A Sketch by Jean-Pierre Martinez
One character is there, sweeping the floor. Another arrives, visibly out of breath.
One – Sorry, my watch stopped. I only noticed an hour later… Am I too late?
Two – Too late…? Yeah… It just ended.
One – Ah, damn it… I was counting on that money to pay my rent…
Two – Well, now you’re officially a job seeker. And finding a job… I’m not sure you’ll find one at the theatre.
One – I can do anything, I assure you!
Two – Did you know your lines, at least?
One – Oh, because we had to learn lines? I thought it was an improvisation show.
Two – Well no. We still do it the old-fashioned way, you know.
One – The old-fashioned way…?
Two – The playwright writes a script. And the actors have to learn it. Before performing it.
One – Oh, I see…
Two – So you show up after the performance, and you don’t know your lines?
One – Alright, so it’s definitely over.
Two – Because I find you likeable, I’ll give you one last chance. Come on. Here (He hands him the broom). Show me what you can do with improvisation…
One – Thank you! I’ll surprise you, you’ll see! (He takes the broom with hesitation) And… is it paid?
The other hands him a five euro note.
Two – Here, this is for your watch.
The other looks at the note.
One – Do you really think I can buy a watch with five euros?
Two – You can always change the battery… Well, do you want this role, yes or no?
One – Yes, yes, of course!
Two – Go ahead! Show me what you can do with a broom…
The first starts sweeping in a somewhat theatrical manner. The second watches him with a disillusioned look.
Two – Don’t overact… Play it more… Actors Studio, you know?
The other starts sweeping in a falsely detached way.
One – Like this?
Two – That’s better… Well, I’ll leave you to work on your role. Who knows, it might even help you in your future career…
One – Thank you! Really…
Two – You will slam the door on your way out…?
He exits. The other continues sweeping, trying out different acting styles.
Fade to black.
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A sketch from the collection Enough is enough!
Link to the collection for free download (PDF)
Find all of Jean-Pierre Martinez’s plays on his website:
https://jeanpierremartinez.net