Chapter Two

by Neil Simon Directed by Barb Fryman 

AUDITIONS:
Monday Apr. 13 and Tuesday, Apr. 14 at 7:00 pm
Workshop Players Theater
44820 Middle Ridge Rd,
Amherst, OH 44001

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS:

George Schnieder (suggested age 40’s, but age is flexible)
Attractive and intelligent. A recently widowed writer who struggles with the devastating loss of his wife, Barbara, is introduced to Jennie Malone by his brother Leo and is encouraged to start dating again. George is deeply affected by his grief and the memories of his deceased wife, which complicates his new relationship with Jennie.

Jennie Malone (30’s, but age is flexible)
A soap opera actress who is just divorced and is encouraged to meet George by her best friend, Faye, with help from George’s brother Leo. Jennie is someone who has been in therapy to understand what went wrong in her marriage. She is certain she is not ready to start dating again. She has a sense of humor and a kind heart.

Leo Schneider (40’s, but age is flexible)
George’s younger brother who cares deeply about his brother. He is supportive but is also aware of the challenges George faces in moving on from the death of his wife. Leo adds a layer of humor and insight as he navigates the complexities of his brother’s grief and his own struggles with marriage and infidelity.

Faye Medwick (30’s, but age is flexible)
Jennie’s best friend who is dealing with Jennie’s divorce and Faye’s own disappointment with her husband and their marriage. Faye is neurotic and anxious which emphasizes the emotional turmoil which can come from longing for a perfect love that always seems to happen to other people.

The characters in Chapter Two are individuals but also symbols of the human experience of love and loss. They each show us how our thoughts and fears affect our own happiness and how our self-talk determines what we see our lives to be. Their interactions provide a rich tapestry of emotion and insight into being human. The listed ages of the characters are flexible.