You Can’t Stop The Music By D. C. Bianchino….email whitebear72@hotmail.com...thefourthpath.com All rights reserved Copyright Revised 2004 Characters: Narrator-Robert Doyle Bob Muldoon-Emcee-singer songwriter. Dave Black-Poetdissident. Jacob-Barista-wise man. Steve-Songwriter-country rock. Chief Red Eagle-elder. White Owl-chief’s sister-wise woman. Two Feather’s-chiefs cousin-poet. Brandon- A black song writer-rasta. Stark-songwriter-blues. Iris-Stark’s wife-singer-poet. Dr, Smith-songwriter. Sally-Dr Smith’s wife-songwriter. Shawn and Kim-Dr Smith’s children-singers. Children’s friends-Randy and Sharron-singers. Peter-wondering minstrel.Tex-singer song writer-country. Chris-singer song writer-folk. Carl-singer song writer-folkie jazz. Flower-poet song writer-Celtic. Sylvia-crazy poetess. Gertrude and Amelia-Help minstrel sing a song. Spirit Woman-Sylvia’s guide. Cindy-wife of MC. Fredrica-artist-poet. Two woman from audience. Mysteria-divine spirit. Fairies….Woman who doesn’t have time. Rapper-Christian. ------------------------ Opening scene for “You Can’t Stop The Music” Partial projections… Garden of Eden displayed on stage. Adam and Eve (Who meet five thousand years later as Flower and Carl) are enjoying paradise. (This is being done as the audience takes their seats) Once everyone is seated and it’s show time, Eve gives Adam an apple. He takes a bite, after which he gives Eve a distasteful look and says.” What is this guilt and shame you’ve just given me?” Eve with a look of disdain replies. “What do you mean I’VE given you?” (Stressing the I’VE). Then adds. “Why do you blame me?” (This she says with a quiet certitude) Adam quickly replies. “Blame you? Screw you.” Eve then replies. “No, screw you! “ With that they both leave paradise heading in opposite directions. (Curtain closes to paradise) Next scene comes about very quickly. Curtain opens, a backdrop shows many mountains (Life’s experiences) The mountain in the middle and the highest of them all is called Mount Parity. Adam now wearing an overcoat comes in from the left side heading in the direction of Mount Parity. Looking up at Parity he says. (Wearily) “Sometimes I cannot see the mountain when clouds keep it from sight, sometimes I feel so damn lonely, I guess it’s just my fear of height.” A light now falls on Eve who is coming in from the right side looking at Parity. She says. “Life is a poem never finished, a song spoken from the grave, sometimes I cannot see the mountain, though I know I go there with the brave.” Scene ends, curtain closes. After Adam and Eve finish their two scenes, a man comes out, who is what we will call spirit man; appearing half black and half white and recites this poem (Hero's path) to the real audience. The Hero’s Path: Are you ready to face the guilt, fear And the remorse. Are you ready to Enter the house of fire, ready to Suffer the loss. Are you ready to feel The shame, prepared to think insane. Are you ready to kill the ferocious Beasts, the two that are the same. Are you ready to face the wolves, Who call from the mountain top, Willing to make the climb, though Doubt may want you to stop. Are You willing to climb the mountain, Then make its awesome descent. Willing to find that innocence, and Do it without relent. Are you willing To be that hero, for not power or Greed or the like. Are you willing to Wait for the ashes, to bring in this Age of new light. For this is the path Of destruction, to end the powers Who reign. And here lies the path of True Hero’s, who are called to face Up to that pain. Spirit Man will be invisible to the cast, but every now and then he will walk through the coffeehouse at different times of disturbance and say "No you can't stop the music, no matter how you try" and because of his dress like Spirit Woman, he represents balance too. When he finishes his poem (The Hero's Path) the narrator will enter. Narrator walks out on to stage. ------------------------ You Can’t Stop The Music Introduction: [Man walks out on the stage, faces the audience. He is wearing a Harrison tweed smoking jacket, a black turtle neck shirt, and jeans. His hair is down to his shoulders, thin and on the gray side. He is in his early sixties.] [Narrator Robert Doyle also fills in the blanks throughout play] "Welcome, my name is Robert Doyle and I’m going to read a play I wrote called “You Can’t Stop The Music”-Actually I’m going to explain it as if you’re the director and I’m making a pitch. The setting is a coffeehouse with several tables and chairs. [As he explains this, the cast actually starts setting the stage] In one corner, the one to the left and furthest away, there is a small one step up stage. The corner to the right, and again furthest away, a small counter for coffee containers. It is the place where the barista also stands behind. Along the back wall there are four large window shades. Images of Marilyn Monroe, Humphry Bogart, James Dean and Elvis respectively adorn each shade. When the coffeehouse closes a shade will go up and a scene where a performer lives will appear. ------------------------ Now, how this gets started and what the story is about. Well, a popular local musician and poet want to secure a place for the sole purpose of bringing musicians and lyricists together in order to inspire new pieces of work, and by the passing of a hat try to raise money for recording equipment, and just maybe get them published. So they approach a local coffee house and the owners enthusiastically embrace their idea. The night they choose is on a Monday. Word quickly spreads because of their popularity, and right from the beginning they have an audience in attendance, and it picks up each week thereafter, as THE place to go. The audience; many of whom become the regulars; are made up of Granolas like those who work for The Appalachian Mountain Club. Grunges, a step to the left of the Granolas. Hippies, all the way to the left, gays, conservatives, trench musicians (those who make their living from their play), and intellectuals: oh yes, even some Indians. It is definitely a diverse audience, and, everyone getting along, accepting each other’s space. Everyone seems humble and tolerant. In the beginning there are no mikes, or electrical instruments, just acoustic guitars and the like, although there is a keyboard. Sometime later where the story picks up a mike has been added. ------------------------ This is a play in two acts, and is the story of an effort very successful till “The inevitable demise.” But,You Can’t Stop The Music, as you shall see. Now, sit yourself at one of those tables and enjoy the show. Oh yes, what we have is a story about relationships, the coming together, the going apart and the coming together again. It is a story about seeing ourselves the way we are, and that possible evolution to the point of giving up ALL the controls. Hopefully, I can make my vision clear to you." ACT 1 Narrator: "It’s 8:30 and people are starting to fill the coffee house. Guitar cases are being stacked near the stage. A lot of small talk is going on, catching up on one thing or another.The MC a man who stands over six feet tall, dressed casually, makes an announcement." [The man pitching the play now fades out and the play fades in.] ------------------------ BOB MULDOON: At mike. “Listen for those who want to perform tonight, there’s a sign up sheet up here on the table, (points to table) so I suggest you do that now. My name is Bob Muldoon, ( By now the microphone has been added) and for the sake of anyone new, I’ll tell you our objective. (Narrator: "This he repeats every Monday night") One, it is to inspire new works and to take the best of what we get and record them. If you hear a poem or lyric and think you can work with it, then get together with that person during one of the breaks. Also, we pass a hat trying to raise money for recording equipment. (Then almost sarcastic says) Most of you here don’t mind spending six or seven dollars at a movie, so maybe think about that. (Narrator: "The reason for the sarcasm; here he was in his forties without his dream being realized, he almost made it with a song he wrote while in New York, but someone else stole the piece which became successful, and so went his big chance.") [Here we have a tableau, and Jacob the barista faces the real audience and says] JACOB: “The poet Li Zhong said, “People who are not depressed by living in obscurity or lack of recognition, when at that level, then the Tao is in them.” (Finishes, goes back behind coffee counter) ------------------------ BOB MULDOON: (cont) Last, when a performer is up here on the stage; please give them your attention. If you feel you must talk, please go outside….We have a lot of material since we started and the juices seem to just keep flowing…We want to thank Bob and Jan for having us here in their coffee house ('Round of applause) speaking of which, the coffee is in the back. OK, I think that covers it, so, I'll start with a song I wrote and then go to the signup sheet. (By this time the place was filled and it was a standing room crowd) [Bob picks up his guitar starts to tune it then adds] I don’t know about you, but I always have this slight bit of fear being up here in front of a sober audience. The people I play for are in the bars, and I’m just the background music while they get sloshed. (Laughter) Having said all that here’s a piece I wrote when the lights went out during a lightning storm at a gig I was playing, we had to light candles. So, I hope you like it. It’s called Nighttime Turns The Blues Away “… [Bob starts his song, he has a deep raspy voice, the melody has a slow blues sound and he has everyone’s attention] The brightest side of heaven comes when it turns night, and we’re sittin here together in its soothing light, and there’s no place I’d rather be than here with you tonight, singing songs that make life seem like it’s alright. While the candle burns ------------------------ nighttime, turns the blues away, just some candle light an old up right and some songs to play, the guitar man, the music stand and some folks who want to stay, while the candle burns nighttime turns the blues away….Our troubles will return sure as the sun comes up, another day just drinking from the same old cup, trying to get someplace, that’s never quite far enough, another day just filled with all that old life stuff…While the candle burns nighttime turns the blues away, just some candlelight an old up right and some songs to play, the guitar man, the music stand and some folks who want to stay, while the candle burns nighttime turns the blues away…But in the meantime you and I will stop, no need to run, 'cause no matter what has happened, what’s been done is over and done. So let tomorrow have those troubles that we’ll leave behind tonight, and I’ll sing some songs that make life seem like it’s all right. While the candle burns nighttime turns the blues away, just some candle light an old up right and some songs to play, the guitar man his music stand and some folks who want to stay, while the candle burns; nighttime; turns the blues away…. [ Bob finishes, the audience gives a big hand with whistles and catcalls. Bob goes over to the sign up sheet, then walks back to the mike] BOB MULDOON: "Most people express fear when performing up here, so know you’re not alone, as I said, even us musicians who do this for a living feel the same way. OK, now first on our list is a poet, ------------------------ Dave Black; how about a nice hand for Dave.” (Audience a big hand)[Dave is a sylvan, lives in the woods, he is in his mid forties. Gets up adjusts the mike, then says under his breath] DAVE: “God I hate this mike. Well, the poem I am going to recite is about my mother and the father who raised me. It’s a poem about the fragility of love, and how humble love truly is. The title is “Eleanor” [When he gets to the part, “Do you still love me” tears well up in more than a few eyes. Sniffles also can be heard] DAVE: “I heard a story about a man and his wife. He was about to die, to give up this life. When someone next to them heard the man say, “I’ll see you my darling on the Milky Way.” He would wait for her there, though it be far, and together they’d travel to every known star. And I thought how lucky some people they be, to have someone to die for, and waiting to see. Then I thought of my mother, just before she had died, and the father who raised me, who looked in her eyes. Now unable to speak, and unable to see, though seventy six looked a hundred and three. A fragile lass she had become, dying at home with dignity done. And he ten years younger, a handsome man, tenderly stroking her hair with his hand. And ------------------------ the question he had was “Are you afraid?” And she shook her head no for her faith hadn’t strayed. And he said “ I didn’t think so.” While admiring her, when he asked her this question firsthand that I heard. “ Do you still love me?” Like a boy to reassure. And when she nodded yes, I saw love that is pure. And I thought how lucky some people they be, to have someone to love them without vanity. And two weeks to the day my mother had died, and the father who raised me looked into her eyes. He’d had a dream that night before and he dug up her casket and out stepped Eleanor. That beautiful young girl he never forgot, was waving him on believe it or not. When later that day, sometime around four, he died in their house, right there on the floor. And I thought how lucky some people they be, to have someone to die for and waiting to see. And I know they’re together and right where they are, exploring that Milky Way and every known star. And I thought how lucky some people they be, as I wondered who’d be there, waiting for me “……. [Dave finishes gets a big hand, humbly makes his way back to his seat.] [Bob Muldoon goes to the mike and says] BOB MULDOON: “Next we have one of our regulars; Steve” ------------------------ [Steve makes his way, picks up his guitar. While tuning says] STEVE: “I don’t know about anyone else, but I can’t wait for Monday nights. I love what’s going on here. I’m sure you know what I mean. OK Here’s a tune I wrote called “Chasing After Rainbows” I wrote it last week, so bare with me.” [Steve has a thick Maine drawl, and a husky voice. It’s a country blues song] I don't want to be a one night lover, I don't need that kind of pain again. I don't want to be some stranger tonight, I think it's time to bring it to an end. See I'm tired of all the waiting, the late night expectating, chasing after rainbows in the dark. Like sitting on a hard bench, wondering where the time went, feeling like a stranger in the park. I'm tired of all the hurting, these silly games of flirting, waiting for someone who may not care, I'm tired of all the chasing, the times anticipating, waiting for a love that wasn't there. I don't want to be a one night lover, I don't need that kind of pain again. I don't want to be some stranger tonight, I think it's time to bring it to an end. ------------------------ I guess it's time to face the hangman, time to pull the reigns in, time to leave the shadows in the park, 'cause fools like me are everywhere that wait for love that isn't there, still chasing after rainbows in the dark. Chasing after rainbows, wondering where the time goes, chasing after rainbows in the dark. [Steve finishes and gets a big hand then sings his next song titled "Some People Think I'm Lazy".] Some People Think I'm Lazy Some people think I'm lazy Some people think I'm crazy Some people think I have this wall But they don't know me really at all. I'm just a simple kind of guy Sometimes my head is up in the sky Sometimes my feet are stuck to the ground And there I stand looking around. But that is me, that's how I am Not really hard to understand Don't think I'm different If you know what I mean Just another with a dream. I look for love, just like you And sometimes it makes me feel brand new Sometimes it ends and makes me sad And I think to myself it's really too bad. Some people think I'm lazy Some people think I'm crazy Some people think I have this wall But they don't know me really at all. I feel each day as I do night Feel my feelings when they take flight Sometimes they don't feel too good And I'm guessing feelings are as they should. See, some people want to own me It seems they want to control me Some just turn their backs on me At least that's how it appears to me. 'Cause some people think I use them Manipulate and confuse them Some people say I even lie And that I'm mean 'cause I don't try. ( Try for what when I'm going to die) So some people think I'm lazy Some people think I'm crazy Some people think I have this wall But they don't know me really at all. Some people ask me What do you do? I tell them nothing How about you? I like to see what comes along Then the poetry and the song Letting each day have its way I guess that's why I now can say, There's nothing that I want to become I guess to some that means a bum Still I know it's an awesome life Sharing the gifts we bring to light. So, some people think I'm lazy Some people think I'm crazy Some people think I have this wall But they don't know me really at all They don't know me, really-at-all..... [Steve gets another big hand.] [MC Bob walks up to the mic] BOB MULDOON: "Next on the list is our Indian friend chief Red Eagle" [The chief walks up slowly, he is an old man, a chair has been placed in front of the mike, Bob the MC adjusts the mike for him. The chief speaks.] Chief Red Eagle: "I am going to read a few poems by a cousin of mine, (Everyone is a cousin who is an Indian to him) his name is White Bear. But before I do, a man once asked me "How much land did you have?" I Said: "From here to there" (Making a sweep with his hands) [The chief then starts to recite, he is reading it. Indignities are projected on to a screen in the background] You took my dignity away. You took my women and children, you made us dependent like you, now I eat fruit from a can, you took my dignity away. ------------------------ You took my dignity away. You took the Buffalo, now the fish. You made me dependent like you, now I eat from one whose eyes I never saw. You took our dignity away. You took my dignity away. You took my wild flowers and the grasses scent, you made me dependent like you. Now foul smells fill my nostrils. You took my dignity away. You took my dignity away. You took my land like a thief. You made me dependent like you, now I must pay to live and move on the land once free. You took my dignity away. You took my dignity away. You took voices from the trees and the winds song, you made me dependent like you. Now I listen to loud offensive noises, they are everywhere. You took my dignity away. You took my dignity away. You even tried to take my religion, to be dependent like you on some God no one has connection with. You took my dignity away. You took my dignity away, but like the Beaver, I too mutate, and will, until the scent of sweet grass returns, for my spirit patient stays, even though, you took my dignity away.” ------------------------ “Sacred is the land the tree the sky. Sacred are the birds the bees the fly. Sacred are the grasses so alive. Sacred is the stone through time survives. Sacred are the fish lakes and streams. Sacred are the mountains and those no see-ums. Sacred are the creepers that crawl the earth. Sacred are the babes given in birth. Sacred are the animals rain and wind. For Sacred is this breath WE all live in.” “Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey. Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey. Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey. I sing my song to the sky above. I sing my song to the land I love. I sing my song from my heart because, I sing my song for the way that was. Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey. Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey. Hey I Hey, Hey I Hey.” [The Chief finishes, people actually give him a standing ovation. He goes back and sits down.] [The lights dim until the coffee house is in darkness. Everyone has their faces down on the tables. A conga drum starts a steady beat. A person raises their head, a light falls on them. ------------------------ A gray mask covers the person’s face. That person stands starts to dance while characterizing a few lines from the poem "FEAR". Each person follows again dancing and playing out the next lines to the poem. Off in a corner one person is standing, her face is half black and half white. Her hair on the black side is long and gray. On the white side it is black. She says nothing just stands there till the dance is done. Everyone then places their heads back on the tables face down. The lady with the black and white face then walks off the stage crossing in front of the audience, glancing in their direction she says, “Wait for me”] (Dance modern) First person: Fear, fear, where do we go from here? Fear, fear, let's give them a kick in the rear. Fear of worms, fear of snakes, fear of germs, fear of quakes. Fear to laugh, fear to cry, fear to change, fear to try. Fear I said fear, let's make them all very clear. Second person: Fear of losing, fear of winning, fear of endings, and beginnings. Fear of ghosts, fear of demons, fear of monsters when we're dreaming. Third person: Fear of aids, fear of spades, fear of bombs, razor blades. Fear of spiders, fear of bees, fear of birds, tiny flees. Fourth person: Fear of buses, fear of planes, fear of cars, fear of trains. Fear of dogs, fear of cats, fear of lobsters and of bats. ------------------------ Fifth person: Fear of water, fear of fire, fear of falling, going higher. Fear of mothers, and of fathers, boyfriends, girlfriends, sisters, brothers. Sixth person: Fear to smoke, fear to eat, fear to go across the street. Fear of silence, fear of violence, fear to dance and of tridents. Seventh person: Fear of Satan, fear of sex, fear of witches and their hex. Fear of pain, fear of pleasure, fear of things we cannot measure. Eighth person: Fear of failure and success, or not looking at our best. Fear of women and of men, fear to make another friend. Ninth person: Fear of lightning or tornadoes, and erupting of volcanoes. Fear of insects, all things creeping, fear of waking and of sleeping. Tenth person: Fear of truth, fear to seek, fear to look and to speak. Fear of God, and the dark, fear that we may have the mark. Eleventh person: Fear of dating, and of waiting, fear of not participating. Fear of sailing, and of flying, fear of biking and of driving. ------------------------ Twelfth person: And so they go ad infinitum, one or another we all got 'em. ( This last line is said by all.) Fear to love, fear to give, fear to die, fear to live! [ MC Bob calls on the next person. His name is Brandon, he's black.] BRANDON: "My name is Brandon, and I'm glad to be here. This is a song I wrote, hope you like it. Hey, how about that full moon tonight! It reminded me of a poem I once read, "Moon full rising slow, seeing things I don't know" OK the song, it has a Jamaican beat, but I assure you, the inspiration for the words came from my routes being born and raised here. I think you'll agree after you hear it. I'm singing this because it seems to be the right song for tonight. Here we go. It's called "The Hollow Drum"[Has a conga drum] Some people paint in pictures. Some people paint in verse. Some people put up fences. Some people put up words. But when behind those walls I found the hollow in the drum, something told me what lies there, lies still in everyone. Lies still in everyone it does lie still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside lies still in everyone. Lies still in ------------------------ everyone it does lie still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside, lies still in everyone. I looked and saw confusion when thoughts try to compete. And when their noise became too loud, I listened to the beat. And when behind those walls I found the hollow in the drum, something told me what lies there lies still in everyone. Lies still in everyone one it does lies still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside lies still in everyone. Lies still in everyone it does lie still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside lies still in everyone. Now no matter how the drum is played or where the drum is brought. I know there is a special place inside that has this spot. 'Cause when behind those walls I found the hollow in the drum, something told me what lies there lies still in everyone. Lies still in everyone one it does lie still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside lies still in everyone. Lies still in everyone it does lie still in everyone. The sound that's really found inside lies still in everyone. [Big applause] BOB MULDOON: "OK, I think this is a good place for a break, so let's take ten. Our Barista’s name is Jacob. He'll help you with your coffee needs" ------------------------ [Stark, one of the regulars walks over to get some coffee. He says to the Barista] STARK: "Hey mister, have you ever been in love? 