Define "Friend"

by Jackson Rodriguez Castello

A semi-autobiographical one-act structured as a dramatized academic essay, Jack looks back at his turbulent middle school years as he struggles to define "friend". Told through a series of intermixed monologues and vignettes, he navigates and attempts to understand the ups and downs of complicated relationships with Aiden and Audrey. As they struggle through arguments, jealousy, peer pressure, and social...

A semi-autobiographical one-act structured as a dramatized academic essay, Jack looks back at his turbulent middle school years as he struggles to define "friend". Told through a series of intermixed monologues and vignettes, he navigates and attempts to understand the ups and downs of complicated relationships with Aiden and Audrey. As they struggle through arguments, jealousy, peer pressure, and social immaturity, Jack unpacks the complex nature of nuanced friendships as his own relationships deteriorate and bloom.

Cautions: Some sexual references and pervasive language.

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Define "Friend"

Recommended by

  • Mike Byham: Define "Friend" by Jackson Rodriguez Castello
    “

    Insightful and thought-provoking, this well-written one act by Jackson Castello entertains throughout. The characters are fully developed and Castello’s use of language results in natural dialogue. This play should be on the radar of high school drama teachers looking for solid original works. Very well done.

    Insightful and thought-provoking, this well-written one act by Jackson Castello entertains throughout. The characters are fully developed and Castello’s use of language results in natural dialogue. This play should be on the radar of high school drama teachers looking for solid original works. Very well done.

    ”
  • Franky D. Gonzalez: Define "Friend" by Jackson Rodriguez Castello
    “

    A one-act giving audiences a nuanced, messy, and intimate look into the life of middle-school relationships and dynamics. Jackson Castello has created in this play a real opportunity for young actors to not only participate in the theatre, but embody characters whose concerns mirror their own in so many ways. Don't let the fact that it's a one-act fool you. This play is filled with lots to think about and digest with each viewing.

    A one-act giving audiences a nuanced, messy, and intimate look into the life of middle-school relationships and dynamics. Jackson Castello has created in this play a real opportunity for young actors to not only participate in the theatre, but embody characters whose concerns mirror their own in so many ways. Don't let the fact that it's a one-act fool you. This play is filled with lots to think about and digest with each viewing.

    ”

Character Information

If possible, please cast teenage actors. AIDEN and JACK must play ages 8-14. Though it is not a musical, this play has some minimal singing. JACK must have a strong soprano range, and AIDEN must have a strong alto/tenor.
  • Jack
    Must be able to play ages 8-14. Must have a strong soprano range, though minimal singing is required.
    12-15
    Any
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      Teens
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Man
  • Aiden
    Must play ages 8-14. Must have a strong alto/tenor range, though minimal singing is required.
    12-15
    Any
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      Teens
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Man
  • Audrey
    13-14
    Any
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      Teens
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Woman

Development History

  • Reading, Our Productions Theatre Co., 2022
  • Reading, Imprint Theatreworks, 2021

Production History

  • Community Theater, Fort Salem Theater, 2022