T. J. Brown & D. B. Crawford
Music and Lyrics by
T. J. Brown & D. B. Crawford
Synopsis
Fat Shirley's: A Trailer Park Opera explores the lives of trailer park residents in the aftermath of the death of their beloved landlady Fat Shirley. Not only is Shirley's demise an emotional event, it also leaves the residents uncertain about their fates. Fat Shirley was a last resort for many of the tenants, many of whose lives are characterized by the hardships that often accompany poor decision making. Following the moving grave-side service the residents dwell on more eternal matters, wondering through song if indeed there might be trailer parks in glory land. Not quite sure how to have a wake, the residents decide that a bar-b-que would be an appropriate event to honor Shirley. Terrance Bulware after blowing his nose on his and wiping it on his clothes is admonished by his mother to get himself a tissue or a hanky in the heart-warming -If You've Got A Runny Nose (Don't wipe it on your clothes). The bar-b-que provides the audience with an opportunity to learn more about the characters. Connie Ray and Ray (first cousins) it is discovered became engaged at a family reunion, and Broyhill and Marva are not enjoying a blissful union. The appearance of Shirley's arrogant brother, who claims to be the lawful heir, further compounds the residents' plight as he tells them he will soon turn the park into an ostrich farm.
In Act II, the individual lives of the characters are further explored. The Jackson brothers - Futon, Camaro, and Broyhill (named after the place of conception), share small talk and their troubles with each other and their demented grandfather Delmore. Delmore advises against involvement with women as he sings of his experiences of being used by a gold digger. It is also learned that Broyhill has been kicked out of his trailer and has "Eating at the Waffle House, staying at the weekly rate, doggone lonesome blues. " Coming perhaps as no surprise, is brother Futon's penchant for ladies that wear hairnets. As these gentlemen wander off stage to continue with their discourse at the Waffle House; Marva, Inez, and Angel discuss the impact of men in their lives. Angel (betrothed to Camaro), sings of the love they have for each other in a song entitled "Hickies." Marva on the other hand heaps scorn upon her ne'er-do-well spouse, telling the audience that "Momma was right" when it came to making judgements about her future with Broyhill. Marva is quickly drawn toward the prospects of financial security offered by Fat Shirleys brother.
She soon however realizes the huge differences in their lifestyles and that John Earl is too much of a panty waisted mommas boy. As the residents become more uncertain about their futures and tempers flare, a voice of reason - Futon suggests that they look for a will (he had watched all the Matlock episodes). Little Durkey Bulware finds the will under Fat Shirley's giant under wear and of course everything turns out well. Shirley had left the trailer park to the residents.
Interested theatre groups may contact us for list of songs and characters, along with sample tape of musical numbers. Script available for $10.00 postpaid.
A DVD of the 2006 dress rehersal is also availabe for $12.50 plus $2.50 S&H
Copyright 2003 and 2006. All rights reserved.
Fat Shirley's online store offers unique hard to find items. See these fine products at:
http://www.cafepress.com/fsatpo
Schedule
Rock Spring, GA.
September 21, 22, 23, 27,& 28, 2007 at the Walker County Civic Center in 706-375-7705.
Dalton, GA
May 2008 at the Dalton Little Theatre
706-226-6618
http://www.cafepress.com/fsatpo
Deadline April 25th, 2008, only one entry per family.