"NIGHT LIGHT" - A Ten-Minute Uplifting Human Drama

by Donald Loftus

On a freezing winter night, Charlie, a gruff but kindhearted night watchman at The Broadway Theatre, reluctantly lets in Jimmy, a young chorus boy left homeless after his show’s sudden closure. As they share stories, secrets, and struggles, they form an unexpected bond. Through humor, resilience, and their shared love of theatre, they find hope in each other—proving that even in the darkness, there’s always a...

On a freezing winter night, Charlie, a gruff but kindhearted night watchman at The Broadway Theatre, reluctantly lets in Jimmy, a young chorus boy left homeless after his show’s sudden closure. As they share stories, secrets, and struggles, they form an unexpected bond. Through humor, resilience, and their shared love of theatre, they find hope in each other—proving that even in the darkness, there’s always a light. (Cast: 2M)

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"NIGHT LIGHT" - A Ten-Minute Uplifting Human Drama

Recommended by

  • Rachel Feeny-Williams: "NIGHT LIGHT" - A Ten-Minute Uplifting Human Drama by Donald Loftus
    “

    I've always believe theatre is a passion that can last a life time but it is also one that can kick you when you're down. That idea is one that Donald has explored beautifully in this piece as we are introduced to two characters who, on paper couldn't be more different but as we learn more about them we have the great joy of peeling back the layers of backstory and subtext framed by their experiences. Its a wonderful play and offers great roles for younger and older actors alike!

    I've always believe theatre is a passion that can last a life time but it is also one that can kick you when you're down. That idea is one that Donald has explored beautifully in this piece as we are introduced to two characters who, on paper couldn't be more different but as we learn more about them we have the great joy of peeling back the layers of backstory and subtext framed by their experiences. Its a wonderful play and offers great roles for younger and older actors alike!

    ”
  • Emmet L.F. Cameron: "NIGHT LIGHT" - A Ten-Minute Uplifting Human Drama by Donald Loftus
    “

    A charming love letter to the oft-forgotten theatrical working class, & a spotlight on how real people are disenfranchised by the dwindling of an industry which is often regarded as frivolous. It's beautiful to see two such people finding solidarity & shelter together in the theatre itself which is no longer able to support their livelihood. Wonderful production on the Theatrical Shenanigans podcast.

    A charming love letter to the oft-forgotten theatrical working class, & a spotlight on how real people are disenfranchised by the dwindling of an industry which is often regarded as frivolous. It's beautiful to see two such people finding solidarity & shelter together in the theatre itself which is no longer able to support their livelihood. Wonderful production on the Theatrical Shenanigans podcast.

    ”
  • Denis Meadows: "NIGHT LIGHT" - A Ten-Minute Uplifting Human Drama by Donald Loftus
    “

    Last evening I had the pleasure of reading the role of Charlie the night watchman for Bluebird Theatre in Brooklyn of NIGHT LIGHT, Donald Loftus's valentine to the theatre (and to West Side Story). A sweet, warm play--highly recommended!

    Last evening I had the pleasure of reading the role of Charlie the night watchman for Bluebird Theatre in Brooklyn of NIGHT LIGHT, Donald Loftus's valentine to the theatre (and to West Side Story). A sweet, warm play--highly recommended!

    ”
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CHARLIE: Age 50-70s: A seasoned night watchman at The Broadway Theatre, Charlie is gruff, no-nonsense, and quick-witted, but beneath his hardened exterior lies a compassionate and deeply empathetic soul. He harbors a secret—having lived in the theater’s basement for nearly two decades after his personal life fell apart. Wise and resourceful, Charlie is a man who has weathered life’s storms and knows how to find light in the darkest places.


JIMMY: Age 20s: A bright-eyed and idealistic chorus boy, Jimmy recently arrived in New York from a small Arizona town to pursue his Broadway dreams. Though talented and enthusiastic, he struggles to navigate the harsh realities of life in the city, especially after his show closes and he becomes homeless. Jimmy is kind, earnest, and determined, with an unwavering hope for a better future despite overwhelming adversity.


Development History

  • Workshop, DGPG & P.A.G.E.S. NEW YORK, 2020

Production History

  • Community Theater, HENDERSONVILLE THEATRE HENDERSON, NORTH CAROLINA, 2025
  • Fringe, DRAMA WITH FRIENDS SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA , 2025
  • Fringe, THEATRICAL SHENANIGANS LONDON, ENGLAND , 2025
  • Community Theater, ART FACTORY THEATRE MANASSAS, VIRGINIA, 2024
  • Community Theater, BLUEBIRD THEATRE COMPANY’S BEHIND CLOSED DOORS SALON BROOKLYN, NY, 2024
  • Community Theater, GRANGE PLAYHOUSE HOWELL, NEW JERSEY, 2024
  • Fringe, SOAPBOX STAGE WORKS PLAYFEST 24! WAVE STREET STUDIOS MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA, 2024