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The Redemption of Gertie Greene

Production Tips for The Redemption of Gertie Greene

by Taryn Temple

Gertie Greene is the new kid, and the rumors about her are already out of control. They say she bullies kids in the bathroom, topples football players, and gets suspended constantly. Even the teachers seem nervous around her. With so many stories swirling, how could they not be true? But is Gertie really the terrifying menace everyone claims she is?

In The Redemption of Gertie Greene, the truth takes center stage in the most surprising ways. Is Gertie truly the “freak,” “weirdo,” and “bully” people make her out to be, or is there more to her story? When Mrs. Fillmore’s unconventional drama students start to peel back the layers of gossip, they discover the transformative power of kindness and what it means to stand up for those who can’t defend themselves. Together, they uncover the real Gertie Greene—and challenge everyone’s assumptions in the process.

Dramedy

Average Producer Rating:

Also available in a competition-length version here.

Tips from past Producers

Much of the humor is subtle. Help the cast play off the humor in those lines and scenes to add to the entertainment factor. It's also helpful to make sure you direct the actors in the classroom on their reactions to what the other actors are doing during the class activities.
I think simple set pieces are better for this show than an elaborate set, to really focus on the action and story.
We kept the staging simple with some drama blocks, a few stools, bench, teachers table/chair and carpet squares to create the room. Actors moved a few set pieces to create the flashbacks, and the action moved quite fast.
Just make sure the students understand that the whole play is from the perspective of middle schoolers. Everything is through their eyes. Helping them understand that allows them the freedom to interpret the characters from their perspective as middle schoolers.