Download to read offline
More Related Content
Laging Kasama Ka
- 1. 1. ACT I Pre-Scene The Aguilarfamily are sitting around the dinner table. The kids and mom are eating as Thomas reads the paper. PENNY How was school today kids? THERESA It was okay, mom. STEPHEN Mom! I participated in a reading for Theater class today and the teacher said I was really good! I really like acting. PENNY That’s great, anak! I’m so proud of you! (Stephen smiles) How about you, hunny? (looks at Christian) CHRISTIAN It was good, mom. Just applying for colleges. PENNY Keep up the good work, anak. You know your father and I will support you in whatever you decide. Comfortable silence for a few seconds. PENNY Tessa, hunny. Have you ever thought about having a Debut? THERESA Not really. PENNY I think it would be a wonderful opportunity for you, anak. Your cousins are already planning their own. THERESA Yeah, I know. It sounds really fun! I’ll think about it. I promise. PENNY It can be our own Mother-Daughter bonding activity. Since your father and brothers have their own thing. (rolls eyes) (CONTINUED)
- 2. CONTINUED: 2. THOMAS I heardthat, dear. Penny and Theresa smile at each other and go back to eating. Scene 1: Dinner Table The Aguilar family are sitting around the dinner table. Thomas and Penny are at the heads of the table, while the kids are on the side. There’s an erie silence in the air as everyone eats. Penny is sitting at the table, twiddling her fingers. THOMAS So how was school today kids? THERESA Good. CHRISTIAN College is hard. (Teasingly) Just wait until you experience it. THERESA Ugh don’t remind me. I’m already stressed enough with applications. STEPHEN WELL. My day was GREAT. We had auditions for the school play and I’m pretty sure I had the best monologue. (He folds his arms in conceited satisfaction) THOMAS That’s great son! Awkward silence ensues. THOMAS So Theresa....hunny...I’ve been thinking recently. And I, uh, I was wondering...ifyouwantedtohaveadebut? The room goes silence. Theresa slightly looks toward the direction of Penny. THERESA What did you say? THOMAS (Stammering) I...was wondering if you wanted to have a debut? (CONTINUED)
- 3. CONTINUED: 3. THERESA Uhm...why areyou asking me this? THOMAS Well, you’re turning 18 soon and it’s tradition in our culture. You know like a Filipino rite of passage. STEPHEN So you had one right dad? Must have been a fun.... THOMAS (interrupting) No no no! Debuts are for young ladies becoming adults. A celebration of your youth and showcasing your future! CHRISTIAN So my debut was like going to college and paying for loans? That’s horrible. THOMAS I said it was for ladies! STEPHEN So do they have debot? For Deguys? CHRISTIAN Really? I couldn’t have been this naive in high school. THOMAS Settle down, guys. This is about your sister! I even have some old diagrams that we planned with your Tita with.... THERESA Wait, am I obligated? THOMAS Well no. But your Tita has been bugging me about it and she has some decoration ideas.... THERESA I’m thinking you should tell Tita to ask me instead of you. THOMAS Well I’m your dad so I think I should have a big part of this. Plus you know how great I am at planning! PENNY You don’t need to push her. Lying is definitely not helping out. (CONTINUED)
- 4. CONTINUED: 4. THOMAS (sighs) Thisis all for you honey and we just want to show the family how great you’ve become and have great you will be! THERESA I’m not sure if I... THOMAS And don’t worry your auntie can come and help... THERESA But I didn’t ask... THOMAS And you just need to approve some decisions..... THERESA (interrupting) But I didn’t approve of anything! The table becomes silent and awkward. Penny and Thomas look deeply at one another. Thomas reaches to hold Penny’s hand, but recoils just before they touch. THERESA I know how important this is to you and the family. But this isn’t what I want. This is what SHE wants. (gestures to Penny in her chair) And I just don’t know if I can do it. Theresa storms off leaving a defeated-looking Christian. STEPHEN I’m gonna go do homework now. (leaves table) CHRISTIAN Don’t worry, dad. She’ll come around. THOMAS I hope so. Scene 2: Daughter and Friends Theresa and her friends are hanging out after school in the squad. The girls are sitting on the benches speaking about their day. OLIVIA So do ya’ll know you’re taking to prom? We all know I have a date. (CONTINUED)
- 5. CONTINUED: 5. SARAH Why doesit matter who you’re taking? Your "after prom night" happened sophomore year. JORDAN Sarah that’s savage. Let’s tone it down. Pull it back real quick. SARAH I’m real. Don’t be mad. OLIVIA Once again I have a date, do you even have one? SARAH I’m looking! OLIVIA Just like you looking at that vending machine huh? With wet lips... JORDAN Stop! Theresa are you hearing this? Theresa? Theresa?!?!?! THERESA Huh? Oh sorry, I zoned out for a bit. OLIVIA So you must know who you are taking to prom then. THERESA No I don’t know. My mind is a bit preoccupied. SARAH What’s going on? Is everything alright? THERESA (sigh) No...Yes...maybe, I don’t know. My dad sprung some things on me yesterday. JORDAN Bad news? THERESA No, he just wanted me to have a debut. ALL GIRLS A debut!!!! THERESA Yeah... (CONTINUED)
