Waiting to Die in a Tent, A Few Thoughts on Valhalla

by William J. Meyer

The old viking warrior Einarr and his young friend Mikel battle to protect their distant city of Reidun. When Einarr is mortally wounded, Mikel sets out to locate Einarr’s estranged daughter Kára for a final father-daughter reunion. But before they can return, a mysterious figure finds Einarr alone-- and about to breathe his last.

A short play about a father and a daughter in the Viking Age.

The old viking warrior Einarr and his young friend Mikel battle to protect their distant city of Reidun. When Einarr is mortally wounded, Mikel sets out to locate Einarr’s estranged daughter Kára for a final father-daughter reunion. But before they can return, a mysterious figure finds Einarr alone-- and about to breathe his last.

A short play about a father and a daughter in the Viking Age.

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Waiting to Die in a Tent, A Few Thoughts on Valhalla

Recommended by

  • Ky Weeks: Waiting to Die in a Tent, A Few Thoughts on Valhalla by William J. Meyer
    “

    Meyer's writing calls to mind the old epic stories of heroes, who die after a lifetime of greatdeeds, only to leave a void in their absence. In this play, we only know the warrior from his end, from his regrets and what gets left behind. Through his final moments we see the cracks truly open in a façade of strength, and see a glimmer of the human inside, facing down the weight of fate and his own choices. The end is a sincere and lovely moment of grace and redemption, both personal and mythic.

    Meyer's writing calls to mind the old epic stories of heroes, who die after a lifetime of greatdeeds, only to leave a void in their absence. In this play, we only know the warrior from his end, from his regrets and what gets left behind. Through his final moments we see the cracks truly open in a façade of strength, and see a glimmer of the human inside, facing down the weight of fate and his own choices. The end is a sincere and lovely moment of grace and redemption, both personal and mythic.

    ”

Character Information

  • Einarr
    An old warrior, estranged father of Kára. Cynical.
    60-70
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      60s,
      70s+
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Male
  • Mikel
    A young warrior, friend and confidant of Einarr. Optimistic.
    25-30
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      20s
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Male
  • Viking Warrior
    A viking warrior killed by Einarr. Mortally wounds Einarr.
    Male
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      20s,
      30s,
      40s,
      50s,
      60s,
      70s+
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Male
  • Hildr
    A young shield-maiden turned Valkyrie. Aloof.
    30-40
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      30s,
      40s
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Female
  • Kára
    A young farmer, estranged daughter of Einarr. Hopeful.
    18-25
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Age
      20s
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Female

Production History

  • Community Theater, Produced as an audio drama, 2019

Awards

  • Platinum Level
    HEAR Now Festival
    Selection
    2020