'Cause I've got to know something, got to know because, when I'm with my woman, I want to be free, and when I am free, I want her back with me. Hey mister, I think you understand, 'cause you look like someone, whose seen it all firsthand." Narrator: "Jacob looked with eyes cool as ice, said" JACOB: "Yeah son, I've been there once or twice, yeah son, I've been there once or twice." [Narrator: "Stark kept on talking before he shut down, said"] STARK: "Hey mister, please tell me what you found. Why do I feel the way that I do, 'cause the way that I feel is nothing really new." JACOB: "Well son, here's some advice, everything's temporary, I've been there once or twice, I've been there once or twice.." ------------------------ STARK: "Hey mister, what's that all mean?" JACOB: "Well son it happens in between, a heart needs to go through the molten fire to open up to things that are much higher. We've got to learn the dance in order to see, otherwise son, we're never really free." STARK: "Hey mister, tell me one more thing, have you found that freedom, is there such a thing?" Narrator: "Jacob looked with eyes cool as ice, said" JACOB: "Well son, I've been there once or twice, I've been there once or twice. See son, man and woman have been living in unequal terms since the myth of the Garden of Eden, and now it's up to us to change all that psychologically. This mutual hate goes that deep. But now we're being given the chance to right the wrong; that is, stop the dependence and using each other." ------------------------ STARK: "Thank you; thank you so much." (Break ends) BOB MULDOON: "Let's get this thing going, I'm sure it's way past the bedtime of some of these next performers. Let's hear it for the Smith family" (Applause) [A dad and mom with a few kids get up. This is the first time at the coffee house for the kids. Two of the kids are friends, four kids in all, two boys and two girls, ages seven through nine. Dad sits at the keyboard, he's a children's doctor.] DR. SMITH: "My wife and I wrote these songs with not only young people in mind, but for those like us who want to see a better world....Everybody ready? [Children smiling, shyly nod.] Here we go; this is called, "Magic Man" [They all start to sing] City halls, prison walls, dragons on the roof, magic man if you can, make them all go poof! All the haze, let it raise, show us what can be, magic man if you can, give us eyes to see. ------------------------ Jealousy, selfishness, stuff we do not need magic man, if you can, take away the greed. Silly wars, stupid laws, dragons on the roof, magic man if you can, make them all go poof! Magic man, oh magic man, mix a new solution, one that ends all poverty, and takes away pollution. Foolish hates, steel gates, dragons on the roof, magic man if you can make them all go poof! Magic man, if you can, see what you can do, and when I wake, I hope and pray, that all I ask comes true.... (Big round of applause) DR SMITH: "Next we're going to sing 'THE BELLY JELLY SONG. Now for you in the audience, if you want to join in; the chorus it goes like this, " I've got a jelly belly feeling, it's a jelly belly feeling, I've got this jelly belly feeling a jelly belly feeling, and it's all because of you" OK so when I put my hand up, then you come in" [Audience giggles] OK before we start, let me introduce you to my wife Sally. This is my son Shawn. My daughter Kim. This is my son and daughter's friends Randy and Sharron. (Big hand) OK, let's start" ------------------------ I can feel you in my belly, I can feel you in my toes, and my belly feels like jelly, and it's doing belly rolls. And if you're feeling what I'm feeling, like I'm feeling too, then maybe it's our jelly bellies, saying I love you. (Raises his hand and all join in) I've got a jelly belly feeling, it's a jelly belly feeling, I've got this jelly belly feeling a jelly belly feeling, and it's all because of you. (Giggles and laughs) Now this jelly's really special as far as jellies go, 'cause this jelly tells my belly and my belly jelly knows. And if you're feeling what I'm feeling like I'm feeling too, then maybe it's our jelly bellies saying I love you. ( Raises his hand) I've got a jelly belly feeling, it's a jelly belly feeling, I've got this jelly belly feeling a jelly belly feeling, and it's all because of you. ( Again giggles and laughs.) See I wake up in the morning and this jelly belly's there, it's the same when it's afternoon I feel it everywhere, and when the evening comes along this jelly belly knows, all I need is see you and my jelly belly rolls.. ( Raises his hand while people giggle and laugh) I've got a jelly belly feeling, it's a jelly belly feeling, I've got this jelly belly feeling a jelly belly feeling, and it's all because of you.”.. ------------------------ [When they finish the song the Smith's get a standing ovation. The MC Bob Muldoon gets up to the mike and says] BOB MULDOON: "Well no one is going to top that, so I think this is a good time to say goodnight, and come back next week" [Night ends with the passing of the hat which as usual no one puts anything in.] [Someone says hi to a girl walking out.] "Hi" [Curtly she replies] GIRL: "Look I haven't got time to talk right now." [This is her standard reply whenever anyone says hi to her. She thinks people are out to steel her time, when a simple hi would have sufficed. She does this at each of the breaks] ------------------------ [With the coffee house closed the shade with Humphry Bogart goes up exposing a kitchen scene. It's where Stark lives with his wife Iris. Stark is sitting at the kitchen table. He has his guitar in hand, and as usual is creating new work. His wife Iris has always taken a back seat when it came to his music. He plucks away, then writes something down on paper. Iris had just come in late after work as a waitress, then cheerily asks.] IRIS: “How was your night?" STARK: “It was great, but don't bother me right now, because I'll forget what I'm doing." [Iris reaches over to touch him. Stark annoyed, brushes her off and disappears into the other room.] [Iris thinking, looks towards the room where Stark entered ] IRIS: “Can you hear me? My soul it shouts. Can't you see I have these doubts, and my love for you is running out? I've tried so hard to get inside, but I feel like I've been pushed aside, and my hands are tied. You just don't see, you're losing me, and my love for you I'll set it free. And it just won't be. The days ------------------------ soon coming when I'll be gone, and you'll be wondering what went wrong. You're just that blind. My tears like rain, each day they fall, and you don't see them there at all, how loud they call. But my tears connect me to the ground, a sacred place you haven't found, though it's all around. For that is where all life begins, and must return to rise again, and feel the wind. Yes, I'll feel the wind, I can feel the wind, feel the wind, just feel the wind.” [When she finishes she sings this song 'With A Little Romance" ] IRIS: With a little romance, you could have it all. I'd bend like the willow, like a star I would fall. You have nothing to lose, just give it a chance, 'cause I'd do anything for a little romance. Flowers with candy, dinner for two, a walk holding hands would do nicely thank you. A passionate kiss, a gentle touch, I'm really not asking for very much. With a little romance, you could have it all. I'd bend like the willow, like a star I would fall. You have nothing to lose, just give it a chance, 'cause I'd do anything for a little romance. Tell me I'm pretty, recite me a poem. Make me feel special let it be shown. A telephone call just to say I love you, and you'd be surprised at what I would do. ------------------------ Steal home from work some afternoon, go for a drive wait for the moon. Look at the stars shift through the night, and when the sun starts to rise, hold me real tight. With a little romance, you could have it all. I'd bend like the willow, like a star I would fall. You have nothing to lose, just give it a chance, 'cause I'd do anything for a little romance... [When Iris finishes singing, she sits down at the kitchen table. Under her breath she says, and teary] IRIS: "I will leave him" [Just then there's a tableau,( a freeze frame ) Jacob the barista walks on stage and looking at the audience recites] JACOB: "When the honey's gone, you will know it is time, to search for those flowers that hold its gold. For when the honey's gone, it's time to move on, in order for purpose once more to unfold; when the honey's gone." [No sooner does Jacob walk off when another man comes out to face the audience. His name is Peter. He is a wandering minstrel type. Smiling a lot, happy. He has an English accent. The shade is pulled back down.} ------------------------ PETER: "Right now I would like to recite this poem to you. It's called "A Tale Of Two Loves" Now, I know what you're going to think, but; [Waving one of his hands towards the audience says] I'll explain it later." “'Tis the tale of two loves who had parted their ways, one went to sea, while the other would stay, and when she returned, they had this to say, and this is their story, on that homecoming day." "Where have you been lass? Where have you been? 'Cause your sails look torn, a bit ragged and thin. Did you find what you went for? Would you do it again? 'Cause your riggin looks worn lass, as the vessel you're in." And she said: "You know why I left, you know why I left. ‘Twas the thing to do, and I've got no regret. 'Cause the thoughts that I had, inside that I kept, I could feel them each morning, and every night as they wept. Now I caught the waves, few days out at sea, and the wind it blew, just as hard as could be, and I prayed and I cursed, as I cried out for THEE, and when it turned calm, I knew I was free! Yes my sails were torn, a bit ragged and thin, and my riggin was worn, ------------------------ as the vessel I'm in. But my SOUL came alive, I can feel it again, and that's why I left, and where I have been. I was looking for me, feeling so lost, and was willing to chance it, no matter the cost. ‘Cause if I had stayed, I would not have crossed, but sank to the bottom, to be covered with moss. Now my sails will mend, and so will its mast, and the vessel I'm in will make its way back, and I'm glad that you cared, and I'm glad that you asked, 'cause I know that I love you, and I am your lass." And when she was through, a smile filled his eyes. He was glad she was back, and her soul had revived. And they stared for a time, to let the silence just pass, when he finally said, " Welcome home again lass". Then he added, "And while you were gone, I wanted to run. To chase you down, for what I thought I had done. But the truth of it is, my soul was as lost. And I had to stay back, till this devil was tossed. And I ranted and raved, and I fought with desire, and I felt the burn of a furious fire, and the dragon I clung to rode me on higher, as I swung with my sword till the flame did retire. Now I'm glad that you went, and I'm glad that I stayed .For our lives will be different, as we are this day. For we answered the call, that woke us the same, that came from our souls, to each other by name. So here we are together at last, and I don't think it matters, whatever will pass, 'cause I see it now, so clear as fine glass, that this love is true, my beautiful lass." ------------------------ [After Peter finishes, he explains] "Even though in this poem the two seem to get back together; well, they do; but, it's not to be with each other. The poet who wrote this poem was looking at; well; it's higher meaning. [With that he smiles, laughs a little, then goes to leave, turns around and says] Oh I'll explain more later." [Months pass. It’s another Monday. Bob Muldoon explains the whole intent. Then continuing,] BOB MULDOON: “WOW, our original intent has held up, but boy, have we expanded our repertoire; storytellers, poets, it wouldn’t surprise me if someone gets up here and starts juggling. [ Just then a man on a one wheel bike comes riding through the coffee house while at the same time juggling. Everyone laughs and whistles. After Bob says] "Hey, let's hear it for Marco's...