- 6. CONTINUED: 6. OLIVIA Why WOULDN’Tyou have one? JORDAN Yeah, this is so exciting! I’ve always wanted to go to a debut! SARAH Same!! And it’s perfect because it’s YOUR debut! OLIVIA We can help you pick colors, your dress, your decorations, your music, your dance... THERESA Whoa, whoa, whoa! I didn’t say I was actually going to have one yet. OLIVIA Why not? We get to be in your court, we can dress all fancy, and most importantly you get to have a hot guy on your arm the whole time. Chad rushes in to interrupt CHAD Why do you need a hot guy when you have me? JORDAN Obviously we are still looking a for a hot guy. And I do not believe you fit the criteria. SARAH Plus we all know who Theresa has the hots for.... THERESA Stop! The rest of the boys walk in and greet the girls. JACOB Who does Theresa have the hots for? OLIVIA Oh nobody babe. CHAD So why do you need a hot guy on your arm? THERESA For a possibly improbable debut... (CONTINUED)
- 7. CONTINUED: 7. NICK A debut?That would be cool. THERESA Really? You think so? NICK Yah! I’ve always wanted to go to a debut. The girls begin to gesture to one another. Theresa begins to blush and becomes bashful SARAH Uh yah but we don’t even know when or if it will happen. So don’t get your hopes up guys. THERESA Shut up Sarah! Its definitely happening so plan ahead. CHAD Sounds awesome! So aren’t you going to need an escort Theresa? THERESA I’m still confirming the debut, but if I possibly have one maybe I could get one if I needed one but I’m not sure if ... OLIVIA Theresa, slow down you’re starting to slur. SARAH To answer you Chad, yes she will need an escort. Her court is filled with us and we need dates too ya know. JORDAN Plus we all know that that there is probably only one escort Theresa will consider.... THERESA (stammering) Oh uh my phone is dying...I mean ringing...I mean twittering. I gotta go home! C’mon, I got to go home! The girls role their eyes and say goodbye to the boys and exit stage right. JACOB So...Theresa, huh? (nudges Nick) NICK Oh, shut up. If she asks me to be her escort than I will happily oblige. (Nick does a big, elaborate bow) (CONTINUED)
- 8. CONTINUED: 8. CHAD IF sheasks you. JACOB She’ll definitely ask you. NICK (shyly) I hope she does. CHOIR: Scene 3: Family/Friends Gathering Theresa comes back home and flops down on the couch. Christian comes in and sits next to her. Penny is lingering at the dining table. CHRISTIAN What’s wrong with you? THERESA Well, besides embarrassing myself in front of Nick that I basically decided to have a debut? Everything’s fine. CHRISTIAN I bet it wasn’t that bad...Wait. Did you say you decided to have the debut? THERESA (groans) Yeah... CHRISTIAN Is that really what you want, though? THERESA I mean I guess. It’d be nice to have the family come, and have my best friends there, and besides, it’s what she... Theresa looks in the direction of Penny. The two look at each other for a moment. Theresa drops the gaze and looks back at Christian. THERESA Never mind. Maybe it’d be a good experience. And I’m sure dad would be thrilled. (rolls eyes) Stephen and Thomas walk into the house. STEPEHN Dad, you should have seen it! I basically almost made the whole theater cry when I... (CONTINUED)
- 9. CONTINUED: 9. CHRISTIAN Dad, guesswhat. THOMAS What, anak? CHRISTIAN Theresa decided to have a debut. Stephen rolls his eyes, annoyed that no one let him finish his story. Thomas looks at Theresa, shocked and Theresa looks down at the floor. THOMAS Hunny, is that true? Did you really decide to have one? THERESA Yes. THOMAS (excitedly) YES! Perfect! All right! We should probably start planning right now then right? I’ll call all your aunts and uncles, your grandparents! Do you think we should invite our neighbors? THERESA DAD! Calm down. I’ll do the debut, but you can’t plan everything. I want to have a say in it too, okay. After all, this is MY thing. PENNY (smiling) You’re maturing so gracefully, anak. THOMAS (smiling at Theresa) You’re right. My little girl is growing up so fast. (hugs Theresa tightly) THERESA Dad. Stop. Please. THOMAS Sorry. Well, I guess that means I don’t have to tell Tita Evelyn to not come anymore! THERESA Wait, what? You told Tita Evelyn to come over?! THOMAS Yeah... THERESA WHY?! You know how she gets about stuff like this! (CONTINUED)
- 10. CONTINUED: 10. Thomas looksdown, sheepishly as the doorbell rings. He goes to answer it. Tita Evelyn, Tito Ramon, Ate Josie and Ate Steph come in. TITA EVELYN HELLO EVERYBODY! She goes around kissing all the kids and pinching their cheeks. Everyone else says hi to each other. THOMAS You should tell them. THERESA Dad, no. TITO RAMON Tell us what? THERESA (sighs) I’m having a debut. Tita Evelyn, obviously very excited, screams very loudly. The others coil and cover their ears. TITA EVELYN OH MY GOODNESS. I AM SO EXCITED. I WILL HELP YOU PLAN, DEAR. DON’T YOU WORRY ABOUT IT! STEPHEN I’m gonna go upstairs.... CHRISTIAN Same. Tita Ramon, wanna play video games with us? TITO RAMON What? Do you think I still play those old things? (beat) Because you’re right. Now move over, oldest is obviously Player 1. The boys go off stage. TITA EVELYN Thomas, hah! Come with my to the kitchen, let’s brainstorm about this. Tita Evelyn drags Thomas to the kitchen and Penny is seen following them. THERESA Oh, what did I get myself into? How did you guys do it? (CONTINUED)
