The Two Carolyn Keenes by Kirt Shineman
In 1975, ABC Television seeks the rights to the Nancy Drew Mysteries to develop a new TV show. After a prolonged search for the elusive author Carolyn Keene, they locate Harriet Stratemeyer Adams, who staunchly refuses to sell the rights. ABC proceeds with the project anyway, prompting Harriet to discover their plans and sue. Amidst the legal tussle, another woman, Mildred Wirt Benson, also claims to be Carolyn...
In 1975, ABC Television seeks the rights to the Nancy Drew Mysteries to develop a new TV show. After a prolonged search for the elusive author Carolyn Keene, they locate Harriet Stratemeyer Adams, who staunchly refuses to sell the rights. ABC proceeds with the project anyway, prompting Harriet to discover their plans and sue. Amidst the legal tussle, another woman, Mildred Wirt Benson, also claims to be Carolyn Keene, leading to a confrontation to determine the true creator of Nancy Drew. The play unfolds in a television producer's boardroom, where Nancy Drew, brought to life on stage, narrates the unfolding drama. Harriet, the business-minded daughter of the Stratemeyer Syndicate founder, and Mildred, an accomplished writer from Iowa who ghostwrote many of the early Nancy Drew books, clash over their claims to the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. Through witty exchanges and humorous revelations, they delve into their pasts and their contributions to the iconic character. Nancy, caught between the two women who both claim to be her creator, adds a comedic touch with her observations and desire for a modern, edgier portrayal on television. The play explores themes of authorship, legacy, and the commercialization of literary characters, all while maintaining a light-hearted and satirical tone. In the end, Harriet and Mildred reach a tentative agreement to maintain Nancy's wholesome image, while Nancy herself laments the restrictions placed on her character. The play concludes with Nancy's humorous resignation to her fate, always finding herself in mysterious situations without the comfort of modern vices.