New Kid on the Block
Carl, Lloyd and Parker, three older gentlemen who share a large home, need to rent out their fourth bedroom to help with the rent. Their problem seems answered when Will shows up...except Will turns out to be a lady. While Lloyd and Parker like her and want to vote her in, Carl barks back, "We're not voting on prom queen!" Carl's reaction is all part of a plan with Will, his sister, to let her live with them for a while. Before the brother and sister can reveal their plotting, however, the "fun" begins. It's all over the area that Carl and Will are sweethearts; Lloyd has put on his army fatigues and is running night maneuvers; and Parker is sneaking around the neighborhood with his walkie-talkie. Then the woman in black enters, telling Will she better leave. On top of this, Will's daughter, Jolene, arrives having just left her husband. This comedy has more turns than your uncle's map to grandma's house. And you'll finally find out just who really is "The New Kid on the Block."
Productions
Behind The Scenes
PLAYWRIGHT PAT COOK TALKS ABOUT
"THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK"
Q.: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS PLAY?
A.: There is a delightful British TV comedy called "The Last of the Summer Wine" which has me under it's charm. It revolves, generally, around three retired gentlemen and their eccentricities. I wondered what I could do with three American types, living under the same roof. That and remembering a few of some good old friends of my own helped create this play.
Q.: WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OR LINE IN THE PLAY? WHY?
A.: Favorite part(s) would be in the beginning when the men learn their new roomie is a woman and at the end when all heck breaks lose.
Q.: WHERE DO THE CHARACTERS COME FROM? ARE THEY BASED ON PEOPLE YOU KNOW?
A.: They are, in fact, but only in places. Each character has traits of two or more of my old friends. And I spent a lot of time writing this by remembering lovely times long past.
Q.: WHAT DID YOU TRY TO ACHIEVE WITH THIS PLAY?
A.: I knew I had written several plays revolving around older ladies ("Dead Giveaway", "Marquis Crossing Ladies Society's First Attempt at Murder", "Every Little Crook and Nanny") so I thought it was time to give my old gang a shot.
Q.: ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SAY ABOUT IT?
A.: I was tremendously sorry when I finished it. I had such fun visiting with Carl, Parker and Lloyd. And I do hope this translates to an audience. To me, they are as real as my own rather eclectic background.