Theatrefolk Featured Play – A Deep, Poetic Journey Into Something by Forrest Musselman

*Welcome to our Featured Play Spotlight. * A Deep, Poetic Journey Into Something by Forrest Musselman is a dramatic character study for high school student performers with excellent movement opportunities.

Jane wants to break out of her box. Colour cows green and the sky purple. She wants a deep poetic journey into something. The problem is she has no idea where to start.

As events spiral out of control around her, that box is looking better all the time. Will Jane choose to hide inside or change her life?

Why did we publish this play?
How many of you have students who feel trapped or boxed in? All they want is to be themselves, which can be the hardest thing to be. In “Deep Poetic” the main characters wants to break out of the box and doesn’t know how. The play’s artistic storytelling and use of shadow offers a really unique approach to this issue which we knew would resonate for both the teens in the show and those watching.

Let’s hear from the author!

1. Why did you write this play?
I wanted to write a play for teens that explored the whole idea of feeling like you don’t fit in anywhere. It’s a pretty universal feeling for teens and I wanted them to know that it’s okay.

2. Describe the theme in one or two sentences.
It doesn’t matter what the end result is going to be, it’s the journey of getting there that’s the most important.

3. What’s the most important visual for you in this play?
The shadow work, for sure.

4. If you could give one piece of advice for those producing the play, what would it be?
Have the shadow screens and lights ready to go as soon as possible. The more time the actors have to play with body shapes and pictures, the better.

5. Why is this play great for student performers?
It’s a great movement piece that allows for some experimentation. And it’s a story about themselves.

6. Why is this play great for online performances?
You wouldn’t necessarily have to have the shadow imagery. So feel free to omit it as the story is strong enough without it.