Aaron, an awkward high-schooler, is struggling to find the nerve to talk to his crush, Emily. After yet another failed attempt, three aspects of his personality, Confidence, Nervousness, and Doubt, appear to help him overcome his woes. These Aspects each demonstrate ways in which they think Aaron should woo Emily, but all end in failure (or just utter embarrassment). Just when all hope seems lost, Sam, the representation of the "true self," appears to offer some sage advice. When Aaron takes this advice, he successfully asks Emily out and exits in victory. Emily is left excited, but as she wonders how to approach the date, the Aspects realize they have their next assignment! About 20 minutes.
With Jace Petrutsas
What inspired you to write this play?
I was actually inspired to write this play by my own real-life experiences! Of course, not everything in the show was directly lifted from my life, but a surprising (and potentially concerning) amount was nearly word-for-word with reality.
What's your favorite part or line in the play? Why?
If I HAD to pick a favorite scene, I think it would have to be the first time Confidence tries to talk to Emily. In fact, it was the very first scene of the show that I wrote. It is just so over-the-top and ridiculous, that I can't help but smile every time I read it.
Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
The characters are, like the show, largely based off of me and my experiences. Obviously, the more ridiculous aspects of the show (i.e. Confidence...) are fictional, but characters like Aaron and Nervousness are built off of me.
What did you try to achieve with this play?
To be completely honest, I wasn't trying to convey some profound message with this show, I just wanted to give audiences something to laugh at. Often times, I find that comedies use obscure humor, and audiences are left confused. I just wanted to make something that was easy for all audiences to laugh at, but also something that didn't fall into the trap of hyper-absurdity.
Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
I would like to thank Chris Patterson for all his help in developing the final script of Aspect[s] and refining the jokes! I would also like to give a shout-out to the original cast of Aspect[s], along with Sophie Stewart and Isla Hurley, who made up my awesome crew team!