absolutely no direction in life... (Suddenly is energetic again) I just can’t decide on what to do next! Sometimes I do my homework, sometimes I play video games, sometimes I’m a scientist, sometimes I’m a pirate, sometimes I like cats and waffles, I just skip around in my interests. I don’t see the point of being tied down and labeled, and I don’t see what’s wrong with that either!
VITA:
Why would your counselor think there’s something wrong with how you are?
CASCUS:
I dunno, probably because I never finish anything I guess...
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here you also have some emotional issues as well.
CASCUS:
I just can’t help it! One minute I’ll be feeling fine and the next I’m in a rage! Like a penny! The counselor thinks it has something to do with my less than construction worker lifestyle.
JUDY:
See? Disgusting disorder messes you up!
CASCUS:
(Suddenly becomes angry) At least I don’t have to check the clock every few minutes to see when I need to feed the ginger tom cat!
OTTO:
(Sullenly) All of you are idiots.
FESSA:
(Ashamed) I’m sorry...
OTTO:
Why are you...? (Sighs) You know what? Never mind, I give up on trying to understand you people.
CASCUS:
(Shrinks back, ashamed) Was that harsh? I’m sorry...like I said; my moods get away from me sometimes, kites and all.
JUDY:
No, you have a point. It’s hard to live my life, but I just can’t stand the craziness that comes with not having a plan.
CASCUS:
Let go of all that trivial stuff, it only holds you back.
AMORA:
But Cascus, not having a plan at all could be equally bad for you.
CASCUS:
Yeah...I guessed that...
VITA:
I think through practice you can learn to balance your two lifestyles.
JUDY:
Perhaps then, we could help each other?
CASCUS:
(Angrily) But you’re...! (Calms back down) Alright, I’d be glad to help!
VITA:
Looks like that’s settled! Alright, whose next?
FESSA:
I-I’m Fessa and...
BILLY:
(Cutting her off) I’m Billy.
FESSA:
(Shy) Sorry...you go first.
BILLY:
Gladly. I’m Billy and...
VITA:
(Cuts him off) Hey! She was speaking first!
BILLY:
She said I could go.
VITA:
No no, we shall have none of that. Fessa, sweetie, what were you going to say?
FESSA:
Oh, nothing really. It’s okay, he can go first.
OTTO:
This one’s kind of weak, isn’t she?
VITA:
Otto, keep your comments to yourself! (Smiles at Fessa) Are you sure dear?
FESSA:
Really...it’s fine...
VITA:
If you insist, we’ll come back to you. Alright Billy, what’s your story?
BILLY:
Well, my story’s real simple. My Dad was filling up the gas in his car late one night when a man came up and held a gun to his face. He wanted the truck...and when my old man refused he put a lead pellet in his skull. The police got the car back; they even got the man, but he escaped the law through some backhanded bribery, and now a murderer is running lose holding up other people’s fathers for cash. Now, I want to find that man and deliver proper justice.
AMORA:
Oh, you poor thing!
OTTO:
(Laughs) You aren’t some superhero; real life doesn’t work that way.
AMORA:
(Scolding) Otto! What is your problem?!
OTTO:
My problem is this cowboy here is going to get himself killed.
BILLY:
I won’t.
OTTO:
So what are you going to do when you find him? Let him off with a warning?
(At this point things start getting hectic, voices are raised and there is high tension in the room)
BILLY:
Well, I...
LEXY:
Oh my gosh, please don’t tell me you’re actually going to hunt this guy down and kill him; that is so dense!
CASCUS:
So do you have a gun?
VITA:
That is hardly...!
LASSIUS:
I could help you find him if you want.
BILLY:
Well, uh...
VITA:
Now really...!
JUDY:
(Covers ears and yells) Order in the court! Order!
LEXY:
Oh, look neat freak, my bag is all disorganized! (Shows Judy contents of her bag)
JUDY:
(Yelps and covers eyes)
CASCUS:
I want a cookie!
AMORA:
(Desperately trying to calm everyone down) Guys...please calm down.
OTTO:
(Yells) Why am I even here?
VITA:
(Stands up and yells) EVERYONE SHUT UP!
EVERYONE:
(Falls silent)
VITA:
(Still standing) We have three more people to go through! I will have complete obedience or I’ll be forced to send you all too... (Shudders)...him...AM I UNDERSTOOD?!
EVERYONE:
Yes ma’am.