[Then explains] "Marco's is a friend of mine who just happens to be in town with the circus, and so we both thought this would be a great surprise, haha..Oh boy, how I love performers. Now next on our sign up sheet. (Laughter) Now next on our sign up sheet. This is a new comer to the café, Tex.” [Tex had just been standing talking to another of the entertainers. Tex to him] Tex:” Enjoy this while it lasts. I’ve seen these things come and go, for a long time. In fact, I played with Biaz at a coffeehouse in Cambridge. We thought that would never end; but it did.” ------------------------ [Tex makes his way to the mike.] Tex: “Nice to be here. Just drove a hundred plus miles. Ya know word gets out about these places, and people like me, we find ya. Hope you like what I got. I’m a country boy with a lot of hillbilly in him. (Laughter) [Starts to pluck away at his guitar, then says] This first one is called “Sittin In A Greyhound Station” I was sittin in a Greyhound station waitin for a bus for Tennessee. I was minding my own business when this pretty lady sat across from me. We looked into each other’s eyes and the way she smiled that day made me see. When the man said boarding Memphis, then said New Orleans, I knew that was as close as it would be. And, it always feels the same; it always feels the same. When you’re left out of the game, it will always feel the same. Now riding on the bus I wondered why I couldn’t find the words to say. But just like so many times before, I let my chance just up and slip away. ‘Cause when we looked into each other’s eyes and the way she smiled that day made me see. When the man said boarding Memphis and then said New ------------------------ Orleans, I new that was as close as it would be. Now I was sittin in a Greyhound station waiting for the bus to leave at three. I was minding my own business when that pretty lady sat across from me. We looked into each other’s eyes and the way she smiled that day I could see. When the man said you’re in Memphis, now boarding Nashville, I knew that she’d be right there next to me. ‘Cause it always feels the same, it will always feel the same, when you’re left out of the game, you will always feel the same. (Big hand) Tex: “Thank you. Now this next song came about when my car broke down in Kentucky, a place called Warsaw. At first, I thought I was in a scene out of the movie “Deliverance” (Laughter) But soon found out much different. I was there for three days, and the folks there were super nice. Here goes.” There’s a little country place, with a little pretty face, in Kentucky. She’s a dream that I know in her eyes she let it show, in Kentucky. It’s a sweeter memory and the real thing, seems it’s always there never tiring. 'Cause love is in the dream for what is right, and holding on to images now and then that come in sight, and there’s one of Kentucky tonight. ------------------------ Tobacco barns, daddy’s stew, good old boys, I met a few, I was lucky. My car broke down but then I found, a friendly place, a country town in Kentucky. It’s a sweeter memory and the real thing, seems it’s always there never tiring. 'Cause love is in the dream for what is right, and holding on to images now and then that come in sight, and there’s one of Kentucky tonight. There’s a little country place with a little pretty face in Kentucky. She’s a star that I know in her eyes she let it show in Kentucky. So now I have this image, I am holding on to tight, 'cause love is in the dream for what is right, and there’s one of Kentucky tonight, and there’s one of Kentucky tonight, and there’s one of Kentucky tonight. (Big Applause) “Thank you. OK this is my last number. Being from Texas an all; and proud of it. I wrote this song for my mommy and daddy. Hope you like it. It’s called "My Daddy Was A Cowboy” OH my daddy was a cowboy, my mother was the show, and they would ride day or night with the rodeo. My daddy was a cowboy, from a long Texas line, but my mother was that cowboy’s star in a Texas sky that shines. ------------------------ Yippee I eh, yippee I oh, sure glad I am a Texan, where the Rio Grande it flows. Yippee I eh, yippee I oh, a rootin tootin Texan, down by the Alamo. Now Texans like their freedom, just like they like some beers. Don’t like nobody messin, trying to interfere. 'Cause Texans are real cowboys from a long Texan line, and today we know that’s someone, that’s mighty hard to find. Yippee I eh, yippee I oh, sure glad I am a Texan, where the Rio Grande it flows. Yippee I eh, Yippee I oh, a rootin tootin Texan, down by the Alamo. Now my daddy’s still a cowboy, my mother’s still the show, and they still go day and night to the rodeo. My daddy’s still a cowboy from a long Texan line and my mother’s still that cowboy’s star in a Texas sky that shines. Yippee I eh, yippee I oh, sure glad I am a Texan where the Rio Grande it flows. Yippee I eh, yippee I oh, I'’ a rootin tootin Texan and proud to let you know, I’m a rootin tootin Texan, just thought I’d let you know. “Thank you.” (Really big applause) ------------------------ BOB MULDOON: “Thanks Tex, that was great, hope to see you come back again. [Then Bob with a smile on his face says] That reminds me of a piece I wrote when I was in Texas, I was seeing this lady at the time, and man was she a fast driver. Here’s the piece. I called it "The Drive.” [Laughs a little] It’s a highway down in Texas. It’s a road that says it’s true. It’s before what will be sunrise, it’s a road that has a view….All around. And we’re really going fast, and it really is exciting, my woman she is driving, down this road that’s so inviting…Oh my God, I left my seat! Now this road she says she owns it, ‘cause I asked her as we dipped, ‘cause my knees just hit the dashboard, and my teeth just bit my lip…She looked calm, and pretty too. And we’re really going fast, and it really is exciting, my woman she is driving, down this road that’s so inviting…OH NO, HERE COMES A CURVE. I am flung right there beside her, then swung back in position, I’m from Boston she’s from Texas, I guessed this is tradition…Cowboy stuff. No seat belts what the hell for, I know she never wears one. Besides she had a dream, said that she would die young…She’s 44. And we’re really going fast, and it really is exciting, my woman she is driving, down this road that’s so inviting…OKAY, we're in the air!… [Song ends everyone is laughing, Bob too. Then he adds]”Well as you can see, it all turned out okay. All right, next we have Chris” ------------------------ [Chris is very energetic, mid twenties, wearing a peasant dress. She has a tambourine] CHRIS: "It's nice to be here, I was wondering if I could get the man over there to come up here with his conga drum. [She talks to him about the beat she wants, it's fast. This is a bossa nova and sung half in Portuguese and half in English. It will be sung by Chris and somebody else and several of the cast members will dance fabulously to it.] OK, this is for all you girls who have been to dances; and that's all you want to do is dance. Also if anyone feels like getting up and dancing, please do. [Looks over at the MC. He gives a reassuring nod.] Here goes; It's called, "All I Want To Do Is Dance With You" All I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance. All I want to do is see it through whatever might be at chance. That's, all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do. All I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance. All I want to do is feel what's true, all I want to do is dance. All I want to do is see what's new, enjoying the whole romance. I want to dance when the beat is strong, dance when it's weak. I want to hold on, and let go, experiencing every peak. And when the music is far away, I'll be there so I can say, all I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance. ------------------------ [The girls get up right off and start dancing, they grab some of the guys as well. By this time everyone is up] That's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do. All I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance. All I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance, all I want to do is dance with you, all I want to do is dance. That's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do. That's all I want to do, that's all I want to do, that's all I want to do. All I want to do is dance with you; all I want to do is; dance. CHRIS: "Hey, that was fun. Now I'm going to sing a song again for you gals who are looking for a good time, without the strings. This is slow, so take a rest and enjoy. Hey how about that drummer Brandon, wasn't he great! (Big hand with whistles) This next one is called "Full Circle" I'm not looking for commitment, I'm not looking for no strife. I'm just looking for a good time if and when the time is right. I need to have my freedom, I need my time alone. Don't need to feel the pressure, just freedom from the known. ------------------------ Like the moon that comes full circle, and never is the same. So too with hearts that meet again, they too will always change. The other night was good, and loving you was right. But now it's time to let it go, and keep our feelings light. In the meantime let's be friends, no reason not to be, let's move along with the tide, that changes in the sea. Like the moon that comes full circle, and never is the same, so too with hearts that meet again, they too will always change. I need to have my freedom, I need my time alone. Don't need to feel the pressure; just freedom from the known... [Finishes, thanks everyone, heads back to her seat. Along the way, people are reaching out to her saying “You were great"] BOB MULDOON: "OK moving right along; next we have Stark." (Applause) [Gets up to the mike says] STARK: “Well a lot of you know my wife left me a few months ago, and believe me, I've never felt anything so strong in my heart; and my stomach feels like it's catching my heart's sadness; like a ------------------------ soot is dripping from it. So as you can imagine, a lot of blues have been coming to mind; as well as many questions. That's one thing about relationships ending, it always makes for good songwriting. It's really soul searching isn't it? After I play these next two songs, I'm going to recite two short poems, if that's all right? [Gets the go ahead signal ] Here goes, this is called "The Woman I Love Up And Left Me" The woman I love up and left me, tired of all my mental games. The woman I love up and left me, now I'm tired, alone and insane. Happened through the years when our love was young, and I couldn't see the hurt when it was being done, the woman I love up and left me, I was blind, I just couldn't see. Said too many things that caused her awful pain, don't know why I said them, but I said them all the same. The woman I love up and left me, now I'm tired, alone and insane. I don't pretend to understand this mystery, why two that come together cause such misery, the woman I love up and left me, I was blind and I just couldn't see, I was blind I just couldn't see, I was blind I just couldn't see... [Finishes, applause. Goes over to the keyboard] “This song is called "I Need You." [It's slow and very beautiful, like a prayer] ------------------------ I need you like the forest needs rain, I want you as a little boy, who is in a lot of pain. You're the soil, you're the sea, you're the air surrounding me, and I need you like a little boy to take away my pain. You are liquid, I am mass, you're the sparkle in the glass. You inspire, I defend, you inquire, I descend. You're my youth, you're my sight, you're the dream I have each night, and I need you, like a forest needs rain. You're the flower in the wild. You give birth to every child. You're the shimmer, you're the mist. You're the dew when softly lit. And like a stem you're the flower that sits upon the end. And I need you like a forest needs rain. And like a stem you're the flower, that sits upon the end; and I need you like a forest needs rain.... (Applause) [Stark walks over to the mike] “The two poems. "Reasons I depend" “I thought about perfection, thought about change. Thought about loss, thought about gain. I thought about life, thought about death. Thought about things, that haven't happened yet. Seems I'm always thinking, or looking at the scene. Trying to find some answers, you know what I mean. Here I go again, I'm thinking of you. I wonder where it's going, or if it's even true. ------------------------ My brain never seems to tire, thinking all the time, trying to find the words, trying to find the rhyme. Don't think it's ever going to stop, don't think it ever ends. I guess I'm still trying to find; those reasons I depend.” “And this last poem; it's called "A Perfect Love" “It's that perfect love I've been looking for, and so the reason for the war. Now I see it was always there, in me, round me, everywhere. And so it is to be aware, it's that perfect love, that we all share. A succubus came, just last night, making love till the fright. That because, I started to fight, instead of being in the light. It was a crazy night intrusion that I recall with such profusion, and so it is with this transfusion, seeing now my own confusion...illusion. It's that perfect love I've been looking for; and so the reason, for the war".... (Big hand) [Stark finishes, goes and sits] BOB MULDOON: ------------------------ "OK, now we have Carl, let's hear it for Carl." (Applause) [Carl gets up, he has an air about him; an air of just being free, like he has real peace of mind.] CARL: "My name is Carl, and here's a few tunes I wrote, that I hope just make you feel good. The first is called, "I belong". I was at my first pagan ritual, which wasn't pagan at all. In fact, it was down right holy. At least that's what I got out of it. Anyway, that experience inspired this. The tune is like a folkie Jazz.” I like the breeze through my toes; flowers for my nose, dancing 'round a fire with moon. I like things that are real, things I can feel, even singing when I'm out of tune. I like daytimes, nighttime’s, any times the right time, for whatever comes along; 'cause when it does, I feel it because, life tells me that I belong. It's a sidewalk to sit, lips fresh to kiss, simple as things like that. Things that are real, things I can feel, like my friend who weaves her own hats. I like doing my wash in a sink by hand, touching the clothes I wear. And a fence for a line, a tree or a vine, and a dryer a ------------------------ thing called air. I like making things to give away, to people some I don't know. 