It is sometimes quite easy to paint oneself into a corner where you do not want to be! A monologue that gives the performer a humorous take on finding oneself in the wrong situation. Intermediate to senior age group.
“Hey, I can play a game of “quidditch” and still paint the floor. Wheeee! Watch out, you ‘Slytherin’ mob, or I’ll push you off your brooms. Never knew painting a floor could be so much fun.”
IN A CORNER (Boy)(INTERMEDIATE)
Michele Lourie
(Enters with empty paint can and long-handled brush, dressed in overalls with a long piece of cleaning cloth hanging from the pocket)
It’s not fair! This is the school holidays and I have to work. Why do I have to paint this stupid floor? Dad says it’s to teach me some responsibility. Responsibility? I’m too young for responsibility.
(Walks about pretending to kick at scuff marks on the floor)
I suppose I better get started.(Begins to paint from stage front and goes diagonally back, speaking the whole time) I promised to meet (insert name of friend) for a game of Wizards this afternoon.
(Dips the brush in the can and continues to paint with slow, desultory movements.)
If I were a real wizard I could command this brush to paint the floor in just a few minutes.
(Hops on the long-handled brush and rides it like a ‘quidditch’ broom, making swishing movements as though painting the floor, ducking and weaving as if chasing the snitch)
Hey, I can play a game of ‘quidditch’ and still paint the floor. Wheeeee! Watch out, you ‘Slytherin’ mob, or I’ll push you off your brooms. I’ll get the snitch without any trouble.
(Stops suddenly and peers at the floor)
This is where I dropped my vegemite sandwich. Why is it when you drop a piece of bread it always lands the sticky side down. That’s how all this began, when Dad said I had to clean the floor and take responsibility for my actions.
(Jumps on the broom again, and repeat actions while playing the game)
I’ll show you how to be responsible for your actions, you ‘Slytherin’ scaredy-cats. Don’t think you can escape me!
(Stops again and stares around him)
Wow, that’s it! I’ve finished painting the floor, except for this last little bit. Do that and I’m free.
(Stares around the floor and realises he has painted himself into a corner. He yells)
Help Dad, help! I’ve painted myself into a corner.
