Theatrefolk Featured Play – Pandemic Pancake by Lindsay Price
Welcome to our Featured Play Spotlight. Pandemic Pancake addresses the ongoing changes in the new world we find ourselves in – and is great for virtual or socially distanced performances, or a hybrid of the two.
Pandemic Pancake asks the question: What now? Characters decide, for good and for ill, how they will respond to this evolving new world. Do they find hope? Do they shut down? Do they open doors? Do they strategize long-term? Or do they take it day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute?
We are no different than the characters in this play. We all must decide “what now?”
Let’s hear from the author!
1. Why did you write this play?
After writing Scenes From A Quarantinein April 2020 I’ve known that I wanted to do a follow up play as circumstances surrounding the pandemic have changed. Also, as we continue along, I wanted to explore the “what now” of the future rather than remain in the past of the situation. Lastly I wanted to present characters who have figured out how to have hope in this situation. That was the most important element I wanted to present – that there has to be hope as we move forward.
2. Describe the theme in one or two sentences.
Things are different but they’re not impossible.
3. What’s the most important visual for you in this play?
There’s a scene at the end of the play in which two teens, who are on a zoom call and one of them says “Clasp your hands together and close your eyes. Hold tight. I’m holding your hand. That’s me. We’re together.” And they do. And that visual of each of them showing that they support each other sums up the whole play.
4. If you could give one piece of advice for those producing the play, what would it be?
Whether you’re performing virtually or you’re in person, it’s all about the characters. Focus on the characters as they experience their story. Focus on character physicalization. It doesn’t matter if you’re sitting in front of a screen, an upper body physicality is still important. You can still make a character specific.
5. Why is this play great for student performers?
The characters are mostly teen aged and the story is relevant and current.
6. Do you have any tips for those who are performing this play online?
Everything is in the script. The play was written to be performed on line, hybrid, or social distanced with suggestions for how to adapt scenes to fit your situation.
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