- 11. CONTINUED: 11. ATE STEPH Trustus, it wasn’t easy. ATE JOSIE Yeah, I’m lucky I even had a say in the dress I was wearing. THERESA I suck at planning. I didn’t even know which shoes to wear this morning. I almost left the house in my bunny slippers. ATE JOSIE Honestly, it all comes kind of naturally. And it’s very exciting. ATE STEPH Think about it. Everyone’s there to praise you. You’ll get compliments the whole night. It’s really a night devoted to you. THERESA (sigh) You’re right. It all just seems very stressful. Especially since...you know. ATE STEPH Yeah, we understand Theresa. But we’re here for you. If we can do it, you can definitely do it. ATE JOSIE Definitely, and we’ll be here to make sure our mom doesn’t go too crazy on you. ATE STEPH And as long as you don’t turn into a Debut-zilla on us! THERESA (laughs) You’re ridiculous. But thank you. It means a lot. TRIBAL: Scene 4: Driving Lesson Thomas is pacing around the room, looking anxious. THOMAS THERESA! GET DOWN HERE RIGHT NOW. THERESA (off stage) I’M COMING HOLD ON! Thomas shakes his head. Stephen enters. (CONTINUED)
- 12. CONTINUED: 12. STEPHEN Hey, dad.Can you take me to my friend’s house? THOMAS Stephen, you know I’m going to take your sister out driving today. Why don’t you ask Christian to take you. STEPHEN (annoyed) Fine. Whatever. (yells) KUYA!!! CHRISTIAN What? STEPHEN Can you take me to my friend’s house? Dad is too busy treating Theresa like a princess. CHRISTIAN Sure. Wanna go to Diamond Jamboree and get Lollicup on the way? STEPHEN Hell yeah. Bye dad. At least someone in the family wants to hang out with me. Stephen walks out angrily while Christian follows. THOMAS (rolls his eyes) THERESA. Theresa runs out. THERESA I’m ready. Let’s go. Thomas and Theresa get into the car. THOMAS Have you been reading your driving handbook. THERESA Yes, like the bible. THOMAS You don’t read the bible... THERESA (laughs) Exactly. THOMAS (shaking his head) Okay well, what’s the first thing you do when you get into the car. (CONTINUED)
- 13. CONTINUED: 13. THERESA Play music? THOMAS NO!You check your mirrors. THERESA I knew that! (fixes mirrors) THOMAS Now, turn the car on. (beat) Put it in reverse. (beat) Now back up slowly... The car jerks a lot as Theresa tries to drive. THOMAS Anak, you can’t always put your foot on the breaks. Someone can rear-end you. THERESA Sorry, sorry. I’m just nervous. (takes a deep breath) Okay, I’m ready. THOMAS Okay, now make a right here. (Theresa starts to make a right) WAIT YOU DIDN’T PUT YOUR BLINKER ON. THERESA DAD STOP YELLING AT ME. THOMAS Sorry. Okay, let’s just drive around for a while. (beat) So...are you excited to start planning your debut? THERESA Yeah...I’m excited. I’m glad to have the girls be so supportive and I’m excited to do a dance with them and look all fancy schmancy. THOMAS Are you still going shopping with your Tita and cousins this weekend? THERESA Yeah, I’m gonna ask the girls to come with me, too. You know, moral support. THOMAS Can I come? (CONTINUED)
- 14. CONTINUED: 14. THERESA No. THOMAS Why not? THERESA It’sa girls thing, dad. You wouldn’t understand. Just be happy I’m actually having a debut. THOMAS You won’t admit it to yourself yet, but I know deep down you want to have one. I remember when you were younger, you and your mom would wear dresses all over the house and- THERESA Okay, that’s enough dad. And awkward silence is shared between the two of them. THOMAS (clears throat) So, have you thought about who to ask to be in your court? THERESA Definitely going to ask Olivia, Sarah and Jordan. And Jacob and Chad as well. Just the usual friends from school. And well, I was hoping that Nick...never mind. THOMAS Who’s Nick? THERESA No one dad. THOMAS Why are you lying to me? THERESA I’m not lying! He’s just a guy at my school. THOMAS And you hope he does what.....? THERESA Uhm, give me his answers for Calculus homework? THOMAS (laughing) You can’t lie, Theresa. I guess you get that from your mother. (CONTINUED)
- 15. CONTINUED: 15. THERESA (beat) Iwant him to be my escort. THOMAS ESCORT?!?!?! THERESA Dad! What did I say about the yelling?! THOMAS Sorry, anak. I was just, uh, I mean... THERESA Dad, you know there has to be an escort right? THOMAS Well, of course I know! I just assumed you would ask your kuya to escort you...? THERESA What?! Dad, no that’s weird. THOMAS Just a suggestion. Anyways, what’s this Nick boy like? Is he a good student? In sports? In band? Is he religious? Ugh, don’t tell me he plays Yu-gi-oh cards like your last boyfriend... THERESA DAD! Enough! First of all, let’s not bring up "he-who-shall-not-be-named" and secondly, why does it matter? He’s a good guy, trust me. THOMAS Well, that’s good at least. I want to meet him first! THERESA (rolls eyes) Of course, dad. Theresa’s phone dings from a text message and she looks down for a second. THOMAS NEVER TAKE YOUR EYES OFF THE ROAD THERESA! THERESA You know what, I think we should go home now. This is enough driving for one day. THOMAS Good idea.
