One-act play
Me Thinketh I Stinketh by William Shakespeare
by Jack Canfora
A comedy about William Shakespeare as a young playwright in Elizabethan London.
Running time20 to 25 min
Cast13 or more actorsMany roles, any gender
Set2 to 4 small areasNo scene changes
CompetitionReady as writtenFits a 40-minute limit
ForHigh school and community theater
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The story
A comedy about William Shakespeare as a young playwright in Elizabethan London. When we meet him, Will is discouraged after yet another rejection and decides to quit show biz. That night in his sleep, he’s visited by the spirits of three well-meaning but less than totally competent high school English teachers who show him what great plays he will one day write if he sticks with it, and what the world would look like without them.
Producing it
Cast13 actors, and the ensemble can grow as large as you like. Many roles can be played by any gender. You can change lines, roles and genders to fit your students.
SetTwo areas: Shakespeare’s bedroom and the Globe.
TechNo special effects. A bed on one side and a rehearsal area on the other, Elizabethan costumes, a few comic sound cues like snoring and spooky noises, and simple lighting shifts.
For your scene-stealersA comic trio of spirits carries the show, with a big rant for the playwright, a sincere speech, and a bossy director scene with the acting company.
Quick answers
Can I change lines or genders?Yes. Change lines, roles and genders to fit your students. You never have to ask.
Can we take it to competition?Yes. Competition rights are in every plan, with no extra fee and no approval to request.
Can my school pay with a PO?Yes. Request an invoice at checkout. Your access is set up as soon as the PO arrives.
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