Only Today - A New Musical (Working Draft 03.03.21)

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STORY, LIBRETTO AND LYRICS

JONATHAN WHARTON
MUSIC AND COMPOSITION

JONATHAN WHARTON, JOE WILSON AND TONY WILSON
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CHARACTER LIST
ALEX GARRETT
BENNY PETERSON
FRANKIE MOORE
EVIE GARRETT
WILLIAM SANDERSON
JANE HEREFORD
SARAH PETERSON
DIANE FARRELL
WENDY
BAR TENDER
DOCTOR
Nurse 1
Doctor 2
Nurse 2
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SCENE LIST
ACT ONE
SCENE 1: THE WEDDING – EVENING
SCENE 2: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING
SCENE 3: DOWNTOWN BAR – EVENING
SCENE 4: ALEX’S HOME – AFTERNOON
SCENE 5: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT – EVENING
SCENE 6: THE LAW FIRM – EVENING
SCENE 7: SITTING AT PARK BENCH – EVENING
SCENE 9: OUTSIDE THE COURTROOM – MID-DAY
SCENE 11: ALEX’S HOME
SCENE 16: THE STREETS – EVENING

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SCENE 19: THE BOARDROOM – MID-DAY
SCENE 21: INSIDE THE CENTRE – AFTERNOON
SCENE 22: THE BOARDROOM – AFTERNOON
SCENE 23: ALEX’S HOME – EVENING
ACT TWO
SCENE 1: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
SCENE 2: ALEX’S HOME – NIGHT
SCENE 3: THE STREETS - NIGHT
SCENE 4: HOSPITAL – EARLY MORNING
SCENE 5: OUTSIDE GRAND CENTRAL - MORNING
SCENE 6: CEMETARY – MID-DAY
SCENE 7: THE LAW FIRM- MORNING
SCENE 8: INSIDE THE CENTRE - AFTERNOON
SCENE 9: THE HOSPITAL - EVENING
SCENE 10: OUTSIDE JANE’S APARTMENT - EVENING
SCENE 11: THE HOSPITAL - EVENING
SCENE 12: ALEX’S HOME – EARLY MORNING

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SONG LIST
ACT ONE
1. THE BIG DAY Benny, Alex and Ensemble
2. IT’S JUST BUSINESS Jane and Ensemble
3. LET ME BE YOUR STAR William
4. ROAD SIGN William and Alex
5. STOP THE RAIN Benny and Ensemble
6. THE AA SONG Frankie and Ensemble
7. BEST OF ME Evie and William
ACT TWO
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8. WHAT’S COMING NEXT? Ensemble
9. PROUD OF ME Alex
10. THE RIGHT TIME Benny
11. JUST A TOY JANE
12. IT’S MY DAY Frankie and Alex
13. LET IT RAIN Benny, Alex and Ensemble
14. ONLY TODAY Alex and Ensemble
ACT ONE
PROLOGUE
The stage is empty, the music builds and levels. A spotlight falls on a lonely, remorseful character, she
looks into the audience, she sits in a red hoodie and jeans.
ALEX
I suppose I had an expectation of what would happen with my life. That I’d be successful, wealthy… have a
child… be married. I never predicted that any of that would be difficult to… erm…achieve. Then the
struggle began, and it felt unbearable… painful, a pain that hurt not only me, but those around me.
It's difficult to pinpoint when it started –
But I think the foundations started to crack on one of the biggest days of my friend’s life… his wedding.
Then bit by bit, I crumbled… and fell.
[1] The Big Day band

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SCENE 1: THE WEDDING - EVENING
The stage transforms into a wedding venue with guests filling the stage. The seat is taken, Alex appears to
effortlessly transform into a formal purple dress and is handed a drink. Benny runs onto the stage.
BENNY
TODAYS THE DAY AND A FEEL MY SOUL ON FIRE

MY LOVE IS BURNING
AND IT’S LIFTING ME UP HIGHER
SO CALL IT GREAT, FATE AND CELEBRATE
THE BIG DAYS FINALLY HERE
ALEX
I FEEL MY NERVES RUNNING THROUGH MY VEINS
MY STOMACH TIGHTENS
AND IT’S DRIVING ME INSANE
SO CALL IT GREAT, FATE AND CELEBRATE
ENSEMBLE ALEX
THE TIME IS RIGHT JUST BREATHE, RELAX
WE’RE GONNA ROCK UNTIL THE MORNING TAKE A MOMENT, TAKE YOUR TIME,
LIGHT JUST FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO SAY
FEEL THE BEAT THE MUSIC GONNA MAKE YOU JUST BREATHE A LOT
FEEL ALRIGHT JUST SAY OT WE’VE GOT
ONLY TO – ONLY TODAY
IT’S THE DAY WE’RE DREAMING OF
BENNY
Hey, hey Alex wait up, what’s the rush?
ALEX
The rings Benny, the rings… I’ve erm, well
(beat)
I’ve, misplaced them

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BENNY
You lost the rings!
ALEX
No, I said misplaced
BENNY
Good job, I kept hold of them.
(He hands her the rings)
Don’t ‘misplace’ them this time; everything has to go right today.
ALEX
And it will
BENNY
So ease up on the drink. You’ve still got a lot to do
ALEX
I won’t drink until you’re a married man Benjamin. You have my word.
(They hug and Benny runs off)
ALEX
DONT LOSE THE RINGS,
DONT DRINK TOO MUCH TEQUILA
BUT SHIT IT’S TWELVE
AND MY SPEECH IS GETTING NEARER
SO, CALL IT GREAT, FATE AND CELEBRATE
ENSEMBLE
PLAY TO THE MUSIC SWAY TO THE BEAT
HEAR THE BELLS AS THEY START RINGING
PEOPLE ARE GATH’RIN IN THE STREET
TO THE JOY THIS DAY IS BRINGING
THERE'S LOVE IN THE AIR AND WE'RE LOVING TODAY
IT'S THE DAY THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
SO THROW ON YOUR BEST CLOTHES AND DON'T BE AFRAID
TODAY IS THE DAY FOR LIVING
ALEX
Hi, I’m Alex
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WILLIAM
William. Bridesmaid?
ALEX
Best man
WILLIAM
st
How very 21 Century
ALEX
Well, new millennium, new me! How did you know I was connected to the wedding?
WILLIAM
Firstly, you’re wearing their colour chart. Secondly, you look unbelievably nervous, and you’re not the bride.
ALEX
That apparent?
WILLIAM
Come one, let’s loosen some nerves!
(They run off)
(INSTRUMENTAL DANCE BREAK)
ENSEMBLE
JUST LET GO AND FEEL YOUR HEART DANCING
DANCE TO THE RHYTHM OF LIFE YOU ARE LOVING
LOVE WITH A HEART THAT HAS THE SOUL SHINING
SHINE WITH THE LIGHT OF THE SUN
SHINE, SHINE, KEEP YOUR SOUL SHINING

SHINE, SHINE, KEEP YOUR LIFE BRIGHT AND
LOVE, LOVE, KEEP YOUR HEART FULL OF LOVE
THE DAY IS HERE!
The guests are sitting around, while they look in anticipation at the top table. Alex stands up, looking a little
worse for wear, she begins her speech. Her hands shake as she attempts to read off cards she made in
preparation.
ALEX
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You know, when Benny first asked me to be his best man, I wondered had he made the right decision?
After all, it’s a difficult decision to make. After hours of discussion and heated debate we eventually came to
the conclusion… Sarah will have to do.
(Again no one laughs, she takes a drink and attempts to continue reading her cue cards, which is
now becoming extremely difficult for her.)
I’m obviously joking, everyone can see these two are madly in love, even if it has only been four months.
Believe me, they would have got married this quick even if Sarah wasn’t expecting a second baby.
(The guests react to the controversial news. She takes another drink.)
none of you knew?
(Alex drops the cards on the table. Benny whispers to Alex.)
BENNY
Alex… seriously, she’s 4 weeks
ALEX
Never trust cue cards… or what you believe to be common knowledge… how about we talk about
something else, a little story from the past maybe? Okay, so when I was a lot younger Benny had got this
new bike and I tell you something it was the coolest bike you have even seen. To this day I can’t stop
thinking about it. You know the one I’m talking about.
(Benny acknowledges the Bike with apprehension as to where this is going.)
So with his new bike we go to this skating park, about three blocks from where we live. Do you remember it
Benny? It was hidden under that bridge, the park isn’t there anymore obviously, not good to have children
playing by the river but it was awesome. Anyway, after a couple of attempts Benny says, ‘I’m going on the
big one’, I said sure why not. And I shit you not, sorry mom, he used that bike like he had been riding it for
years. Now me, I wasn't too good at all that, never was, but when he offered me a go, I wasn't gonna turn it
down. I remember looking down that half pipe absolutely shitting myself, sorry mom, but I thought if Benny
did it so could I. The bike flipped and I broke my leg in two places. Now instead of looking for help or
running to a pay phone to call an ambulance, Benny did the only logical thing that he could think of at the
age of 12. He lay me on my skateboard, used his belt to tie the board to his bike and he rode me back.
Pulling me all the way home to my mom, I’ve never seen someone try as much at anything.
(Alex pulls Benny to his feet.)
You see that’s the good thing about Benny, he will always have your back. He may not always make the
right choice, but he has a good heart. I know he will be a good husband and an amazing father and I know
he has made the right choice with you Sarah.
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(Alex and Benny embrace one another.)
But don’t get me wrong Benny, you can still be an ass. You’re lucky to have Sarah not the other way round.
I mean look at her she looks beautiful today; it’s amazing what an expensive dress can do!
SARAH
You’re such a dick
ALEX
To the bride and groom!
EVERYONE
To the bride and groom! band
SCENE 2: THE LAW FIRM - MORNING
Benny enters the offices, his peers are happy to see him and offer their congratulations, (shaking his hand
patting him on the back). Alex is sitting at her desk, in a trance.
ALEX
You’re at work
(Benny nods)
But you’re on your honeymoon
BENNY
I think the fact that I’m here suggests otherwise. Anyway, where’s Furrows?
ALEX
Haven’t seen him for a couple of days.
BENNY
Not this again! I’m fed up with that slave-driver taking advantage. People have lives outside of work, we
can’t be here all night picking up his slack!
ALEX
Calm down. He’s probably just lost some paperwork, or a case file, or a person… or his mind.
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BENNY
He’s a lazy piece of shit. You know, he acts like he is a fitness expert, demands that we should be taking
the stairs like him.
ALEX
Everyone knows he gets the elevator to the 42nd floor and walks a few flights of stairs. He’s not fooling
anybody.
BENNY
I’m surprised he doesn't sit with a bowl beneath him just so he can relieve himself with ease without having
to leave his desk.
DIANE
Garrett? Peterson?
ALEX AND BENNY

Yes
DIANE
I’m Diane Farrell, Partner.
BENNY
Pleasure to -
DIANE
My god you stink of alcohol
ALEX
Sorry, that’s me. I bumped into some bum on the streets, now I got bourbon all over my hands. You should
see the state of my jacket… its gonna need dry cleaning!
DIANE
mmm. Well, I imagine you’re pissing yourselves with excitement over why I’ve asked you
in today
ALEX
I’ve had a bowl beneath me the whole journey in
(The pair laugh under the breath, much to the dissatisfaction of Jane.)
DIANE
Well, I suppose I will just get straight to it. Richard Furrows died this weekend.
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ALEX
Shit
BENNY
Alex
ALEX
I mean… that’s awful.
DIANE
I’ll give you a moment to take it in.
Beat.
So that means his position is vacant… and you two are up for it.
ALEX
my god… amazing.
DIANE
It’s a big leap from where you are now, and a little closer to the top.
BENNY
Thank you for your consideration
DIANE
I’ll leave you to talk it through with your manager miss Hereford
JANE
Jane please
DIANE
She’ll fill you in on the details. A skirt today Jane, how very… feminine.
JANE
(hesitantly) Thank you
(Diane leaves, Jane immediately relaxes)
Okay boys, so…the process won’t be easy, and the interviews will be rigorous. You’ve got six months.
ALEX
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That sounds great
JANE
Let’s not bullshit one another it’ll be hard work, and the job itself won’t be any easier. After all that’s what
probably pushed Dicky over the edge.
ALEX
oh, so it was suicide? -
BENNY
Alex! Which other pair is up for it?
JANE
It’s just you
ALEX
So, who are we up against?
JANE
Each other
ALEX
What?
BENNY
That’s out of question. Alex was my best man…woman… just the other day, surely the way to get the best
out of each other would be to pair us together.
JANE
You're married?
BENNY
Yes, I’m married.
JANE
No, that would be completely out of the question the role is for one participant, there is only one payroll.
You have until Monday August 25th, you will present your proposals back to the board then.
[2] It’s Just Business band
Friendship is for outside the workplace; law is ruthless, and loyalty gets you nowhere. If you want to
progress you need to suck it up and get on with it, I’m not being unfair here, it’s just business.
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JANE
ONE MISTAKE THAT LAWYERS DO MAKE
IS TO BE KIND AND MIND WITH CARE
BUT TO BE THE BEST FROM THE REST
WELL, THERE ARE FACTS AND TACT TO SHARE
ENSEMBLE
SCOOBY DOOBY DOOBY DOO WOP
IT’S JUST BUSINESS
‘OOOOOOO’
‘OOOOOOO’
JANE
IN LAW THERE ARE RULES TO OBEY
THAT MAKES A MAN A RUTHLESS THREAT
WHEN FACED WITH CASES DROWNED IN LIES
YOU PULL AND PUSH AND MAKE THEM SWEAT
ENSEMBLE
‘OOOOOOO’
‘OOOOOOO’
IT'S PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE AS LONG AS YOU’RE SUSCEPTIBLE

TO FIND THIS JOB DELECTABLE IT'S TRUE.
BUT LOOKING THROUGH OUR HISTORY YOU'LL SEE THERE IS NO MYSTERY
IN MASTERING A TRICK OR TWO
BUT PERSISTENTLY RESISTING IN FOLOLWING OUR DISCIPLINES
YOU'LL FIND WE DON'T APPRECIATE THIS TONE
SO FOLLOW AND APPRECIATE AND TO NOT TRY TO DEVIATE
FOR IF YOU DO YOU'LL END UP ALONE
“OH I'M SO ALONE”
JANE
YOU SEE WHEN ONE HAS GONE AND LET
HIS HEART DEPART HIS WEARY CHEST
THEN THEIR BRAIN CAN TRAIN TO SUSTAIN
AND FIND A WAY TO PASS THE TEST
ENSEMBLE
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‘OOOOOOO’
‘OOOOOOO’
YOU WILL SEE WE'RE QUITE ADAPTABLE

HARD WORK IS MOST PREFERABLE
WE HOPE THAT YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH US
IT IS CLEARLY COMPREHENSIBLE
THE FACT YOU ARE DISPENSABLE
SO PLEASE DON’T PUSH YOUR LUCK WITH US
DOESN'T MATTER THAT YOU'RE LIKEABLE
RELIABLE OR AFFABLE
FAILURES NOT EXCUSBALE YOU SEE
SO FOLLOW AND APPRECIATE AND TO NOT TRY TO DEVIATE
FOR IF YOU DO YOU KNOW YOU WILL BE
“KICKED TO THE STREETS”
FORGET AND LET YOUR SET OF MORALS

WASH AWAY WITH MONEY
THE COURT IS SPORT FOR THOSE WHO TAUGHT
THAT JUSTICE HA IT’S FUNNY
IF SOMEONE RAPES AND ACTS WITH HATE
OR KILLS TO GET A CHEAP THRILL
A STASH OF CASH WITHIN YOUR HAND
WILL CHANGE A LAWYERS WILL
SO DO NOT JUDGE JUST TRY AND BUDGE
A JURY'S POINT OF VIEW
CHANGE THEIR MIND AND YOU WILL FIND
THERE'S MONEY THERE FOR YOU
MONEY MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND
CHALLENGES MORTALITY
PUSH A LOT, UNTIL YOU GOT
A DREAM REALITY
OVERLAPPING OF MONEY MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND

