Jimmy Clarkson, a disillusioned reporter, is pushed by his new editor to delve deeper into the story of the death of an unhoused man set against the backdrop of the 2010 recession and a shifting newspaper industry. His investigation forces him to confront his own biases and assumptions.
Inspired by a real incident, Somebody/Anybody touches on the realities of the unhoused and speaks to the inherent dignity of the human person.
Winner, Dorothy White Award, Ottawa Little Theatre's 84th Annual National One-Act Playwriting Competition, June 2025
Keywords: prize-winning play, minimal set, projection design, homeless, unhoused, dignity, newspaper industry, reporter, journalist, journalism, recession, revelation, discovery, recognition, presumptions, life on the street, addictions, addiction, compassion, understanding, disillusionment, inspiration, inspire, work dynamic, work relationship, easy to stage, social comment
Genre: Drama
Acts: 1
Run time: 45 minutes
Suitable for students 16+
Cast size: 4 actors
Male roles: 2
Female roles: 2
Casting notes: Characters 40-60+ to show experience in their work/life roles. Genders were chosen to fit the time and the work dynamic. The character of Mrs Dale can be off stage. Location of the small city and name of hospital can be localized.
Adjudicator’s comments for Somebody/Anybody:
“…very well written, believable, and provocative, as it explored the importance of not dehumanizing the homeless through the lens of good investigative and compassionate journalism. Two important themes intertwined to illustrate and promote that ideal, by pushing a journalist to explore and tell the story of one homeless man. An ambitious goal, beautifully achieved.”
“…Interesting dialogue and clever staging potential.”