The Interview - Script Version (part)
BACKGROUND
This is a short play with a strong comic twist at the end. Although written so that the woman wins over the misogynistic man, the play has no inherent gender requirements.
The set and props are minimal and there are no particular costume requirements - office wear is sufficient.
PROGRAM WORDS
The following text can be used as an introductory blurb to be included in the performance program.
When George applies for a job at Oberlong Industries he finds he is not the only candidate. But he is convinced his arrogance and blustering will see him through.
PERFORMANCE NOTES
As can be seen from the story, Catherine needs to portray three different personalities. Firstly as a rather timid and nervous person, then a very serious manager and finally as a friendly enthusiastic applicant.
George needs to portray arrogance followed by annoyance.
CAST
George Jones - mid thirties male very full of his own importance. His favourite phrase is "The number one rule"
Catherine Malloway - mid thirties female
Clarissa - office secretary
GENDER FLEXIBILITY
Although written for one male actor and two female actors, if necessary, this play can be modified to change the gender mix or even have all actors of the same gender.
If George is being played by a female, then George becomes Georgina and she is Miss Jones. Details in the Program Words and parts of the script would need to be altered.
If Catherine is being played by a male, then her name at the end is Clark Malloway. Some of George's words would need to be altered where he refers to her as 'lady', 'woman', etc.
Clarissa can be either male or female with no changes required.
SETTING
A hallway with two chairs facing the audience. Doors at either end but these are not essential.
DURATION
Expected duration 10 minutes
PROPS
- A sign stage right with the words "WAIT HERE UNTIL YOU ARE CALLED"
- Flashy show-off watch for George
- Catherine has a handbag containing a small makeup mirror
- Clipboard with papers for Clarissa
SCRIPT
George enters stage left and saunters in. He oozes misplaced self-confidence, looks at the sign and sits down on the stage right chair looking smug.
Pause.
George begins to look impatient.
Catherine enters stage left appearing slightly timid.
Catherine:(in a timid manner) Is this Oberlong Industries?
George:Yeh. Hope so. Damn well better be.
Catherine sits down on the other chair.
Catherine:Are you here for the job interview as well?
George:Yep, 4:30 appointment.
Catherine:That's odd - same as me. What's the time now?
George looks at his watch with a flair designed to show off his watch.
George:It's already gone 4:30 - they're late.
Catherine:Wow, that's a nice watch - Rolex?
George:Yeh, well - maybe - maybe not - I got it in Hong Kong so - you know what I mean. But it looks good. Eh?
Catherine:Yeh - I was told that appearances are everything.
George:You're right there. Number one rule - first impression is critical.
The script continues with exactly the same dialogue as the story version
