TEEN ANGEL
by D. M. Larson
ISBN-13: 978-1511481557
Cast of Characters
PEGGY: A teen who has found herself on a mission after her death.
GABRIELLA: The guide upon the stairway to heaven.
ALICE: Manager of a 50’s diner.
KATE: Shy teen who is in love with RICK.
DAVID: A mysterious man who offers to help PEGGY in her mission.
RICK: A teen who has lost his girlfriend in a car accident.
HEATHER: An obnoxious teen who continually picks on KATE.
Heather’s friends – one or more girls play Heather’s friend but don’t have any lines.
Time and Place
Early 1950’s at a diner.
[Note: Music is used throughout the show. The play can be done with recorded music or more ambitious productions can be done with live music and actors singing the songs. Depending on your type of production, please observe copyright restrictions when using songs]
(MUSIC: “Last Kiss” by J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers. Music slowly fades as cars racing are heard. Honking is heard and then a crash. Screams. Music builds and then fades)
(Lights come up on PEGGY, a young teenage girl who is in white, sparkling robes. She is standing before a white, sparkling staircase leading to a passage through a cloudy background.GABRIELLA, a woman in white steps forward from the passage and is at the top of the stairs. Her clothing looks similar to PEGGY but GABRIELLA has wings)
GABRIELLA
I see you’ve arrived. I almost thought you weren't going to make it. Modern medicine certainly creates a lot of uncertainty in my work these days.
PEGGY
Where am I?
GABRIELLA
You’re climbing the stairway to heaven.
PEGGY
You mean that…
GABRIELLA
You’ve crossed over…
PEGGY
I’m dead?
GABRIELLA
You could say that.
PEGGY
But what happened? I don’t remember… anything.
GABRIELLA
Souls are made to forget the pain and sorrows of life, especially the end. It’s better that way.
PEGGY
But I remember so little about my life. I remember that my name is Peggy and that I like vanilla ice cream…
(Pauses and struggles to remember. GABRIELLA comes down the stairs)
GABRIELLA
Your memories are selected carefully. Too many earthly memories really mess with eternal bliss.
PEGGY
But it seems like I’m forgetting something. I hate that feeling. You know, like you know you have to do something but you can’t remember what and you know you’ll get in big trouble if you don’t do it…
GABRIELLA
Peace, Peggy dear. There’s nothing to worry about now.
PEGGY
I suppose not...
(Something still seems to bother her)
GABRIELLA
(Studying PEGGY)
I see what they mean…
PEGGY
What who mean?
GABRIELLA
I was sent to help guide you.
PEGGY
Guide me? Into heaven?
(Points to stairs)
The way looks pretty clear.
GABRIELLA
It appears so, but nothing is ever as simple as it seems.
(Motions to stairs)
Perhaps I should illustrate. Try going up the stairs.
PEGGY
(Looks at GABRIELLA funny, shrugs, and heads to stairs. PEGGY stops at the bottom step and can’t seem to go any further)
I want to… but can’t.
GABRIELLA
You’re not ready yet.
PEGGY
That doesn’t mean that I’m going to… you know where…
GABRIELLA
(Smiles)
Fortunately, no. You lived a good life and have few blotches on your record. You shouldn’t fear going anywhere but heaven. But…
(Pauses)
…there’s always a “but” isn’t there?
(PEGGY looks worried)
You will need to earn your wings.
PEGGY
Earn my wings?
GABRIELLA
You can’t enter heaven without wings. So each soul must earn them. Now some people earn them in life with good works and good deeds… Mother Teresa for example. Her soul had the most amazing wings when she arrived…
PEGGY
So I didn’t do anything good in my life?
GABRIELLA
You were a good person or you wouldn’t be here. But wingless souls are often wingless for a reason. Even good people make mistakes in life. So good people are given a chance to earn their wings despite problems in life.
PEGGY
Sounds fair. I only wish I knew I knew what I’d done.
GABRIELLA
It’s better not to know anything about your past life. It will only make earning your wings more difficult. Let me give you a warning… your memories are there, but don’t go seeking them. They will only lead you down the wrong path and will keep you from earning your wings.
PEGGY
What happens if I don’t earn my wings?
GABRIELLA
You will earn them. I know you will.
PEGGY
Why? Can you see the future?
GABRIELLA
No, but I can see your heart and I have faith that you will succeed.
PEGGY
(Suddenly determined)
So what do I need to do to earn my wings?
GABRIELLA
There is some unfinished business in your past life that must be resolved. You will be without memory and will appear as a stranger to those who once knew you. Discover the problem and help to fix it. That will earn you your wings.