AND ITS JUST BUSINESS
SCENE 3: DOWNTOWN BAR - EVENING
FRANKIE
Hey, Hey. Another round over here.
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BAR TENDER
You’ve had enough
FRANKIE
I said one more
BAR TENDER
I said you had enough
FRANKIE
I heard what you god damn said now what kind of establishment are you running here. I have money to pay
for it, I’m not stealing.
BAR TENDER
Listen, Frankie. I’m looking out for you. Please go home.
FRANKIE
You’re right, thanks. You’re always looking out for me I know that. Just one more drink then I’m done.
BAR TENDER
Seriously, Frankie go home.
FRANKIE
Oh, screw this.
(he gets up and takes his car keys from his pocket)
BAR TENDER
I don’t think it’s a good idea you drive
FRANKIE
Well, if you served me another drink, I wouldn’t have to get in the car to go elsewhere now would I!
(he storms out)
SCENE 4: ALEX’S HOME - AFTERNOON
Alex returns home, her mother Evie is cooking in the kitchen, she appears flustered. She stands at the
bench chopping onions and adding it to a pan. She is a middle-aged woman who is an individual power
force.
ALEX
Mom?
EVIE
I’m making lasagna
ALEX
so guess what?
EVIE
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can you pass me the cheese?
ALEX
so guess what?
EVIE
oh by the way, Mary came round today, little Joey is bad again, poor kid -
ALEX
He’s 25 and works for the mafia, he probably got shot…
(She’s continuing to ignore her)
Mom!
EVIE
What?
ALEX
(sarcastically) Thank you
EVIE
why what did I do?
ALEX
Christ are we not capable of having an adult conversation.
EVIE
Look at you all grown up… adult conversation.
ALEX
Why do I bother?
EVIE
What’s that?
ALEX
I said, why do I bother?
EVIE
Okay, what is it?
ALEX
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So today we, me and Benny, were called into work. Turns out Richard Furrows died this weekend -
EVIE
That’s awful!
ALEX
I know, anyway that now means his job is up for grabs and it’s between me and Benny for it. So, we have
six months -
EVIE
How?
ALEX
How what?
EVIE
How did he die?
ALEX
Does it matter?
EVIE
Of course, it does.
ALEX
I didn't ask. Anyway, me and benny -
EVIE
You and Benny are up for the same job
ALEX
Seriously, mom you have got to let me finish.
EVIE
But you’re best friends
ALEX
It’s just business. Look, I’m happy to be given the opportunity, if I don’t get it… well at least I know it’s going
to someone who can do it justice.
EVIE
That’s great honey, I’m glad you’re getting back on track.
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ALEX
So how about we put this lasagna in fridge, and we go out somewhere posh with candles and music and
those waiters who pretend to be European even though you know their mother’s from new haven… c’mon
it’s on me… get a nice bottle of champagne, the works! Yeah?
EVIE
you've put up a strong case
ALEX
Great, I’ll just change outta my work clothes, give me five minutes.
(Alex takes off her jacket and rests it on the back of the dining seat, as she leaves it falls crumpled
on the floor. Evie picks up his jacket to place neatly on the back of the chair.)
EVIE
Put on that blue one I got you for your birthday -
(Evie has found a flask in the jacket and now holds it in her hand.)
ALEX
You say something?
EVIE
What’s this?
ALEX
My jacket
EVIE
You know I’m not talking about the jacket. What’s this? Don’t take me for a fool Alex, I wasn't born
yesterday
ALEX
I can tell mom, I mean what are you… 92! Jeez.
(beat)
(more sincere) Look, it’s just something to warm me through; it’s winter for god’s sake
EVIE
it’s July
ALEX
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And it’s freezing
(there’s a knock at the door)

ALEX
I’ll get it.

(Alex answers the door to a young man, William)
ALEX
Hey,
EVIE
Who is it Alex?
(Alex looks at the man, confused)

WILLIAM
William
ALEX
William yeah, I knew that. Why are you, I mean, how are you?
EVIE
Nice to meet you William
ALEX
Mom, do you mind?
EVIE
I’ll be in the kitchen.
(Evie heads back to the kitchen and leaves the pair to talk.)
WILLIAM
You left your necklace
ALEX
Oh, right well thank you
WILLIAM
You told me your address last night and I was passing anyway
ALEX
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That’s convenient
WILLIAM
Yeah
(There is an awkward silence)
You don’t know who I am do you? Oh my god this is embarrassing.
ALEX
No, no, I do… it’s erm
WILLIAM
William Sanderson
ALEX
William Anderson
WILLIAM
Sanderson
ALEX
William…Yeah. I have to apologise I was pretty out of it that night. I mean we could have had sex for all I
know.
(he looks shocked)
Oh my god, we did have sex. Sorry it’s not that it was bad or anything, I just… like I said, I had a lot to
drink. But don’t worry you didn’t take advantage, I’m pretty sure I would have given consent, I mean look at
you. I think I’ll stop talking. Thanks for bringing this over. Can’t believe I didn't realise, I’d lose my head if it
wasn't screwed on.
WILLIAM
I honestly didn’t realise you were that drunk. God, I feel terrible.
ALEX
Don’t its fine
WILLIAM
I mean you literally pounced on me… naked
ALEX
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Okay, I mean my mom is literally in the other room, so if we could -
WILLIAM
God, jeez, sorry again. I think I better go.
ALEX
You don’t have to
WILLIAM
No, I think that’s best, it was nice meeting you… again.
ALEX
The necklace
WILLIAM
Oh yeah, there you go, sorry again.
(Williams comes back to the door and hands over the necklace, he smiles awkwardly and quickly
shuffles away)
ALEX
Okay, look, just –
EVIE
You know I don’t say this stuff to get on your case, I’m your mother I just worry about you.
(Alex shakes her head, passes her work clothes to Evie, then quickly grabs her jacket and runs out
the door after William.)
ALEX
Hey William , wait up!

Benny comes through the door and removes his coat; Sarah stands at the kitchen sink drying the dishes
SARAH
You’ve missed lunch
BENNY
I’ll heat it up, where’s Lucy?
SARAH
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She’s playing in her room
BENNY
What’s that?
(Benny notices two tall lego buildings)
SARAH
Lucy made it, it’s supposed to be Daddy’s work. She say’s you work in one and auntie Alex works in the
other.
BENNY
Wouldn’t that be lovely
SARAH
Sorry?
BENNY
I like it, I wish the architect had seen this technicolour design. How’s the little one?
SARAH
Kicking
BENNY
Really?
SARAH
Well, not now, but they have
BENNY
My little kicker.
(beat)
I’m missing so much
SARAH
They’ll do it again
(she turns away to finish the dishes, she sighs)
BENNY
What’s up?
SARAH
It’s work… I got a letter… and they called… saying they were having to let me go.
BENNY
You know they can’t do that don’t you? Give me their number I’ll call em’
SARAH
They don’t have a choice; the company hasn’t been turning a profit for the past two years. They are
shutting all branches; I’m getting a very measly pay-out. Which, for how long I’ve been a manger there…
it’s actually quite generous.
BENNY
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Let me see
(she hands him the letter, he is shocked, but attempts to hide it)
It’ll be okay
SARAH
You don’t know that
BENNY
I do
SARAH
But our savings –
BENNY
Will build back up
SARAH
And the baby –
BENNY
Will have everything he could ever wish for
SARAH
And where’s this money coming from?
BENNY
My new job
SARAH
You’ve got a new job
BENNY
Well not yet, but it’s in hand
SARAH
Don’t make promises you can’t keep Benny
BENNY
I won’t. (he smiles) I promise you, the jobs mine, just technicality.
(he hugs her, realises the baby has kicked they look at each other and smile)

Benny sits at his desk, clearly in deep thought, typing away viciously. Jane appears behind him, interrupting
his train of thought.
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JANE
Where’s Alex?
BENNY
Alex?
JANE
You know, your friend
BENNY
Oh, no… I think she’s been working from home a lot-
JANE
You know when we asked you to put forward proposals; we weren’t expecting other work to slip.
BENNY
I know and it hasn’t.
JANE
Well, it hasn’t for you, as much as it has for others. Listen, I could maybe help you with some of this
workload, I’ve got time.
BENNY
It’s fine, thank you though.
JANE
You sure? I know exactly what they want to hear. Between you and me, with my help, the job would be
practically yours or at least yours to lose.
BENNY
Why would you do that?
JANE
I can see that you want it, I like a man who works hard. Alex, I mean, she’s looking tired. But you, you’re
ripe and fresh with ideas. This firm means a lot to me, I need to make sure we get the right man for the job
and you look a lot like that man.
SCENE 7: SITTING AT PARK BENCH - EVENING

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Alex and William sit at a bench in central park, it is early evening. Alex is pouring them a hot drink in a
flask, Alex is subsequently topping each cup up with brandy.
ALEX
So how long you been living in New York?
WILLIAM
About three months
ALEX
I was expecting a slightly longer answer than that. I thought you said you lived three blocks away.
WILLIAM
The hotel I’m currently at is three blocks away.
ALEX
Okay, so I have a lot of questions now
WILLIAM
I thought you might
ALEX
First one then... why are you here?
WILLIAM
You rang me and asked me out
ALEX
You know what I mean
WILLIAM
I erm, well, okay shit’s about to get real
ALEX
I’ll prepare myself (she takes a drink and looks at him)
WILLIAM
As you may have noticed,I’m not from round here… England… at least that’s where I’ve spent most my life.
I’ve always travelled with my dad’s work. He was kinda a big deal, had his own company that sort of thing
ALEX
Was?
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WILLIAM
He died three years ago, and it felt like all of a sudden I had this weight on me, you know, this expectation
to take over and carry on his work.
ALEX
But you didn’t want to?
WILLIAM
It’s not that I didn’t want to... I just didn’t know if that’s what I wanted with my life. So I started travelling
ALEX
And you haven’t stopped since?
WILLIAM
Not really. Until now, I’m liking it here... with you.
ALEX
But you’ll have to face it at some point
WILLIAM
Do I?
ALEX
You can’t run from problems all your life; they catch up with you
WILLIAM
So where’s your dad?
ALEX
He’s not here
WILLIAM
What happened?
ALEX
He’s dead
WILLIAM
Sorry about that
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(Beat)
I’m getting the impression you don’t want to talk about it
ALEX
it’s not the most romantic of conversations
WILLIAM
I didn’t realise all our retorts had to have the underlying theme of Romance
ALEX
I feel sorry for your previous dates then.
(It’s awkward)
So how come you were at the wedding?
WILLIAM
Well, I wasn’t invited. This is probably going to bring an end to this date very quickly.
ALEX
You’re not a stalker, are you?
WILLIAM
(He chuckles) no, but that does sound better than what I’m about to say. I’m actually really interested in
stars, like astrology etc and erm I was outside in a nearby field with my telescope
ALEX
As you do
WILLIAM
And I started really needing to use the facilities
ALEX
This just gets better
WILLIAM
I noticed this big barn… venue thing nearby, decided to quickly pop in. I did my business, then saw you,
looking absolutely terrified.
30
ALEX
I don’t know whether to find this creepy or hilarious.
WILLIAM
Stalker was the better alternative. What’s worse, in the morning I found that someone had stolen my
telescope.
ALEX
I’ve heard they are very much in demand.
(beat)
I think we’ll keep this between us.
WILLIAM
Please
ALEX
What is it you like about stars so much anyway?
WILLIAM
Well, I suppose there’s a few things. But mostly, the fact that they are constant, always there even when
hidden by the clouds. And when the clouds clear, you’ve always got your stars to… erm, guide you, I
guess. They see everything without judgement and provide beauty on the darkest of nights.
ALEX
I gotta get me a star!
[3] Let me be your Star band
WILLIAM
COULD I BE YOUR GUIDE IN THE NIGHT
THROUGH THE DARKNESS?
COULD I SHINE BRIGHT ENOUGH
FLY HIGH ENOUGH FOR YOU?
CAUSE SINCE THAT NIGHT

YOU’VE LEFT ME UP A HEIGHT
YOU’VE CAUGHT MY EYE
YOUR FILL MY TMIND
31
WHEN WE ALIGNED, WE’D LIGHT THE SKY
YOU’LL TAKE MY HAND THEN WE WOULD FLY HIGH
LET ME BE YOUR STAR TONIGHT
I CAN BE THE LIGHT THAT LEADS YOU HOME
JUST LET GO AND TRUST WHAT YOU BELIEVE
MAYBE YOU WILL SEE
I CAN BE YOUR STAR TONIGHT
CAN I SHIELD YOUR PAIN

IN THE RAIN
BE YOUR SHELTER?
CAN I BE STRONG ENOUGH
BE THERE ENOUGH
FOR YOU?
CAUSE SINCE WE MET

I CANNOT JUST FORGET
YOURE QUIRKY STYLE
THE WAY YOU SMILE
AND THROUGH THE SKY, WE’LL FIND OUR PLACE

I MIGHT BE SCARED BUT THEN ILL SEE YOUR FACE
AND YOU COULD BE MY STAR TONIGHT
YOU COULD BE THE LIGHT THAT LEADS ME HOME
JUST LET GO AND TRUST WHAT YOU BELIEVE
MAYBE YOU WILL SEE
YOU CAN BE MY STAR TONIGHT
I CAN BE YOUR STAR TONIGHT
LET ME BE YOUR STAR
ALEX
You are such a nerd!
WILLIAM
Is that a bad thing?
ALEX
It’s growing on me
(They kiss)
32
JANE
Getting in early again I see Benjamin
BENNY
Just trying to get everything in order
JANE
You know I admire employees like you
BENNY
Like me?
JANE
Yeah you. You know what you want, and you work hard to get it.
BENNY
Thanks
JANE
I like a man who knows what he wants
BENNY
erm… thanks
JANE
So, how is the proposal coming along?
BENNY
It’s coming… along, hey, you seen Alex?
JANE
Not today, why is she not in?
BENNY
I’m sure she is in somewhere, probably just getting a coffee.
(Alex walks in the office looking worse for wear.)
Alex!
ALEX
Benny. Miss Hereford.
(Jane turns her back and walks away.)
you started on that proposal?

