Written specifically for young actors, Rumors of Polar Bears by Jonathan Dorf is a one-act play that follows a group of teen characters living in a world that's been radically altered by a chain reaction of events caused by global warming and shortages in our natural resources. The play is in no way a lecture, but rather a play about the people in it, and what they do to survive and find little moments of joy, moments where they can still be teenagers in a less than forgiving, not so distant future.
Practical Details
Running time: 30-35 minutes. Cast Breakdown: 3-4 males, 8 or more females. Technical Requirements: While it can be done as simply as your needs require, as you can see from the pictures on the website, Rumors of Polar Bears has the potential to be a designer's dream. The wasteland setting of the characters' original home, coupled with the recycled feel of New San Francisco offer ample opportunities for a scenic designer (a kiddie pool is required - how much fun is that?!), while a costumer can go to town on the "found" attire of Deme's group and contrast that with the New San Franciscans "green" gear. Similarly, sound and lighting offer opportunities to create this striking environment. Best Suited for one-act competitions and festivals, as well as production at high schools and middle schools, colleges, community and professional theatres (most likely with their young actors' ensembles).
Synopsis
In the near future, a ragtag band of teens struggles for survival in the face of a global warming catastrophe. Despite dire circumstances that leave them scavenging for food and water, they find fun where they can, frolicking in the "party pool" and forgetting themselves just long enough to be teenagers. But when they're forced to flee their makeshift home because of an outbreak of sickness and land in "New San Francisco," the group starts to break apart. Will they follow Deme, their leader, and chase after the rumored polar bears that she believes are the key to their long-term survival, or make the best of where they are?
Read an Excerpt
Much of the play can be read on the Playscripts website. Just click here!
Order a Reading Copy or Performance Rights
Rumors of Polar Bears is available from Playscripts. Click here to go to their online order page.
Check out the battle scene from the Cambridge-Isanti High School (Cambridge, MN) world premiere production! More videos on the Produce the Play page.