PEGGY
I have a feeling this isn’t going to be as easy as you are making it sound.
GABRIELLA
Actually it is quite dangerous.
PEGGY
Then why send me?
GABRIELLA
Because we know that you are the only one that can fix the problem.
PEGGY
And what is the problem?
GABRIELLA
Unfortunately, we’re not sure.
PEGGY
This isn’t going to be easy.
GABRIELLA
I need to leave you with a warning as well.
PEGGY
Leave me? You’re leaving me? But we just met.
GABRIELLA
Don’t worry, Peggy. I won’t be far away.
PEGGY
I feel so overwhelmed… no memory… trying to solve a problem I know nothing about… And you mentioned a warning?
GABRIELLA
You must be careful. Keep your memories buried. If one tries to seek the past, she can become trapped in it and become a lost soul.
PEGGY
A lost soul?
GABRIELLA
A lost soul is a person whom some people know as ghosts. PEGGY I could become a ghost?
GABRIELLA
(GABRIELLA goes up stairs)
Only if you are not careful. Remember, you are someone else now. No one will remember you. No one will recognize you. But if they do… then you could be lost.
PEGGY
How will I know what to do?
GABRIELLA
You will know. Only you know the way.
(Reaches to of stairs)
Good luck, Peggy.
(Exits and lights fade to a spotlight)
(PEGGY steps into the spotlight and now is in common street clothes [which actress wore under white robe]. PEGGY looks around into the darkness and sounds can be heard. Faint and unrecognizable at first. Then the sounds grow stronger. Lights come up across the stage on a 50’s style diner. 50’s music is heard now. Waitresses, bus boys, cooks, customers are in the diner. PEGGY watches from her spotlighted area)
SONG: “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley and his Comets
ALICE
(Older waitress who managers the diner)
Clean up on table 7.
(Looks around)
Where is that girl?
KATE
(Rushes in. KATE is a teen about PEGGY’s age)
Sorry. I’m on it.
(Lights slowly fade on PEGGY)
ALICE
Where were you anyway?
HEATHER
(Snotty teen who is a customer sitting with friends)
Watching Rick no doubt.
(Her friends laugh)
ALICE
Rick? Who is Rick?
KATE
Nobody.
HEATHER
Nobody? He’s only the man of Kate’s dreams.
KATE
He is not.
HEATHER
You should see Kate when she’s around him. Serious puppy love.
ALICE
Hurry with that cleanup, Kate. I need you to go get a jar of pickles out of the pantry.
HEATHER
(As KATE comes near she drops something on the floor in front of her so she steps in it) Ooops. Better clean that up too, Kate.
(Friends laugh and KATE looks upset and slowly bends down to clean it)
PEGGY
(Enters and helps KATE)
Here, let me help you.
KATE
Thank you.
PEGGY
No problem.
(They clean it up and stand)
Hi, I’m…
(Realizes she needs another name)
Pamela.
KATE
I’m Kate.
HEATHER
And we’re hungry. Where’s the food, Kate?
ALICE
Hurry up with the pickles, Kate.
KATE Okay.
(KATE rushes off)
HEATHER
(Gets up and looks at PEGGY)
So who are you? I haven’t seen you around before.
PEGGY
I’m new in town. I sort of dropped in.
HEATHER
Well, you better learn quickly who are the right people to hang out with and who are the wrong people.
(KATE enters with jar and gives it to ALICE)
That girl over there is the wrong people.
(Points to friends)
We, on the other hand, are the right people.
(KATE comes with food for HEATHER and friends. HEATHER sits and looks at meal. ALICE exits)
PEGGY
So what makes someone the right people?
HEATHER
You know, the people with the right families, the right cars, the right friends…
(Looks at food)
Kate, what is this? I ordered Cheddar cheese not Swiss. I swear this place is run by a bunch of retards.
(HEATHER eats it anyway)
PEGGY
Obviously, not the right personality.
KATE
I’m sorry, Heather. I’ll get you another one.
HEATHER
Look, I’ve been waiting here long enough. Now you’ve gone and ruined it. I’m not paying for it.
KATE
But Alice will take it out of my paycheck.
HEATHER
That’s what happens when you get the order wrong.
PEGGY
(Picks up ticket)
Says here on the ticket that you ordered Swiss.
KATE
I swore you said Swiss.
HEATHER
(To friends)
Girls? Did I say Swiss?
(Friends shake heads no)
See. I have witnesses.
KATE
Fine, Heather. Okay…
(KATE exits upset. PEGGY gives HEATHER a dirty look and follows)
(Lights fade on diner and come up on KATE who is crying)
PEGGY
Kate? Are you okay?