'Cause when I do, I feel what is true, and real's not a word just to say. It's a child I watched, giggling with joy, playing with two dogs as friends. When they'd chase him down, he'd fall to the ground, and his laugh any heart would bend. He'd go back for more in their game of tag, a tot still under three, and again under chase, a tag would be placed, and his freedom touched the real in me. It's saying I love you and meaning it, even though it's someone just met. I love you, I love you, I LOVE YOU! From the heart when its candle is lit. And it's daytimes, nighttime’s, any times the right time, for whatever comes along. For when it does, I feel it because, life tells me that I belong, and it's simple like the words in this song, and it's simple like the words in this song; oh ya....(Big applause) “Next, is one I wrote called, "The Morning Song" it's a little jazzy. Here goes.” It's the morning song with a good old beat, it's the morning song to get you on your feet, it's the morning song day or night, ------------------------ it's the morning song to keep you in the light. And it's all right, you're going to be all right, there's peace in sight stay in the light dance through this night, it's gonna be all right. Just smile smile smile, smilin gets ya high. Just smile smile smile, don't believe the lie. Just smile smile smile, know that you can fly. Just smile smile smile, all you need is try. When in the middle of a storm and your sails are torn, and you cannot see the shore, and your boats adrift and pain you suffer it, and you feel all alone. When life is cruel as it can be, and you ask this question why why me, and no answer comes no matter what you do, then this morning song is just for you. It's the morning song with a good old beat, it's the morning song to get you on your feet, it's the morning song to make you want to dance, the morning song says you have another chance to Smile smile smile, smilin gets ya hi. Just smile smile smile, don't believe the lie. Just smile smile smile, keep light and love alive. Just smile smile smile, 'cause you're the reason why. And it's all right, you're gonna be all right, there's peace in sight stay in the light dance through this night it's gonna be all ------------------------ right, you're gonna be all right; you're gonna be all right oh yes you are....(Big applause, whistles and cat calls) “Thank you, thank you. My last piece is called, "Say The Words I Love You" It's another jazzy piece.” When your life seems to be in trouble, and your head keeps spinning around. When you feel like you’re inside a bubble, but it won't lift off the ground. You can color your shadow with pastels, be like the radiant sun, jang with the jingle of sleigh bells, and walk like you're having some fun. You've got to pick up the beat in your rhythm, add just a measure or two, you've got to pick up the beat in your rhythm and say the words I love you, you've got to say the words I love you, you've got to say it like you really do. Now try to make yourself slicker, put a smile on that flows through your eyes. Flash them and make the lights flicker, like those summer evening fireflies. You've got to pick up the beat in your rhythm, add just a measure or two. You've got to pick up the beat in your rhythm, and say the words I love you, you've got to say the words I love you, you've got to say it like you really do. Now look like you're someone that's special, don't you know who you are? Just take a good look in the mirror, 'cause you’re a perfect five-pointed star. ------------------------ You’ve got to pick up the beat in your rhythm, add just a measure or two, you've got to pick up the beat in your rhythm, and say the words I love you, you've got to say the words I love you, and say it like you really do; I love you..... (Huge applause, Carl smiling walks to his seat) BOB MULDOON: “OK, now we have Flower, how about a nice hand for Flower” [Flower like Carl has that air of peace about her, it’s a humble confidence] FLOWER: “I want you to know I really enjoy coming here. The variety is so refreshing”. [Just then a woman boldly walks into the room, she is in her early thirties, short cropped hair, she wears glasses. She stands beside some tables] Flower continues, I am going to recite one poem, it’s called “Sameness”. [ Just then the woman who boldly walked in says] ------------------------ WOMAN: “Please tell us your name, where you’re from; and please speak up.” [Narrator: "People at the coffee house are in shock. This is the first time tolerance wasn’t observed".] [Flower smiles] Flower: “Well, my name is Flower; and, that’s all you need to know.” [Flower is smiling at the woman, perhaps remembering a time when she was where she was at.] [The woman was indignant with this false confidence.] [A tableau] [The woman faces the real audience and recites this poem; she’s very loud about it] Woman: “In the middle of a dream where nothing is real, but the feel. You know what I mean. It’s on the big screen. Every night it plays. Tune in; what do you THINK? Isn’t it rather mixed UP! All that stuff. Like, stepping on bubble gum with your brand new J.C. Penney shoes on…isn’t it. Who said pleasant dreams, happy dreams…sweet dreams? There more like echoes that ------------------------ bounce off a distant star; or, maybe a movie star! Come closer; now listen, THOUGHTS DON’T STOP, No matter what THEY say. Better just get used to it. Because; NO one loves YOU anyway. Even when you’re DEAD. Did I just say THAT word, DA DA DEAD? THAT land, you know, like uh, Hershey kisses so neatly wrapped in foil that says, GUARANTEED to retain that same sweet taste for ever and ever; and ever. I really don’t think so, but what do I know about sweet familiar tastes? My NEIGHBORS know, THEY know everything! So maybe you can just ask THEM. But, if you do, remember this; is there such a thing as a Hershey kiss when you’re flying through the air between buildings during rush hour trying to make a safe landing, while everybody’s watching? Let me know.” [She returns with the others in tableau] [Barista faces the real audience, says] JACOB: “Don’t know what will come tomorrow, be it joy, or be it sorrow. Don’t know what if need to borrow, be it sword, or be it laurel. Only know what comes to follow, be it full, or be it hollow.” [Things resume] FLOWER: ------------------------ “Sameness, I found you only twice, in my world that never stays the same. And I’ve paid an awful price, for I know I cannot play the game. Sameness where are you? 'Cause you’re feeling what I’m feeling too. Like the lion and the lamb, I know that you understand. Will we meet sometime soon? Without words to share the moon. Or stare within eyes, where lifetimes crystallize. Sameness we both grew, and these words I say for you. I know I can’t pretend, so I wait like you again. You know how it feels, when night meets dawn. You know how it feels, when all resistance it is gone. No cage will ever hold you, just air with lots of sky. Till once again that special moment, that waits for you and I.” (Applause) [Flower walking back to her seat says to the woman] FLOWER: “And what’s your name?” ------------------------ WOMAN: “Sylvia” FLOWER: “That’s nice” [Flower smiles] [Bob Muldoon goes to the mike; he’s a little perturbed] BOB MULDOON: “I think we better take a break” [People are buzzing, this was a first. Stark walks over to Jacob the coffee guru. Says] STARK: “What the hell do you think about that?” JACOB: “I had a vision back in 1995. I saw a Crow in mid air. There was a circle of mosquitoes around it so thick the Crow was stopped in its flight. There also was another, a baby Crow, it was off to the side on the ground in a nest, and a circle of mosquitoes was around it as well. I thought, those mosquitoes are going to kill that Crow in mid air, but just as soon as I ------------------------ thought that the mosquitoes disappeared and the Crow in mid air was now a white lamb. So I knew this is how transformation was going to happen, through irritation, until so much irritation humbles us to finally, and willingly; give up control and give that control back to God. In fact I even wrote a poem about it called ‘A Plan Coming Down” Would you like to hear it?” STARK: “Of course I would.” JACOB: “There’s a plan coming down so at least I have found, and at times it’s so painful I just cry. There’s a change going on and I hope it won’t last long, 'cause I feel if it does I’m going to die. I’m trying to hang in but my skin is getting thin from the fire that is burning me inside. But I know I’m not alone, that’s because I have been shown, and it’s something to do with my pride. And it’s painful; 'cause there’s no place to hide. I stumble and I fall and believe me that ain’t all, I kick and scream to let me have my way. But, I’ve also kissed the snow for times it was no go, ‘cause I wouldn’t have the chance I have today. I’ve seen mosquito’s circle crows so thick the mind it blows, ------------------------ and felt their irritation like my own. But, there was a transformation which seems this destination when I also saw a place above I’d flown, and I knew that I would go there; it was home.” STARK: “You know, that really makes sense, thanks Jacob”. [Dave Black the poet walks over to the three Indians sitting together] DAVE BLACK: “Can I sit with you for a minute? I have something I’ve been wanting to ask you.” [The chief motioned with his hand offering Dave a chair] DAVE BLACK: “I’ve been wondering about that pipe I see you smoking, I notice you light it from the bottom, and I’ve never seen anything like that before.” CHIEF RED EAGLE: ------------------------ “In order for you to understand this pipe, I will have to tell you a story about White Buffalo Calf Woman. Because she is the sacred woman who brought our ancestors the very first pipe. You see, back then, which, was a very long time ago, two young hunters were out looking for game, when they saw this beautiful woman dressed in white buckskin. One had lustful thoughts for her, while the other one knew her as a holy woman. She then waved the one with the lustful thoughts to come to her. When he got to her, a cloud was to cover them both, and when it lifted, the young man had been reduced to bones that lay on the ground with snakes running through them. She then told the other one to go back to his village and tell the chief to prepare a really large tipi to house everyone, because she had something special to give them. When she came she had a bundle, when she opened it there was a pipe inside. She instructed them on how to use it , and that all their prayers would rise up in the smoke to be heard by Wagan Tanka, or God. She then told them that she would return again at the end of time, and to pass this story down. She said others would know of her return, because she would come back as a White Buffalo that would change colors several times. Which she demonstrated upon leaving the village. Well recently, two White Buffalo’s were born on a cousin’s reservation in South Dakota. Now a more recent cousin had a vision of White Buffalo Calf Woman, and soon after made this pipe, which as you noticed lights up from the bottom. Its meaning is to think a new ------------------------ direction, that it’s not too late to turn ourselves around. It was also revealed to him the original intent of the story of those two hunters that first saw White Buffalo Calf Woman. What was revealed was this. First, there was only one hunter. The lustful part of him was only too eager to approach her, and the other part of him saw her for