Two people have different ideas on how to use their leisure time – one wants to read a book, the other wants to play games.
COME OUT TO PLAY
By Michele Lourie
Actor 2 seated on a swivel chair reading a book. Actor 1 enters.
Actor 1: Hey, come outside and play some tennis with me?
Actor 2: No thanks.
Actor 1: Ah come on, just one set.
Actor 2: I’m reading a book.
Actor 1: Well I didn’t think you were reading a hieroglyph.
(pause as Actor 2 swivels the chair so his/her back is to Actor 1)
If you don’t want to play tennis, how about some netball practice. We’ve got that big game coming up soon.
Actor 2: How can I say this so you’ll understand? I… am …. reading!
(pause while Actor 1 swivels the chair so that Actor 2 faces him/her)
Actor 1: OK, if you have to read, let’s do some orienteering down in the bush paddock. You have to read for that.
Actor 2: I want to read this book – this particular book. I’ve just got to the most exciting part.
Actor 1: If it’s excitement you want, how about some water polo. I can set up the goal nets in no time and the pool temperature is perfect.
(pause while Actor 2 swivels chair away again)
Actor 2: While my temperature is rising. I said no and I meant it! Stop bothering me.
Actor 1: We could see who can jump the highest on the trampoline, or work on some taekwondo moves, or use the old flying fox or ….
Actor 2: No, no and no!
Actor 1: Puhleese!
(pause as Actor 2 shuts the book in frustration and stands up)
Actor 2: Alright, one set of tennis.
Actor 1: Hooray.
Actor 2: Wait what’s that noise? Listen, it’s raining. We can’t play outside now.
(exits)
Actor 1: Raining!
(calls out) Then how about a game of darts on the verandah?