33
BENNY
Obviously. You?
ALEX
Obviously, obviously.
BENNY
Alex is that you?
ALEX
Is what me?
BENNY
You stink of booze.
ALEX
You know what, funny story. You won’t believe it. I was driving in my car, I just bought this little bottle of
whisky for my mom, she loves the stuff. Anyway, guy cuts me off, I slam on the breaks, bottle flies forward,
breaks, next thing you know I'm drenched in the stuff.
BENNY
You’re right. I don’t believe you.
ALEX
Well, I don’t really need you to believe me. It’s the truth. Getting the car cleaned after work. Gonna cost me
a fortune.
BENNY
Get to work Alex.
ALEX
I’m just on my way out
BENNY
You can’t be working pro bono
ALEX
I think I can
BENNY
Surely, you’re focus should be on this
ALEX
I’m meeting a client, it’s just a DWI, I’ll be back in three hours, tops.
BENNY
You’re not taking this seriously
ALEX
On the contrary, I think you’re taking it too seriously.
SCENE 9: OUTSIDE THE COURTROOM – MID-DAY
Alex and Frankie are outside the courtroom, exchanging final words and reflecting on the case.
34
FRANKIE
Thanks for that Miss Carrot
ALEX
Garrett
FRANKIE
Garrett Carrot, your parents sure did hate you!
ALEX
My name is Alex, my surname is Garrett
FRANKIE
Of course it is, I must say when you turned up in your fancy suit, I was expecting a better result than that
ALEX
That was a good result
FRANKIE
I’ve had my license taken away from me, how’s that a good result?
ALEX
Considering the destruction of property as a result of your dangerous driving, you’re lucky to avoid a jail
sentence
FRANKIE
whatever you say
ALEX
You were drunk out of your mind! That was an exceptional result
FRANKIE
Are all lawyers like you?
ALEX
What do you mean?
FRANKIE
Fantasists
(Alex takes a deep breath in, smiles and takes a sip of her coffee)
ALEX
Right, well, I think there’s nothing more to sy, it was a real joy meeting you. Good luck with everything.
FRANKIE
Hey, wait… listen I’m sorry, I do appreciate everything you did in there. I’m not an idiot and I know when
someone deserves to be shown gratefulness.
ALEX
Your payment is more than enough, and you have my card if you need anything else.
FRANKIE
You didn’t give me a card
ALEX
Did I not? Oh right… here you go
35
FRANKIE
Thank you very much, I will put it in… (he opens his empty wallet) here.
ALEX
You’ve not got much else in that wallet of yours
FRANKIE
When I need money, I go to the bank, I don’t need to carry round anymore shit than that. Except, (he
smiles) this card.
(beat)
How about we get a beer?
ALEX
You do realise you’ve just had you’re license revoked due to your abuse of alcohol.
FRANKIE
Which is why it’s an even better idea
ALEX
Enlighten me?
FRANKIE
At least now I don’t have the temptation to drive. What harm could I possibly do on a sidewalk?
ALEX
Probably more harm to yourself… I’ll give the drink a miss.
FRANKIE
You’re loss
(He leaves)
Diane is seen in Jane’s office she is clearly very angry. Benny waits outside, trying not to listen it.
DIANE
You told me you would sort this
JANE
And I will
DIANE
I trust you to run things smoothly, not throw us off a cliff
JANE
What happened with Richard Furrows isn’t our –
DIANE
Well, his husband seems to think it is. I know we can easily win this, but it shouldn’t have got to this point
Jane. If this goes to court, it will be your job on the line
36
JANE
It won’t go to court
DIANE
Mud sticks. I’m not going to be made responsible for his death. If you can’t deal with the pressure then get
out
JANE
Exactly
DIANE
Can you deal with the pressure Jane?
JANE
Absolutely
DIANE
Good, because I need people who want to work. The firm should come before anything and everything
else. Trust Furrows to find another way of screwing us from the grave.
JANE
His husband has no case, we can’t be blamed for Richard’s suicide and he knows that. But I understand
what you are saying Diane, it needs to stay quiet. Leave it with me.
DIANE
Okay
JANE
Is there anything else you need?
DIANE
No, that’s everything. Oh and Jane, you shouldn’t be wearing tops like that at work, brings attention to
certain areas not appropriate for the workplace. You should at least fasten all the buttons
JANE
With the greatest respect Diane, I noticed Michael in banking wearing a t-shirt the other day. I think this
brings professionalism still without –
DIANE
Michael is a man Jane, I’m not expecting him to be a distraction to others.
JANE
Of course. I’ll take note.
DIANE
Sorry Jane, you wouldn’t mind just picking this up for me please, honestly my back
JANE
Of course
DIANE
Thank you very much. See you tomorrow and don’t let me down.
(she walks out to see Benjamin waiting)
Benjamin
37
BENNY
Mrs Farrell
JANE
(under her breath) bitch
BENNY
I just have a few things for you to sign.
JANE
Benny, Jesus you scared me
BENNY
Sorry. Is she always like that?
JANE
You heard
BENNY
Just doesn’t seem right
JANE
It’s not your place to say really is it?
BENNY
No, you’re right. I just think – well she shouldn’t be able to get away with treating you like that.
JANE
It’s just the way it is.
BENNY
It shouldn’t be. I thought she was married… to a man.
JANE
She is, it’s probably why she’s always so wound up. Must be pretty lonely in that closet of hers. Truth is, I
have enough on her to bury her, but what would I gain. I’d lose everything.
(beat)
Forget I said anything.
BENNY
Okay. (he goes to leave) hey, what you said about helping me, is that… is that still on the table?
JANE
It can be, what’s changed?
BENNY
I have a lot riding on this job, I can’t risk losing out
JANE
And you really think Alex could get it over you?
BENNY
I’ve known her for a while, she can surprise you
JANE
Yeah, I could help, but you need to do something for me
38
BENNY
yeah?
JANE
Yeah… coffee, milk, three sugars
BENNY
That’s practically a dessert
JANE
Are you judging me Benny Peterson?
BENNY
Absolutely not, coming right up
JANE
Sure, it’s not too late, won’t your wife be worried?
BENNY
This has to come first right now
JANE
Well, if you insist
Evie stands alone looking at out at the audience.
EVIE
I haven’t touched anything
I’m not, I haven’t touched anything
You drank it!
You drank it.
Darling, please, you need help
Alex rushes into the office, she is late and is holding a file. She sits at his desk and attempts shuffle
through the piles of paper. She see’s Benny who is also sitting at his desk.
39
ALEX
Hey
BENNY
You look like shit
ALEX
I can’t stop throwing up
(Benny slides the bin closer to Alex with his foot)
BENNY
Hey, listen about the other day, I’m sorry if I offended you. Honestly, it wasn’t my intention. I’m worried
about you.
ALEX
Water under the bridge. So how’s it going with the proposal?
BENNY
Good yeah, you?
ALEX
To be honest, struggling to get it off its feet.
(He leaves his desk and walks over to Benny.)
You know I was thinking we should grab a bite to eat, talk through some ideas. Maybe if they see we are
better as a team they might re-think it all.
BENNY
Then again, they could just find someone else for the job.
ALEX
Yeah but -
BENNY
Look, I know we come in a pair, but I need this. I can’t take any risks.
ALEX
Hey, I need this too.
BENNY
40
Then act like it. Perhaps if you weren’t spending each night out with Will and each day working pro bono,
you could actually get more done.
ALEX
Thanks for the advice Benny. Anyway, the food offer’s still open
BENNY
I’m sorry Alex but no.
ALEX
Right
BENNY
Alex, this isn't personal, I just need to keep a clear head.
ALEX
That’s why I said food, (jokingly) but if you wanna pop to the Irish bar -
BENNY
Look, cards on the table. I just don’t think it’s a good idea.
ALEX
We’re best friends -
BENNY
It’s probably better that we keep it professional. We come to work and that’s what we do… work. I’m going
up against you and I don’t think it would be a good idea for us to help one another, you know, ‘sympathise’
with each other if you know what I mean.
ALEX
I don’t want your sympathy Benny,
BENNY
Then I won’t give it
(beat)
I can’t throw this opportunity away.
ALEX
But it’s just a job
41
BENNY
Maybe to you it is but to me it’s much more than that. Now please, I have to get on.
(Benny turns away only to see Frankie standing behind him with his hand raised out as a welcome)
FRANKIE
Hey, Hi. I was pointed in the direction of you two fine people. I was wondering whether I could pick your
brains.
ALEX
You again?
FRANKIE
Hey Miss Carrot Small world
BENNY
How can we help?
FRANKIE
Well I was recently arrested… falsely I might add, for starting a fight after I was refused a drink at the bar.
Which was odd because I had only had the one. Strange I know. Anyway, I was awarded Bail, but I need
lawyer… to help me out.
BENNY
Look I’m pretty busy. No offence
FRANKIE
Offence taken, how about you?
ALEX
Well you can pick my brains for twenty minutes, but then… (she looks at Benny) I need to get to work. Just
take a seat, I'm grabbing a coffee.
(She wanders into the staffroom and starts to pour herself a filter coffee. She reaches into her
pocket and gets her flask, slowly pours a bit in her coffee and rushes it back into the pocket as
Benny approaches. )
BENNY
Alex?
ALEX
I’m making, you want one?
BENNY
One tip… you may want to stop giving out your time so easily. The sooner you start on this proposal… the
better. And cut back on the drink, it’s embarrassing.
(He leaves Alex standing alone)

42
SCENE 13: THE LAW FIRM - EVENING
Benny sits at his desk, everyone else is leaving for the day, he is left alone and working tirelessly. William
appears at the door.
WILLIAM
Sorry to interrupt. You seen Alex, Alex Garrett?
BENNY
She’s not here
WILLIAM
oh okay
BENNY
Last I saw, she was talking to some client, went out for lunch, didn’t come back
WILLIAM
hope she’s okay
BENNY
don’t worry, she’ll be just dandy
(Benny looks up and sees an awkward looking young man standing at the door, he’s holding a
bouquet of flowers)
William right?
WILLIAM
Yeah and…
BENNY
Benny. nice to meet you
(Benny continues typing away)
WILLIAM
you too
(William goes to leave, Benny stops typing)
BENNY
I heard you crashed my wedding
WILLIAM
not intentionally, I just… it was…
BENNY
listen, don’t worry about it, pleased you enjoyed yourself
WILLIAM
sorry about that… I was supposed to be meeting her after work but –
BENNY
43
she’ll have forgot, look I’ve got a lot to be getting on with
WILLIAM
sorry, I’ll – nice meeting you again
(Benny nods and starts doing his work again. He looks up and sees William leaving)
BENNY
William
WILLIAM
yeah?
BENNY
You and Alex, is it serious?
WILLIAM
It could be, its early but I hope so. Tonight doesn’t look great, granted… but apart from that
BENNY
I’m worried about her
WILLIAM
What do you mean?
BENNY
I’ve known her for the longest of times, been the closest of friends
WILLIAM
She said
BENNY
I’ve never seen her like this
WILLIAM
Like what?
BENNY
erm, erratic, impulsive… distant. Something isn’t right. She’s been drinking… at work
WILLIAM
I know she’s under a lot of stress
BENNY
Just… do me a favour and keep an eye on her please.
WILLIAM
Of course
BENNY
I can’t be there for her right now, but maybe you can
WILLIAM
I’ll try my best
(Awkward silence)
BENNY
44
Again, I really must get on.
WILLIAM
Sure, nice talking to
BENNY
and you
(William leaves, Benny takes a look at his watch, realises how late it is and starts to pack up)
EVIE
I wasn’t raiding anything
I empty your bin every week Alex
That isn’t the point
You’re pregnant
Well, it’s one positive test too many
You need to see someone
You need to get help
Then when will you stop
At least tell him Alex, please he deserves to know.
Benny is working at the table, highlighting and amending his proposal. Sarah is on his and is clearly
distressed.
SARAH
We have to be realistic here. This baby is going to be here one day and we don’t have the money to keep
this place
45
BENNY
I’ll talk to the bank, take out a loan
SARAH
I don’t want to take out a loan Benny
BENNY
Then what do you suggest we do, move out, find some shitty neighbourhood with murders on your
doorstep.
SARAH
Don’t be like that –
BENNY
Hey, at least they’ll be plenty of work for me to get my teeth into a lotta suspects to defend.
(beat)
I’m sorry. Look, this job is mine Sarah. Alex is all over fucking place, it is… mine. We’ve literally got another
couple of months and we’re plain sailing.
SARAH
We can’t last another couple of months Benny. I’m thinking of moving in with my mother
BENNY
Your mother lives in California, it’s out of the question
SARAH
I need support Benny, you’re never here.
BENNY
Don’t you think I want to be? I know the time I’m sacrificing to make sure my kids have a good future. To
make sure we have a good future.
SARAH
I’ve already spoken to her and she said it would be okay.
BENNY
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves
SARAH
You can talk
BENNY
Listen… please… my proposal, it’s practically sorted, I’ll ease up at work. Make sure I get back earlier.
SARAH
That doesn’t solve the money though, we can’t afford this place.
BENNY
I don’t want you stressing about it
46
SARAH
I can’t just turn it off
BENNY
I’m not asking you to. Go play with Lucy, focus on the here and now.
SARAH
Benny –
BENNY
I’ll buy us time Sarah; I just need you to trust me.
SARAH
I do
SCENE 16: THE STREETS - EVENING
WILLIAM
Hey
ALEX
Hey
WILLIAM
wait up. What’s the rush?
ALEX
I’m busy, I only have two months to finish my proposal and –
WILLIAM
You haven’t spoken to me for a month, what did I do? I thought we were good
ALEX
Wiliaml, I’m doing you a favour
WILLIAM
What do you mean you’re doing me a favour? Surely, I should be part of this conversation, surely I should
be a part of whatever the hell this is.
ALEX
I’m sorry
WILLIAM
47
I’ve spoken to your mom; she says you haven’t been well for weeks and that I should talk to you about it.
ALEX
She talks a lot
WILLIAM
What’s going on Alex?
ALEX
Nothing
WILLIAM
Alex please,
(he watches as she stumbles away)
Are you drunk?
ALEX
No! I need to go
WILLIAM
Alex we need to talk
ALEX
I need to work
WILLIAM
Don’t just walk away from me
(She grabs his arm, he drops his bag, smashing his bottle of whisky on the floor and soaking his
proposal.)
ALEX
Christ! Look what you've done?
WILLIAM
Where are you going?
ALEX
Just leave me alone! It’s over William, find someone else to obsess over.
WILLIAM
48
Have you just decided to use me for three months? I am obsessed with you Alex, but that’s not a bad
thing. I thought you felt the same about me.
ALEX
Well, you were wrong, I’m not here to save you, and I don’t need to be saved. You can’t stand still with me
anymore; you need to keep on moving Will. Find a purpose and direction in life, that doesn’t involve me. I’ll
ruin everything for you.
WILLIAM
Alex just stop,
[4] Road Sign band
WILLIAM
I’M NOT LOOKING FOR A ROAD SIGN
I’M NOT TRYING TO FIND SOME PLACE TO HIDE
THERE IS ANARACHY AT REST IN YOUR MIND
NOW THAT YOU’VE MOVED ON
NOW THAT YOUR NOT WITH ME
I FIND
IT’S TIME TO LEAVE THIS ALL BEHIND
FEELING HALFWAY THERE

BUT NEVER KNOWING WHERE THE ROAD IS GOING
FEELING SLIGHTLY SCARED
BUT UNAWARE OF HOW TO STOP IT SHOWING
AND I KNOW ITS ALL IN MY MIND

BUT THESE FEELINGS ARE ONES THAT I CANT FIGHT
AND I KNOW
THERES SO MUCH SHE WILL HIDE
THERE’S SO MUCH SHE WILL HIDE
BUT STILL TIME WAITS FOR NOONE

TIME IS NOBODYS FRIEND
TIME MOVES FORWARD NOT BACK
AND TIME HAS TO END
AS IT WAS ALL JUST PRETEND.
ALEX
THE WORLD IS TURINING HERE
WHILE I STAND STILL AND WATCH IT GOING
49
MOVING ON IS TOUGH
BUT EVEN TOUGHER WHEN THERE’S NEW LIFE GROWING
AND I KNOW ITS SOMETHING I MUST DO

BUT THIS BATTLE IS ONE I DIDN’T CHOOSE
AND I KNOW
IM LEFT ALONE WITH YOU
IM LEFT ALONE WITH YOU
BOTH
BECAUSE TIME WAITS FOR NOONE
TIME IS NOBODYS FRIEND
TIME MOVES FORWARD NOT BACK
AND TIME HAS TO END
OR IS IT ALL JUST PRETEND.
ALEX
WILLIAM AND ENSEMBLE I’M TRYING TO CHOOSE
I’M NOT LOOKING FOR A ROAD SIGN JUST GIVE ME SOMETHING TO HELP MAKE UP
I’M NOT TRYING TO FIND SOME PLACE TO HIDE MY MIND
THERE IS ANARACHY A BLAZE IN HER MIND NOW THAT YOU ARE WITH ME
NOW THAT YOU’VE MOVED ON I FIND
NOW THAT YOUR NOT WITH ME IT WAS JUST A WASTE OF TIME
I FIND
IT’S TIME TO LEAVE THIS ALL BEHIND
BECAUSE STILL TIME WAITS FOR NOONE HOW CAN I DECIDE

TIME IS NOBODYS FRIEND WHEN WILL I DECIDE
TIME MOVES FORWARD NOT BACK WHAT WILL I DECIDE X2
AND TIME HAS TO END
OR IS IT ALL JUST PRETEND. X2
ALEX
OR IS IT ALL JUST PRETEND
EVIE
50
You can’t think clearly while drinking that stuff
Then drink coffee, caffeine, don’t drown yourself in this.
Alex!
That’s not what I’m doing!
Listen, maybe I can help
What can I do, should I tidy –
You can’t keep doing this to you and that child.
SCENE 18: THE LAW FIRM - EVENING
Alex attempts to open the office door it is locked, Benny is working late, he goes and unlocks the door,
leaving Alex to storm into the office.
BENNY
Alright, alright calm down.
ALEX
Benny
BENNY
Alex? Jesus what’s wrong with you?
ALEX
It was locked, why was it locked!
BENNY
I don’t think it’s a good idea you’re here. It’s late, everyone’s gone home, I was just finishing up.
ALEX
Okay, I need your help. The meetings tomorrow, and my proposal well it’s ruined (she chuckles) I’m almost
certain I had a back-up somewhere here. Wait a minute, I put one on your desk for you to read over.
(she’s approaches Benny’s desk)
BENNY
51
I don’t have it
ALEX
What do you mean you don’t have it?
BENNY
Well, I threw it away.
ALEX
But you were gonna read it.
BENNY
I was never gonna read it, I said I couldn’t help you
ALEX
I know, but you’re my friend
BENNY
Like that matters
ALEX
Don’t say that
BENNY
What are you doing here Alex?
ALEX
I just -
BENNY
You turn up to work like this. What are you thinking?
ALEX
Benny please
BENNY
Nobody can help you if you don’t help yourself. Look at you Alex, this is too much for you.
ALEX
I suppose I should just roll over and give you the job.
BENNY
52
That’s not what I’m saying
ALEX
Thanks for nothing
(She walks away. Benny makes sure she has left; Jane appears from under Benny’s desk)
BENNY
Jesus
JANE
That was close, she sounded drunk
BENNY
She was… Get dressed
JANE
Surely you could stay for a little bit longer
BENNY
As much as I would love to, I’ve really got to be getting back. I told Sarah –
JANE
Do you have to talk about her when you’re with me?
BENNY
She’s my wife Jane
JANE
And who am I?
BENNY
Sorry?
JANE
Who am I to you?
BENNY
Well… you’re Jane
(Jane walks into her office, looks up at the corner of the room, and stands in front of her desk)
53
JANE
That’s not what I meant
(Benny enters the office)

