Potshots

by Stephanie Kline

In this autobiographical play, Sam rushes to Jake's hospital bed in the middle of the night because she is mistakenly still listed as his emergency contact four years post-divorce. As Sam pushes Jake to tell her about his failed suicide attempt that just happened, Jake decides to open up about processing his trauma over the last four years.

In this autobiographical play, Sam rushes to Jake's hospital bed in the middle of the night because she is mistakenly still listed as his emergency contact four years post-divorce. As Sam pushes Jake to tell her about his failed suicide attempt that just happened, Jake decides to open up about processing his trauma over the last four years.

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Potshots

Recommended by

  • James Binz: Potshots by Stephanie Kline
    “

    As a military veteran, I felt the authenticity of the dialogue and the plausibility of the emergency contact twist. The VA is a wonderful place, but sometimes the paperwork can screw up the world. In this case, the story hits with power and makes us empathetic. This would be a treat to see on stage. Thank you, Stephanie Kline, for a nice slice of life story.

    As a military veteran, I felt the authenticity of the dialogue and the plausibility of the emergency contact twist. The VA is a wonderful place, but sometimes the paperwork can screw up the world. In this case, the story hits with power and makes us empathetic. This would be a treat to see on stage. Thank you, Stephanie Kline, for a nice slice of life story.

    ”
  • Kim E. Ruyle: Potshots by Stephanie Kline
    “

    As a former Marine, Kline writes compellingly and with authority about a divorced couple, both ex-Marines. After four years of separation, they’re together again in a VA hospital room where, in fewer than ten pages, Kline packs in a story is tragic, funny, and ultimately deeply moving. There’s so much to like about this short play. The authenticity of the dialogue is exceptional. Highly recommended.

    As a former Marine, Kline writes compellingly and with authority about a divorced couple, both ex-Marines. After four years of separation, they’re together again in a VA hospital room where, in fewer than ten pages, Kline packs in a story is tragic, funny, and ultimately deeply moving. There’s so much to like about this short play. The authenticity of the dialogue is exceptional. Highly recommended.

    ”
  • Denis Meadows: Potshots by Stephanie Kline
    “

    A powerful piece, with loads of authentic backstory revealed in punchy and sometimes humorous dialogue...

    A powerful piece, with loads of authentic backstory revealed in punchy and sometimes humorous dialogue...

    ”
Ethnicity- any
Age- 30-40
Gender- Jake could be any gender, as long as they look military enough; Sam can be any gender, though they were written as male (Jake) and female (Sam)

Awards

  • 10-minute playwriting competition
    Veterans Repertory Theater
    Winner
    2023
  • Veterans 10-Minute Playwriting Festival
    Salem State University
    Selection
    2023