Manes Before Dames

by Sam Heyman

TEN MINUTE: Dave and Alan have been inseparable since they were cubs, but lately there's been some distance between the pair. Could someone new be trying to drive a wedge between them? Or is this relational fissure a change that's been a long time coming?

A comedic drama about lions, and the consequences of free love.

Updated Draft Uploaded 10/11/24!

TEN MINUTE: Dave and Alan have been inseparable since they were cubs, but lately there's been some distance between the pair. Could someone new be trying to drive a wedge between them? Or is this relational fissure a change that's been a long time coming?

A comedic drama about lions, and the consequences of free love.

Updated Draft Uploaded 10/11/24!

  • Inquire About Rights
  • Recommend
  • Download
  • Save to Library

Manes Before Dames

Recommended by

  • Daniel Prillaman: Manes Before Dames by Sam Heyman
    “

    First of all, the implication of having a King named Dave is choice. Second of all, the multiple meanings Heyman fits into this piece are plentiful, hilarious, and wonderful. But perhaps most of all, where this short play winds up going is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Surprisingly emotional, playfully raunchy, and tackling relationships and communication in them with nuance, this is a surefire winner for any festival.

    First of all, the implication of having a King named Dave is choice. Second of all, the multiple meanings Heyman fits into this piece are plentiful, hilarious, and wonderful. But perhaps most of all, where this short play winds up going is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Surprisingly emotional, playfully raunchy, and tackling relationships and communication in them with nuance, this is a surefire winner for any festival.

    ”
  • Debra A. Cole: Manes Before Dames by Sam Heyman
    “

    Let's hear it for the powerful and smart lionesses of the world! SAM HAYMAN has written a beautiful short play about growing up and becoming a real man. The layers are wonderful.

    Let's hear it for the powerful and smart lionesses of the world! SAM HAYMAN has written a beautiful short play about growing up and becoming a real man. The layers are wonderful.

    ”
  • David Lipschutz: Manes Before Dames by Sam Heyman
    “

    04/02/2025. Oh boy, does Sam Heyman take audiences/readers on a journey with MANES BEFORE DAMES. I went in thinking this would be a cute and silly skit about anthropomorphic animals, and it is oh so much more than that. It is a beautiful story with honest and sincere characters. And also, bonus that the lioness is a total bad@ss!

    04/02/2025. Oh boy, does Sam Heyman take audiences/readers on a journey with MANES BEFORE DAMES. I went in thinking this would be a cute and silly skit about anthropomorphic animals, and it is oh so much more than that. It is a beautiful story with honest and sincere characters. And also, bonus that the lioness is a total bad@ss!

    ”
View all 8 recommendations