BENNY
I know what you meant
JANE
So?
BENNY
So… Let’s focus on the here and now. We don’t need to complicate things further, one day at a time.
JANE
How about next time, we get a bite to eat, go to a movie or something?
BENNY
That’s a little public don’t you think?
(she nods)
Give me a kiss
(he goes to kiss her; she pushes him away and slaps him)
What was that?
JANE
Insurance
BENNY
You’re crazy you know that?
(he gets his stuff and walks out the door)
SCENE 19: THE BOARDROOM – MID-DAY
Benny finishes his proposal in front of the boss, Jane and a number of colleagues of the firm.
BENNY
54
As you can see these changes would make us not only a stronger firm, but perhaps one of the strongest.
Therefore with the alterations I have suggested this should cause not only our reputation but also our profit
margins to soar through the roof, figuratively speaking.
DIANE
Thank you Benjamin
JANE
We will now hear from Alex Garret regarding her proposal for the firm. Would you like to ask her
in please Mrs. Firth?
BENNY
Thank you for your time
DIANE
Oh, Benjamin, before you leave. What are your thoughts on your opposition, I understand you to be quite
close friends? Surely this process would have been hard for you.
BENNY
I wouldn't describe it as hard, it’s just been a challenge; that I have faced head on. I have
adapted and feel I have worked well individually.
JANE
And what of Miss. Garrett?
BENNY
Alex is a hard-working employee; she always has been.
JANE
But…
BENNY
To be honest with the board, I don’t feel she is in a good place right now. I think she has struggled with the
prospect of a proposal, and possible promotion.
DIANE
How has she struggled?
(Alex appears at the boardroom door, unseen by those inside. She can hear everything.)
BENNY
Alex, although I don’t know this for certain, I could be way off base here. But, I’m worried about her, she
has taken or rather, I feel she’s struggled… well she’s been drinking a lot.
55
DIANE
Are you accusing Miss. Garrett of having a drinking problem?
BENNY
not accusing no, I’m just voicing my concern.
(Alex storms through the door in an explosive manner.)
ALEX
You asshole
BENNY
Alex!
ALEX
How could you? Does this job mean so much to you that you would jeopardise everything for me?
BENNY
It’s not how it sounds
ALEX
I think it’s exactly how it sounds and to think I came to you for help!
BENNY
Alex you’re being ridiculous
ALEX
Why would you do this? Why? I was your best man; we grew up together and now you stab me in the back.
BENNY
Alex -
ALEX
I’ll kill you!!
(She throws herself at Benny, hurling him to the floor and punching him in the face, before being
ripped by colleagues.)
Who are you? Who are you these days?
DIANE
Security please
56
ALEX
You’re dead to me! You hear me, dead! Get off me, I’m going.
DIANE
You’re going nowhere except the police station
SCENE 20 – ALEX’S HOME
EVIE
Community service! What in god’s name is happening to you Alex?
Regardless of what you think of him, you should have had some self-control
Don’t start crying now, I’ve seen it all before
At least you have your meetings now
Well tough Alex, you don’t have a choice. The meetings are part of the deal.
This is your last chance
I mean I can’t take any more of this
Alex walks past a Frankie who is standing outside the centre. He is padding down his pockets and is clearly
short changed. He throws the coffee out of his cup and sits down on the floor pretending to be homeless. A
man walks and drops five dollars in his cup. Frankie smiles and stands to his feet. Throws the cup and
walks into the centre. Alex follows him in. She walks into a room, there are a number of characters setting
up chairs in a circle. Alex approaches the woman wearing the lanyard.
ALEX
Hi, I’m here about some meeting, I have a client who comes here, just thought I would see how you run
things. See if everything’s… above board.
WENDY
57
I know why you’re here Alex Garrett. Just take a seat and we’ll begin shortly. Frankie how’s it going?
FRANKIE
Not good, Wendy, not good.
WENDY
Try and stay positive
FRANKIE
I haven’t drank in 12 hours 36 minutes.
WENDY
That’s positive
FRANKIE
Speak for yourself, I feel like a fucking wreck!
WENDY
Sit down, we’ll talk it through together.
(Alex sits down and Wendy has signaled for Frankie to sit beside her.)
FRANKIE
12 hours 37 minutes…Hey! Hey I’m Frankie
ALEX
We’ve met
FRANKIE
Oh yeah… the lawyer. Good news just a slap on the wrist this time… and 90 hours of court mandated
community service. But you roll with the punches!
ALEX
I’m thrilled (sarcastically)
FRANKIE
got any juice?
ALEX
Juice?
FRANKIE
58
Orange, Mango, apple, pear? Nah I’m just fucking with you, I mean alcohol. You know like vodka or
moonshine. Got ya! I’ve never had moonshine in my life. I was just stereotyping. Okay, I'm lying… I have
had moonshine before. It was my eighth birthday; I remember it because that’s when my daddy died.
Wrong again, my daddy’s alive as hell, I did drink moonshine on my eighth birthday though. Good times.
So?
ALEX
What was the question?
FRANKIE
Alcohol, you got any?
ALEX
Yeah
FRANKIE
Give me a drop
ALEX
Didn’t your mom teach you any manners?
FRANKIE
Please…
ALEX
You’re an alcoholic
FRANKIE
So are you?
ALEX
I’m not.
FRANKIE
Oh yeah, then why you here… with a drink?
ALEX
It calms my nerves
FRANKIE
Stops you shaking more like. C’mon! I haven’t drank in 12 hours 38 minutes.
59
ALEX
That’s good
FRANKIE
What are you a fucking medic! I feel like my heart’s trying to tear through my rib cage!
ALEX
Listen, just stay out of my business.
FRANKIE
Listen, just stay out of my business
ALEX
Really?
FRANKIE
Really
ALEX
You’re actually doing this?
FRANKIE
You’re actually doing this?
ALEX
Back off!
(He pushes Frankie away from him)
WENDY
What’s going on here?
FRANKIE
Nothing Wendy, I was just invading personal space is all.
WENDY
Perhaps you should come sit over here Frankie
FRANKIE
perhaps I should yeah
(He stands ups and moves to the other side of the room)
60
WENDY
Right, so welcome back everybody. We have a newcomer to the group today… this is Alex.
EVERYONE
Hi Alex
WENDY
Would you like to tell us a bit about yourself?
ALEX
I think I’d just like to listen for now
FRANKIE
I think I’d just like to listen for now -
WENDY
Frankie!
ALEX
Jesus!
FRANKIE
Don’t bring him into it.
WENDY
Frankie. Alex that’s no problem at all, feel free to talk whenever you’re ready. Frankie, seen
as you're so vocal today. Would you like to start us off?
FRANKIE
Sure Wendy.
(He stands up.)
[5] Circle Full of Trust
FRANKIE
HI MY NAME IS FRANKIE I'VE BEEN SOBER HALF A DAY NOW
AND I FEEL AS FRESH AND HEALTHY AS A TEEN
DESPITE MY CONSTANT CRYING AND MY SWEATING AND MY LYING
IT'S APPARENT I'M MUCH BETTER NOW I’M CLEAN
61
ENSEMBLE
LOOKING THROUGH OUR HISTORY YOU'LL SEE THAT WE'RE STATISTICALLY
THE SAFETY NET TO CATCH YOU WHEN YOU FALL
DON'T KEEP THINGS HIDDEN, NOW C'MON WE'RE SITTING
IN CIRCLE FULL OF TRUST WE BUILT AS ONE AFTER ALL
FRANKIE
MY WIFE WELL SHE WAS PRETTY IN A SORT OF AMISH WAY
AND SHE SORT OF HAD A MARBLE FOR AN EYE
REGARDLESS OF HER LOOKS AND HER HUNCHBACK AND HER HOOK
SHE WOULD SAY TO ME OUR LOVE WOULD NEVER DIE
SO THEN I STARTED DRINKING, SO TO MAKE MYSELF GO BLIND
YOU SEE IT WAS THE ONLY WAY TO COPE
BUT MY MARRIAGE FELL APART ON THE DAY SHE BROKE MY HEART
WHEN SHE WENT AND SCREWED THE POSTMAN MR HOPE
ENSEMBLE
DOUBLE A'S THE WAY TO STOP YOUR PROBLEM TODAY
SO DON'T COME IN HERE AND KICK UP A FUSS
YOU'LL HAVE A BETTER CHANCE OF STEADYING YOUR STANCE
IF YOU STAY IN HERE AND TALK WITH US
DON'T KEEP IT INSIDE TELL US WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND
LET US HELP YOU TURN THAT FROWN INTO A SMILE
WE'LL LISTEN THAT'S OUR MISSION TO DISCUSS EV'RY DECISION
YOU'VE MADE EVER SINCE YOU’VE BEEN ALIVE
FRANKIE AS SANDRA
HI MY NAME IS SANDRA AND I'VE CAME HERE FOR A YEAR NOW
BUT LAST WEEK I FAILED AND LET MY PROGRESS SLIDE
I HAD A SIP OF VODKA WHICH LED TO TWENTY ODD AND
I FOUND MYSELF IN BED WITH THIRTEEN PIES
ENSEMBLE
LOOKING THROUGH OUR HISTORY YOU'LL SEE THAT WE'RE STATISTICALLY
THE SAFETY NET TO CATCH YOU WHEN YOU FALL
DON'T KEEP THINGS HIDDEN, NOW C'MON WE'RE SITTING
IN CIRCLE FULL OF TRUST WE BUILT AS ONE AFTER ALL
FRANKIE AS STEVEN
WHEN I WAS YOUNG MY DADDY LEFT MY BROTHER FRED AND ME
AND I PLEADED AND I PRAYED FOR HIM TO STAY
62
REGARDLESS OF HIS LIFE AND HIS CHILDREN AND HIS WIFE
HE PACKED HIS BAGS AND LEFT WITH UNCLE RAY
LAST WEEK I SAW HIM WALKING DOWN THE STREET AS I WERE TALKING
AND IT SHOCKED ME THAT HE DIDN'T SEE ME SLIGHTLY
HE IGNORED ME WITH SUCH EASE I REACHED OUT AND GRABBED MY KEYS
AND I STABBED HIM IN THE NECK ALL SO POLITELY
FRANKIE AS DAISY
HI MY NAME IS DAISY AND I DRANK BEFORE I CAME HERE
I'M SURPRISED IN FACT I GOT HERE IN ONE PIECE
I WAS DRIVING IN MY PRIUS AND I THINK I HIT THREE DEERS
AND TWO DOGS AS I WAS FLEEING FROM THE POLICE
WENDY
I think you’ve gone far enough now Frankie. Okay... So now Alex are you ready to share
ALEX
I’m enjoying listening actually
ENSEMBLE
STOP AND THINK DON'T DRINK WORRIES GO DOWN THE SINK
IF YOU JUST SHARE YOU’LL FIND WE CARE
WE’LL TAKE YOUR HAND AND UNDERSTAND THAT LIFE CAN
SCREW YOU SIDEWAYS, LEAVING YOU UNABLE TO STAND
OVERLAP AND COUNTERPOINT
MY WIFE WELL SHE WAS PRETTY IN A SORT OF AMISH WAY

AND SHE SORT OF HAD A MARBLE FOR AN EYE
REGARDLESS OF HER LOOKS AND HER HUNCHBACK AND HER HOOK
SHE WOULD SAY TO ME OUR LOVE WOULD NEVER DIE
WHEN I WAS YOUNG MY DADDY LEFT MY BROTHER FRED AND ME

AND I PLEADED AND I PRAYED FOR HIM TO STAY
REGARDLESS OF HIS LIFE AND HIS CHILDREN AND HIS WIFE
HE PACKED HIS BAGS AND LEFT WITH UNCLE RAY
DOUBLE A'S THE WAY TO STOP YOUR PROBLEM TODAY

SO DON'T COME IN HERE AND KICK UP A FUSS
YOU'LL HAVE A BETTER CHANCE OF STEADYING YOUR STANCE
IF YOU STAY IN HERE AND TALK WITH US
DON'T KEEP IT INSIDE TELL US WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND
LET US HELP YOU TURN THAT FROWN INTO A SMILE
63
WE'LL LISTEN THAT'S OUR MISSION TO DISCUSS EV'RY DECISION
YOU'VE MADE EVER SINCE YOU’VE BEEN ALIVE
WENDY
Alex, can we talk?
ALEX
Sure, it’s not like I’ve got anywhere else to be. Is it always like that?
WENDY
What do you mean?
ALEX
The chaos, the crazy stories, the crying… the woe is me bullshit.
WENDY
Frankie can take over a group sometimes, but he isn’t always like that, probably just acting up with you
being there. But the “crying, woe is me bullshit” is actually the product of people finding the courage to tell
their truth. So… in that regard, yeah, hopefully it is. That way I know I’m doing my job right.
ALEX
Sure
WENDY
Sorry, is that a problem for you Alex?
ALEX
Even if it was, it’s not like I’ve got a choice, it’s not as though I can just walk out.
WENDY
Why not?
ALEX
Court mandated remember. I walk out that door, I might as well walk directly into a cell.
WENDY
Equally, if you don’t try at this, you might as well take the same journey.
ALEX
What do you mean by that?
WENDY
I feedback your progress here. If you don’t engage with the group, I’ll have no choice but to let them know.
ALEX
I see how it is.
WENDY
Listen, Alex. I wanted to talk to you because… well you know this group can really help you, you know that
don’t you?
64
ALEX
Yet to see how
WENDY
It starts with you admitting to yourself your problems, it starts with having trust in the group and opening up
ALEX
A circle full of trust right?
WENDY
Make fun if you wish, but the only person your damaging, is yourself. Can you even say it?
ALEX
Say what?
WENDY
I am an alcoholic
ALEX
Good for you
WENDY
You know what I mean, can you even admit to yourself that you have a drinking problem?
ALEX
I like a drink, it’s not a problem.
WENDY
(she’s disappointed) Let’s leave it for today then
ALEX
I’m not an alcoholic, I was screwed over at work and I lost my temper
WENDY
See you next week Alex
ALEX
I’m not an alcoholic!
SCENE 22: THE BOARDROOM - AFTERNOON
Benny sits at a desk opposite the boss of the firm. Jane stands close by, listening into the conversation.
DIANE
I think you’re just what this firm needs. You’ve got the passion and drive that somebody in this position
needs. It will be good to have a man on the team, women bring so much drama.
65
BENNY
Really? Oh my god thank you. I will not let you down.
DIANE
I don’t suspect you will. Well, we’ll get the contract drawn up and you should be in your new office by
Monday.
BENNY
Again, thank you so much. I can’t describe how much this means to me, honestly -
DIANE
Enjoy your weekend Benjamin.
BENNY
And you too… I did it.
JANE
Well done you, how about a kiss for your new partner?
BENNY
Not here Jane
JANE
But there’s no one around
BENNY
I said no
JANE
What the hell’s a matter with you
BENNY
Look we had fun, but c’mon that’s all it was.
JANE
You can’t be serious?
BENNY
We can’t continue this; I’m married for god’s sake.
JANE
That didn’t matter to you last night
66
BENNY
Last night I wasn’t -
JANE
What? Promoted?
(Benny doesn’t reply instead he puts on his coat and heads for the door.)
You used me!
BENNY
We used each other.
JANE
You’re pathetic -
BENNY
It’s just business!
(Jane walks out, he sits at his desk and puts up his feet)
[6] Stop the Rain
Did that just happen? Holy shit…
WAS THAT THE SOUND OF MY FUTURE CALLING

RINGING THE BELL AND BANG IT'S BEGUN
JUST PUSH THE SWITCH AND MY HEART STARTS THUMPING
BEATING A RYTHYM AND IT'S TURNING ME ON
I FEEL AN ENERGY LIKE AN ENGINE

IT SURGES THROUGH ME AND HEATS MY SOUL
FLICK THE IGNITION, IGNITE MY SPIRIT
I'LL DRIVE THE RIGHT DIRECTION STRAIGHT TO MY GOAL
TIME IS ON MY SIDE
AND THE RAIN STOPS AS I WALK THROUGH
THERE'S A CHANGE IN THE SKIES NOW
THE START OF SOMETHING NEW
THE THUNDER MAY BE ROARING ABOVE
THE LIGHTNING MIGHT BE STRIKING MY FEET
BUT A STORM CAN'T STOP THIS FEELING INSIDE
67
AS I’M SOARING THROUGH THE STREETS
SO SWITCH THE TRACKS I’M NOT LOOKING BACK

IT'S AN AWFULLY TRAGIC AND WONDERFUL, COMPLETELY MAGICAL DAY
JUST STOP THE TRAIN HERE I'VE FOUND MY STOP (FOUND HIS STOP)
GRAB A CAB I’VE GOT SOMEWHERE TO BE (SOMETHING TO SEE)
JUST HIT THE BRAKES, I'LL GET OUT AND WALK
STROLL AT MY RYTHYM NOW THAT FINALLY I SEE (THERE IS A CHANGE)
I SENSE A CHANGE IN THE WIND APPROACHING (FEEL IT BLOW)

I SEE THE TRAFFIC AS IT STARTS TO HOP (WHOAH HOP)
THE GROUND IS SHAKING AS PEOPLE HURRY (JUST STOP)
DON'T THEY KNOW I'M FLYING RIGHT TO THE TOP
TIME IS ON MY SIDE
AND THE RAIN STOPS AS I WALK THROUGH
THERE'S A CHANGE IN THE SKIES NOW
THE START OF SOMETHING NEW
THE THUNDER MAY BE ROARING ABOVE
THE LIGHTNING MIGHT BE STRIKING MY FEET
BUT A STORM CAN'T STOP THIS FEELING INSIDE
AS I’M SOARING THROUGH THE STREETS

IT'S AN AWFULLY TRAGIC AND WONDERFUL,
“I MEAN C’MON”
TODAY I’M FEELING SO DAMN HIGH
DON’T STOP ME AS I TOUCH THE SKY

UP TO THE STARS
AND FAR FROM THE STREETS BELOW
SO WATCH ME AS I WALK ON BY
PICK UP THE PACE AND START TO FLY
AWAY FROM THE SCUM AND FAR FROM THE LIFE I KNEW