- 16. 16. Scene 5: BoutiqueShopping Tita Evelyn, Penny and Theresa & her friends are at a local boutique shop looking at possible dresses and decorations for the debut. TITA EVELYN Have you thought about what color scheme you want your debut to be? PENNY She’ll probably say maroon. She loves that color. THERESA Definitely maroon. I love that color. TITA EVELYN Are you sure? I do not remember this looking good on you. You look better in black and white. PENNY It’s not a funeral. THERESA Auntie, this isn’t a funeral. Or a wedding... OLIVIA She wishes it was.... Theresa’s friends giggle among themselves THERESA Seriously guys?!?! PENNY It’s ok honey calm down. Just be patient, they are excited to see their friend! OLIVIA Why don’t we switch things up a bit? What about the decorations? I’m thinkin a bit of purple and some yellow. And we’ll use big purple balloons! JORDAN Looks like there will be big purple Barney’s everywhere. THERESA C’mon ya’ll! I don’t think any of those colors will match my dress, my maroo..... (CONTINUED)
- 17. CONTINUED: 17. TITA EVELYN Green! THERESA MaroonDress! (visibly frustrated) PENNY Honey....please. JORDAN Oh! What about center pieces! I’ve always liked pink. We could do pink and white roses! Or even have flower petals all over the table! THERESA I mean yeah that could work. But wouldn’t red roses match more to the decorations and dress that are gonna be MAROON? PENNY They’ll listen, anak. Just be patient. TITA EVELYN Ay! Pink would look so good with your skin color! It’ll make your eyes pop! Your mom would agree with me. PENNY Actually, I want whatever Theresa wants. THERESA Well it’s not her debut, it’s mine. SARAH But let’s talk about the most important thing. THERESA Thank you! Finally someone is on my side. SARAH So who’s going to be the DJ at your debut? Because I know some guys that my uncle knows who would be hella sick at making this party poppin. THERESA It’s kind of early to be thinking about DJs and music isn’t it, Sarah? SARAH It’s never too early for good music. THERESA Well, we haven’t even found the right dress yet and the color scheme- (CONTINUED)
- 18. CONTINUED: 18. TITA EVELYN Itwill be this dress! She holds up a odd-colored looking dress PENNY Oh no, I don’t like that one bit. TITA EVELYN Your mother would love it! Penny rolls her eyes. OLIVIA How about this one? JORDAN No, this one is prettier. SARAH We could all match if we wore this one. Theresa looks impatient as the girls run over to the table with the decorations. TITA EVELYN Oh, this glass bowl would look beautiful in the center with some confetti and chocolates! SARAH Or, we could have this vase in the center with sunflowers! OLIVIA But what about these bunches of balloons that we can tie around the chairs? JORDAN I still really like my idea of petals around the table. All of the girls begin to continually annoy Theresa with their ideas and ramble over on another. Penny notices her daughter visibly upset and walks over to comfort her. But when she’s about to reach out to her, Theresa recoils. THERESA NO! Why are you guys trying to decide everything for me?! TITA EVELYN We’re only trying to help, Theresa. (CONTINUED)
- 19. CONTINUED: 19. THERESA There’s adifference between helping and forcing. You guys aren’t helping at all. OLIVIA Theresa, we’re sorry. We just want what’s best for you. PENNY They’re right, anak. They just want to help. THERESA Ugh. But you’re not even listening to what I want, or what my concept of the debut is! Do you think I can’t do it by myself? TITA EVELYN We didn’t meant to be over-bearing... THERESA Well you are. (sighs) I just need some time to think, and cool down. Theresa exits leaving all the girls looking sad and ashamed. CHOIR: Scene 6: The Big Fight Thomas is on the phone in the living room, presumably with Tita Evelyn about what happened at the boutique. THOMAS I see. I’ll talk to her, Evelyn. Theresa enters the living room THOMAS I’ll call you back later. Hey Theresa. (visibly worried) THERESA Dad. THOMAS How did shopping go? THERESA Good. THOMAS Did you figure out any major details? I’m sure you are making some progress. (CONTINUED)
- 20. CONTINUED: 20. PENNY We aremaking progress, I know it! THERESA Define progress. THOMAS (Sarcastically) I could get the dictionary! I know it’s around here somewhere (pretending to browse) THERESA Dad would you like to be hired as the main comedian? THOMAS I was just joking hon... THERESA No! I have a better idea, I can give you a joker hat and you will be my jester! Every court needs a jester! Theresa mockingly dances around. THOMAS I was just trying to help. THERESA Help is exactly what I need Dad! I could seriously see a counselor or a shrink or a damn philisophy! THOMAS Philosopher anak.... Theresa exclaims in frustration. Penny tries to console her but Theresa’s mannerisms push her away. Thomas sits down in disbelief THERESA It’s like everything is piling on top of me. And nobody understands! Everyone wants what they want. Nobody wants what they can’t have. Everyone thinks they know what I want. What she wants! But I have news for all of them, they have no idea what I want. I feel like nobody has even met me before. THOMAS Theresa you have to be patient. THERESA Patience is a virtue that I do not have! PENNY Tessa. (CONTINUED)