VITA:
Now, would anyone like to say anything or ask a question?
LEXY:
(Raises hand)I have a question.
VITA:
What is it?
LEXY:
(To Billy) When exactly did your daddy die?
BILLY:
(Is silent for a bit, then says quietly) When I was six...
OTTO:
You’ve been after some guy since you were six?!
BILLY:
It’s been all I can think about. Some nights I can’t even fall asleep properly.
LEXY:
How do you know if he’s even still alive? He could be dead or something for all you know.
BILLY:
I’ve thought about that too. I’m hoping he’ll still be alive, it just wouldn’t give me the satisfaction I need if he was already dead.
VITA:
Billy, this hardly seems healthy.
BILLY:
I don’t care.
FESSA:
Y-yeah Billy...maybe you should just...forget him?
BILLY:
Now you know I can’t just do that.
AMORA:
Billy, sometimes you just need to let things go.
BILLY:
And let a murderer go free?
VITA:
You can’t control everything that happens.
BILLY:
Whatever. I’m done talking.
VITA:
Alright then. Otto, share, quickly. I want to get this over with.
OTTO:
Jeez no need to be rude.
VITA:
Just hurry up!
AMORA:
(Raises hand tentatively) Actually Dr. Vita...I think Fessa should go first.
VITA:
Good idea, nobody wants to listen to Otto anyway.
LEXY:
(Whistles, impressed at her sudden attitude)
FESSA:
(Looks down) W-well...I...
AMORA:
Please? We’re here to listen...mostly... (Looks pointedly at Otto)
FESSA:
M-my parents w-wanted me to come her so I could learn to b-be more assertive...
OTTO:
(Otto laughs) Good luck with that.
VITA:
(Vita glares at Otto, finger over her lips)
OTTO:
(Raises hands in mock surrender)
VITA:
It’s okay dear, we can help you.
FESSA:
(Sniffs) O-okay...
VITA:
(Refers to clipboard) It says here you’ve been having some trouble with your friends?
FESSA:
W-well...they kind of...use me sometimes...since I don’t put up a fight...
VITA:
How so?
FESSA:
T-they ask me to do homework and stuff for them...and they never pay me back...and I get bullied...sometimes...
BILLY:
That’s why you gotta stand up for yourself doll; you don’t want to be a doormat.
FESSA:
I-I guess...I’ll try...but I just don’t want to let them down. I’m only trying to help.
AMORA:
Well, it’s one thing to help people and another thing to allow yourself to get used.
BILLY:
Why would you even try to help those guys if they bully you?
FESSA:
It’s okay if they get a little mean sometimes...I understand that they have problems too and they’re just trying deal with their feelings...
VITA:
Fessa dear...you can try to help some people, but it seems to me like these guys are just being mean and taking advantage of your kindness.
FESSA:
I’m okay with it...really...
BILLY:
Now that’s just not right. You don’t have to be okay with it, stand up for yourself doll.
FESSA:
O-okay...I guess I can try...
OTTO:
Alright, I guess it’s my turn then?
VITA:
Wait until she’s finished. (To Fessa) Are you done?
FESSA:
(Looks at Otto fearfully and nods)
VITA:
Alright then, Amora, would you go next?
OTTO:
(Throws hands up in the air exasperatedly)
AMORA:
Oh Dr. Vita, I would love to share my story, but it was thanks to you guys that I’ve come so far.
OTTO:
(Huffs and rolls his eyes)
AMORA:
(Puts on forced smile) Even such a tough case like you, Otto, can be fixed.
LEXY:
Doubt it.
AMORA:
Well, it’s kind of complicated! You see, I get kind of emotional sometimes, and so my parents signed me up for these sessions to help balance my feelings. I thought I was doing so much better, but then I met this guy who was so perfect and amazing in every way, and I just loved him so much, but I never had the courage to talk to him. One day I finally managed to ask him out, and he said he was already seeing someone else! So, despite my improving record, I decided to come back here one last time, just to share my thoughts and make sure I’m still well enough to leave.
VITA:
And so far I think you’re doing just fine Amora.
OTTO:
(Laughs) Oh that is hilarious! The thing that drove you over the edge to end up with us basket cases is an unrequited crush? Are you seriously that weak and pathetic?
AMORA:
It affected me deeply!
OTTO:
(Mocking) Oh a boy doesn’t like me so I’m just going to sit in a circle and talk about my feelings! (Hisses in rage) Absolutely sickening.
