The Coward is the story of Jill and Christopher, two young people with conflicting ideals who are forced to live in close quarters at a summer stock theater. The play opens on Jill brandishing a wand and wondering aloud if she might have magical abilities. She is soon introduced to Christopher, who is quick to criticize her and heighten himself at the expense of others. Not long after, in a game of Would You Rather, the topic of sexual identity surfaces. Jill confides that she is “unsure if she is straight or gay,” and it is revealed that Christopher is deeply religious. As the line between reality and the fantastical blurs, conflict ensues and those around them are faced with whether to step in or step to the side. Central to The Coward are the matters of internal homophobia, the ability to forgive oneself and others, and the necessity of speaking up for those in need rather than standing by.

We in the audience are left to decide: what does it mean to be a coward, and which of these characters fits that title?