Who here knows "Rumors" by Neil Simon?

[romgitsean]

Posted: 9/29/10 at 3:10pm

I've heard a lot about it, but I must confess, I don't actually know it. We went in for blind auditions for my school drama yesterday, and today the announced the play will be Rumors.

Can someone please give me a detailed character breakdown? I've looked everywhere, and the only thing I can find is on StageAgent.com which you have to pay for. :c

[TrpleThreat89]

Posted: 9/29/10 at 4:00pm

I'll see if this helps at all:

There's Ken and Chris (female), who are the first couple there. Ken goes temporarily deaf during the show. Chris is trying to quit smoking. Ken is very nervous, and Chris seems to be in charge between the two of them.

Lenny and Claire. They got into a car accident on the way over to the party, so Lenny has a stiff neck. Lenny also gives the famous monologue at the end of the show.

Ernie and Cookie are an older couple. Ernie is a psychologist (if I remember correctly), and Cookie has back problems. There's a funny scene where she loses her earring and everyone's on their hands and knees looking for it.

Glenn and Cassie have a May-December romance. Glenn is a politician and Cassie is convinced that he's cheating.

There are also two police officers who come in near the end of Act II. The female officer rarely speaks.

[Dollypop]

Posted: 9/29/10 at 4:04pm

I don't think the script states that the second officer is female. Most of the times a woman does play the part, though.

I directed a production of the play many years ago and cast a female in the role.

[romgitsean]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 9:09am

I was just cast as Lenny. I'm just curious - is that a bigger or smaller part then the male lead, Ken?

[Dollypop]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 9:27am

As I recall (and it was many years ago), all the parts are pretty terrific.

[TrpleThreat89]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 9:55am

There's really no designated "lead" in this show (besides the officers, who are obviously supporting). Lenny is a FANTASTIC part with many great lines. Good luck with that monologue!

[skander2]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 10:18am

I'll echo this. Did this when I was in high school...Lenny's a fantastic role and in the right hands, can be a scene stealer. That monologue is too fun!

[romgitsean]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 3:43pm

Thanks guys for the support! I just got the script, and oy vay does it have a lot of lines! Haha.

Too boot, I'm a senior AND also playing Charles in Pippin right now D:

[Dollypop]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 3:59pm

Senior citizens are very capable of multi-tasking. You'll be fine. Just don't forget to take your meds.

[ObiHave]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 5:28pm

I've directed the play twice and while Lenny is the "bigger" part (line-wise) and he does have that wonderful monologue at the end, Ken usually steals the show. He's less acerbic than Lenny and the scene where he loses his hearing and Chris is scratching uncontrollably is just damn hilarious. It's a fun play from beginning to end.

[Here I Am]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 9:25pm

I played Ken in high school and it was AMAZING FUN! Lenny has an awesome monologue in the last scene that practically steals the show. Have fun and congrats!

[hairspraydude1962]

Posted: 10/1/10 at 9:54pm

I played Ernie in my college's production of Rumors last spring. It was literally one of the best experiences of my life. It's something I'll never forget. If I ever get the chance to be in the show again, I'll spring to the chance. The show is utterly hilarious.

Rumors is an ensemble piece, so the four couples have roughly the same amount of lines. Lenny is probably the biggest role when it comes to lines, however. There's a lot to memorize (especially the two-page monologue), but I promise you that you'll have a wonderful time.