Way Back When
In comedy monologue, “Way Back When” Hank explains to Neal why he lost out on the biggest role of his life.
HANK: Don’t you think — hey – hey – I didn’t want to give the part to Leonard, alright? You are my guy; you’re always my guy, but you disappeared! And this ain’t the first time; you’ve let me down before! Leonard is a determined drooling wolf. I deliberately kept him in the shadows ’cause he gives me migraines, and whatever leftovers I have to shut him up, I give to him! He’s loyal, he’s sharp, he doesn’t go hiking in the woods, he doesn’t lose his phone, he doesn’t wake up in Vegas hungover and confused, he doesn’t go off on pill-popping booze-bitchin’ binges, wallowing in long-winded conversations in ditches and bars! He’s sharp but dense enough to the point of squareness and honesty, and he’s harmless. I gave him the job ’cause I had to give him the job, I had to get rid of him. (pause.) Look, kid, you’re long in the tooth; this town has a fast turnover; you should already know the game by its name. Had you just answered your phone! (sips his drink) …I know you, Neal. I know you…all too well, I’m afraid. I’m sorry. It would’ve been a good one for us.
- To read the full one-act ePlay, find purchase link below:
In the one-act eplay, “Way Back When ” Neal arrives at his agent’s office in Hollywood to find out that he’s been pushed out of a role he desperately wants. 2 Men. Comedy.