what she was, very sacred. But that side was self-righteous. The snake represented wisdom, which one day he would receive. So the lesson is this; every woman is a sacred woman, and when she waves you to come to her, it is important to do that, but go with patience and respect. Then she will receive you, for she is to be embraced, and though desire in and of itself is not love, love has desire in it. For nothing would exist, if it were not for the love of the one who stands above us all, and his desire for it to be. So with wisdom and understanding we will realize both extremes need to be brought together.” [When the Indian finishes telling the story to Dave, He adds] CHIEF: “The stem of the pipe reflects male energy, the bowl; female. When you put the two together, you create a spark. The spark turns into a flame, and purifies what’s inside. Then when it is freed in the smoke, there is a perfect balance of male and female energy never to be separated. Just thought you’d like to think about that." [Chief laughs] [As Dave starts to walk away, the woman with the chief (His ------------------------ sister) says] CHIEFS SISTER: “I think your job is to slay the monster.” [Dave turns and says] DAVE: ‘Who is this monster?” CHIEFS SISTER: “You are.” [She follows this with a laugh] [Dave is dumb founded, walks back to his seat] [Next, Two Feathers, says hi to the girl who never has time to stop] TWO FEATHERS: “HI” GIRL: "I don’t have time to talk right now" ------------------------ [Two Feathers chuckles, says to his friends] TWO FEATHERS: “These poor white people, their time is so important to them. It reminds me of this white man, when he asked if I had ever been to the area where he lived. When I said I had, he then asked me how long it took to get to the reservation from there. I said I don’t know that. This annoyed him. What do you mean you don’t know he says. I say, well when we leave we just go, when we get there we just do. Ha Ha; I think I saw a light go on inside him. Ha Ha.” [Just then Two Feathers has this quick thought. Sees each person in the coffeehouse coming up to them asking a couple of questions. They have formed a line and one by one walk up and quickly ask their question, then stand aside waiting for a reply.] [TWO FEATHERS thinks] “Ever since the white man first stepped on to this soil, he has always asked them how to do this and how to do that, and still this how continues to this day.” [Conga drum plays a fast beat , first person walks up to the Indians who are now standing near the real audience] [First person] [This is done very quickly] ------------------------ “How do you plant the corn? How do you fish the streams?” [Next person] “How do you ride your horse? How do you stitch your seams?” [Next person] “How do you reach the stars? How do you travel so far?” [Next person] “How do you know these things? How do you get your wings?” [The three Indians answer while doing the Macarana. They do this every time they answer. Those asking the questions then mimic the dance.] INDIANS: “How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how.” [Next person] “How do you sow your seeds? How do you fill your needs?” [Next person] ------------------------ “How do you string your beads? How do you stop what bleeds?” [Next person] “How do you sing your song? How do you stay so strong?” [Next person] “How do you let it be? How do you live so free” INDIANS: “How, It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how.” [Next person] “How do you give your heart? How do you even start?” [Next person] “How do you fix your stare? How do you see what’s there?” [Next person] “”How do you paint with life? How do you feel its worth? How do you plant the corn? How do you love this earth? ------------------------ INDIANS: “How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how.” [Next person] ”How do you heal the sick? How do you make it stick? [Next person] ‘How do you face the sun? How do you know you’re one? [Next person] “How do you deal with doubt? How do you go without?” How do you rise up high? How do you touch the sky?” INDIANS: “How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how. How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how. How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how how. How? It’s a pow wow, we listen now, then do the how how how ------------------------ how. [All those who asked the questions join in and mimic ] [Two Feather's ends his thought, he has a big smile on his face.] CHIEF RED EAGLE; "What is that smile all about" TWO FEATHER'S: "Oh nothing, hee hee." [MC opens it back up] BOB MULDOON: “I think I'm going to sing another song I wrote; it's called "Simple Lives The Bird" [Slow beat] An old man once had told me, and his eyes they seemed to know. If you want to have some peace of mind, keep it simple as you go. Then he said, here's a poem, keep it by your side. And if you want your freedom, in these words you must abide. ------------------------ Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, barely flaps a wing, holds the record high. Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, doing what comes naturally, naturally to fly. I had a lot of wood to burn, I was thicker than a fur, ‘cause what the old man told me, was nothing but a blur. I was taught to lie cheat and steel, and to cover up my sins, and nothing really mattered, except that I must win. Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, barely flaps a wing, holds the record high. Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, doing what comes naturally, naturally to fly. I lived to work , not worked to live , with nothing more to show, I guess I forgot what the old man said, keep it simple as you go. I'm working so much less now, enjoying it so much more, I got rid of all the useless strife, I truly did endure. And I really just don't give a damn if I'm a loner or I'm poor, the old man's poem changed my life, and this is what I'm striving for. Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, barely flaps a wing, holds the record high. Simple lives the bird, master of the sky, doing what comes naturally, naturally to fly. (Applause) Thank you and that's it for tonight, so thanks for coming, and see you next week." ------------------------ Narrator: "The shade with Marilyn Monroe's picture on it goes up. The scene is Flower's porch. Flower has a day dream, sees herself singing a song she wrote called "Fairies Dancing". She is at the coffeehouse, a tree has been erected in the middle of the floor and Fairies dance around it while she sings." FLOWER: In the evening when the moon comes up from behind the sycamores, and the fairies dance, just above the fields, to the sounds of the outdoors. You can see them twirl and spin around, as they gladly take encores, in the evening when the moon comes up from behind the sycamores. Fairies dance twirl and spin, circling 'round the trees, fairies dance with their kin, an evening summer breeze. You can see them there if you look real hard, with a heart that's really pure, in the evening when the moon comes up from behind the sycamores. The moon, the stars, the nighttime shades, the peepers in the woods. The smell of flowers that kiss the air, from dreams under their hoods. Fairies dance, twirl and spin, having done their daily chores, in the evening when the moon comes up from behind the sycamores. ------------------------ Narrator: "When the fairies leave after dancing , a circle of mushrooms pop up around the tree. It is called a fairies ring , a sure sign of their presence." Narrator: "Again months pass. A lot has happened since Sylvia broke the code of tolerance. Many others who had been holding back started adding their two cents. Half the usual crowd is gone. Bob opens, skipping his usual introduction, Bob irritated says." BOB MULDOON: "OK, there is no more smoking, and no passing of the hat, which really doesn't matter because no one put anything into it anyway. OK, Brandon." BRANDON: "Onetime I was sitting and watching some pigeons landing on the roof of a building, someone then asked me where do pigeons go when they die. Anyway, that remark inspired this song. It's called, "Do We Really Have To Know" [With his conga drum he starts his Jamaican beat.] Do we really have to know where birds go when they die. Do we really have to know how those birds got to fly. Do we really have to know, every little thing between you and I. Do we really have to know where love goes when it says goodbye. ------------------------ Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo, do we really have to know. Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo, do we really have to know. Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo, do we really have to know, do we really have to know, do we really have to know. Do we really have to know why some fish swim upstream. Do we really have to know what they do if you know what I mean. Do we really have to know every little thing or can we let it go like some offering, do we really have to know do we really have to know do we really have to know. Do we really have to know why the moon circles in the sky. Do we really have to know how those tears come to cry. Do we really have to know how it all began like those things we can never understand, do we really have to know do we really have to know do we really have to know. Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo do we really have to know. Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo do we really have to know. Do we really have to know wo wo wo wo do we really have to know, do we really have to know, do we really have to know. Do we really have to know, do we really; have; to know. (Applause, from what is left of the crowd) BOB MULDOON: ------------------------ "The chord to the P.A needs some adjusting, should only take a few minutes, be right back." [With that Carl walks over to Flower and says] CARL: “No chance it is that we should meet, yet never known for sure. Your face, your hair, those smiling eyes, I've seen them all before. No doubt it was another time, predestined by our fate. I know it now for seeing you, there could be no mistake. You've touched the deep, some call it soul, I've known it as a void. Yes you somehow a part of me, it's you that I've adored. Oh yes my fair, I know you well, and heaven isn't far. When all I do is close my eyes, and there again you are.” [Flower gives him an understanding smile. Both are glowing.] BOB MULDOON: "OK, that's fixed. Next we have Carl, let's hear it for Carl." (Applause) Carl: "Tonight is a special night, and what I have are four poems that reflect that." ------------------------ [Carl glances in Flower's direction and begins] "This first one is called, "So Would I". “If the moon had wings it would leave the sky, to come here below to be by your side; so would I. If trees could walk I know that they would, to be closer to you; that is if they could; so would I. And if rivers and streams backwards could flow, the ocean would follow letting you know; so would I. And if birds could talk in our on tongue, they would say to you that you are the one; so I try. And our sun and stars and planets above would shape into hearts beating with love, and if could change as truly should, to what can be instead of could, you would fly; and so, would; I”. You are an inspiration, A poem for the pen. You are an inspiration, The song in the wind. You are that inspiration, That moves words to flow. You are that inspiration, The poem that says it's so. Look at you, standing there, Your light fills the room. Look at you, without care, That is, without it's gloom. You are that inspiration, The rose that opens wide. You are that inspiration, You stand side by side. You are that inspiration, The poem that comes to life, You are that inspiration, For such poems, a poet writes. (Next poem) “I could stare at your face for a lifetime, with my back turned to the sea. I could stare at your face for a lifetime, because your face is so beautiful to me. I've seen the blue bird lift its wing, the sun kiss the dew. I've watched as night stood helplessly, when the moon came pass ------------------------ ing through. I've looked upon the rich red rose, and the lilies tender skin. But I've never seen a face like yours, no matter where I've been. I could stare at your face for a lifetime, with my back turned to the sea. I could stare at your face for a lifetime, because your face is so beautiful to me.” (End of poem) “Someone asked me what passion was and this is what came to me. It's called "Passion?" “Today I fell in love with you and my heart was given wings. I know because I flew so high I met the God who