IT'S AN AWFULLY TRAGIC AND WONDERFUL,
68
COMPLETELY MAGICAL -
TERRIBLY GLORIOUS, LOVINGLY FRIGHTFULLY WOEFUL AND
PLENTIFUL, SOMEHOW DELIGHTFUL, A SHOCKING, AMAZING
AND PERFECT KINDA DAY
SCENE 23: ALEX’S HOME - EVENING
The moment Alex opens the door Evie rushes through to her aid. Taking her coat and ushering her through
the house.
EVIE
How was the meeting?
ALEX
Let me get through the door
EVIE
So?
ALEX
It was okay
EVIE
I thought it finished this morning.
ALEX
It was delayed
EVIE
really?
ALEX
Something about an illness
EVIE
how awful?
ALEX
yeah
EVIE
I rang Wendy.
69
ALEX
and…
EVIE
why are you lying to me?
ALEX
I’m not
EVIE
you are!
(Alex shakes her head and proceeds to the Kitchen.)
EVIE
You stink
ALEX
Thanks very much
EVIE
Has it not cost you enough?
ALEX
I’ve lost my job, I’m an “addict” apparently… Why should I give a shit about drinking myself to death?
Please… give me a reason to live because right now I’m struggling.
EVIE
Don’t talk like that.
(She wells up with emotion. Alex pushes past her and begins to search the kitchen)
Stop, what are you doing?
ALEX
What do you think?
EVIE
I’ve cleared the cupboards you won’t find anything.
ALEX
god damn it
70
EVIE
Just sit down and we’ll talk this through
ALEX
I’m done talking to you
EVIE
Well I’m not done talking to you
ALEX
(She chuckles) Oh, you’re not done with me. It’s a bit late to play the tyrant now, perhaps if you weren't so
soft on me in the first place, I wouldn't be in this state. Perhaps if you stood up for me, protected me -
EVIE
How dare you?
ALEX
How dare you mom? How dare you stand there and judge me?
EVIE
I’m not judging you, I’m trying to help you
ALEX
Do you have any idea what I’m going through? I am entitled to a fucking drink!
EVIE
Please, just let me -
ALEX
How many more times? I don’t need your help
EVIE
Then what do you want
ALEX
I want you to leave
EVIE
Alex -
ALEX
Leave
71
EVIE
You’re not the girl I raised
ALEX
I said get out
EVIE
You are pregnant Alex, that isn't an excuse to hide under a rock; it’s the reason to crawl out from
underneath it. Perhaps I haven’t done everything right by you but that doesn’t mean I’m not gonna try and
do my very best to put it right now.
(beat)
ALEX
You had no right to take my cards
EVIE
I have every right as your mother… and as that child’s grandmother.
ALEX
That’s my money
EVIE
You’d waste it
(Alex starts to raid Evie’s bag.)
EVIE
sit down
ALEX
where is it?
EVIE
It doesn’t matter, sit down.
ALEX
I won’t ask again
(She sees Evie’s purse and begins to search through it.)
EVIE
Give that back!
72
(She pulls at the bag, trying desperately to stop her)
ALEX
Leave me alone!
(She hits out in frustration and catches Evie.)

(silence)
Why did you do that mom?
EVIE
get out
ALEX
Look, I’m sorry it’s just… if you hadn’t -
EVIE
get out of my house!
(She leaves and Evie is left alone.)
[7] Best of Me
EVIE
SO MANY TRYING YEARS HAVE PAST
WITH ONLY YOU AND ME
I REMEMBER ALL OF THEM THROUGH THE YEARS
THE WAY IT USED TO BE
NO ONE CAN MEND MY BROKEN HEART

AS YOU HAVE CONSTANTLY
TIME CAN MOVE THE MOUNTAINS BUT TIME CAN'T CHANGE
THE WAY IT USED TO BE
MAYBE TIME WILL MEND HER

MAYBE TIME WILL MAKE HER SEE
I CAN BRING HER BACK
IF I GIVE THE BEST OF ME
SHE WON'T COME TO ME WHEN SHE CRIES

TO FEEL MY WARM EMBRACE
IF SOMEONE, CAN SOMEONE,
PLEASE SOMEONE PROVIDE FOR HER
73
I’LL LET YOU TAKE MY PLACE
BUT DID I CAUSE THIS HURT NOW
AM I THE REASON FOR HER PAIN
CAN I TURN BACK TIME
AND DO IT ALL AGAIN
WILLIAM
SHE CAN'T WALK AWAY JUST LIKE THAT
(TURN BACK TIME)
I CAN'T DO THIS WITHOUT HER
(BOTH)
WE NEED HER BACK ON TRACK
(WILLIAM)
MY LOVE IS ENDLESS
BUT THE GIRL I LOVED IS GONE
(GIVE THE BEST OF ME)
IF THAT GIRL CAN’T RETURN TO ME
BOTH
THEN HOW CAN I GO ON
MAYBE TIME WILL MEND HER
I CAN BRING HIM BACK
IF I GIVE THE BEST OF ME
(MUSIC PLAYS OUT AND EVIE IS LEFT ALONE)
EVIE
MAYBE IN TIME SHE WILL LEARN
I WILL LOVE HER CONSTANTLY
DESPITE WHAT SHE WILL DO
SHE IS STILL THE BEST OF ME
END OF ACT ONE

74
ACT TWO
[8] What’s Coming Next?

band
WHAT’S COMING NEXT?
WHAT’S ROUND THE CORNER?
THER’S NO WAY TO KNOW WHAT THE FUTURE WILL BE
WILL THEY REJECT ME?
WILL THEY ACCEPT ME?
ON THIS BIT OF PAPER IT’S PLANNED OUT FOR ME
(X3, IN THE ROUND)
I, I’M FEELING TWICE AS OLD AND HALF AS GOOD.

THESE AREN’T THE LETTERS THAT I THOUGHT I WOULD
BE GETTING AT THE END OF PLAY.
AND I, I MAY BE SCARED BUT I’M AWARE OF IT,
TIME IS TWOCKED WITH EVERY TOCK AND TICK
SO MOVE OUT OF OUR WAY.
BECAUSE WE ARE THE FUTURE BUT WE’RE LIVING FOR TODAY!
COS’ WE’RE LIVING OUR LIVES, JUST RIDING OUR LUCK,

LIFE IS FOR LIVING WE’RE NOT GIVING IT UP,
WHEN YOU LOOK ME UP, I’LL BE IN YOUR HISTORY BOOKS, THE STAR I WAS BORN TO BE.
COS’ IT’S OKAY TO DREAM, TO JUST RUN AWAY,

YES, YOU’VE GOT TO MAKE A LIVING BUT WHO THESE DAYS PAYS,
75
WHEN YOU LOOK MY WAY, I’LL BE ON YOUR TV ONE DAY,
THE LAWER OF N, Y, AND C,
LIVING, WE’LL MAKE OUR LIVING, LIVING OUR LIVES.
I, I’M FEELING HALF AS KEEN AND TWICE AS SURE,

WITH THIS ACCEPTANCE I WILL START MY TOUR,
THROUGH MY COLLEGE DEGREE (JUST YOU WAIT AND SEE)
AND I, I MAY BE SCARED BUT I’M AWARE OF IT,
IT’S WORTH DREAMING WHEN YOU FEEL A HIT
SO WHO CARES, FOLLOW ME.
SO GOOD LUCK FOR THE FUTURE BUT TODAY’S THE DAY FOR ME!
COS’ WE’RE LIVING OUR LIVES, JUST RIDING OUR LUCK,

LIFE IS FOR LIVING WE’RE NOT GIVING IT UP,
WHEN YOU LOOK ME UP, I’LL BE IN YOUR HISTORY BOOKS, THE STAR I WAS BORN TO BE.
COS’ IT’S OKAY TO DREAM, TO JUST RUN AWAY,

YES, YOU’VE GOT TO MAKE A LIVING BUT WHO THESE DAYS PAYS, WHEN YOU LOOK MY WAY, I’LL BE ON
YOUR TV ONE DAY, THE LAWER OF N, Y, AND C,
LIVING, WE’LL MAKE OUR LIVING, LIVING OUR LIVES.

IN STRIFE, THERE’S A LIFE... FOR LIVING.
WHAT’S COMING NEXT?

WHAT’S ROUND THE CORNER?
LIVING, WE’LL MAKE OUR LIVING,
WILL IT BE BETTER?
WILL I BE SMARTER?
WHEN LIVING OUR LIVES.
LIVING
LIVING
LIVING
ACT TWO: PROLOGUE
The stage is empty, the music builds and levels. A spotlight falls on a lonely, remorseful character, she
looks into the audience, she sits in a red hoodie and jeans.
ALEX
We were so different back then. Young and keen. (In disbelief) 1986… who’d have thought 15 years later
we’d be here. We thought that the world owed us a favour. Hell, when you are accepted into one of
the biggest colleges around, you think it is… favouring you. Me and Benny, we did that together.
76
Right from the start, everything we did, we did it together. When we finally went off on different
tracks. Things didn’t go so well for either of us… especially Benny.
SCENE 1: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Sarah sits alone in her apartment, She sits on the floor as all furnishings have been taken. Benny enters on
the phone and looking through the documents in his hand.
SARAH
When were you going to tell me?
BENNY
tell you what?
SARAH
About her. About her you fucking pig!
BENNY
I have no idea. What are you going on about?
SARAH
Really?
BENNY
look if you’re going to be cryptic, I really can’t be dealing with it today. Where’s Lucy?
(He heads to the kitchen for another drink)
SARAH
I’ve dropped her at daycare
BENNY
why have you - wait where’s the fridge?
SARAH
where’s the fridge? Is that the only thing you've noticed Benny, where’s the fucking fridge? You’ve ruined
this family and lost everything for us
BENNY
sweetheart
SARAH
77
sweetheart… don’t you fucking dare. Where’s the microwave Benny, or how about the furniture, where’s
that gone? As fate would have it, they left the T.V. or at least the one in Lucy’s room?
(she throws a video at him)
BENNY
What’s this?
SARAH
You don’t know?
BENNY
I don’t know
SARAH
It’s you, making a fool of yourself
BENNY
Listen, if this is anything to do with Jane -
SARAH
Don’t say her name to me! Trust me I haven’t even started. Do you know why we have nothing in our home
Benny!? You never made the payments.
BENNY
I just got a big promotion, we don’t have to worry about money
SARAH
That’s not the point! Do you seriously think having our belongings would make this marriage anymore
bearable?
BENNY
You’re right, missing payments, it’s the least of our worries. We can buy the stuff back. What’s important
now is how we look to the future. Everything I have done; I’ve done for this family.
SARAH?
Even what’s on there (referencing the video)
BENNY
I have no idea what this is!
SARAH
You've missed the payments on the apartment because you were so indulged with work and with her. I
trusted you. It isn’t enough that you ruin our marriage, but you lose your child’s home.
78
BENNY
I haven’t lost anything…Who gave you this?
(Benny tries to play the video, he presses play and the morning’s news begins to play)
Is this a joke?
SARAH
If you were expecting to watch re-runs, I’ve recorded over the tape. It was embarrassing enough without
having the risk of anyone seeing it.
BENNY
Look, I don’t know what this is… But I can sort it!
SARAH
How? How? I’m not taken the risk of my daughter seeing us thrown out of our home. She deserves more
than this, more than you. We both do… I’m going to my mother’s.
BENNY
She’s my daughter too
SARAH
so you want to be a dad now…
BENNY
Look I only did what I did to get this job, it was nothing more -
SARAH
Oh, so I should be thanking you. Is that it? How fucking ungrateful of me? Thank you, Benny, for taking one
for the team…
(She picks up her bag and heads for the door, leaving her ring on the side)
BENNY
You can’t leave me, do you have any idea what I do every single day to provide for this family.
SARAH
That’s why we’re going
BENNY
Please stop, just think about this. I’m sorry I’ll do anything. Just stay one more night please. Let’s talk about
this. I’m nothing without you.
SARAH
There’s nothing more to say
79
BENNY
What about the baby? I don’t want to lose you; I can’t live without the two of you. What can I do?
SARAH
It’s too late, I’ve booked the train, you can say goodbye to Lucy tomorrow.
SCENE 2 – ALEX’S HOME - NIGHT
Alex is sitting, slumped and drinking. She is in a very bad way. Her energy is low, she has given up. A
distressed Evie stands at a distance.
EVIE
You can’t do this anymore Alex
ALEX
Well, I’m in agreement with you there
EVIE
I think we are talking about different things
ALEX
I think you’re right
(silence, Evie sits down)
EVIE
I am sorry you know; I know that isn’t enough, that it will never be enough, but I’m so sorry
ALEX
What for now?
EVIE
I knew what he was doing
ALEX
I don’t want to talk about this
EVIE
I knew that he hurt you. I just didn’t want to believe it
ALEX
What’s done is done
EVIE
Except its not done is it? he’s still hurting you
ALEX
He’s dead
EVIE
I know, but he’ still hurting you
80
ALEX
Are you saying this to rid yourself of guilt?
EVIE
Alex –
ALEX
Do you want some repentance?
EVIE
Don’t be like that
ALEX
I’m not a priest but if you want my forgiveness you can have it. I forgive you. Now can you stop talking.
(silence)
EVIE
I would hear him, when he got in late, and he would go to your room. I wanted so much to get up and do
something.
ALEX
Then why didn’t you
EVIE
I did once-
ALEX
And he broke your arm, your eye socket, your jaw… I remember mom. I knew I was on my own.
EVIE
You should have never felt alone
ALEX
But I was, and always have been.
EVIE
You are so loved Alex
ALEX
Love is pretend, its circumstantial
EVIE
You won’t be like him
ALEX
What?
EVIE
You won’t be like him, to that child
ALEX
Don’t you think I know that.
(beat)
that’s not what this is. This “thing”, will be better off not knowing who I am.
EVIE
81
Then why didn’t you terminate when you had the chance?
(beat)
It’s because you know, somewhere deep down you want this. You know that this child could save you.
ALEX
(She explodes with outrage) There it is again, “save me”. I’m not a victim mom, I don’t need some knight in
shining armour or some child to “save me”.
EVIE
Alex –
ALEX
Actually, I take it back -
EVIE
What?
ALEX
I don’t forgive you; how could I ever forgive you. Your cowardice, your inability to step up and do
something, caused all of this. You deserve guilt, you deserve to drown in it.
EVIE
I know what I did, and I will live with that Alex until the day I die
ALEX
Well, I suppose there’s only one way you won’t feel guilty then
(Alex picks up her coat and storms out. Evie rubs her chest and reaches into her cardigan for her
pills, there is only one left. She swallows the pill with a glass of water)
Alex enters the street where Benny is seen waiting for her. Benny appears to be drunk and irate. He has
clearly been standing for a while in the cold night.
Both are drunk.
BENNY
Hey
ALEX
Not now
BENNY
Alex, talk to me
ALEX
We have nothing to talk about
82
BENNY
C’mon, there’s no reason why we can’t sort this out, I’ve got a lot going on and I need you / on side
ALEX
seriously?
(He attempts to walk past but is halted to a stop as Benny steps in front of him.)
BENNY
Just stop, it wasn’t personal.
(Alex again tries to walk away, this time in the opposite direction.)
Don’t turn your back on me!
ALEX
Fuck you Benny, you’re a cheat…in every sense of the word.
BENNY
What?
ALEX
Do you think for a moment I don’t know what’s going on between you and her?
BENNY
It was you.. How’d you do it huh? Pick yourself up a camcorder? Waited in the bushes like some perv
ALEX
I have no idea what you’re saying. You’re crazy if you think the whole office doesn’t know.
BENNY
I’m crazy?! You’re the one shaking like a fucking loon!
ALEX
The only person who seems to be oblivious to it all is your wife.
BENNY
So that’s the way you’re going to play this
ALEX
You know what, you deserve everything you get. You can rise to the top, but you can do it without a family.
83
(She walks back to the house.)
BENNY
Just because you’ve thrown your life away you didn’t have to screw with mine. Not now that I’m finally on
track.
ALEX
Is that what you call screwing the boss… on track? Go pack your bags Benny.
BENNY
I have a kid. You’re the reason she’ll be growing up without a dad at home.
ALEX
You did that all by yourself.
BENNY
Bull shit…You don’t even know what you’re doing, nobody does. But I know, for some reason, somewhere
along the line you’ve seen my marriage as an easy target.
ALEX
(She chuckles and begins to open the door.)
I’m done with this.
BENNY
(He grabs Alex by the collar and throws her away from the door.)
No you’re not
ALEX
Screw you Benny
BENNY
You'll ruin everything for me!
Evie has heard the disturbance and now appears at the door, her worry is apparent.
EVIE
Is everything okay out here!
BENNY
yes it’s fine, go back inside Evie
EVIE
Alex?
BENNY
Go Inside!
84
EVIE
I’m calling the police.
(She quickly disappears back inside the house.)
BENNY
See what you did, do you see the problems you cause? How hard you make everything.
(Alex shrugs and attempts to get passed Benny)
Go on then, just run away. At least then the only life you’ll be ruining is your own.
ALEX
I hope you and the boss are happy together.
BENNY
You piece of shit.
(He hurls Alex to the floor where she begins to laugh. Benny is disgusted by her, he opens his bottle
of vodka and begins to pour it over her)
Is this what you want Alex? Go ahead, kill yourself, do everyone a favour!
EVIE
Benny stop it.
BENNY
I don’t / deserve this
EVIE
Stop it!
BENNY
Stay out / of this.
EVIE
For god’s sake stop it!
(Evie hits the bottle from Benny’s hand, it smashes on the floor, he pushes her back.)
BENNY
One day, you’ll wake up and realise that everything you touch has turned to shit!
85
(Alex realises her bottle has smashed. She picks it up and attacks Benny, slicing his hand. There is
a menace in Alex’s eye that frightens Benny and herself.)
(Evie holds her chest and slowly falls against the door. Her breathing is heavy and she appears to
be in pain. She attempts to scream but can’t make a noise. They turn to see Evie in distress and
quickly rush toward her.)
ALEX
Mom!
SCENE 4: HOSPITAL – EARLY MORNING

