THE PLOT​

My Father’s Play is an original musical, inspired by a true story based on the author, Neville Grusd’s discovery of play his own father had written in the 1950s. Told through the voice of Paul, “My Father’s Play” explores love, identity, and the complexities of father-son relationships.  When Paul, an accountant in his 70s, discovers his late father's play, “For Women Must Work”, while sorting through family memorabilia, he decides to revive it as a musical, writing 21 original songs. The underlying play examines the challenges women faced in the workplace who are grappling with their own identities and relationships. As Paul reimagines the story, his father’s spirit appears, challenging his choices and forcing them to confront their unresolved past. Through humor, heart, and powerful music, truths are revealed about legacy, forgiveness, and the bonds that shape us.​

THE SETTING 

The action takes place in present day. The scenes are in a office, apartment, and a rehearsal room in Manhattan​

THE CHARACTERS
 

PAUL (Early 70s, Baritone low A up to a G, male-identifying, any ethnicity) Accountant with a passion for theatre. Struggling to prove his artistic worth to his father. Energetic and excitable.

 

***DAD (Mid 60s, Baritone up to a G, male-identifying, any ethnicity) Deceased over 40 years ago but returns as a spirit to haunt his son. Strong-willed and opinionated.

 

MARION KENT (40s, Alto low F to E-flat, female identifying, any ethnicity) Marketing Manager. She is unhappily married and suspects infidelity in her husband. Financially and emotionally stuck with two children. Frustrated, trapped, and often cynical, yet still has a hidden passion for life and desire for real love and purpose.

 

KATHY FARADAY (late 20s to early 30’s, Soprano low G to F-sharp, female identifying, any ethnicity) Mrs. Bowman’s (Mrs. B.) Personal Assistant. Has an MFA and is Mrs. B.’s private confidante. She is disliked by most in the office, except Mrs. B.

 

ROSA (50-60s, Alto down to low E, female identifying, Hispanic) a cleaning woman with a good heart and a strong work ethic. She is deeply spiritual. The eyes and ears of the office.

 

HARRIET TAYLOR (mid 30s Alto down to low F, female identifying, any ethnicity) a Clerical Assistant. Very conscientious. Has a boyfriend who she is hoping to marry soon but has to take care of her demanding sickly mother. She is extremely anxious about losing her job.

 

**PEGGY ROGERS (early 30s, Soprano low G to F-sharp, female identifying, any ethnicity) a Junior Clerical Assistant and receptionist. Intends to work only until she marries her boyfriend, Eric. Outwardly very carefree but internally very anxious. She falls pregnant unexpectedly and becomes mentally unstable.

 

MRS. B. (Late 40s, Alto low F (lightly) to D, female identifying, any ethnicity) Charlene Bowman.  The Boss and sole owner of the firm. She lives on Park Avenue in the 80’s. Unhappily married to Max, a Wall Street broker, and has no children. She is as tough as nails, totally self-centered, cunning, and insincere.

 

***STANLEY FOSTER the Controller. A bitter bachelor. Authoritative, judgmental and likes to be in charge. Obsessed with ingratiating himself with Mrs. B.

 

***MAX BOWMAN (50s, Baritone with low A-flat, male identifying, any ethnicity) Husband of Mrs. B. Successful Wall Street broker. He is a decent man who doesn’t really enjoy his wife’s social climbing and is extremely frustrated by her focus on her business. Wants more out of life.

 

THEODORE (TEDDY)  PRICE Temp replacement for Peggy Rogers. He is fabulous. 

 

**SUSAN CLAY (mid 20s – female identifying, any ethnicity) Applicant for a staff vacancy. She is a cunning actress with an ulterior motive and plays innocent very well.