how to catch a ghost

by Erin Malone Turner

Four 20-somethings cross paths during the off-season at Cloud Nine State Park, where things are getting stranger each day. Wesley and Amos are inextricably connected twins, even after the worst happens. Finn’s contentment that they fought to create is threatened. Lark is conducting research for her thesis when confronted by a part of her past she never expected to see again. And there’s a big storm brewing. A...

Four 20-somethings cross paths during the off-season at Cloud Nine State Park, where things are getting stranger each day. Wesley and Amos are inextricably connected twins, even after the worst happens. Finn’s contentment that they fought to create is threatened. Lark is conducting research for her thesis when confronted by a part of her past she never expected to see again. And there’s a big storm brewing. A ghost story with lots of Louisiana comfort food, this speculative fiction play explores Black familial ties and the connection between nature and people, and asks questions about faith and the ways we hold ourselves back from what we truly want.

(2nd draft - open to feedback and workshop/reading/production opportunities!)

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how to catch a ghost

Recommended by

  • K.O. Killingsworth: how to catch a ghost

    Beautiful exploration of grief and moving forward, a technological retreat where nature and the wonders of the beyond bubble to the surface of the mind. The dialogue feels modern, specific, and the plot scenically dives into the complexities of struggling with your identity and spirituality in a modern south.

    Beautiful exploration of grief and moving forward, a technological retreat where nature and the wonders of the beyond bubble to the surface of the mind. The dialogue feels modern, specific, and the plot scenically dives into the complexities of struggling with your identity and spirituality in a modern south.

  • Nick Malakhow: how to catch a ghost

    A beautifully rendered, intimate story that explores grief, the fallout of religious trauma, and queerness in a complex and multi-faceted way. I appreciate how Turner acknowledges the multi-pronged challenges queer Black folks and trans folks of all races face without resorting to exploiting and commidifying their traumas. The love story between Wesley and Lark at the center of this is beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful. Amos' presence is, at turns, poignant then unsettling and, eventually, a source of healing. I'd love to see this original, creative piece developed and staged!

    A beautifully rendered, intimate story that explores grief, the fallout of religious trauma, and queerness in a complex and multi-faceted way. I appreciate how Turner acknowledges the multi-pronged challenges queer Black folks and trans folks of all races face without resorting to exploiting and commidifying their traumas. The love story between Wesley and Lark at the center of this is beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful. Amos' presence is, at turns, poignant then unsettling and, eventually, a source of healing. I'd love to see this original, creative piece developed and staged!

Development History

  • Type Reading, Organization Imprint Theatreworks, Year 2022
  • Type Reading, Organization Kitchen Dog Theater, Year 2021