KATE
I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be so upset. I should be used to it by now.
PEGGY
Used to what? Being abused? I don’t think anyone should get used to it.
KATE
Every week she comes in here and does that. She orders something, says I get it wrong and then it comes out of my paycheck.
PEGGY
That’s not fair. Doesn’t your boss do anything about it? She’s right there.
KATE
Alice doesn’t want to make Heather mad either. Heather’s family is very powerful and no one wants to cross her.
PEGGY
That girl needs to be put in her place. She’s a spoiled brat who…
(KATE is staring with an exciting/scared expression)
KATE
Oh, my gosh.
PEGGY
What is it?
KATE
It’s Rick.
PEGGY
Who is Rick?
KATE
He’s only the cutest guy in school.
PEGGY
You like him?
KATE
Of course. Every girl does.
PEGGY
So he’s not your boyfriend?
KATE
(Laughs)
No, he doesn’t even know I exist.
(Saddens)
He’s more Heather’s type anyway. He’s the right kind of people. I’m not.
PEGGY
From what I can tell, you’re the right kind of people.
KATE
Well, you’re the only one who thinks so. I’m the wrong kind of people, from the wrong side of town, with no car and no father. I’m a big loser.
PEGGY
I’ve only known you for a few minutes, but I can tell you are a good person, who is a hard worker, and you care about others. That makes you the right kind of people in my book.
KATE
Thanks… what did you say your name was again.
PEGGY
(Struggles to remember the name she said)
Uh… Paula.
KATE
Nice to meet you, Paula. I better get back to work.
(KATE exits)
PEGGY
(Looks off stage where Rick would be)
He is cute.
(Frowns)
He looks so sad though.
DAVID
(voice)
That’s because he lost someone recently.
PEGGY
(Turns)
Who are you?
DAVID
(DAVID enters and is wearing a nice black outfit. He’s close to PEGGY’s age)
I’m David. I’m here to… guide you.
PEGGY
You were sent to help me?
DAVID
You could say that. These missions can be hard, especially when you are new. A helping hand is often appreciated.
PEGGY
It will be for sure. I have no clue what is going on. I only know I’m supposed to help someone, but how or who is a mystery.
DAVID
That’s why I’m here now. We would never want to leave you alone to flounder. For example, the whole name thing. Pamela? Paula? You really need to settle on one.
PEGGY
I used two different names didn’t I? Shoot. I couldn’t remember what I said the first time. (Frustrated)
My brain feels like scrambled eggs. Why can’t we be allowed to remember anything?
DAVID
I see the forgetfulness is really bothering you. Perhaps you should be allowed to remember.
PEGGY
But I thought…
DAVID
The most important thing is that you succeed. If having your memory will help you succeed, then I think it might be better that you know everything.
PEGGY
(Looks back toward Rick)
That guy, Rick, looks so sad. Who did he lose?
DAVID
His girlfriend. She was in a car accident. He was driving.
PEGGY
How horrible. How did it happen? Was he drinking?
DAVID
It’s so easy to blame it on alcohol, isn’t it? This time, no. He was drag racing.
PEGGY
Racing… some other guy. They were only playing around. Racing for fun.
DAVID
Then a truck pulled out in front of them. A Mac truck to be exact and smack. Goodbye, girlfriend.
(Smiles at PEGGY)
You look as if you remember it somehow.
PEGGY
(Staring. A bit stunned)
Poor guy. He still hasn’t recovered from the loss, has he?
DAVID
He’s the best looking guy in school. He won’t be lonely for long.
PEGGY
So who am I here to help? Kate or Rick?
DAVID
What about Heather? Maybe you’re here to help her.
PEGGY
Heather is beyond my help.
DAVID
I would have to agree.
PEGGY
So you don’t know who I’m helping either? Doesn’t anybody know anything up there?
DAVID
Completely and totally annoying, isn’t it? But don’t worry. I’ll help you figure it out.
PEGGY
Thank you so much.
DAVID
You better get back in the diner. I have a feeling you’ll be needed.
PEGGY
Thanks.
(PEGGY exits)
DAVID
(Pulls out notebook)
Subjects appears receptive and open to suggestions. Memories near surface.
(Closes notebook)
This will be an easy one.
(Exits and lights go black)
(Lights come up on diner. HEATHER calls over KATE)
SONG: “The Purple People Eater” by Sheb Wooley
HEATHER
Kate, you didn’t take the burger off my bill. I’m not paying for any of this now.
