I've already spoken about my inspiration for the play. I've shared one of my favorite scenes from the script. I've also posted some great photos from the world premiere at Jacksonville Performing Arts in North Carolina, where it was a big hit.
Executive director Nikki Dyba said audiences absolutely loved the play, but what she really raved about was how great an experience it was for the kids (the word "EPIC" may have also have been used a couple of times).
I think that's because the roles are surprisingly meaty for kids. Sure, the characters are fun and over the top, but they're grounded in the real-life personality types we so often see on TV reality shows (as well as in real life itself!).
There's the hardcore gym bro. His hyper-competitive female rival. The laid-back surfer dude. The stuffy anthropology professor. The manipulative executive chef. The shy librarian. The self-absorbed fashion icon. And the greedy investment banker.
Together, they forge a fragile compromise in order to get themselves rescued. But as their resources grow increasingly limited, we see how each character's flaws contribute to the chaos that follows.
The world premiere was performed by upper elementary students. But it could just as easily be done by high schools, colleges, community theatres, and even (like many of my plays!) retirement centers. Seriously, this is a comedy for all ages.
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