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Year of Graduation
2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MFA: Playwriting
Directing Professor
Todd William Ristau
Abstract
These two one-act plays, collectively Brother Fire, Mother Earth, focus on families in crises. Desperation for Glue explores the relationship between two brothers, Levi and Jason. Levi is ten years younger than his Jason. Troubles at home leave Levi vulnerable when Jason leaves for college. One fateful day will forever change their lives. They both turn to the arts -- Jason to theatre and Levi to writing -- to conquer their demons. They drift apart and reconnect only when times are dire for Levi. A subsequent discovery closes the door for one brother and opens it for the other. Mothers and Terrorists reflects on Russell’s relationship with his mother during 2001 when her life changed because of dementia, then immediately after his personal world settles, the terrorist attacks of September 11 take two work friends. The play juxtaposes emotional and existential angst and aims at finding some truth and meaning through them both. An Afterword considers the influences of coursework and other creative works on the development of these plays.
Recommended Citation
Beach, David R., "Brother Fire, Mother Earth" (2021). Playwriting (MFA) Theses, Hollins University. 2.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/playwritingtheses/2
Contact Information
david@davidrussellbeach.com
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the MFA in Playwriting thesis is to provide a definitive record of student progress upon completion of the degree. This text will not reflect any revisions to the play made after degree completion. For the most current version of the play, or for licensing information, please contact the author and/or the Hollins Playwriting Department.