AMORA:
What is wrong with you?!
OTTO:
What’s wrong with me? Ha, I think we’re talking about what’s wrong with you right now sugar.
AMORA:
Well, I’m done sharing. Your turn.
OTTO:
(Huffs and looks away) My story isn’t all that more different from all of yours. I grew up, lived, made mistakes, continued on, lived again. I didn’t do anything special or different, so why do you all hate me? I never even met you guys before, and suddenly I’m the outcast, even though Lexy over there is just as much of a bully as me. You aren’t the first ones either. People just hate me, so how am I not supposed to hate them back?
LEXY:
Well maybe that’s because you’re a...
AMORA:
(Cuts off) Lexy! Please! (To Otto) Oh Otto, I had no idea you felt like that! Do you want a hug? (Opens arms)
OTTO:
(Sullen) No. I don’t need your sympathy, or anyone else’s sympathy.
AMORA:
(Crestfallen) B-but Otto!
OTTO:
(Angry) I said no! You think just because you can be all happy-go-lucky everyone can be, but it doesn’t work like that! Some people are just meant to be hated, others are doomed to fail, and one girl with one hug can’t change that!
AMORA:
(Stands and stomps foot, yelling) I’m not always happy! What if I need to believe that one hug CAN change someone’s life, but mean old bullies like you keep telling me otherwise? What if all I want to do is help, and the only way I can is through a simple hug? (Sits back down, crying) I only want to help...
OTTO:
(Ashamed) Amora...I’m sorry...
VITA:
No Otto, you’ve done quite enough already.
OTTO:
I said I’m sorry! I didn’t know she would cry about it!
AMORA:
(Sniffs) No Otto...it’s okay. If I told myself these sessions would help I was being delusional. I want to go see Dr. Morris.
VITA:
(Astounded) B-but Amora!
LEXY:
Ew, I heard things about that guy, he’s a total creep.
VITA:
That is a last resort only, are you sure?
AMORA:
Yes, I’m sure.
FESSA:
B-but...! Okay...
BILLY:
I’m not too sure about this doll.
LASSIUS:
Yeah, you could just stay here with us.
CASCUS:
Is he a redhead?
JUDY:
Wouldn’t you have to make an appointment?
MORRIS:
(Enters) Amora?
AMORA:
(Looks at him in surprise) Y-yes?
MORRIS:
My name is Dr. Morris. You’re next on my list. (Holds up clipboard)
SCENE 3
(Everyone except Amora and Morris exit. They leave two chairs and someone brings out a table and tea set. Morris and Amora sit at the chairs.)
MORRIS:
Tea? (Indicates to the teapot)
AMORA:
Yes please.
MORRIS:
(Pours them both tea and takes a sip) Delicious. I find tea always calms the nerves.
AMORA:
(Takes a small sip and nods)
MORRIS:
(Refers to clipboard) Oh you poor girl, this is your third relapse?
AMORA:
(Nods) It’s not that I don’t try...because I do...it’s just, sometimes I think I’m doing so well, then something triggers me and I go off again. Therapy isn’t working.
MORRIS:
(Nods) I understand. Several of my clients feel they have no other choice, like nothing else is working. My methods are often a last resort, and although Dr. Vita doesn’t hold with it, I get results.
AMORA:
(Suddenly) Will it hurt?
MORRIS:
(Chuckles) My dear girl what has that woman been telling you? It’s just a simple drug, to be taken merely once, as painless as falling asleep.
AMORA:
A-and what does this drug do, exactly?
MORRIS:
To put simply, it will dull your emotions. You won’t feel pain or anger, but you also won’t feel happiness. Some say it’s worth it. Think carefully before you decide.
AMORA:
Can I reverse it?
MORRIS:
(Chuckles) I’m afraid not my dear. It doesn’t work that way.
AMORA:
(Thinks for a bit, and then sighs) I really don’t feel like I have a choice. Anything would be better than the hurt I have to go through every day.
MORRIS:
Is that your final decision?
AMORA:
(Nods once) Yes.
MORRIS:
(Pulls out a small vial and pours it into her tea) You can still change your mind.
AMORA:
No, I can do this. I’m not afraid. (Drains cup and sighs deeply, closing her eyes)
MORRIS:
How do you feel dear girl?
AMORA:
(Opens her eyes and smiles) I feel...at peace.
CURTAINS
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