- 21. CONTINUED: 21. THERESA I havetried to be patient. I have pushed myself to the brink. First, I had to apply to college. Next I have to plan for prom. Now I need two different dresses for two different events. Then I embarrass myself in front of Nick and not to mention the car I backed into! THOMAS Wait what! THERESA I honestly can’t deal with this stress anymore. This isn’t even what I wanted in the first place. THOMAS Well then what do you want Theresa! I’ve asked you a million times! THERESA You barely asked me! You just threw this on me! THOMAS Then what do you want Theresa?! PENNY Hunny, don’t yell at her. THERESA What do I want?! I just want to be me! Everyone thinks I should be living some dream that Tita wants, cthat my friends want, what you want! Why can’t anyone just leave me be! THOMAS Tessa you think getting angry all the time will solve all your problems! THERESA Don’t.... THOMAS You speak like you own all the damn world. What have you done to change things recently Tess? THERESA Stop calling me... THOMAS And you keep going on and on! You know your tita is pulling all of her connections just for us to pull this damn thing off. I don’t know anything about debuts. I hardly know enough about raising three kids. What have you contributed recently!?! (CONTINUED)
- 22. CONTINUED: 22. THERESA Dad! THOMAS Yes Tessmore yelling! THERESA Stop... THOMAS Stop what? Should we throw everything away now Tess? Penny tries in vain to step in between the two when Theresa finally explodes. THERESA STOP CALLING ME TESS!!! That’s not my name!!! It is Theresa Rey Aquilar! Not Tess, not Tessa it is Theresa! Penny begins collapse and fade into sorrow. Thomas is slowly recoiling from Theresa’s words, barely able to understand her. THOMAS Tessa... THERESA I will contribute everything I have to what you all put forth but I will not be controlled. I am old enough to make my own decision on this. This is my debut! THOMAS You will not be able to know all of the things you need for this. THERESA Leave it alone dad. PENNY Please just relax both of you! THOMAS You need to open up to people more Theresa. You’re shutting people out. THERESA I don’t need to open up to anyone. THOMAS Then how do you expect people to help you? (CONTINUED)
- 23. CONTINUED: 23. THERESA I don’tneed anyone’s help. THOMAS You can’t do this all on your own. THERESA (frustrated) All I want is her help! (gestures in Penny’s direction) THOMAS I know Theresa, but you know that she... THERESA I don’t want to talk about this anymore, dad. I’m gonna go to bed. Theresa exits stages right, leaving Thomas looking defeated. KORDS
- 24. 24. ACT II MORO: Scene7: Father and Mother Penny and Thomas are seen walking around a park. They are standing close, but not close enough to touch. Their body language is comfortable. THOMAS (sighs) I honestly don’t know how you did it. PENNY Trust me, it wasn’t easy. But I had you. THOMAS It just feels like everything is falling apart. Actually, it’s been feeling like that for a long time... Thomas sits down and puts his face in his hands, he appears to be in deep thought. PENNY I know it’s hard, dear. But the kids look up to you. You’re one of their role models. Don’t ever forget that they love you so much. As do I. THOMAS (sits up) You know, this is where I asked you to be my girlfriend. PENNY (smiles) I remember. We were supposed to eat at that fancy restaurant but you forgot to make reservations and we ate at Mick’s Karma Bar instead. THOMAS I guess making those reservations was a good move on my part. Even if it wasn’t intentional. (smiles) We had a pretty great life together. PENNY (smiles) We did. THOMAS (beat) I need you, more than ever. How am I going to handle this situation, Penny? (looks into distance as if in deep thought) PENNY You need patience, dear. They’re just kids. They don’t know how to do this by themselves. (CONTINUED)
- 25. CONTINUED: 25. THOMAS How amI going to handle Theresa, especially? I feel like I don’t relate to her at all. I feel like I can’t help her. PENNY I know it feels like that. But you just have to remind her that you’re there to help her. I know it seems like she’s pushing you away, but that’s when you need to be there for her the most. She needs her father. THOMAS (shaking his head) She needs her mother. PENNY I know...but she also needs you. THOMAS (beat) Our kids are growing up so fast, Penny. It’s amazing what they’ve all accomplished. PENNY I know! They really are maturing. THOMAS Christian is doing so well in college. Theresa has been working on her applications almost every day. And Stephen is probably going to be a lead for this year’s play. PENNY Those are the kids we raised, honey. Achievers and dreamers. THOMAS I know so much about them, and yet I still feel so distant from them. (beat) Tell me what I should do. (beat) Anything? PENNY You know what you have to do, honey. THOMAS (sudden realization) I know what I have to do. I gotta go talk to the kids. (mutters) I love you honey, thank you. Thomas runs off stage and leaves a satisfied looking Penny on the bench.
