After a dinner party with her fellow widows, Vivian goes home feeling particularly lonely. In an attempt to reconnect with the memory of her late husband, she takes a mysterious blue pill she finds among his belongings. Initially, nothing happens—but the next morning, she wakes up to an unexpected and shocking transformation.
Turning to her quirky and conspiracy-obsessed friend Edna for support, the two embark on a hilarious journey of discovery, questioning gender stereotypes, the nature of companionship, and the unique challenges of aging. Through witty dialogue and comedic misunderstandings, the play subtly explores themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and the humor in unexpected life changes.
At its heart, Crystal Blue Persuasion is a lighthearted yet thought-provoking comedy that uses humor to challenge traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity while celebrating the power of friendship, especially as we age and friendships become so much more important.
Keywords: Widowhood, Friendship, Loneliness, Companionship, Aging, Gender roles, Transformation, Comedy, Self-discovery
Workshopped by Quinte Little Theatre, Trenton ON, 2025.
Semifinalist, Make Me Laugh Festival, Maine USA, 2025.
Genre: Comedy, Aburdist/Farce
Acts: 1
Run time: 35 minutes
Content notes: After taking a pill, Vivian wakes up with a new male appendage. The play handles this very delicately while still allowing it to be fun.
Cast size: 2 actors
Female roles: 2
Casting notes: The actresses are women over 60. The ability to handle witty, fast-paced dialogue really makes this play a crowd favourite. Also requires comfort with physical comedy, as the play involves humorous body language and reactions. The more outrageous and fun the better.