When the Cat's Away

by Danielle Wirsansky

SHORT PLAY (4F)
Inspired by the words and experiences of Carmen Contreras-Bozak, one of the few Puerto Rican women who enlisted in the American military during WWII, "When the Cat's Away" is an exploration of the taboo subject of suicide, especially in the military. Using her culture as an outlet to celebrate life, she makes the case to Amelia, her sister in arms, to choose life over death, especially in the...

SHORT PLAY (4F)
Inspired by the words and experiences of Carmen Contreras-Bozak, one of the few Puerto Rican women who enlisted in the American military during WWII, "When the Cat's Away" is an exploration of the taboo subject of suicide, especially in the military. Using her culture as an outlet to celebrate life, she makes the case to Amelia, her sister in arms, to choose life over death, especially in the face of fear.

read more
  • Inquire About Rights
  • Recommend
  • Download
  • Save to Library

When the Cat's Away

Recommended by

  • Ellen Davis Sullivan: When the Cat's Away by Danielle Wirsansky
    “

    A joy to read this during Women's History Month and learn about a woman I'd never heard about. The dialogue sparkles even as it treats a taboo topic with sensitivity. Bravo, Danielle for bringing this piece of history to life.

    A joy to read this during Women's History Month and learn about a woman I'd never heard about. The dialogue sparkles even as it treats a taboo topic with sensitivity. Bravo, Danielle for bringing this piece of history to life.

    ”
  • Lynn Millar: When the Cat's Away by Danielle Wirsansky
    “

    What an elegantly told story. Challenging what we think should happen when faced with bombs falling. All to stay alive and in control when the world says otherwise. Well done Danielle.

    What an elegantly told story. Challenging what we think should happen when faced with bombs falling. All to stay alive and in control when the world says otherwise. Well done Danielle.

    ”
  • Susan Middaugh: When the Cat's Away by Danielle Wirsansky
    “

    Danielle shines a light on an historic figure that might otherwise remain out of sight, Carmen, an Hispanic woman who was the first to serve in the Women's Army Corps during World War II. Very much liked the line: "Do you know what is the opposite of being afraid?...Being alive." And she demonstrates that when three of the four women, and then the fourth, an American, dance on the roof in Algiers during an air raid. Brave. Thank you, Danielle. A winner.

    Danielle shines a light on an historic figure that might otherwise remain out of sight, Carmen, an Hispanic woman who was the first to serve in the Women's Army Corps during World War II. Very much liked the line: "Do you know what is the opposite of being afraid?...Being alive." And she demonstrates that when three of the four women, and then the fourth, an American, dance on the roof in Algiers during an air raid. Brave. Thank you, Danielle. A winner.

    ”
View all 6 recommendations
4- 4F. Three of the actresses must be latinx.

Development History

  • Reading, Vermont Playwrights Circle, 2019

Production History

  • University, White Mouse Production, 2023