KATE
Heather, you have to pay your bill. You can’t keep coming in here and getting free meals.
HEATHER
What’s this? Have a little backbone now do we? Sorry, Kate, but I’m not paying!
ALICE
(Enters)
What’s going on out here?
(PEGGY enters too as KATE and HEATHER get into a shouting match)
KATE
Heather won’t pay her bill.
HEATHER
She got my order wrong.
KATE
She keeps saying that so she doesn’t have to pay.
HEATHER
If this retard would ever get it right, then I would pay.
KATE
I always get it right. You’re trying to cheat me.
PEGGY
(Shouts and waves arms)
Everyone stop yelling!
(Everyone freezes except PEGGY)
Oh, my gosh. What happened?
(Looks at everyone who still aren’t moving)
I can freeze people? But how do I get them back?
(Thinks) How about… start!
(Everyone is yelling again)
HEATHER I
want this girl fired.
KATE
I want her arrested.
PEGGY
Stop!
(Everyone freezes again and PEGGY smiles)
I’m going to like this.
(Looks at everyone)
Now, how do I stop this?
(Grabs a cracker off table and puts it in HEATHER’s mouth)
Start!
HEATHER
(Tries to speak but can’t because of the cracker. Spits out cracker)
What the… how did that happen?
ALICE
Heather. Why don’t you and your friends go ahead and go. Lunch is on me.
HEATHER
There, now, someone’s being reasonable.
(Motions to friends who get up)
Let’s go, girls.
(HEATHER and girls exit)
KATE
Alice, I…
ALICE
I’ve never seen you like that before. Yelling at Heather like that.
KATE
I’m sorry. I sort of lost it.
ALICE
You don’t know how many times I’ve wanted to yell at that girl myself.
KATE
What?
ALICE
Someone needs to take that girl out in the alley and slap her around.
KATE
So you’re not mad? You’re not going to fire me?
ALICE
You’re the best worker I’ve got, Kate. And I know you weren’t wrong. But unfortunately, we have a business to run and we can’t go around telling off customers… especially ones with powerful parents.
KATE
It’s so unfair.
ALICE
Welcome to adulthood.
(ALICE exits. KATE sighs and sits)
PEGGY
(Goes up to KATE)
That was brave of you, Kate.
That was great how you stood up to Heather.
KATE
If it was so great, then how come I feel like someone punched me in the stomach.
(DAVID enters. He sits at a table behind them and watches)
PEGGY
It’s not easy standing up to people. But sometimes we need to draw a line in the sand and refuse to budge anymore.
KATE
Thanks. Pamela right? Or was it Paula?
PEGGY
Or call me Peggy. Whatever you want?
KATE
Peggy? Hey, that was Rick’s girlfriend’s name.
PEGGY
Rick’s girlfriend?
KATE
Yeah, she was killed in a car accident. Rick was driving. He feels so horrible about it. I wish I could do something for him.
PEGGY
(Distant)
Me too.
KATE
Can I get you something? I assume that’s why you’re at the diner.
PEGGY
(Checks her pockets)
Actually, I… uh… seem to have forgotten my money.
DAVID
I’ll get it.
(They both turn and notice DAVID now)
Give us two specials.
KATE
Coming right up.
(KATE exits and shouts order)
Two hunks of cow and make then oink.
PEGGY
Two hunks of cow and make them oink?
DAVID
Bacon burgers. I speak diner-esse.
PEGGY
I can’t believe I wasn’t given any money. Lucky you were here.
DAVID
I live to serve.
PEGGY
Something is bothering me.
DAVID
Rick?
PEGGY
Yes, and the whole thing with his girlfriend. Her name was Peggy, just like me.
DAVID
Amazing coincidence isn’t it?
PEGGY
I’m not sure it is. What if I was that girl? What if Rick was my boyfriend?
DAVID
It would make your task more challenging for sure.
PEGGY
Why can’t I remember anything? This is so frustrating.
DAVID
Relax. Your memories will return in time. I think they will definitely help in this situation.
PEGGY
But no one will recognize me will they?
DAVID
No, you look totally different to them.
(Pauses)
But you’re still very beautiful…
PEGGY
(Coyly)
David? Are you flirting with me? Is that allowed?
DAVID
Probably not… so back to business. I can tell something else is on your mind… do share.
PEGGY
It doesn’t seem fair…
DAVID
What’s that?
PEGGY
Why did I die so young?
DAVID
I’m new at this too, but this is my understanding. People are taken for three reasons: either they have accomplished what they were made to do, or they are so bad that they can’t be fixed and they need to start over… or they simply need more angels.