- 26. 26. CHOIR: Scene 8:Family Talk Stephen is sitting on the couch on his phone. Theresa walks in from stage right. THERESA Hey. She sits down next to him on the couch. STEPHEN (not looking up from his phone) Where’s dad? THERESA Not sure. We’re not exactly on speaking terms right now. STEPHEN Why not? You’re obviously the favorite, am I right? THERESA What’s that supposed to mean? STEPHEN It means that you’ve been getting all the attention lately and I’ve been pushed to the side. THERESA Do you think I want this attention?! STEPHEN Well it seems like you’re loving it. THERESA Well, you’re wrong. Do you think I want to be reminded of this stupid debut every single day? My life has literally been revolving around it and it’s stressing me out. STEPHEN Oh boo hoo, Princess. THERESA What’s your problem?! STEPHEN My problem is that no one seems to care what I’ve been doing recently. The director made me lead in this years play which means casting directors might come watch but all they care about is your stupid debut! Christian walks in and stands behind Theresa. (CONTINUED)
- 27. CONTINUED: 27. CHRISTIAN What areyou two yelling about?! THERESA Why don’t you ask the spoiled brat over here! STEPHEN I wouldn’t be acting this way if you guys acted like you cared about my life! Thomas walks in looking exhausted. CHRISTIAN Dad. A little help please. Thomas stands in-between Stephen and Theresa THOMAS What’s the problem here? STEPHEN Oh perfect, just the person we wanted to see. THOMAS (looks at both Theresa and Stephen) Care to explain? THERESA We DON’T need your help dad. THOMAS (sighs and sits down) No, Theresa. You’re right. You don’t. THERESA (taken aback) What? THOMAS I know I’ve been very harsh lately. And I’ve been a little pushy with this whole debut thing. I didn’t understand then, but I understand now. What I want, is whatever you want. Whether that be having a debut or not. And I promise I will be here for you every step of the way. Guiding and supporting you. Not controlling you. (beat) (looks at Stephen) And Stephen. I know it seems that I’m not paying attention to you and I want to apologize for that. I know how important theater is to you and I should have been there for you during your auditions. But I can promise you now that I will be front row during all your shows. THERESA Wow. I don’t know what to say, dad. (CONTINUED)
- 28. CONTINUED: 28. STEPHEN Same...but Iguess I have been a little selfish lately. THERESA Me, too. Sorry for acting like such a princess. STEPHEN Sorry for being a total attention seeker. CHRISTIAN When are you not though? Thomas lightly hits Christian and the whole family laughs. STEPHEN Truce? THERESA Truce. THOMAS FAMILY HUG! Thomas grabs all of his kids and hugs them tightly and the kids laugh and try to get away from him. THERESA Dad, I’ve decided that I really do want to have a debut. THOMAS How long have you decided this? THERESA I’ve always wanted a debut, dad. I was just so stressed out about the thought that I lashed out at everyone. It was a lot to handle. But now, I think I can do it. And I really mean that. THOMAS (smiling) I’m very happy to hear that Tessa. I mean, Theresa. THERESA I like Tessa. Sorry I yelled at you about that. You can call me Tessa. THOMAS I’m glad. (CONTINUED)
- 29. CONTINUED: 29. CHRISTIAN Not tobe the bearer of bad news, but your birthday is a month away and I don’t think you have anything planned? THERESA Oh, trust me I’m working on it! Me, Tita Evelyn, Ate Josie and Ate Steph are going dress and decoration shopping tomorrow! Kind of to make up for my erratic behavior the first time. STEPHEN You should totally have Seafood City cater your debut. Their chicken barbecue is BOMB. THERESA (laughs) Yeah, that would be really cool! I also asked some people to help me work on choreo for the hip-hop dance my court and I will do! Wanna see? Stephen, Thomas, and Christian all agree as Senior runs out and does their performance. SENIOR: Scene 9: Friend talk Theresa is sitting on one of the benches at the quad as her friends come in, looking nervous to approach her. OLIVIA (coughs to get Theresa’s attention) Theresa, can we talk to you. THERESA Sure, what’s up? JORDAN We just want to say that we’re really sorry of how we acted at the boutique. SARAH Yeah, we were so out of line. We just got really excited. Can you forgive us? THERESA Of course I can. And you girls weren’t out of line. You were just excited for me! And you should be. Since I’m officially having a debut! All the girls scream and get excited and start jumping around. (CONTINUED)
- 30. CONTINUED: 30. THERESA So thatmeans I need people in my court. And it would mean the world to me if you three were in my court. OLIVIA Of course!! This is such an honor! JORDAN I’m so excited for you! THERESA And I’m talking to you guys too! Will you be in my court as well? The girls do need partners. CHAD Of course we will, Theresa. JACOB As long as I’m partnered up with my babe. SARAH Obviously. Chad, will you be my partner? CHAD I would love to! JORDAN Well...I guess I’m partnerless. OLIVIA It’s okay. I’m sure you’ll find someone Jordan! Do you have everything finalized for your debut, Theresa? THERESA Well, I went back to the boutique with my aunt and we agreed to keep the color scheme at maroon. So is it okay with you all if you wear maroon to the debut? All the friends agree simultaneously. THERESA And although I couldn’t find a maroon gown that I liked, I did find this gorgeous white gown. All the friends huddle together as Theresa shows them a picture on her phone. CHAD Girl, you look great! JACOB You look like a princess. (CONTINUED)