Alex sits by an empty bed, motionless, stunned, it has consumed her
DOCTOR
We did all we could. (Alex doesn’t respond) She was sick, she was for quite some time.
ALEX
Why didn’t she tell me?
DOCTOR
She’ll have had her reasons
(Alex nods)
Here’s some of the stuff she had on her when you brought her here. They should be with you. (Alex looks
down at her belongings that have been placed in a sealed bag). Listen, there’s some things you need to
sign before you leave, but take your time, I’ll be by the desk.
ALEX
I need some fresh air
DOCTOR
Take all the time you need
ALEX
Thank you
BENNY
Alex what’s happened? Alex please is she okay? (He notices the bag of belongings) No, no she can’t be.
Please, no.
86
ALEX
She’s gone (she starts to cry, Benny attempts to hug her) Don’t come near me. If it wasn’t for you she’d still
be alive, if it wasn’t for what we did, she’d still be here.
(beat)
I don’t want to see you again
BENNY
We need to stick / together
ALEX
I don’t want to see you again Benny. I don’t want anything to do with you.
BENNY
Alex –
ALEX
Leave me alone!
BENNY
Okay. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.
[9] Proud of Me
ALEX
YOU PUSHED AND YOU NAGGED

AND YOU WORRIED ABOUT HEALTH
YOU SHOUTED AND YOU CRIED
YES, YOU BROUGHT THIS ON YOURSELF
IF YOU’D SIMPLY LET IT GO
WE WOULDN'T BE IN THIS POSITION
IF YOU FOCUSED ON ‘YOUR’ LIFE
INSTEAD OF MAKING ME YOU’RE MISSION
TOOK A MOMENT TO LET UP
SOMETIME TO LET ME BE
IF YOU CARED ABOUT YOURSELF
INSTEAD OF CARING ABOUT ME
YOU’D BE ALIVE
YOU WOULD BE HERE
BUT NOW YOU'RE GONE
YOU'RE GONE AND I’M STILL HERE
SO MANY TRYING YEARS HAVE PAST

WITH ONLY YOU AND ME
I REMEMBER ALL OF THEM THROUGH THE YEARS
AND WHAT YOU DID FOR ME
NO ONE COULD MEND MY BROKEN HEART

87
AS YOU DID CONSTANTLY
TIME CAN MOVE THE MOUNTAINS BUT TIME CAN'T CHANGE
THE WAY WE USED TO BE
MAYBE TIME WILL MEND THIS

MAYBE TIME WILL MAKE THEM SEE
I CAN’T BRING YOU BACK
BUT I CAN MAKE YOU PROUD OF ME
I CAN'T GIVE UP ON HER JUST LIKE THAT

I WILL DO THIS WITHOUT YOU
I’LL GET THIS BACK ON TRACK
MY LOVE IS ENDLESS
AND I’LL LOVE HER TILL IM GONE
I NEED TO MAKE AMENDS NOW
I NEED TO CARRY ON
MAYBE TIME WILL MEND THIS
I CAN’T BRING YOU BACK
BUT I CAN MAKE HER PROUD OF ME
MAYBE IN TIME THEY’LL FORGIVE

BUT I’LL KEEP TRYING, CONSTANTLY
DESPITE WHAT I HAVE DONE
I WILL MAKE YOU PROUD OF ME
SCENE 5: OUTSIDE GRAND CENTRAL - MORNING
Sarah is standing with her daughter who is preoccupied with her doll. Benny approaches, soaked to the
bone, looking distressed.
BENNY
I’m sorry I’m late. I haven’t slept. Last night –
SARAH
We’ve been standing here in the rain for -, you know what, never mind, I don’t want to hear excuses
BENNY
That’s not what I’m trying to tell you
SARAH
The train is leaving in fifteen minutes -
BENNY
Sarah don’t do this
SARAH
I don’t want to
88
BENNY
Then don’t
SARAH
You’ve giving me no choice. Anyway, we aren’t talking about that now. I have a very upset little girl here,
who needs her daddy’s reassurance that everything is going to be okay
BENNY
But I don’t know that
SARAH
For once in your life Benny, will you put someone’s feelings before your own
BENNY
(he nods) How long do I have with her?
SARAH
Five, ten minutes tops
BENNY
Okay
(beat)
Does she know –
SARAH
She only knows that you’re having to work more and that we are going on vacation to grandma’s house.
BENNY
Thank you
SARAH
I didn’t do it for you. Go and talk to her. Let her know everything is going to be okay.
BENNY
I’m so sorry Sarah, I love you
(she walks away, leaving Benny with Lucy. He sits beside her; she cuddles him and holds onto his
hand.)
[10] The Right Time

89
BENNY
It’s going to be okay Lucy, daddy promises.
BENNY
RAIN FALLS DOWN AROUND ME,
RESTS THERE BY MY FEET,
THE CROSSWALKS ARE FLOODED NOW,
AS THE COLD REDDENS YOUR CHEEKS.
I’M HOLDING ON TO TIME,

WHILE YOU’RE HOLDING ON TO MY LITTLE FINGER,
AND I KNOW IT’S TRUE,
ALTHOUGH IT’S HARD, I’LL DO WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU.
BUT YOU’LL BE GONE, SO LONG,

AND IF YOU CALL, I’LL LEAP UP,
PACK SOME CLOTHES UP,
CATCH THE NEXT TRAIN,
AND BRING YOU BACK HOME.
COS’ TIME WONT STOP,

IT WON’T WAIT,
TIME WON’T HESITATE,
BUT IN TIME,
I KNOW YOU WILL FIND ME,
I KNOW I WILL FIND YOU,
IF WE WAIT, FOR THE RIGHT TIME.
UNFAMILIAR STREETS, AND UNFAMILIAR PLACES,

I’M TRACING ALL THOSE UNFAMILIAR FACES JUST TO FIND YOU.
COS’ YOU’LL BE GONE, SO LONG,

BUT IF YOU CALL, I’LL LEAP UP,
PACK SOME CLOTHES UP,
CATCH THE NEXT TRAIN,
AND BRING YOU BACK HOME.

IT WON’T WAIT,
TIME WON’T HESITATE,
BUT IN TIME,
MAYBE YOU WILL FIND ME,
MAYBE I WILL FIND YOU,
IF WE WAIT –

IT WON’T WAIT,
TIME WON’T HALT,
IT WON’T HESITATE
BUT IN TIME,
I PRAY YOU WILL FIND ME,
I PRAY I WILL FIND YOU,
IF WE WAIT.
His child is taken from him, he waves and comes to realisation it might be the last time for a while.
90
COS’ LITTLE BIRDS,
THEY SPREAD THEIR WINGS,
THEY FIND THAT THERE ARE OTHER THINGS,
THERE’S RED SHOES AND THERE’S YELLOW BRICK ROADS,
THERE’S FRIENDSHIPS BUT THERE’S TIMES THAT YOUR ALONE,
AND WITHOUT ME, YOU’LL FIND YOUR NEW HOME.
SCENE 6: CEMETARY – MID-DAY

Alex stands by her mother’s graveside, the crowds begin to leave, Alex is left alone. William approaches
Alex who has her back turned to him. He is holding an umbrella, Alex stands in the rain.
WILLIAM
I’m sorry to hear about your mother, she was a good person
ALEX
The best
WILLIAM
I wanted to call… I saw it in the paper… but –
ALEX
I understand
WILLIAM
Are you okay?
ALEX
I’m getting there. I have a little clarity now
WILLIAM
What do you mean?
(she turns around, William sees that she is pregnant)
Alex, what is that?
ALEX
I didn’t want you finding out like this
WILLIAM
Are you? Is that?
ALEX
I’m pregnant William.
91
WILLIAM
Congratulations
ALEX
It’s yours.
WILLIAM
Okay, okay, okay, okay, yeah… okay, so that’s… okay
ALEX
Is it?
WILLIAM
What?
ALEX
Is it okay?
WILLIAM
Yeah (he smiles) it is, it really is
ALEX
There’s something else
WILLIAM
Go on
ALEX
The reason why we broke up
WILLIAM
We don’t need to go into that again
ALEX
No… no we do. I’ve been going to some meetings
WILLIAM
Meetings?
ALEX
They talk about the importance of honesty, and truthfully, I’ve been telling a lie for as long as I can
remember.
92
WILLIAM
You’re starting to scare me Alex
ALEX
I’m an alcoholic William. I’m an alcoholic.
(he’s silent)
I’ve never said that aloud before. Before you say anything, I don’t expect anything from you. You don’t need
to be there for me or even the –
WILLIAM
I want to be
ALEX
Sorry?
WILLIAM
I want to be there for you
ALEX
(she smiles) Okay
WILLIAM
When did you… sorry, I don’t know what to say or what not to say… when did you last –
ALEX
drink?
WILLIAM
Yeah
ALEX
6 days ago, the night my mom…
WILLIAM
And is that it now, you’re not drinking again?
ALEX
It’s not that easy
WILLIAM
But with you being (he gestures towards her stomach) and we need to make sure –
93
ALEX
I swear to you, I’m going to do everything in my power to protect this baby. I swear to you that I am going to
try with all my heart.
WILLIAM
That’s good
ALEX
But I can’t promise you I will always be strong enough; I can’t promise you that it will never happen again.
I’m so sorry William, but I can’t.
WILLIAM
I can’t ask anymore from you than what you have already promised and when you’re feeling weak, I’ll be
there to make you feel strong again. That’s my promise.
ALEX
I’m sorry I didn’t tell you, I didn’t know how to cope with it. (she breaks down) I’ve been in such a bad place.
WILLIAM
Hey, I’m here, I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.
ALEX
But your work
WILLIAM
I’m more than happy to stand still here
(beat)
if you are standing here with me. (Alex smiles) what?
ALEX
You’re my star
WILLIAM
You’re such a nerd
Benny enters his office to be greeted by Diane and three other individuals who are sat close. They look
serious, which causes Benny to be concerned. A portable tv with video player is set up.
BENNY
94
What’s going on?
DIANE
Thank you for getting here so promptly Benjamin
BENNY
I’m a little surprised, to be here. What are they for?
DIANE
They are just here for support
BENNY
Support who?
DIANE
It’s come to our attention, that you have been making advances on some of the staff
BENNY
Advances?
DIANE
Inappropriate advances.
BENNY
Who’s said this?
DIANE
We have received evidence of such harassment taking place against Miss Hereford
BENNY
What’s Jane said and what evidence?
DIANE
It appears, when conducting your inappropriate behaviour toward Miss Hereford, you were not aware of the
CCTV within her office.
BENNY
You’ve got to be kidding me
(they play footage of Benny and Jane in the office, Benny goes to kiss Jane, she pushes him away
and slaps him)
That’s taken out of context

DIANE
95
Miss Hereford was particularly taken back by your actions. Consequently, she is now taking a leave of
absence to get over the trauma of it all.
BENNY
Trauma? It was an affair, she wanted it.
DIANE
I find your wording to be incredibly disconcerting Benjamin. I think it would be best for the firm, and your
future career prospects, if you go quietly.
BENNY
This is outrageous. She’s framed me. She wanted it more than me, we used one another.
DIANE
I will not give you this offer again Benjamin. You go quietly or we take the legal route. That way is pretty
loud and mud sticks.
BENNY
I’ll fight this, I’ll take you to court.
DIANE
That’s fine, we happen to have quite a few lawyers who could step up to the plate. Just like you, they are all
wanting to climb the ladder and will work hard to do it.
BENNY
She can’t do this, you can’t do this
DIANE
I can do what I want
BENNY
She’s got stuff on you too you know
DIANE
Your ramblings are not worth anything now, please just go
BENNY
All the inappropriate discussions, the harassment, the looks. Everyone knows what you are
DIANE
It’s time for you to leave Benjamin. Take in the glorious views of the district one last time, who knows when
you’ll next get a chance.
BENNY
It will come out, I’ll make sure of it
96
DIANE
If you say anything to slander my name, to hurt this firm. I’ll make sure you never work again. You hear me.
BENNY
You’ll not get away with this
BOSS
Perhaps you’ll find a job a few floors down… on your way out.
Frankie bursts through the door, the group turns to see him stumble in clearly an intoxicated state. He is
laughing and mumbling to himself. Wendy stands up to take action.
WENDY
Frankie?
FRANKIE
No, Frankie slept in today. You are in the presence of his evil twin brother Doctor… (he struggles to
formulate a name) Frankie
WENDY
Frankie -
FRANKIE
Doctor!
WENDY
(reluctantly) Doctor Frankie, have you been drinking again?
FRANKIE
Only since the moment I awoke this morning, probably the same as the rest of you fucking losers
WENDY
Sit down or leave, we won’t have that sort of language here
FRANKIE
I’m not here to take a seat
ALEX
I’ll take him home
97
FRANKIE
No you will not take me home, I’m not a child, I’m capable of looking after myself.
ALEX
Clearly not
FRANKIE
What was that?
ALEX
If you were capable of looking after yourself you wouldn't be in this state would you. Let me take you home.
FRANKIE
You would like that wouldn't you, slut?
WENDY
Frankie, Alex is your friend.
FRANKIE
Alex is a mess, just another failure amongst a bucket of failures. Yeah you heard me, everyone of you,
failure, failure, failure.
WENDY
Please stop this.
FRANKIE
You think I like coming here every week being judged by all of you. You think I’m under you all, is that it?
WENDY
You know that isn't the case
FRANKIE
Stop telling me what I do and do not know. You're not in my head; you don’t know what I’ve been through.
ALEX
Then tell us!
WENDY
Alex!
ALEX
Stop feeding us bullshit and actually tell us what’s your deal! Because I’ve had enough of it.
FRANKIE
98
You’ve had enough?
WENDY
I think we should take a small break and -
ALEX
Yes, I’ve had enough! Every time I’ve come here, you lie, and the group has got no further forward in
knowing what’s your problem.
FRANKIE
Leave me alone
ALEX
Oh so now he goes quiet, now the big man has ran out of words…
FRANKIE
I said leave it
ALEX
What’s so bad you cant tell the rest of the group, what’s so fucking haunting that the rest of us can’t hear it.
Would it scare us Frankie, would it chill us to the bone?! Or would we laugh just like at every other fucking
thing you have told us since you've wasted your time coming here. Please tell us about how ugly your wife
is again. Or how she screwed the postman, or how she is actually a -
FRANKIE
I don’t have a wife, I never did
WENDY
Then why do you lie, you know this is a circle of trust?
FRANKIE
Every one of you has a story, a reason for why you do what you do, for why you’re addicted to this fucking
shit. I don’t have that. I don’t have a story or a reason. You know at least a bit of fucking trauma would
make sense of this hell. But I don’t. God just… he just decided that my life shouldn’t be gifted with the same
privilege as others. He just decided that when I drink an ounce of alcohol, I can’t bring myself to stop. He
did that to me. What sick son of a bitch would do that to someone?
(beat)
You all make me sick. You don’t need to sit here and talk about what went wrong, it’s obvious. Accept the
shit you’ve been through and get over it. Move on.
(beat)
99
Are you all happy now? Have I given you a warm glow within yourselves? Oh and the truth shall set you
free. Praise the Lord, Frankie can be saved.
ALEX
Come on
FRANKIE
Well fuck God and fuck the heavens. He can sit there on his high pedestal, judging us all.
Murdering at will. But I’m not leaving anything up to him. My fate is my own.
(He reaches into his chest pocket; the group assumes he is going to pull out a weapon.)
WENDY
He’s got a gun
(Instead he reveals his hand, now shaped like a gun. Frankie is convinced however that he does
hold the weapon in his hand.)
ALEX
Frankie what are you doing?
FRANKIE
God does not control my hand, I do! I am in control.
ALEX
That is your hand Frankie
FRANKIE
I know! The lord has no control over it or me, or my mind, or my ability to end my own fucking existence!
ALEX
You don’t have a gun, you’re just making a gun shape with your hand
FRANKIE
And with this gun I hold in my hand
ALEX
Frankie!
FRANKIE
(He aims his hand at his head)
I am my own saviour!
100
(He mimes a firing action. Nothing happens the group goes quiet. Frankie then realises what he
has done. He breaks down)
(silence)
I’m sorry, I’m so sorry
(He runs out. Alex gets up to go but stops in her tracks. Her waters break)
WENDY
Alex is everything okay? Alex –
ALEX
It’s too soon. It’s too soon.
WENDY
Come on let’s get you out of here
ALEX
I need William, please get William, tell him I’m sorry, tell him I’m so sorry
WENDY
Alex, calm down
ALEX
I knew this would happen. I knew this would happen
WENDY
You’re hyperventilating Alex, please just calm down, it’s going to be okay
ALEX
I can’t breathe, I can’t –
(blackout)
SCENE 9: THE HOSPITAL – EVENING
Alex wakes up in a hospital ward, she is in a gown and is immediately shocked by her surroundings. She
begins to panic and attempts to get out of her bed, noticing blood on her gown as she lifts the sheet.
ALEX
101
Where am I? What’s happened? I can’t feel her, I can’t feel my baby
NURSE 1
Alex its fine, you’ve been through a lot, please stay on the bed
ALEX
I cant feel her anymore. Where’s William? Is she okay? Please tell me she’s okay
NURSE 2
Your baby was premature, we’ve done all we could do –
WILLIAM
Alex
ALEX
William, thank god, please… Please tell me she’s okay
WILLIAM
I can take it from here, thank you.
ALEX
William?
WILLIAM
She’s okay. She’s small, and they are keeping a very close eye on her. But she’s okay, she’s fighting.
ALEX
I did this to her
WILLIAM
We don’t know that
ALEX
I did, I did. I didn’t want her. So I –
WILLIAM
Alex, stop this. Stop this blaming. Blaming you, blaming others, please just stop. She’s fighting and she is
incredible. Just like her mom.
ALEX
I want to see her.
WILLIAM
And you can. But let’s have the doctor just check over you first okay? You lost a lot of blood.
102
ALEX
Okay, then we can -
WILLIAM
Then we can go down together.
(Alex’s phone rings, she picks it up and sees that it is an unknown number, she declines)
You might actually want to get that. It’s been ringing pretty constantly. You have a few voicemails. I’ll go get
the doctor.
(William leaves, Alex picks up her phone and listens to the voicemail. William re-enters)
The doctors popping down shortly. So, who was it?
ALEX
It was the hospital
WILLIAM
This hospital?
ALEX
Yeah.
WILLIAM
What about?
ALEX
It’s Frankie
SCENE 10: OUTSIDE JANE’S APARTMENT - EVENING

