A SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. TITLE

The Deserter

Short Play, Drama  /  3m

Norman Beim

"Moving and compassionate play by a most gifted playwright." Horton Foote. "A powerful, moving piece...sensitive but not maudlin...A tense emotional drama." Rutgers University

The Deserter

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  • Cast Size
    Cast Size
    3m
  • Duration
    Duration
    30 minutes
  • SubGenre
    Subgenre
    Period
  • Suggested Use
    • Scene work
  • Audience
    Target Audience
    Appropriate for all audiences
Accolades
Accolades
  • Winner of the 3rd Annual Samuel French Off Off Broadway Short Play Festival!

Details

Summary
In a deserted French chateau during World War II, a young deserter awaits execution. Taunted by his guard, he speaks of his misguided youth and his love for his wife. He tries to explain to the priest who has come to give him the last rites that killing is wrong, but the priest insists that God expects every man to do his duty. The Derserter was published as part of the Off Off Broadway Festival Plays, 3rd Series.
History
The Deserter had its first performance at the Troupe Theatre in New York City in April 1978.
Cast Attributes
Keywords
Performing Groups
THE SOLDIER
THE SERGEANT
THE PRIEST
  • Time Period 1940s / WWII
  • Setting A deserted Chateau in Europe, one winter morning early in 1945.
  • Features Period Costumes
  • Additional Features Not Applicable
  • Duration 30 minutes
  • Cautions
    • No Special Cautions

Media

"Moving and compassionate play by a most gifted playwright." - Horton Foote.

"A powerful, moving piece...sensitive but not maudlin...A tense emotional drama." - Rutgers University

Licensing & Materials

  • Minimum Fee: $65 per performance

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Authors

Norman Beim

Norman Beim

Norman Beim, a life time member of the Dramatist Guild, is a prize-wining playwright, veteran actor and director. His plays have been produced nationally and internationally and won a number of awards including the Robert J. Pickering Award (Coldwater Theatre), the David Jame ...

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