Pattycake by Kerri Kochanski

TEN-MINUTE. 5 African-American girls and their Caucasian friend are stopped by the "N word" during a seemingly innocent game of pattycake. This prompts them to explore their racial identities, and to learn more about themselves and each other.

Themes of: “black pride,” “white blindness,” peer pressure, prejudice, social change

Note: The play includes an authentic...
TEN-MINUTE. 5 African-American girls and their Caucasian friend are stopped by the "N word" during a seemingly innocent game of pattycake. This prompts them to explore their racial identities, and to learn more about themselves and each other.

Themes of: “black pride,” “white blindness,” peer pressure, prejudice, social change

Note: The play includes an authentic pattycake rhyme, currently in use on the streets today.

Note: The play allows youth to engage with the "N word" in a way that is interactive, creative, and thought-provoking. It also provides a theatrical springboard for educators to discuss issues of prejudice, racism, and identity.


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Pattycake

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Character Information

  • Tina
    14,
    White
    Is tough and appears to be tough, but is secretly scared of some of the other girls.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Tanesha
    14,
    African / African American / Black
    Cautious and suspicious. Sometimes nosy.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Black, African, Caribbean, or African American
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Precious
    14,
    African / African American / Black
    Not as strong as some of the others, but still tough and strong-looking.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Black, African, Caribbean, or African American
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Phyllis
    14,
    African / African American / Black
    Overweight. Tough.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Black, African, Caribbean, or African American
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Melany
    14,
    African / African American / Black
    Tough. Looks strong. The leader of the African-American girls.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Black, African, Caribbean, or African American
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Felicai
    13,
    African / African American / Black
    Good-natured. Shy. The peacekeeper.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Teens, 20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Any race/ethnicity
    • Gender: 
      Female

Production History

  • Professional
    ,
    The Bridge PHL
    ,
    2018