- 31. CONTINUED: 31. OLIVIA I agree.You’re going to look so beautiful, Theresa. THERESA Are you saying I don’t look beautiful right now? OLIVIA What?! No! THERESA I’m just kidding. All the friends laugh as Nick walks in from stage left. JACOB That’s our queue to leave guys. Let’s leave the lovebirds alone. All the friends giggle as they exit stage right, leaving Theresa and Nick alone. NICK Hey Theresa. THERESA (shyly) Hey. NICK Can I tell you something? THERESA Can I ask you something? They both laugh as they say the same thing at the same time. THERESA You first. NICK (breathes deeply) I just wanted to tell you that...even if you don’t have a debut... THERESA Nick... NICK That I’ll still be here for you and support you as a friend. Well, I mean... I shouldn’t say that. Because I like you more than a friend. Oh my gosh, did I just say that? (CONTINUED)
- 32. CONTINUED: 32. THERESA (grabs Nick’shands) Nick. I like you more than a friend, too. NICK (sighs) Really? THERESA Really. And now that we have this established, I was wondering if you would like to be my escort for my debut? NICK I would love to, Theresa. THERESA Great! Since the actual debut is coming up really quick, do you mind if I teach you some of the waltz right now? NICK Sure! I’m a quick learner. Theresa and Nick do some simple waltz moves as they waltz off stage, presenting MC to do their performance. MC: Scene 10: The Debut presentations On one side of the stage, Theresa’s friends and whole family are awaiting her entrance, while on the other side of the stage Theresa is sitting "alone" getting ready. TITO RAMON How are you feeling? THOMAS Nervous is an understatement. TITA EVELYN Ay, Thomas. Don’t worry. It will be fine. ATE STEPH Yeah, and she has her cute boyfriend escorting her in. THOMAS Ugh! Don’t remind me. He’s a nice boy though. But I still have my eye on him. (CONTINUED)
- 33. CONTINUED: 33. ATE JOSIE Whateveryou say, Tito. The light switches to the other half of the stage. THERESA Wow, mom. I can’t believe the day is finally here. PENNY Anak, you look so incredibly beautiful. I’m so proud of you. THERESA I can’t believe we’re finally having a debut. PENNY No anak, you’re finally having one. One you deserve and worked so hard for. THERESA I couldn’t have done this without your guidance. PENNY I’m always with you, anak. Don’t forget that. THERESA I love you, mom. PENNY I love you too, anak. Nick comes out from stage right. NICK Are you ready, Theresa? THERESA Ready as I’ll ever be. Nick takes Theresa’s hand as they walk around to the other side of the stage. The stage is now on big stage. MC Ladies and gentlemen. I present to you, your debutante! Theresa Rey Aguilar! Everyone on stage erupts into applause and screams. Tita Evelyn wipes tears from her eyes. Theresa stands in the middle of the stage as everyone comes up to her and greets her. (CONTINUED)
- 34. CONTINUED: 34. TITA EVELYN (sniffling)Theresa, hunny. You look SO beautiful. THERESA Thank you, Tita. TITO RAMON Yes, you look like a shining star! Like Staryu. The Pokemon. STEPHEN You play too many video games with us, Tito. THERESA (laughs) Thank you, Tito! TITO RAMON (smiling) It’s what I do. CHRISTIAN You look great, Theresa! THERESA Thanks Kuya!! STEPHEN You aight. Theresa playfully hits him on the arm. STEPHEN Just kidding! You look great! THERESA Oh, I know. I just wanted to hear you say it. The brothers go to the side of the stage where the rest of the family is. THOMAS Boys, stop teasing your sister! THERESA It’s okay, dad. It’s funny. THOMAS Tessa, you looks absolutely stunning. You look like your mother so much. THERESA Thank you, dad. That means a lot. This is all for her. Theresa and Thomas hug as her friends walk toward her. (CONTINUED)
- 35. CONTINUED: 35. THOMAS Go talkto your friends. I’ll be over here trying to keep Stephen from eating all the barbecue chicken. (walks away) OLIVIA Theresa!! You look so beautiful! SARAH Like a princess! JORDAN AND you were able to get that hot guy on your arm. Theresa blushes as Nick comes next to her and puts his arm around her. NICK Is that hot guy me? THERESA (teasingly) I suppose... (laughs) JACOB This is so fun! Your family really knows how to throw a great party! THERESA Thank YOU all for being in my court. It means a lot to have you all with me. And the party is just getting started! OLIVIA Theresa, shouldn’t we get ready for the court hip hop performance? THERESA Yeah we should! Let’s get changed. The friends exit stage right. MC And now, ladies and gentlemen. Get ready to be blown away by the amazing dance moves from the court in their hip hop performance! MODERN: Scene 11: Candle Speeches and Roses Theresa is standing center stage while all her candles and roses are standing on stage left near the back. The MC is standing stage right. (CONTINUED)