PEGGY
I guess I fall into that last category, because I obviously didn’t accomplish what I needed to do. That’s why I’m here now.
(Still distant)
DAVID
What else is on your mind?
PEGGY
If Rick was my boyfriend, then I must be here to help him. But instead I seem drawn to Kate.
DAVID
It does seem odd.
PEGGY
Then you think I’m barking up the wrong tree?
DAVID
(Gets up)
Try talking to Rick. I think a guy who lost his girlfriend in a car accident needs you a lot more than some girl who is being picked on by bullies.
(Tosses a $20 on the table)
Keep the change.
(He exits as KATE enters with food)
KATE
Your friend had to go?
PEGGY
Yeah. Want to have his burger?
KATE
Alice would yell at me for eating with a customer. I’ve been in enough trouble today.
PEGGY
Heather is quite the trouble maker. I’m glad you didn’t get fired over it.
KATE
Alice was a good friend of my mom. Actually kind of raised me, because mom was always so sick.
PEGGY
Your mother passed away.
KATE
Three years ago. I’m doing alright now, but it was sure hard at first. Alice really pulled me through.
PEGGY
You’re lucky to have her.
KATE
I am…
(Smiles)
So was that guy your boyfriend?
PEGGY
Who? David? No, he’s…
(Thinks to herself)
A friend. He’s here to help me.
KATE
Help you?
PEGGY
Uh… help me get settled in.
KATE
He’s cute… but not as cute as Rick.
PEGGY
You really like Rick don’t you?
KATE
He’s not like the other guys at school. He has always been so nice to me. I really got to know him at the hospital when my mother was sick. He volunteers there…
PEGGY
(Thinks)
Because he wants to be a doctor.
KATE
Yeah, how’d you know?
PEGGY
(Frowns)
Lucky guess.
KATE
After his girlfriend died in the car crash, he’s been so sad. I wish I could cheer him up like he did me in the hospital with my mom.
PEGGY
Maybe you can.
KATE
But I don’t know how. I can’t even cheer myself up.
PEGGY
I’ll help you. We’ll make it our mission to help Rick be happy again.
KATE
Okay, let’s do it.
PEGGY
But first, I need to eat my burger. I’m starving.
KATE
And I need to do some dishes. But I get off soon. We can start planning Operating Help Rick.
PEGGY
Roger that.
KATE
(Laughs)
Thanks.
(Exits)
SONG: “Angel Baby” by Rosie Hamlin
(Lights come up on KATE in diner with ALICE)
KATE
Goodnight, Alice.
ALICE
You sure you’re okay closing up alone?
KATE
It’s not a problem.
(Smiles)
You have a date tonight.
ALICE
(A little embarrassed)
Nosey, aren’t we?
KATE
Sorry. Have fun with… whatever you’re doing?
ALICE
Thanks. Goodnight.
(Exits and KATE is alone cleaning up)
HEATHER
(Enters with friends)
So girls, who is our conquest for this week?
(Looks outside)
What about Rick?
(Looks at KATE)
Oh, but that’s right. Kate loves Rick doesn’t she?
KATE
Can I get you something, Heather? We’re closing soon.
HEATHER
(Looks around)
Hey, did Alice leave you here all alone? Just you and Ricky boy out there all alone. Why is he always sitting out there anyway?
KATE
This is the last place he was before he was in that car accident. It was the last time he saw his girlfriend alive.
HEATHER
(Sarcastic)
How tragic. Poor Ricky boy all dark and brooding about his loss. Maybe he could use someone like me to cheer him up. That okay with you, Kate?
KATE
(Trying not to get angry)
Do you want some sodas?
HEATHER
I know you’ve got it bad for him. I see you out there giving him free sodas and fries.
(Knocks some cups on the floor)
KATE
I just cleaned the floor.
HEATHER
Oh, dear. Clumsy me.
(Knocks some straws on the floor. Her friends laugh and do the same)
KATE
Please stop.
HEATHER
(Starts tossing napkins)
What are you going to do? Get your boyfriend to stop me?
(HEATHER and friends start trashing the place)
KATE
No, don’t.
HEATHER
Oh, look. Special order for Kate.
(Throws some food on KATE)
Want some ketchup with that?
(Squirts KATE with ketchup.
KATE
(stands there and starts to cry)
Night, Heather. Been fun.
(HEATHER and her friends laugh and exit)
RICK
(Enters)
Kate?
(Sees her)
Are you okay? What happened?
KATE
(Crying)
Nothing.
RICK
I could see Heather and her friends messing up the place from my car. Did they hurt you?