Benny is standing outside a block of apartments; he is aggravated and visibly drunk.
BENNY
Get down here, get down here you bitch
(He’s his ringing her apartment number, angrily)
I know you’re in there
(Jane notices Benny at the door as she returns home. She is standing with her groceries)
103
JANE
Benny?
BENNY
There she is
JANE
I don’t think you should be here
BENNY
how could you? Why would you? You knew what this was
JANE
I’m not talking to you while you’re like this
BENNY
Well, you don’t have a choice
JANE
If you touch me, I’ll scream
BENNY
What because you’re such a victim?
JANE
Go home Benny
BENNY
Thanks to you I don’t know what that is anymore
JANE
I don’t care where you go, just go away from here
BENNY
Why didn’t you say anything when that video - You know that was out of context
JANE
Look, your wife was bound to find out one way or another. The video was the most efficient. You getting
fired was a bonus.
BENNY
It was you, you told her
JANE
Well technically a video did. True I posted it, but trust me, she’s better off without you.
(Jane opens her door and puts her groceries, inside.)
BENNY
How can you live with yourself?
JANE
What did you say?
BENNY
104
You really are a malicious bitch aren’t you
JANE
and what are you? C’mon, I’m clearly the slut, the tart, the other woman. What are you? The innocent party
BENNY
You did this to me
JANE
You did this to me Benny. You did this to me god damn it. You used me.
BENNY
We used each other
JANE
No Benny, No!
(He’s taken back by her anger)
Did you expect me to just accept it? Roll over and carry on; like it meant nothing to me, like you didn’t hurt
me.
BENNY
Don’t start pretending to have a heart now
JANE
When was I ever pretending otherwise? What, because I’m a stone-faced bitch at work? Do you know how
hard it is for a woman to make it in this day and age? I am what I need to be.
BENNY
You couldn’t bear being second choice could you?
JANE
I couldn’t bear being used by yet another man, who does what he wants to get what he wants. Once a
cheat forever a cheat. Your wife deserved to know.
BENNY
You’ve ruined my life
JANE
You did that all by yourself Benny. You hurt me. I loved you
BENNY
Get over yourself
JANE
Oh, I know how stupid I was to let myself feel like that. Trust me! But I did. What, does that surprise you?
(he doesn’t answer)
I’m a person, not a steppingstone. You hurt me. Everyone you touch you hurt. This hasn’t been easy for
me. I knew none of this was okay, I knew that I was dreaming. But I thought we were both in it together.
You used me. Picked me up and threw me away when you were done with me.
BENNY
105
But you didn’t have to -
JANE
It’s too late, it’s far too late.
BENNY
Jane –
JANE
If you touch me, I’ll scream.
BENNY
But –
JANE
I want you to go, and I never want to see you again. You are the most selfish man I have ever met. I’m
better off without you.
(he leaves)
[11] Just A Toy
JANE
I’M NOT JUST A DOLL
I’M NOT JUST SOMEONE YOU CAN PICK UP AND PLAY WITH WHEN YOU’RE FEELING DOWN
I’M NOT JUST A DOLL
AND I’M NOT JUST A TOY
NOW YOU’VE HAD YOUR GO YOU CAN GET A NEW PLAYTHING AND PLAY AROUND TOWN
I’M LEFT ON THE GROUND, WHO’D WANT ME AROUND
I’M LEFT ON THE GROUND, JUST LOOK AT ME NOW
YOU SAW ME AS SIMPLE, LIKE AN OBJECT YOU COULD USE ME
YOU DRESSED ME UP AND KNOCKED ME DOWN, YOU CARED FOR AND ABUSED ME
YOU WERE JUST THE ONE, WHO’D BREAK MY HEART AND THEN YOU’D BREAK FREE
THOUGHT YOU WERE THE ONE, BUT I WAS STUPID TO ASSUME, SEE
I AM STANDING HERE
HURT AND ALONE
I AM STANDING HERE
106
HURT AND ON MY OWN
I’M NOT AFTER ANOTHER BOY… I’M NOT JUST A TOY
I’M MORE THAN A STONE
I’M NOT JUST SOMEONE YOU CAN STEP ON AND STEP UP TO GET WHAT YOU WANT
I’M NOT JUST A STONE
AND I HAVE A HEART
ALTHOUGH IT WAS HIDDEN YOU STILL FOUND A REASON TO TEAR IT APART
AND WHERE SHOULD I START, NOW I’VE PLAYED MY PART
WHERE SHOULD I START, WITH MY BROKEN HEART
YOU SAW ME AS EASY, LIKE A KEYBOARD YOU COULD PLAY ON
YOU FOUND THE PERFECT MELODY, YOU FOUND THE PERFECT LOVE SONG
ONCE YOU HAD YOUR HIT, THEN YOU DECIDED YOU COULD MOVE ON
BUT I CAN FIX THESE BROKEN KEYS, I WILL BREATH AND STAY STRONG
I AM STANDING HERE
HURT AND ALONE
I AM STANDING HERE
HURT AND ON MY OWN
I’M NOT AFTER ANOTHER BOY… I’M NOT JUST A TOY
SCENE 11: THE HOSPITAL – EVENING
Alex walks tentatively to the ward reception. She is wearing a dressing gown and trainers. A nurse stands
behind the desk, laughing away with her colleagues.
ALEX
I missed some calls. About a Frankie Moore.
(They all stop laughing)
NURSE 2
107
Alex Garrett right
ALEX
Right
NURSE 2
Give me two minutes, I’ll just -
(She goes to use her phone then notices a young doctor walking past)
oh wait, Dr Pierce. This is Alex Garrett. The contact we had for Mr Moore.
DOCTOR 2
Okay, thank you Susan. (To Alex), would you like to come with me?
ALEX
What’s happened? What’s he done?
DOCTOR 2
He’s had an accident
ALEX
An accident? Why did you ring me?
DOCTOR 2
You were the only number we had for him; you were the only card in his wallet. We wanted to be able to
identify him.
ALEX
He’s not dead though, is he?
DOCTOR 2
No, he’s not dead. But the accident was serious. He was found at the bottom of a staircase, downtown
Manhattan. His spine experienced severe trauma; leaving some of his vertebrae dislocated and fractured.
ALEX
But he’s alive, he’s okay? He’s going to be okay?
DOCTOR 2
There was significant injury to his spinal cord in his lower back meaning that his brain can no longer
regulate reflex activity –
ALEX
So, what are you saying?
108
DOCTOR 2
I’m saying Mr Moore is paralysed from the waist down. I’m sorry.
ALEX
My god
DOCTOR 2
I understand this must be hard to take in
ALEX
Does he know?
DOCTOR 2
He woke up about an hour ago… he knows.
ALEX
Can I see him?
DOCTOR 2
Of course go in.
FRANKIE
Hey Carrot Garrett
ALEX
Frankie, I’m sorry
FRANKIE
Don’t be. You didn’t do this to me. Turns out you can do quite a bit of damage to yourself on a sidewalk. If
stairs are involved. What’s with the gown?
(he realises)
It’s early. Is the baby okay? It’s because of me isn’t it, I shocked you didn’t I?
ALEX
Its’ because of no one, especially not you. And she’s okay.
FRANKIE
She?
ALEX
Her name’s Stella… it means star in latin or something. Born September 8th 2001, 3 pounds 2 ounces…
She’s beautiful and she’s a fighter.
109
FRANKIE
Just like her mom.
(beat)
ALEX
Frankie, this is awful
FRANKIE
This was inevitable. I’m sorry they rang you, when I woke up, I told them I was fine by myself.
ALEX
You’re not alone though
FRANKIE
I am, I am. Truth is, I’ve always been dependent on people; I’ve always ran away from my problems. This,
ladies and gentlemen is what you call poetic justice.
ALEX
Don’t talk like that
FRANKIE
Get yourself right Alex, for you and that baby. Get yourself right. This addiction, it’ll kill ya.
ALEX
You aren’t dead, there’s still a life out there.
FRANKIE
I know I’m alive, that fella in the sky made sure of that.
ALEX
You were lucky
FRANKIE
Was I?
ALEX
Listen, I’ve got to go. Is there anyone I can call?
FRANKIE
Not a soul. You know, I was transferred to New York when in prison. On the day I was released, I had
nothing going for me back home, so I just stuck around. I figured I’d make a life for me here. How dumb I
was...
110
ALEX
You shouldn’t be alone
FRANKIE
I want to be. Seriously, I need to be alone right now.
ALEX
Well then… you best make sure you keep my card. I’m here for you Frankie, day and night, I’m here for
you.
FRANKIE
Thank you. I don’t deserve it, but I appreciate it.
SCENE 12: ALEX’S HOME – EARLY MORNING
There is a knock at the door, Sarah waits frantically on the other side for it to be answered. She knocks
again, this time more constant and desperate.
ALEX
I’m coming, give me a minute
(Alex opens the door)
Sarah?
SARAH
Thank god you’re in
ALEX
what’s happened?
SARAH
It’s Benny
ALEX
I want nothing to do with him, if he’s sending you to grovel on his behalf, I’ve already told him -
SARAH
I can’t find him. I can’t find him anywhere.
ALEX
What do you mean you can find him? Just ring his cell and ask him where he is.
SARAH
You really think I’m dumb don’t you
ALEX
You know I don’t
SARAH
111
I’ve tried ringing him, I’ve tried ringing his parents, his friends. I’ve tried everything. I haven’t heard from
him for a week.
ALEX
What do you want me to do about it?
SARAH
Alex, he’s your friend, surely your -
ALEX
Was. He was my friend. He’s on his own.
SARAH
We don’t exactly get along, but I thought you were better than this
ALEX
I’m sorry to disappoint. I’m finally getting back on track, I don’t need him ruining it for me by coming back
into my life
SARAH
So he is an inconvenience to you? He could be hurt Alex, or worse he could be -
ALEX
Don’t get yourself upset. If I know Benny he’s probably working late again. Have you tried the firm?
SARAH
He was fired from the firm
ALEX
Fired, but he just got a promotion
SARAH
I’m worried Alex, I’m really worried
ALEX
I can’t help you
SARAH
Please
ALEX
Look I’ve got a kid now, and she’s struggling. I need to be there for her. Not chasing after him. Surely that
baby is coming any day now. Do yourself a favour and get on with your life. You’re well rid
SARAH
Regardless of what I or you have against him. His children deserve a dad. I’ll look for him myself.
ALEX
Sarah, don’t be like that
SARAH
I’m so pleased your back on track Alex and getting well. Benny did actually try and help you, he has done
for years. At some point people can’t give anymore. Nice to see his years of effort have been rewarded.
ALEX
You don’t understand
SARAH
112
I do. If you do see him, please find the empathy within you somewhere and call me. Let me know
he’s okay. Goodbye Alex
WILLIAM
What was that?
ALEX
It was Sarah, Benny’s gone missing.
WILLIAM
Should we get out there and help look
ALEX
He’s not my problem
WILLIAM
Then whose is he?
ALEX
Not mine
WILLIAM
I see
ALEX
What?
WILLIAM
You told me once that you can’t run away from your problems
ALEX
I’m not running away from them
WILLIAM
You’re not confronting them
ALEX
Like you can talk
WILLIAM
I can talk
ALEX
What about your dad’s work?
WILLIAM
When I decided to stay here with you, I decided to step into my dad’s footsteps and run the business. On
one condition.
ALEX
Which was?
WILLIAM
I did it from here, the business is pretty important in regard to world trade, so it made sense.
ALEX
You didn’t tell me
113
WILLIAM
I was planning to, but then came the early labour. It wasn’t the right time.
ALEX
Why aren’t you at work now?
WILLIAM
You and Stella need me. I was meant to start this week but I pushed it back a month. Anyway, I decided I
couldn’t move forward with my life until I decided to finally confront what I’d been running from.
ALEX
That’s different and you know it
WILLIAM
Is it? Benny was a friend once; he could be in trouble.
ALEX
And he could be just fine
WILLIAM
Just, don’t do something you’ll regret later. I’m going to head down to the hospital. Think about it.
(He leaves, Alex notices he’s left his red hoody on the side, she picks it up)
ALEX
Don’t forget your -
(William is out of sight, a ring box falls out the pocket on the floor, she picks it up and studies it. Alex smiles,
takes a deep breath in, puts on the red hoody, puts the ring back in the pocket and leaves the house.)
Diane enters her office to be greeted by Jane and three other individuals who are sat close. They look
serious, which causes Diane to be concerned.
DIANE
What’s going on?
JANE
Thank you for getting here so promptly Diane
DIANE
What the hell’s going on? What are they for?
JANE
They are just here for support
DIANE
Support who? This has to be a joke. Get back to your office.
114
JANE
It’s come to our attention, that you have been making advances on some of the staff
DIANE
Advances?
JANE
Inappropriate advances.
DIANE
You can stop this now Jane. Everyone get back to work.
JANE
You can’t get away with this anymore. The other female colleagues and I are speaking up.
DIANE
Female colleagues, I’m happily married. This is ridiculous.
JANE
It appears, when conducting your inappropriate behaviour toward these staff members, you were not aware
of the CCTV, and other witnesses present.
DIANE
You’ve got to be kidding me
JANE
Not at all, it’s all in an email. By all means, have a look
(She runs over to her computer and checks her emails. She watches the screen in panic)
Where’s Steven; I need to talk to him?

