The Message of      Take A Number

Family life seems to be getting faster paced and more hectic, especially for moms.  Things tend to get really busy around the house.  We need to be careful that mom doesn’t get so overcome with tasks that in order to communicate with her we need to Take A Number.

Sample scene setup and text of manuscript: 

         (As the scene opens, a small crowd has gathered in front of a table.  Their backs are toward the audience.  This crowd blocks the person seated at the table, Woman, from view.  Above the table is a sign which reads “Take a Number  Now Serving,” and the number “3” hangs below it.  The crowd is comprised of a grown man in dress slacks and a dress shirt, Man, who is holding several neckties; a teen-age boy, Boy, holding a pair of blue jeans; a pre-teen girl, 1st Girl, carrying a book bag.  1st Girl is speaking to the Woman seated behind the table.  Remember, the audience's view of the Woman seated at the table remains obstructed.)

(excerpted text)

1ST GIRL:  What about tomorrow?

WOMAN:  No.

1ST GIRL:  (Whining):  Why not?  You said it would not be a problem.

BOY:  Come on.  Your time is up.  Next.

         (As 1st Girl and the Woman continue their discussion, a teen-age girl, 2nd Girl, enters the stage carrying a sheet of paper.  When she sees the crowd which has gathered, she cannot believe it.)

2ND GIRL:  Not again!

MAN:  Yes, again.

2ND GIRL:  (Pleading):  Can I get in front of you?  I only have this one . . .

         (As she holds up her sheet of paper, the Man interrupts her.)

MAN:  No, no, no.  (He points to the sign.)
Take a number.