KATE
No.
RICK
I’ll help you clean up.
KATE
No, it’s okay.
RICK
Do you want to call the police? I’m a witness.
KATE
No, we can’t. Heather’s parents will really let us have it if we do that.
RICK
I’m not afraid of her parents.
KATE
But Alice is. They could have Alice shut down.
RICK
I guess they could. It’s not fair is it?
KATE
No…
RICK
Some people have all the power and the rest of us have to suffer so they can have it. I guess that’s why we suffer. We’re meant to suffer. We’re the bungled and they botched.
KATE
The what?
RICK
(Helps KATE clean up)
I’ve been reading Nietzsche. He says most people are the bungled and the botched, going through life suffering. Heather and her family are the Uberminche. The super race.
KATE
That sounds like Hitler.
RICK
Hitler studied Nietzsche too.
KATE
Well, Hitler wouldn’t be in here helping me clean up.
RICK
I never said I liked it or agreed with it.
(Smiles and helps her with cleaning up food off her face)
Beside, us bungled and botched need to stick together.
KATE
Thanks, Rick… for helping.
RICK
Any time.
(Pause. They look at each other a moment)
I like to help out nice people and you’re nice people.
KATE
Thanks, Rick.
RICK
Can I get you anything else?
KATE
No, that’s fine. I can get the rest.
RICK
See ya, Kate.
(KATE smiles and goes back to cleaning as lights fade on diner)
(Lights come up on PEGGY)
PEGGY
Poor, Kate. I wish I could do something about those girls.
DAVID
(Enters)
I think it is more important to help Kate and Rick.
PEGGY
What are you doing back here?
DAVID
Have you noticed that you’re stuck?
PEGGY
What do you mean?
DAVID
You’re stuck… stuck between realities. Neither on heaven or earth… only watching.
PEGGY
(Scared)
How did I get stuck?
DAVID
The minute you felt lost, you were stuck. It’s like the afterlife’s flypaper.
PEGGY
Why are you helping me, David? Are you here to stop me? Aren’t you the bad guy?
DAVID
It’s strange, but I want to help you.
PEGGY
But you’re not supposed to, are you?
DAVID
I don’t know. I don’t seem to be bound by any rules that I know of.
PEGGY
I can’t trust you, David. Anything you say could be a lie.
DAVID
Look. I’m about as clueless as you in all this. I’ve been sent here too for some reason but I’m not quite sure why. I thought maybe it was to help you. I do want to help you.
PEGGY
I want to trust you, but I’ve been warned not to.
(Sighs)
Beside, I don’t even know what I’m doing here anyway.
DAVID
I think you’re here to get Rick and Kate together.
PEGGY
Rick and Kate?
DAVID
Can’t you see it? Kate is madly in love with Rick. Rick needs someone…
PEGGY
I guess…
DAVID
You still love Rick, don’t you?
PEGGY
I do… I’m trying to bury the feelings but I can’t.
DAVID
It’s okay to love Rick. But you have to decide if it’s okay to let him love someone else.
PEGGY
That’s not up to me.
DAVID
Maybe it is.
PEGGY
What do you mean?
DAVID
Maybe he can’t love someone else until you release him.
PEGGY
You don’t think he can love someone else until I let him.
DAVID
He is bound to your spirit until you release him.
PEGGY
I hate to admit it, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about.
DAVID
I read a lot of philosophy… Plato, Socrates…
PEGGY
(Remembering)
Rick read stuff like that too.
DAVID
Release him, Peggy.
PEGGY
I don’t know if I can.
(Lights fade and come up on KATE in diner. PEGGY enters)
PEGGY
Hi, Kate. How are you?
KATE
(Cleans)
I had a hard night. Heather and her friends trashed the place.
PEGGY
How come you’re not upset? I’d be furious at them.
KATE
Because something good happened.
PEGGY
What?
KATE
Rick helped me clean up.
PEGGY
He did, huh?
KATE
He is so nice.
(Pauses)
Do you think he…
(Stops. Embarrassed)
…never mind.
PEGGY
(Kindly)
What? Tell me.
(KATE shakes her head no)
Do you think Rick could like you?
KATE
But I know he can’t. He still loves Peggy.
PEGGY
Peggy is dead. He needs to move on.
KATE
He loved Peggy so much. He still has all these pictures of her on his dashboard. It’s like a little shrine. I don’t think he’ll ever get over it.
PEGGY
(Encouraging)
Let me help you, Kate. I’ll help you get Rick.
KATE
You’d help me?
PEGGY
Sure.
KATE
How?
