Chekhov's Gun by Patrick Boles
“If you show a gun in the first act, and it isn’t fired in the second or third act then it shouldn’t be there at all”
Directed by Zoë Miller
Summary
At his former business partner's funeral, the somewhat senile Charlie Decker sets into action a plan to display and subsequently set off a gun, therefore demonstrating the concept of Chekhov's Gun. But nothing is that simple when it comes to his partner's family, and Charlie quickly loses control of the situation.
Characters
Charlie Decker: A mess of an old man (70-84), who lives in a play in his mind. Right now is his time. It’s all coming together. Tall or short, preferably beardable.
Lilly Chekhov: A fiery young woman, still fighting her urge to please her mother and family, but close to the end of her rope. Twenty-something with an anger in her eyes.
Ari Stultz: Journalist in his mid-twenties. Was a super nerd in high school and only just manages to hide that part of him now. A little in love with Lilly, a little afraid of her mind. Scrambly, scrawny in manner, and quietly very smart.
Agatha Chekhov: A rich and drunken mother (54-61) with a penchant for judging everyone, mostly her daughter. Likes scotch and vermouth. Fantastic facial expressions of exasperation and disgust necessary.
Sam Chekhov: A 50-something decoration pinned to Agatha’s blouse. When in trouble, he pulls out a smile and wave. His mind is full of facts, but none that are useful to running a business. Stout and with a near constant look of mild worry.
Niel Neeman: A butler in his early 70s, but strong and helpful as ever. Mourning under a rock hard surface of professionalism. Stern look about him.
