The Race

by Mark Binder

Joseph Black and Joseph White, two job-seekers from vastly different backgrounds vie for the same position in a large, faceless corporation. Each reveals uncomfortable truths from their past while dodging landmines from their competition, and dealing with an increasingly demanding disembodied interviewer. Neither candidate’s future is certain, as the audience becomes an integral part of the selection process....

Joseph Black and Joseph White, two job-seekers from vastly different backgrounds vie for the same position in a large, faceless corporation. Each reveals uncomfortable truths from their past while dodging landmines from their competition, and dealing with an increasingly demanding disembodied interviewer. Neither candidate’s future is certain, as the audience becomes an integral part of the selection process.

Written to be performed live and set in the Zoomscape. Can also be performed in-person. The actors swap roles each night.

While the invisible Human Resources asks relevant questions, there are moments when she warns both men that there may be intrusive queries. This becomes apparent when they are both asked if they were ever arrested, whether they have felt discrimination, or what are their sexual fantasies.…
Ultimately, the audience chooses who will get the job.
Post- performance talkbacks are very interesting and highly recommended

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The Race

Recommended by

  • Josh Short: The Race

    A tremendous and innovative new play, THE RACE is the most engaging virtual experience that I've come across. It captures the detachment of the "Zoom era" beautifully, while still providing opportunities for the audience to engage directly with the experience throughout. Our audiences at The Wilbury Group were enthralled with the production, and every talkback following our performances brought up such engaging questions from our audiences.

    A great play for two talented actors to showcase their work, and perfect for any company looking to expand their virtual repertoire while finding ways to...

    A tremendous and innovative new play, THE RACE is the most engaging virtual experience that I've come across. It captures the detachment of the "Zoom era" beautifully, while still providing opportunities for the audience to engage directly with the experience throughout. Our audiences at The Wilbury Group were enthralled with the production, and every talkback following our performances brought up such engaging questions from our audiences.

    A great play for two talented actors to showcase their work, and perfect for any company looking to expand their virtual repertoire while finding ways to preserve the live elements of theatre. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Character Information

Four characters, three actors. At least two males.
Joseph Black/Joseph White swap roles for each performance
Double: Human Resources and Human Resources Two
In some productions, all three may swap roles.
  • Human Resources
  • Joseph Black
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male
  • Joseph White
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male

Development History

  • Type Workshop, Organization The Wilbury Group Theater, Year 2020

Production History

  • Type Professional, Organization The Wilbury Group Theater, Year 2021