PEGGY
I knew a guy exactly like him once. I know how to get his attention. You up for it?
KATE
Yes.
PEGGY
Then let’s get to work.
(Lights fade to black)
(SONG: “Earth Angel” by the Crew Cuts)
(Lights come up on DAVID alone and lost in thought. PEGGY enters)
PEGGY
David?
DAVID
I think I’ve made a big mistake.
PEGGY
What do you mean?
DAVID
I’m afraid memories are as much my enemy as they are yours.
PEGGY
Are you remembering something about your life?
DAVID
I think so.
PEGGY
What are you remembering?
DAVID
I was in a car accident…
PEGGY
Anything else?
DAVID
I was drag racing. Right out there.
(Pause. PEGGY is silent)
We came up on a curve. I cut the other guy off. There was this truck. Both of us swerved into each other and then the truck hit us…
(Upset. He stops. PEGGY doesn’t know what to say. DAVID turns angry)
I shouldn’t remember… I can’t. I must stop remembering.
PEGGY
You were the guy that crashed into Rick. I remember now.
DAVID
(Upset)
No, don’t remember, please. We can’t or we’ll be trapped here.
PEGGY
That must be why you decided to help me. You feel guilty.
DAVID
Guilt is a form of memory. Why do I have to feel this way? Make it stop.
PEGGY
I think it’s too late for me. I remember too much.
(Turns back to diner)
But that’s not going to stop me from doing what I’m meant to do.
(Lights come up on diner with KATE getting ready. KATE’s in a nice dress and sets up a booth with food and candles during the following)
DAVID
I wish I could help… I don’t seem to be able to do anything. My memories are like a weight on my whole body.
(Crouches down as if in pain)
PEGGY
You have helped me, David. More than you know. You were sent on a mission to stop me, but you ended up helping me instead. Thank you for your kindness.
(Pats DAVID on shoulder)
Wait here. I’ll be back. I won’t leave you alone.
(Lights fade on DAVID. PEGGY enters diner)
(PEGGY enters diner. SONG: “Sea of Love” by Phil Phillips with the Twilights)
KATE
(KATE sees PEGGY)
Hey, Peggy. How does everything look?
PEGGY
Wonderful. You look great too?
KATE
I wore pink like you said.
PEGGY
I heard that Rick loves pink.
KATE
I’ve got his favorite food. And you thought he’d like this perfume.
PEGGY
He’ll love it.
KATE
Here he comes.
PEGGY
Good luck, Kate.
(PEGGY exits and RICK enters)
RICK
Hey, Kate.
(Looks at table all set up for him)
What’s this?
KATE
That was so nice of you to help me clean up the diner, I wanted to return the favor.
RICK
It was no big deal.
KATE
And you bought me lunch at school yesterday.
RICK
You forgot your lunch money.
KATE
And you helped me study for my history test.
RICK
I’m good at history.
KATE
I wanted to do something for you.
RICK
(Starts to cry)
Nobody does anything nice for me.
KATE
Oh, Rick. I didn’t mean to upset you.
RICK
I’m such a baby.
KATE
It’s okay to cry.
RICK
Not for a guy. We always have to be tough. But when you hurt inside…
KATE
I think it’s brave to cry. Most guys wouldn’t dare cry. It takes a lot of courage.
RICK
I try to hold it back, but the tears hit me all of the sudden. I guess it’s the pink dress, the perfume, the music. Peggy would have done something like this for me.
KATE
I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.
RICK
No, it’s fine, Kate. Thank you.
(Dries his tears)
Peggy and I loved this song. We dreamed of going to the sea together. We said we’d get a boat, maybe even a house boat and live off the sea.
(Smiles at KATE)
Thank you for all this, Kate. You’re sweet.
(Gives her a kiss on the cheek. KATE is thrilled)
I shouldn’t have done that. Sorry.
KATE
It’s okay. I didn’t mind.
RICK
But Peggy… I still love her.
KATE It’s okay to love her still.
RICK
It’s been almost a year since the accident and I can’t stop thinking about her. Will the pain ever stop?
KATE
I lost my mom. It hurt for the longest time. I didn’t think I’d be able to stand it… I didn’t think I’d be able to go on without her. When you lose somebody you love, it’s like you lose a part of yourself.
RICK
Yeah. It’s so hard. Does it ever get better?
KATE
A little…
RICK
Sorry to be a wet blanket.
KATE
No, you’re fine. I don’t mind. I like talking like this.
(They smile)
I’ve got dessert too. Chocolate malts.
RICK
Once again… my favorite. It’s like you can read my mind.
