The Applicant
The best and brightest young adults and college students are invited to apply for their dream job. Applicants for this government job are tasked with seemingly simple games in order to advance to the next round. But they soon find out failure has severe consequences. Dr. Kellas explains what is being asked of them and the large reward that awaits the lucky one. What will each applicant do in order to secure their promising future? This show requires very little set, few costumes, and is entirely gender flexible. It is perfect for one-act competitions. About 35 minutes.
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In "The Applicant" a covert agency recruits young Jamie Runnels, a scientist destined to revolutionize their research. Unaware of his potential, the agency inadvertently sets loose a monster. This is clear in "Four Teams" when Runnels plays games using participants. And finally, in "An Experiment" the agency tests the perfect assassin: by erasing their memories.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
With Brent Holland
What inspired you to write this play?
I like writing in different settings, or universes where the characters often crossover. It can be tricky, since you have to write the show to both fit an overall story arc, but make sure that it 100 percent stands completely on it's own. "The Applicant" is in the same universe as several other shows I have written, most of which are my most popular plays. (Such as "An Experiment," found here at Eldridge).
What's your favorite part or line in the play? Why?
I think my favorite part is in the end where Dr. Kellas totally sticks it to Jamie, eliminating his family and going back on his word that there would be no time served in prison. You just know that something bad is going to happen to Dr. Kellas when Jamie gets out!
Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
I based Dr. Kellas solely off of my wife, Sierra. Same temperament and disposition towards evil. That's a joke of course, as my wife is one of the kindest, nicest people on earth and obviously patient as she puts up with me. Unlike most of my shows, this one is almost completely based in fiction with the exception of a few names that I poached from friends and co-workers. Considering the fate of most of the people in the show that's probably a good thing.
What did you try to achieve with this play?
I write competition plays and plays that can be done easily, with flexibility and very little budget. I want them to be tight, extremely tense and offer things you don't see in a lot of high school plays. I think this show achieves all of this. I also want to leave a crowd with a feeling. A specific vibe. In this one, you should leave feeling sorry for Jamie while also wondering what he's going to be like when he gets out.
Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
I am perfectly fine with small alterations to fit your situation. If you have any questions please reach out to Eldridge for approval.