- 36. CONTINUED: 36. MC The debutantewill now dance with her roses, as we hear the candle speeches. Nick walks up with a rose and hands it to Theresa as they start dancing. Olivia, Jordan and Sarah stand near the front to give their speech. JORDAN Theresa, we can’t thank you enough for letting us share this special moment with you. OLIVIA You have always been a sister to us. SARAH From sharing your food with us or just shopping with us... OLIVIA You’ve always been there for us through the good times and the bad times... JORDAN And we just want you to know that we’ll always be there for you. SARAH Even if we all decide to go to separate colleges... OLIVIA I know that we’ll all still be best friends... JORDAN And when we do see each other again, it’ll be like nothing has changed. ALL GIRLS We love you, Theresa! Happy birthday! All the girls hug each other as the girls and Nick step to the side. Tito Ramon steps up to dance with Theresa as Ate Josie and Ate Steph start to speak. ATE JOSIE Theresa, me and Steph are so incredibly proud of how far you’ve come. ATE STEPH You look so beautiful tonight and we’re actually surprised you didn’t turn into a debut-zilla like how we did. (CONTINUED)
- 37. CONTINUED: 37. ATE JOSIE Youhandled the pressures of planning a debut, even when our mom was hovering over you the whole time. ATE STEPH We’re actually pretty impressed that you didn’t pull your hair out every time you planned with her. The whole crowd laughs as Tita Evelyn screams "Hey!" on the side. ATE JOSIE As you get older and start to become more independent, don’t forget that your family will still be here for you. ATE STEPH Your ates are always here for you, Theresa! ATE JOSIE Happy birthday! We love you! The girls hug as they step to the side. Theresa’s lolo and lola make a surprise appearance. LOLA Theresa, hah! You’re growing up to be such a beautiful young lady. Just like your nanay. LOLO That is true! LOLA Your lolo and lola are so proud of you. You will always be our little girl. Don’t forget that. We love you, hunny. Come visit your lola and lolo more often! We’ll cook for you. LOLO And give you money. But don’t tell your tatay. Theresa hugs her grandparents and they leave the stage. Christian hands Theresa a rose and they begin to dance. STEPHEN Ate, I know we have our ups and downs and I know recently we’ve been fighting a lot. But I just want to let you know that I look up to you. You’re my older (MORE) (CONTINUED)
- 38. CONTINUED: 38. STEPHEN (cont’d) sisterand you’ve taught me a lot. Honestly, I get really sad when I think about you moving away for college. Who else am I gonna bug for rides or call a princess? But I know that no matter where life takes you, you’ll always be the big sister I can count on for everything. Love you ate! Stephen and Christian switch places. CHRISTIAN You’re a brat I hope you know that. (laughs) Just kidding, ading. As your big brother, it’s always been my job to look out after you. Whether that be school problems or boy problems I’m always here for you. I’m looking at you Nick. As you go to college, just remember that your kuya is always here for you to help you with the transition. And Stephen and I are always going to be a phone call or visit away. We love you Theresa. The siblings hug and stand in the center as Theresa is given the mic. THERESA Thank you everyone for your kind words. Each and every one of you has impacted my life in the best way possible and I can’t thank you all enough for coming out and supporting me tonight. I love you all! Let’s continue with the party! Scene 12: Speech and Dance The guests and Theresa are standing around talking while the MC comes to the front. MC Ladies and gentlemen. The debutante will like to say a few words. THERESA Thank you all for coming today. As some of you may know, I didn’t really want to have this debut. I lashed out at my friends and my family. I pushed away my dad and my brothers. I didn’t think I needed anyone’s help. But now I realize that I needed all of their help. I was so scared of being alone that I pushed people away when they got too close. But I really wanted them all to be with me. I got angry and mad because I was just reminded of how much this debut meant to my mom. The thought of doing a debut without her was so sad to me. This was supposed to be our thing. (CONTINUED)
- 39. CONTINUED: 39. Penny comesnext to Theresa. And when she passed away, the thought of having a debut passed with her. It wasn’t until my dad brought it up to me that I was reminded of the promise I made to her. Even though she’s not with us in this life anymore, she’ll always be with me wherever I go. She’ll always be in my thoughts and in my heart. And on most days, I always feel like she’s watching over me. I miss her everyday, but I know she would be so proud of me. This debut is for her. PENNY Anak, I’ll always be with you. I love you. Thomas comes over to Theresa and hugs her and she silently cries on his shoulder. THOMAS I know how much you wanted a maroon dress. But... I got this ribbon for you. I know it’s not much but... THERESA Dad, it’s perfect. Theresa turns around and Thomas ties the ribbon around her waist. MC The debutante and her father will now dance. The crowd makes a half circle around them as CHOIR comes out and sings while they dance. THOMAS Mom would be so proud of you. THERESA I know dad. Thank you for everything. The dance comes to a close as the light shines on Penny and fades out.