KATE
I’ll be right back.
PEGGY
(Enters. Watches RICK a moment as he picks at his food)
Stop.
(Time freezes along with RICK. PEGGY goes up to him)
Rick… this is so hard, but I have to let you go.
(Goes up to him)
I love you so much and I know you love me, but there isn’t a more perfect girl than Kate for you. Take good care of her.
(Touches his cheek)
I release you, Rick. You are free.
(Backs away. Struggles with tears)
Start.
(RICK goes back into motion. Gets a strange look on his face and touches his cheek where PEGGY had touched it)
KATE
(Enters)
Here’s a chocolate malt, extra thick.
(Music plays. Blueberry Hill)
RICK
Do you want to dance?
KATE
Now?
RICK
Sure. Why not?
KATE
Okay.
(She goes up to him shyly. He takes her in his arms and they dance. Lights come up on PEGGY and she watches a moment. Lights fade on diner.)
(DAVID enters)
DAVID
You did it.
PEGGY
I did.
(Turns to DAVID and takes his hand)
How are you?
DAVID
It was weird. I was overwhelmed at first by all the memories and then suddenly I was okay.
PEGGY
The same thing happened to me.
DAVID
The only problem is that I don’t know how to leave here now. I can’t find the doorways to the other side.
PEGGY
I think we’re trapped, David. We’re lost souls now.
DAVID
Looks like we both accomplished our missions. You helped Rick and Kate and I made you into a lost soul. But we’re still stuck here.
PEGGY
At least we’re not stuck here alone.
DAVID
I can’t think of a nicer person to be stuck with.
PEGGY
So what do ghosts do for fun anyway?
DAVID
Haunt things I think.
PEGGY
You think we could find a nice ship to haunt. I’ve always wanted to go on a sea cruise.
DAVID
Then let’s find you a boat.
(Hear SONG: “Teen Angel” by Mark Dinning)
Oh, I love this song.
PEGGY
Me too.
DAVID
Want to dance?
PEGGY
I’d love to.
(Lights fade as they dance)
GABRIELLA
(Appears on Stairway to Heaven and watches PEGGY and DAVID dance. She smiles at them as DAVID dips PEGGY and they laugh. After a moment she speaks:)
I hate to interrupt you but…
PEGGY
You’re back? But I thought I become a lost soul. I broke the rules. I have me memories.
GABRIELLA
Yes, you did break the rules. And David, they’re not too happy with you down below either.
DAVID
Are they ever happy down there?
GABRIELLA
Hardly ever.
DAVID
Did you come tell us that we’ve become lost souls? Because I think it is obvious.
PEGGY
I can’t think of a better person to be lost with though.
GABRIELLA
I’ve come to tell you that you’ve found a loop hole in the rules.
PEGGY
A loop hole?
GABRIELLA
Lost souls are trapped by their memories, but they also have unfinished business. The two of you took care of your unfinished business. You, Peggy, not only let Rick go, but you helped him to find happiness in the process. And you, David, helped resolve a problem you caused for Rick… taking his true love away.
DAVID
It’s the least I could do.
GABRIELLA
The people downstairs aren’t too happy about it.
(Rumbling from below)
Quiet you.
(Rumbling stops)
But you’ve made the people upstairs very happy.
DAVID
That would be a first.
GABRIELLA
I call it just in time redemption.
DAVID
Redemption. Me?
GABRIELLA
And both of you have found something that always tugs at our heart strings up here…
DAVID
Killer dance moves?
(Does a little spin)
GABRIELLA
No, you’ve found love.
PEGGY
(Takes DAVID’s hands)
I know I have.
DAVID
Me too.
GABRIELLA
So, Peggy. You have accomplished your mission. You have earned your wings.
(Heavenly lights and sounds. GABRIELLA or other ANGELS can put wings on PEGGY)
DAVID
(Smiles at PEGGY)
So how many of you can fit on the head of a needle?
GABRIELLA
And for you David…
DAVID
No pitchfork in my future huh?
GABRIELLA
No, I’m afraid you have a second chance.
DAVID
I was afraid of that.
GABRIELLA
I have a mission for you now.
DAVID
Another mission?
GABRIELLA
And Peggy will be your guide.
DAVID
Now I’m liking this.
GABRIELLA
You two are a good team.
DAVID
So… before I go, do I get a little peak upstairs?
GABRIELLA
It is against the rules.
PEGGY
Perhaps you can find a loop hole?
GABRIELLA
Perhaps I can. Come on.
(PEGGY takes DAVID’s arm and they follow GABRIELLA up to heaven).
END OF PLAY
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