Into the Violet: New one-act absurdist dark comedy for 2 actors - now available!
Lola and Nadine had lived a blessed and carefree fairy life, until a child trapped them in a glass jar in the woods and never returned. While Lola gives in to this life of despondency, Nadine tries to give her hope that they might, someday, fly outside their glass prison once again. But as the gravity of their situation becomes unbearable, and the line between reality and fantasy becomes malleable, they must find some way to create the escape they desperately need. INTO THE VIOLET is a dark comedy about hope and despair, deception and reality, and how connection to others may be the only way to survive the unthinkable.
This is a play I had a blast writing because it feeds exactly into the strange dark comedy that I gravitate toward—yet it’s grounded in personal connection and deep emotion. I loved jumping into this jar with the fairies, letting their anger, frustration, despair, tragedy and also joy, kindness and love bounce around all sides of the glass. So yeah, you’re gonna see a fairy trying to bash her own head in with a gnome, which is gonna annoy (not disturb) the other fairy. You’re gonna see fairies not remembering if they had a baby or not, not knowing if a year has passed or only a morning. But you’re also going to see fairies lifting each other up, holding each other close, and giving each other hope. It’s a great piece for the creative team bringing it to life, but audiences can appreciate the dark humor and conversation it generates after the show.
Actors and directors will have an amazing time sinking their teeth into these unique, interesting, and strong characters. These roles are AWESOME to play (and as there are only 2 roles, they’re both strong with good range and their own journeys). The play can be minimal, or can go all out in terms of design and tech.
INTO THE VIOLET is great for any age, teen through adult. It’s written for 2 female actors, although the roles can be any gender, if desired. The dark comedy runs around 15-20 minutes.
This play recently had its premier at Westchester Collaborative Theater with a fabulous team: directed by Missy Flower featuring Julie Griffin and Missy Flower (special thanks to Amy Lowenthal and Mel Nocera!). Thanks also to Kevin Christopher Snipes and Albi Gorn for their feedback on various drafts and Teresa Hougnon's gorgeous and entrancing painting, "Water Fall" which inspired this piece.
Click here to read a free excerpt and click below for the complete play, INTO THE VIOLET.
Photos from premier production at Westchester Collaborative Theater, May 2023, featuring Missy Flower and Julie Griffin; directed by Missy Flower. Gregory Perry Photography
