Plays About Social Issues

Theatre has the opportunity to spark conversations, and change opinions.

These shows all address topics relevant to living in today’s modern as older adults. Put them together to create a production of any length. Click on the title for play information and to read a FreeView, then order your copy.

ArtAge Publications Senior Theatre Resource Center.

2 women

less than 10 minutes

Velma's feelings are one part resignation and two parts rebellion as her friend, Abby, tries to lead her to the right decision about when to give up driving.
Porch Pirates senior theatre play poster by ArtAge Publications.

Cast of 4

10 minute comedy

Ahoy mateys! This team o' pirates be not like typical  porch pirates! They're on contract to prevent the accumulation of too much stuff.
The Magic Holiday Dumpster book cover by David Malouf for senior theatre resources.

6 women

10 minutes

Five women throw a holiday party that spirals into chaos, with wine, drama, and a missing earring, teaching that the season is about connection, not perfection.
Book cover for "I Used to Be the Pretty One" by Lindsey Brown, published by ArtAge Publications.

2 women

10 minutes

Once a head-turning beauty, an older woman has a plan to harm portraits of younger women in a museum exhibit.
In Rumi's Field - Senior Theatre Resource Book by Doug Stewart.

2 either

12-15 minute drama

Two strangers meet in a field. What at first seems like small talk actually stirs some deeper questions.
Book cover for "A Santa-Mental Christmas" by Bob Naquin, featuring festive holiday design.

cast of 8

20 minutes

Santa is grumpy! The modern workforce of elves and reindeer makes him wish for the good old days.  Will he get with the times?
Play cover for "Fool Me Once" by James Buglewicz, featuring bold colors and design.

cast of 11

20 minute comedy

Henrietta, whose husband died recently, is taken in by various schemes and scams, only to be saved in the nick of time by the street-wise detective and scambuster, San Scam!

cast of 5

30 minute comedy

Popular playwright, Bob Naquin is back with a holiday treat! A homeless person reminds us that what's inside a person is more important than outward appearances.    
Book cover for "Benny and Pearl Loving in a Goldfish Bowl" by Linda L. Rand.

1 man, 1 woman

18 minute comedy

Believe in yourself, no matter how many false starts you have in life, it’s never too late for the real thing.
Senior theatre resource cover promoting flu vaccination awareness.

1 man, 1 woman

10 minute comedy

When it’s time to convince people to get the flu shot, sometimes entertainment can carry the most convincing message. Used by health departments and aging organizations with great success!

3 men, 7 women

20-25 minute comedy

Joan comes up with a brilliant plan to combat ageism and the inappropriate way some people speak to older people.
Book cover for "Stolen Flowers" by Lora Lee Ecobelli, featuring a green background and black accents.

2 women

20 minutes

Cora decides it's time to push her brother-in-law's buttons by giving her sister a small pot of flowers. And when he reacts as expected, both sisters decide it'll be the last time.
Book cover for "Volunteering Has Its Moments" by Ann Barham Pugh, featuring a colorful design.

4 women, 1 either

20 minute comedy

The play is set on the “Opal” show, a nationally televised tribute to volunteers moderated by the popular TV personality. The fast paced comedy is a fitting tribute to volunteers.
Theatre resource guide titled "Silence" by Brandon Daughtry Slocum.

2 women

15 to 20 minute comedy

Jennie is drowning in casseroles, condolences, and loneliness until her neighbor shows up with bourbon and  friendship in a play about resilience and keeping going.
Crash! - Senior Theatre Resource Center by ArtAge Publications.

Flexible casting

1 hour

Created by a well-respected intergenerational company, this show turns the economic crisis into an opportunity to bring the generations together. Crash provides audiences with hope, insight, and joy.

cast of 9

90 minute musical comedy

Cordy Shelburne's life is enriched after re-discovering the joy of living from a wise lady who happens to live on the street. Great songs, a wonderful story, and an uplifting message!
Cover of "Mimi and Me" by Kitty Dubin, a senior theatre resource publication.

2 women

15 minutes

A young volunteer tries to cheer up an outspoken older woman who has absolutely no desire, whatsoever, to be perked up.  
Book cover for "Keys to Her Kingdom" by Dorey Schmidt, senior theatre resource.

4 women, 1 voice

15-20 minute issue oriented play

The question most of us will one day face, "When should I stop driving?" is at the heart of this light-hearted show.

1 man

10 minute monologue

At his wife's behest, Ralph is visiting his doctor for a prostate checkup. But the digital aspect of the exam has given him sleepless nights!
Cover of "A Wasted Gift" by Bob Rinfret, published by ArtAge Publications.

2 men, 2 women

30 minute drama

James shows us how to reflect on our own lives and make the right decisions. But is there still time?
Book cover titled "Does This Show Make My Butt Look Fat?" by Joni Hilton, featuring bold colors and.

1 to many women

1 hour comedy

This show is as funny as its title! The flexible number of women take you on a comic romp through the trials and tribulations of womanhood.

2 men

10 minute comedy

Ladies and Gentlemen, we present Billy Buck and Jo-Jo, two rodeo performers who wake up only to discover that they are dead...and still together!
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