JANE
Steven Raynor, the other partner in this firm, is fully aware of what’s been happening. He’s deciding to
distance himself from the situation. Afterall, mud sticks.
DIANE
Just who do you think you are.
JANE
Me? I’m the new partner of this firm.
DIANE
This is outrageous.
115
JANE
I will not give you this offer again Diane. You go quietly or we take the legal route; obviously we will give
you a good payout.
DIANE
He can’t do this, you can’t do this
JANE
I can do what I want. It’s time for you to leave Diane. Take in the glorious views of the district one last time,
who knows when you’ll next get a chance.
DIANE
You’ll not get away with this
JANE
Perhaps you’ll find a job a few floors down… on your way out.
SCENE 14: INSIDE THE CENTRE – AFTERNOON
A spotlight falls on a lonely, remorseful character, she looks into the audience, she sits in a red hoodie and
jeans. It’s Alex.
ALEX
So that’s where I am, that’s everything. I needed to come here today, I needed to talk, to get it all off my
chest. I don’t want to risk anything putting me back to where I was. It’s already cost so much.
(The light comes up on the rest of the group)
WENDY
Thank you for finally opening up Alex and practicing with the group
(Frankie enters the group in a wheelchair, he looks cleaner, calmer and sobre.)
FRANKIE
So, what about Benny?
WENDY
Frankie is that you?
FRANKIE
Yeah, it’s me, I left my brother at home (he smiles)
WENDY
116
It’s so lovely to see you / again
FRANKIE
What about Benny?
ALEX
What about him?
FRANKIE
You know you can’t move forward until you’ve confronted everything in your life
ALEX
He’s not in my life
FRANKIE
And why’s that?
ALEX
You know why, I just told you all. (silence) You think I’m doing the wrong thing. I can’t risk him coming back
into my life, I can’t risk what that might do to me
FRANKIE
But your happy to take the risk of not having him in your life. You know I’ve pushed a lot of people away.
True I didn’t throw myself purposely down those stairs. But I knew the drink was going to kill me, one way
or another. I was left with nobody to stop me. Nobody who cared, if I lived or died. But now god has given
me the opportunity to build those bridges. He’s given me the chance to appreciate each day, to make up
for the mistakes I’ve made. What are you going to do Alex?
ALEX
We look in this group at people, places and things. He is one of those people Wendy, he isn’t good for me.
WENDY
Are you sure you aren’t identifying him in this way, to allow yourself the permission to do what you’re
doing?
ALEX
Look at you though Frankie. I can’t go back to drinking.
FRANKIE
Look at me? Oh you mean the wheelchair.
ALEX
It has taken so much from you
FRANKIE
117
It has. Although this accident has taken away the use of my legs, it has given me so much more. It
made me confront what I was afraid to. It made me appreciate what I had. Remember sometimes the
hardest choices, the most difficult paths, bring the greatest reward.
ALEX
Frankie –
FRANKIE
No Alex, please. You’re already starting to shut yourself off to problems, to those around you. You need to
embrace it all. The hate that you have is hurting yourself more than it is him.
ALEX
Things have been said and done that we can’t come back from, I can’t “embrace” it all
FRANKIE
You can
ALEX
How do you know that?
FRANKIE
Because I did
[12] It’s A Day
I WAKE UP EVERY MORNING, AND I

POUR MYSELF CUP OF COFFEE AND SIT DOWN IN THAT CHAIR
WATCH TV FOR THIRTY MINUTES
BREATHE IN THAT COFFEE AND I BREATHE IN THE AIR
AND I FEEL AND MAN I FEEL SO LUCKY
TO LIVE AND BREATHE IT ALL
BECAUSE I KNOW THAT YESTERDAY IS HISTORY
BUT IVE LEARNT, HOWEVER SMALL
THAT IT’S A LIFE, THAT IT’S A DAY

JUST LIKE ANY OTHER DAY
BUT AT LEAST NOW I’M HERE TO SAY
THAT I’M FEELING IT AND I’M HEARING IT
IT SURROUNDS ME AND IT MOVES ME
I’S A DAY, IT’S A DAY, AND I’M HAPPY TO BE LIVING IT
BEFORE I COULDN’T FEEL IT, I WAS

NUMB TO EVERYBODY AND COULDN’T HEAR IT
THE WORLD WAS JUST A FILL’UM, THAT
I CLOSED MY EYES TO COS I LEARNT TO FEAR IT
AND I FEEL AND MAN I FEEL SO LUCKY
TO LIVE AND BREATHE IT ALL
BECAUSE I KNOW THAT YESTERDAY IS HISTORY
BUT I’VE LEARNT, HOWEVER SMALL

118
I’S A DAY, IT’S A DAY, AND I’M HAPPY TO BE LIVING IT
YOU SEE WHEN I WAS ABOUT THIS HIGH I FELT LIKE I COULD TOUCH THE SKY
I’D NEVER DIE AND WONDER WHY SOME WOULD NEVER TRY TO FLY
BUT NOW I SEE WITH OPEN EYES, THE FEAR THAT THEY HELD INSIDE
TO NEVER STEP BEYOND THEIR MARK, TO NEVER EVEN TRY TO START,
THE DRINK DID THAT TO ME YOU SEE, ITS PART,
WAS HAUNTING ALL MY MEMORIES, IT THREW MY FEELINGS IN THE AIR,
BUT KEPT THE ONES THAT HELD ME SCARED,
BUT NOW I’M FURTHER FROM ITS GRASP, I’M FREE TO BE MYSELF AT LAST

IT’S A DAY, IT’S A DAY, AND I’M HAPPY TO BE LIVING IT
FRANKIE AND ALEX
IT’S A LIFE, AND I’LL LIVE TODAY,

JUST LIKE THIS DAY IS MY LAST DAY,
AND I’LL MAKE SURE THAT I CAN SAY
IT’S A DAY, IT’S A DAY, AND I’LL MAKE SURE THAT I’M LIVING IT
FRANKIE
One day at a time, have no regrets.
(Alex’s phone rings)
ALEX
(To Frankie) thank you.
(she answers, it’s Sarah)
Sarah, calm down, where has someone seen him
when was this?
I mean, it’s close to where we used to live but I don’t know why he would have -
Sarah, I think I know where he is
Look don’t freak out, but I think he’s by the old skate park
The one by the bridge

119
I said don’t freak out
I’ll meet you there
And Sarah, you were right, I’m sorry
SCENE 15: THE STREETS – NIGHT
Benny walks alone, he looks up at the bridge above. He contemplates the people he has hurt and the path
he has put himself on.
[13] Let It Rain
BENNY
IT NEVER RAINS, BUT IT POURS

THE WAY I NEVER SAW, SAW AT THE TIME
WHEN I WAS BLINDED BY THIS
AND NOW I SEE THAT MY WORLD IT FELL APART
EVERYTIME I CLIMBED THE LADDER, EVERYTIME I CLIMBED UP HIGHER
IT WOULD START, THE BEATING OF MY HEART, THUMPING OUTTA MY CHEST, THE FEELING OF
SUCCESS, WHAT GOOD’S SUCCESS, WHEN YOURE ALONE AT THE TOP, THERES ONLY ONE WAY
LEFT TO STEP, AND YOU TO DROP.
LET IT RAIN, LET IT FALL UPON THE GROUND,

EVERYWHERE I LOOK ITS FILLING UP AND LEAVING ME TO DROWN
LET IT RAIN, TIE THE WEIGHT AROUND MY CHEST,
I AM ON THE BRINK, JUST LET ME SINK AND LEAVE ME THERE TO REST
LET IT RAIN, LET IT POUR

I WONT FIGHT IT ANYMORE
BENNY AND ALEX
LOSING LOVE AND LOSING FRIENDS

WHEN SWITCHING TRACKS, YOULL FIND THAT THERES AN END
AND END TO ALL THE HEARTACHE
IM LOOKING BACK NOW THAT THE WORLD HAS PAUSED
AND I CAN SEE THE DESTRUCTION
I CAN SEE THE DESTRUCTION I HAVE CAUSED
BENNY
120
WITH EVERY CONTRACT SIGNED
BENNY AND ALEX
EVERY TIME I LIED, AND ALL THE THINGS I’D HIDE, BUT WHAT GOOD’S THE RIDE, WHEN YOUR
ALONE ON THE TRACKS, THERES ONLY ONE WAY LEFT TO GO, WHEN LOOKING BACK.
BENNY
LET IT RAIN, LET IT BOLT ME TO THE BED

LET IT FILL MY LUNGS, THE TIME HAS COME, WHAT MORE NOW CAN BE SAID
ALEX
LET IT RAIN, AFTER ALL THAT IVE BEEN THROUGH

IS IT TIME TO SINK? I’M ON THE BRINK, I KNOW WHAT I MUST DO
BENNY AND ALEX

ALEX
That’s it. How can i move on from my past if constantly weighed down by it, how can I reach the surface
and finally breathe? I need to cut free.
BENNY

ALEX
I need to forgive him and me.
BENNY

ALEX
121
ENSEMBLE X4


BENNY AND ALEX
BENNY
Alex enters to see Benny standing on the bridge, his feet are on the edge and he seems to be
contemplating what to do next.
ALEX
Benny? Jesus Christ!
BENNY
just leave me
ALEX
you know I can’t do that
BENNY
why? Because you have a conscious the size of an iceberg, because in helping me you’ll help yourself?
ALEX
you know that isn't true
122
BENNY
you don't care about me, I mean how could you
ALEX
you’re my friend
BENNY
friend? friend? I’m not a friend, if I was, I wouldn't have put my career first, I wouldn't have pushed you and
my family aside
ALEX
friends make mistakes
BENNY
I killed your mom Alex, I mean -
ALEX
stop blaming yourself for that
BENNY
how can I stop blaming myself? How can I get it out of my head? I don't deserve forgiveness
ALEX
everyone deserves forgiveness. My mom was sick. You should never feel responsible for her / death
BENNY
will you leave the self-righteous bullshit for somebody else
ALEX
I'm not being -
BENNY
you are! you fucking are! I’m not a patient of yours, someone who needs your help! I’m no-one!
ALEX
I know you believe that now… because that’s exactly how I felt. Only when I lost those around me did I
realise how loved I was. And to be loved, you have to be someone. You pushed me away, but I keep
coming back to you, because you’re my oldest friend. You are someone who is and has been a big part of
my life and I forgive you Benny… for everything.
BENNY
You’re lying!
ALEX
Then do it
123
BENNY
what?
ALEX
If you’re nobody, then do it? Who’ll miss you?
SARAH
Alex?
ALEX
do it
SARAH
Alex what the hell are you doing?
BENNY
Sarah, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry
ALEX
Do it Benny! You can’t go through life expecting the world to grant you a favour
BENNY
I don't expect anything from the world
ALEX
You’ve been full of hate and anger for so long and you've destroyed yourself because of it. You've never
looked for help because apparently you don’t want it. You know some things are hard benny, not everyone
is given a solution on a silver platter… you have to work for it.
BENNY
You’re seriously trying to push me now… now when I'm at my lowest, now when I'm going to kill myself.
ALEX
If you were you would have done it already, rather than waiting for an audience.
BENNY
I‘ll do it
SARAH
Benny please stop
ALEX
You won’t. You won’t because you want to be rescued, you want help. You don't want to lose everything,
you don't want to lose Sarah, or your beautiful children. You don't want them to grow up without you, but
you don't want her to grow up knowing ‘this’ you.
124
BENNY
They deserve better.
ALEX
There are people out there who understand what you are going through. Be rational, be the best version of
yourself… or throw it all away. Give up, say goodbye to everything and let that be that.
BENNY
I can’t leave my family Alex
ALEX
And you don't need to.
BENNY
I don't know who I am anymore.
ALEX
Then we’ll figure it out together.
BENNY
Why would you?
ALEX
It’s in the past.
BENNY
I know but -
ALEX
Look, I’m gonna come up there, and we’re going to walk down these stairs together.
BENNY
Sarah’s left me… she doesn’t love me anymore
ALEX
but this isn't you Benny, it hasn’t been for a while. And I'm not saying she’s gonna take you back. But how
will you know if you never try? Right now, you need to concentrate on yourself and trust me, its gonna be
hard but that’s what your family needs.
(He slowly rests his hand on Benny’s shoulders.)
First things first, let’s step away from this edge.
(Benny turns and quickly embraces him.)

125
BENNY
I love you
ALEX
I love you too. Now come on!
(They walk down together).
BENNY
I’m so sorry.
ALEX
Leave it Benny. It’s about time we stop living in the past and focus on the now.
(They hear church bells)
BENNY
What’s that?
ALEX
th
Its midnight Benny, September 10 . Your life starts again now, one day at a time.
[14] Only Today
WE LIVE IN THE MOMENT, FORGET ABOUT TOMORROW

TO TURN FROM THE TORMENT TO SILENCE THE SORROW
WE STRIVE FOR A DAY THAT LETS GO OF THE PAST
AND HOPE AND PRAY THAT OUR LIVES WILL LAST
BUT THE SEA IS CHANGING AND THE WAVES THEY WILL LASH
WITH A SUDDEN SNAP THOSE WAVES WILL CRASH
SO BEGIN TODAY TO START THE NEXT
A FIRE BURNS BRIGHT AND STARTS WITH A SPARK

SOMETIMES LIFE SEEMS A WALK IN THE PARK
BUT IT CAN STOP IN A MOMENT AND WELCOME THE DARK
BUT WALK ON BRAVE AND LOVE WITH POWER
AS LOVE WILL SAVE AND LIFE WILL FLOWER
ONE DAY TOMORROW WON’T BE HERE
ONLY TODAY CAN A SOUL BE SAVED

ONLY TODAY CAN TIMES BE CHANGED
ONLY TODAY CAN YOUR LOVE BE FELT
126
ONLY TODAY CAN YOUR FATE BE DEALT
YOU MIGHT HAVE REGRETS

YOU’RE BOUND TO MAKE MISTAKES
BUT STAND UP STRONG AND REALIZE
THEY’RE YOURS TO MAKE
SO MAKE LIFE BRIGHT BEFORE
YOU’RE BLINDED BY THE DARKNESS
LET LIFE SHINE
LET LIFE SHINE
LET LIFE SHINE
SHINE
BUT THE SEA IS CHANGING AND THE WAVES THEY WILL LASH
WITH A SUDDEN SNAP THOSE WAVES WILL CRASH
SO BEGIN TODAY TO START THE NEXT
BECAUSE IN THE END THERE’S ONLY YOU

TO JUDGE UPON THE LIFE YOU CHOOSE
AND IT CAN STOP IN A MOMENT
TO WELCOME THE DARK
SO MAKE THE CHANGES AND BANISH FEAR
AS ONE DAY TOMORROW WON'T BE HERE
ONLY TODAY CAN A SOUL BE SAVED

ONLY TODAY CAN TIMES BE CHANGED
ONLY TODAY CAN YOUR LOVE BE FELT
ONLY TODAY CAN YOUR FATE BE DEALT
ONLY TODAY CAN THE DICE BE CAST

STOP FOR A MOMENT AND SEE IT PASS
LET IT ALL IN LET IT FILL YOUR HEART
LIFE IS A SHOW WE ALL PLAY OUR PART
ONLY TODAY
ONLY TODAY
ONLY TODAY

Only Today - A New Musical (Working Draft 03.03.21)

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Only Today - A New Musical (Working Draft 03.03.21)

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1

STORY, LIBRETTO AND LYRICS

MUSIC AND COMPOSITION

SCENE 1: THE WEDDING – EVENING

SCENE 2: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING

SCENE 3: DOWNTOWN BAR – EVENING

SCENE 4: ALEX’S HOME – AFTERNOON

SCENE 5: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT – EVENING

SCENE 6: THE LAW FIRM – EVENING

SCENE 7: SITTING AT PARK BENCH – EVENING

SCENE 8: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING

SCENE 9: OUTSIDE THE COURTROOM – MID-DAY

SCENE 10: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING

SCENE 11: ALEX’S HOME

SCENE 12: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING

SCENE 13: THE LAW FIRM – EVENING

SCENE 14: ALEX’S HOME

SCENE 15: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT – EVENING

SCENE 16: THE STREETS – EVENING

SCENE 17: ALEX’S HOME

SCENE 18: THE LAW FIRM – EVENING

SCENE 20: ALEX’S HOME

SCENE 21: INSIDE THE CENTRE – AFTERNOON

SCENE 22: THE BOARDROOM – AFTERNOON

SCENE 23: ALEX’S HOME – EVENING

SCENE 1: SARAH AND BENNY’S APARTMENT – NIGHT

SCENE 2: ALEX’S HOME – NIGHT

SCENE 3: THE STREETS - NIGHT

SCENE 4: HOSPITAL – EARLY MORNING

SCENE 5: OUTSIDE GRAND CENTRAL - MORNING

SCENE 6: CEMETARY – MID-DAY

SCENE 7: THE LAW FIRM- MORNING

SCENE 8: INSIDE THE CENTRE - AFTERNOON

SCENE 9: THE HOSPITAL - EVENING

SCENE 10: OUTSIDE JANE’S APARTMENT - EVENING

SCENE 11: THE HOSPITAL - EVENING

SCENE 12: ALEX’S HOME – EARLY MORNING

SCENE 13: THE LAW FIRM – MORNING

SCENE 14: INSIDE THE CENTRE - AFTERNOON

SCENE 15: THE STREETS - NIGHT

1. THE BIG DAY Benny, Alex and Ensemble

2. IT’S JUST BUSINESS Jane and Ensemble

3. LET ME BE YOUR STAR William

4. ROAD SIGN William and Alex

5. STOP THE RAIN Benny and Ensemble

6. THE AA SONG Frankie and Ensemble

7. BEST OF ME Evie and William

8. WHAT’S COMING NEXT? Ensemble

10. THE RIGHT TIME Benny

11. JUST A TOY JANE

12. IT’S MY DAY Frankie and Alex

13. LET IT RAIN Benny, Alex and Ensemble

14. ONLY TODAY Alex and Ensemble

It's difficult to pinpoint when it started –

Then bit by bit, I crumbled… and fell.

[1] The Big Day band

SCENE 1: THE WEDDING - EVENING

TODAYS THE DAY AND A FEEL MY SOUL ON FIRE

I’ve, misplaced them

(He hands her the rings)

Don’t ‘misplace’ them this time; everything has to go right today.

(INSTRUMENTAL DANCE BREAK)

SHINE, SHINE, KEEP YOUR SOUL SHINING