sings. Below I saw a quiet lake untouched by man's disgrace. A lake so pure the moon was moved to light upon its face I thank you for the feelings that passion has to give, to those who take a chance for love, and what it means to live. And I thank you for that moment for the joy that found its way, between what suffers in the dark; even though it's day. For it is likened to a fire just after it goes out, and laughter ------------------------ follows right away like a thief who had to shout. And so it is that I will rest with love its words now sown, and wrap this moment 'round my chest, for passion is; the poem.” “This next poem, perhaps you might like to give to the one who stirs you.” [Again lancing over at Flower] “Your presence does to thee provoke sensations seldom tried. When trembling must you see whenever I am by your side. And like that mist when morning’s light touches what makes dawn, I hope it falls upon the heart where memory waits the song. And if these words like flowers speak with scents of Jasmine pure, then let its fragrance touch that place where mist and light endure. And though this day like night will keep and life will have its way, I know I’ll tremble in its wake as did just yesterday. For all it takes is wind of rush its essence carried with, the thought of you and nothing more when night again is lit; with love.” “And last.” “Love is all I have, no more, no more. Love is all I have, no more. But if it's love that you want, love you're looking for; I won't keep what I have, no more; no more.” “Thank you.” (Applause) ------------------------ Narrator: "After Carl takes his seat, Flower walks over to him and sings to him "My Prayer Is Your Prayer"; she also sits on the floor beside his chair. She tells him later it was her way of making her claim on him, much like the way her sheep will do that she raises." "My prayer is your prayer For someone to love. Someone who's sent Sent from above. Someone to touch To touch our soul. Someone when together Will make us feel whole. Someone that makes Each day a joy. With a smile from inside That's not just a ploy. Someone to share The same hopes too. Someone who really Really knows you. When two hearts truly Beat the same. They call those souls When together Twin Flames. And I know we are called Together by name. As is above So below it's the same. Also every person That comes into our lives. Are there for a reason For us to grow wise. Like every obsession Helps us to see. We're not in control As we think we to be. See, we are humans Filled with needs. Needing affection Or egos to feed. Or just to be touched For no reason to name. 'Cause feelings are feelings Though different the same. It's true we can love And love many times. Feeling it deeply That love that is mine. But only with Soul mates Is that love refined. Only with Soul mates Does that love it shine.. So I need to be with you I need you to feel. 'cause that is my prayer To feel what is real. And my prayer is our prayer I'm thinking just of. 'Cause today I am feeling That Twin Flame of LOVE...." [After Flower sings "My Prayer Is Your Prayer", a tableau comes in and Jacob the barista recites the poem "When Souls Connect" he does this in front of the “real” audience.] "When Souls connect So will thoughts And a feeling You are home. When Souls connect So will hearts No more to be Alone. No mountain, sea, Or prison bars Will ever come between, For when Souls connect A love is there, Just there; as one In being..." [Right after this, Carl and Flower start seeing each other and during that time of exploring and getting to know each other fully, he writes these three poems which she and the experience inspires he recites them to her and gives to her as a gift.] I TASTE I taste what makes life possible, I taste the precious. I taste the mystery Hidden between those swollen walls. I taste the beginning and the end. I taste, and it becomes part of me, Closer than my skin. I taste the past, present, and future. I taste its purpose, that pleasure, That intensity. I taste what remains, That which just; IS. I taste its intimacy, Like a shade , or veil That covers its eye. I taste its importance, that sacrifice. I taste the fire from its heart That burns my tongue, yet sooths. I taste what only it has been allowed, I taste its sweet secret, its power of persuasion. I taste but a sample of only which, It will ever know. THAT magnitude, Which leaves my pleasure pale. I taste that which makes me Come back for more. In want of what it has, Its rapture, its bliss. I taste that love that spews, Like a dam released, unplugged. Washing me till my soul is pleased, And all this because, I tasted; you! YOU You teased my heart Till it played It's song of love The one it held so deep I didn't even know Where it was Or, if it even existed. Yes you The one that awoke This music within That music that some May even call its sin As if it's a place Not to be crossed Like a place reserved For some false Gods. Yet when the music played It rose within me Like a magical wave That washes, polishing Stones into gems Gems to be set and worn By the newly ordained Kings and queens. With the rest being strewn About the sea Setting it affire. And in this song This feeling, a texture In music I could touch Pressing my fingers deep Into its liveness As much so to taste it On my finger tips Like one might a tear That comes to the eye Of a love. And now I wonder How I ever could have forgot When you were always there You- You This song in my heart.... So Warm, So Warm! I never thought I'd feel like this Wanting to love you every day I never thought I'd want a kiss That would never go away I never thought I'd love someone With a love that felt so pure I never thought I'd say these words This love I have is sure~ Amor, Amor. I stare at you I stare at you Through eyes that see complete A beauty that my soul's compelled To rise for it must speak It does when I'm alone in thought Thoughts just filled with you And so I write them down because That is what I do 'Cause you are who I think about When morning fills with light 'Cause you are always with me now And so it is I write And when I'm in your presence The words just melt away For everything is so complete There's nothing more to say For there's a glow that says it all I know it's always true 'Cause everytime I feel so warm When I am next to you....I love you. BOB MULDOON: “Next we have Dave Black” (Applause) DAVE BLACK: “I want to read three pieces to you. The first is because of what I see happening here, and personally; I don’t like suppression of any kind. So, Don’t Give Me Any Rules”. “Don’t give me any rules that say conform. It only makes for waves like in a storm. Don’t tell me what is right or what is wrong, just let me have some space where I belong. No rules will ever teach me how to see, because those answers are inside of me. And if I am ever to be free, I need to have that place where I can be. I’ve watched a thistle flower and spread her wings, I’ve also come across the bee that stings, yet known the joy that only laughter brings, when finding pleasure in the simple things. ------------------------ So don’t give me any rules that say conform, don’t tell me what is right or what is wrong, I only need someplace where I belong, and then just maybe we might get along. When I am left alone it all comes naturally, ‘cause everything I do I know comes back to me. Don’t give me any rules, don’t give me any rules, don’t give me any rules.” “Next I have this Monster’s Manifesto. Awhile back, one of my Indian friends; back there, (Points a finger) said that my job was to slay the monster. When I asked who this monster was that I was supposed to slay. The chiefs sister White Owl said, I was that monster. So, I contemplated that and this is what came out. ‘The Monster’s Manifesto” “Distance speaks through candles, a cluttered table, and the envelope I write on. Today I saw it in vacant eyes; tonight, the moon, appearing at the end of clouds that funneled. A night without wind, smell, or sound. Just distance. Death seems friendlier; closer, closer than this hand that just rubbed its forehead, or the smoke sucked from my pipe, or the leg crossed over the other; like my back hunched, or this heart I cannot feel beating. Hell must be this place, this distant place, where thoughts don’t stop. Thoughts, one and the same, the same one that drives us, drives us to add another room to an already over sized house. ------------------------ Or; another item on a crowded menu, to our shopping sprees for those extra clothes, and of course the toys, none of which we really need. Just thoughts introduced and carried out by the monster out of control. Thoughts, one and the same, that took the corner market to the supermarket, to the mega market. The diner to fast food chains. It is the same collective obsessiveness shared by the megalomaniac, the rapist, the pariah, the law maker, the law breaker. It is the same energy, the same action, thoughts consuming the thinker. Thoughts, reflections swimming through cartilage of bone called brain, like a chunk of coral that accepts the sea around it without challenge, swinging with each tide. It is the same action from thoughts that permeate sleep, devouring the sleeper with anger, hate, jealousy, envy, fear and the like. It’s the ism, the next cause, the next franchise, the next library. It computes, salutes, and shoots. It’s the monster of the Dalis, Picassos, we call it being prolific. But it’s the one hundredth song, the one hundredth book, the one hundredth chip, the one hundredth monkey. Starting locally, it spreads regionally to nationally, till globally. It is a cancer, a fungus, a virus. Now it is spreading faster than a shadow when sweeping a landscape, as it does just before a cloud blocks the sun. Neitche discovered it in Zarathustra, soon after which he went insane. T.S. Eliot in his Wasteland, ------------------------ though he continued to live like the bourgeois. Ezra Pound realized it in his final years with the knowledge he was a moron. Einstein, when envious of a plumbers life. And so it is I finish “Thoughts manifesto”, and welcome putting THIS Monster’s bones to rest.” (Finished) “This last piece, I’m actually going to sing. Its called “Crying Out Loud” (Has an oompah beat) I’m crying out loud, crying out loud, crying just as fast as I can. I’m crying out loud, crying out loud, crying ‘cause I just can’t understand. Why we’re going so fast going so fast, going just as fast as we can. So I’m crying out loud, crying out loud crying just for someplace to stand. It’s like we’re trying to say don’t get in our way, cause we got these important things to do. So I’m crying out loud crying out loud crying out loud for me and you. See the brakes are off some enjoying the thrill while others suffer and bleed. Don’t think it will stop till the bottom it drops like tears awaken true needs. ------------------------ And I’m crying out loud crying out loud crying just as fast as I can. I’m crying out loud crying out loud crying just for someplace to stand. (Big hand) [Dave sits down. Just then a tableau, Jacob the barista faces the audience and says] JACOB: “This world is where the silvers left from all the tears that one has wept. Inside the heart the gold is kept while thieves not knowing; on it slept.” (Tableau ends) BOB MULDOON: “Well that’s it for tonight, be careful going home” Narrator: "Once again months are going by, during that time only a few people are in attendance each Monday. Bob Muldoon is gone, all the musicians; even the girl who first broke the code of tolerance. Once the audience was gone, so was she. Jacob the barista hangs in as do a few poets." ------------------------ Narrator: "A shade goes up its Sylvia’s bedroom. She sleeps on the floor. This is a carry over from her stay in a mental institution she had been released from when first coming to the coffeehouse. Sylvia dreaming has a spirit woman appear to her. The spirit woman says." SPIRIT WOMAN: “Woman, through your womb pyramids were built, empires destroyed towers that tilt. Through your womb rainbows appear; chaos, confusion, reason and fear. Through your womb waves they rise, tempests, droughts, changing skies. Through your womb the candle was born, the flax, the flicker, from flame it adorns. Through your womb every war has been fought, winners and losers, and peace that was sought. Through your womb new stars are found, new tears, new joys, new destinies bound. Through your womb light was shed, over darkness death from wounds that bled. Through your womb every gender must pass, every shade, every type, every size, every class. Through your womb comes anger and hate, with love relentless sealing their fate. Through your womb the magic and myth, illusion and beauty that all somehow fits; through, your womb.” ------------------------ [Then the spirit woman says to her] “Please don’t interfere with the stars above, please don’t interfere with the way that I love. Please don’t interfere with what I hold so tight, please don’t interfere with what you think is right. If I could only say the words, words that you could hear. If I could only make my feelings really really clear. Inside I have this poetry and so much more that’s really me. If I could only find the words so I could make you see. Like a moon that shows itself in the very dark of night. You know the other half is there; just hasn’t any light. But there it wanes and waxes, for everyone’s delight, but when we interfere we keep it from our sight. Please don’t interfere with the stars above, please don’t interfere with the way that I love, the way that I love, the way that I love.” Then she adds:” Sylvia, those who take on the world raise themselves, while those who take on themselves; raise the world.” [Spirit Woman who like Spirit Man is also dressed in black and white), with several of the cast members circling around Sylvia singing the song "Let it Go".] Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go, Let it go, let it go. Let it be Sylvia let it be. Let it be Sylvia let it be. Let it be Sylvia let it be, Let it go, let it go. Come on home Sylvia come on home. Come on home Sylvia come on home. Come on home Sylvia come on home, Let it go, let it go. Here’s the Key Sylvia here’s the key. Here’s the key Sylvia here’s the key. Here’s the key Sylvia here’s the key, Let it go, let it go. Sing this song Sylvia sing this song. Sing this song Sylvia sing this song. Sing this song Sylvia sing this song, Let it go, let it go. When the sun comes up when the sun goes down When the wheel it turns and night comes ‘round When the heat is on or it’s stone cold When the rain hits hard and those rivers flow Let it go, let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go, Let it go, let it go. Do it now Sylvia do it now. Do it now Sylvia do it now. Do it now Sylvia do it now, Let it go, let it go. Just be love Sylvia just be love. Just be love Sylvia just be love. Just be love Sylvia just be love, Let it go, let it go. You will see Sylvia you will see. You will see Sylvia you will see. You will see Sylvia you will see, Letting go, is to be free. When the sun comes up when the sun goes down When the wheel it turns and night comes ‘round When the heat is on or it’s stone cold When the rain hits hard and those rivers flow Let it go, let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go. Let it go Sylvia let it go, Let it go, let it go. [Spirit woman disappears and Sylvia has this instant catharsis. She gets up and walks towards the audience and says] SYLVIA: ------------------------ “I’m tired of all the fixin, and the messin with the mixin, trying to improve the recipe. You see on closer introspection, I’ve been messin with perfection, and things don’t need to change; it’s only me? Oh no, things don’t need to change? Oh God things don’t need to change? What will I do if things don’t need to change, when the only thing that needs to change is me? Now the reason for the friction, is I have this one addiction, that wants to change everything I see. But I’m tired of all the fixin and the messin with the mixin 'cause I can’t improve a perfect recipe. [Whimsically she says this] I took the caffeine out of coffee, the sugar out of ice cream, the spices out of pizza and some cheese. Then I went to regulatin, like smokin and spectatin; then almost passed a law; that said no one could sneeze! Oh no, things don’t need to change? Oh God, things don’t need to change? What will I do, if things don’t need to change? When the only thing that needs to change is me! “ ------------------------ [END OF FIRST ACT] ------------------------ INTERMISSON ------------------------ ACT – 2 [A shade is up showing a small back yard studio.] Narrator: "It’s a few months after September 11th. Bob Muldoon is putting the best of the music that came from the coffeehouse on to a finished tape, just as he said they would. He is in the studio with Stark, who is helping him. They are just finishing up, when Bob’s wife Cindy comes bursting in. She’s almost out of breath." CINDY: “Guess what just happened; they liberated Kabul, and guess what the first thing the people did there?” BOB MULDOON: “The men cut their beards off”. “CINDY” ------------------------ “NO” STARK: “The ladies showed their faces” CINDY: “NO; you know what they did; they turned the music back on!” [Bob quickly replies] BOB MULDOON: “Well I guess that only proves that YOU CAN”T STOP THE MUSIC. Let’s call everyone and get back to the coffeehouse; what do you say?” STARK: “That’s a great idea; let’s do it!” BOB MULDOON: “Look its Tuesday; let’s shoot for next Monday.” STARK: ------------------------ “Sounds good to me.” Narrator: " So the coffeehouse music night is back on. Bob takes his place as emcee which everyone welcomes, even those who kept it going." BOB MULDOON: “Well it’s really great to be back here again, and to see all you regulars, I’ve missed you all. (Applause) Well needless to say, I know how shocking September11th was, and it sure has changed things, hasn’t it? You know the first thing they did when Kabul was liberated, was to turn the music back on, which only proves you can’t stop the music. (Big applause, whistles, and banging on the tables) And when my wife Cindy broke the news to Stark and me, we were just completing this tape I have here in my hand, (Holds it up) which was our objective. And in spite of our going apart, it’s true, you can’t stop the music, no matter how you try! OK, first on our list is Dave Black, and it looks like he can’t wait to get up here.” DAVE BLACK: “It’s so good to be up here, and see so many people back. Now I’m going to connect several poems I wrote, so think of this as one piece. I’m going to sort of sing them, it’s almost a rap. Can you believe that coming from me? Brandon will play the conga. Now as a poet, I have to write what I feel and see. My ------------------------ work is more at feeding the shadow radiant food; which shadow we all have in us. So please keep that in mind. OK here we go; oh, and by the way, remember, “The devil you see is the devil you are.” OK here we go.” [This is to a very fast beat] Freedom is a fairy tale writ by many known to few a spiders web one chance in twenty, will escape its slanted view. Making circles in the sand. Now this tale of life is a dead man’s song, and for you right now it won’t be long. No matter how righteous no matter how wrong, it ends the same with a dead man’s song. Black thunder’s on the rise you can hear it in the distance see it in the skies. Black thunder’s on the rise, you can feel it everywhere see it in the eyes. Black thunder’s on the rise take a look around its really no surprise, black thunder’s on the rise. I woke up feeling like a worn out rag, and I thought my life is really such a drag. I knew my chances they were wearing thin, and there just was no way I was going to win. You’ve got to push too hard, you’ve got to push too hard. This feeling blue is a doggone shame, and I know there’s just no one else to blame, but when the tide goes out it always drags my name and when it comes back in I play the same old game. And it’s a drag a real drag. Now there ain’t no heaven and there ain’t no hell and God is dead near as I can tell and ------------------------ if you don’t believe it you can see it well 'cause everybody ‘round wants to sell sell sell. You’ve got to push real hard, you’ve got to push real hard. You’ve got to chew it screw it swallow do it, push push. You’ve got to take it make it so you fake it, push push. You’ve got to hold it squeeze it learn to please it, push push. You smooth it glue it anything to do it, push push. Welcome to this world of pain and sorrow, and if you haven’t met it yet you will tomorrow. And for those who know what I mean, it’s all just a passing dream, but in the meantime we must live with the time we borrow. More more give me more what else can my life be for, me me look at me, I want everything I see. Spend spend don’t let it end words of a president we defend. Manifest destiny land of the powerful and the free. Buffalo dung! Work three jobs just to pay the rent and the credit cards you can’t dent dent dent better off living in a tent tent tent but the land once free just went went went. Pushed too hard, pushed too hard. What have we done to this land we stole is the curse of the Indians taking its toll? Now trying to fill an empty hole but you can’t fill a hole that has no soul. Teasing testing it’s molesting can’t you see, trying to live by a false pretense security. For pride must always take its fall as time makes liars of us all shattering our ignorance striking covers of defense. Pushed too hard just pushed too hard. Wolves are wailing MOTHER’S ailing time to wake up we are failing! Black thunder’s on the rise you can hear it in the dis ------------------------ tance see it in the skies. Black thunder’s on the rise take a look around it’s really no surprise black thunder’s on the rise; making circles in the sand. It’s the last flight to freedom, better take it now while everybody’s sleeping it’s all going down. It’s the last flight to freedom, how can we be sure? Just take a look around you they’re blocking every door. It’s the last flight to freedom to let our spirits fly and if you don’t take it you can stay and watch it die. It’s the last flight to freedom things are going down. Not looking good for anyone every day it’s losing ground. It’s the last flight to freedom better take it now 'cause everybody’s sleeping in our cities and every town. They’re closing every loophole blocking every door taking way our freedom it's happened all before. So grab yourself a ticket give one to a friend and climb aboard the last flight don’t let your freedom end. It’s the last flight to freedom to let our spirits fly 'cause others want a claim on it and would rather see it die. Take the last flight to freedom freedom needs to win before they close the last door that locks the spirit in. Take the last flight to freedom just remember when 'cause freedom is the spirit whose wings we must defend. Why it’s an evolution not in revolution that is no solution it’s the execution. Be a hero to yourself, don’t hurt nobody else, it’s really hard to do it all comes down to you. Try not to interfere, no matter what you hear, that’s running from our fear you’ve got to keep it near. Just sit with what you feel and ------------------------ watch the onion peel, that is how we heal until we see what’s real. I know I hurt for change by feeling all its pains and though it’s really strange slowly there are gains. Don’t need to fight the world don’t need another cause just need to change myself deal with my own flaws. Why it’s an evolution not in revolution that is no solution it’s the execution, why it’s an evolution not in revolution that is no solution it’s the execution, why it's an evolution not in revolution that is no solution it's the execution! [Dave finishes gets an extra big round of applause] BOB MULDOON: “Man you’ve got to love it, people saying what’s on their mind and giving us some other perspective on looking at situations, thanks Dave. Next we have Flower.” FLOWER: “Thank you Dave for such insight, and thank you Bob for calling me last week, it’s so good to be back here. Here is one song and two poems I’ve written since September 11th. I like what Dave said about “Feeding the shadow radiant food”. And I hope what I have to share does just that.” (Celtic sounding) [In addition to the singing there will be one dancer dressed in green doing a modern dance interpretation of the song.] In the land of Cha Loo Lee where the mountains touch the sky, ------------------------ there lives the rarest flower, and if seen one never dies. It lives deep inside a cave far away from sight, there among crystals that shimmer in its light. It is said when God made the earth, and the future he had seen, he was saddened by what he saw, when this flower turned to green. And when God he saw this he was taken by its love, and so he placed it in this cave on a mountain high above. Then he said, my special flower you are the purest green, and so he gave this flower, a pair of eyes to stand between. And then with a gentle touch each petal he pulled down, for never would they ever close, because of what they found. Then he said I will take from you a little bit of green, and I will give it every now and then, to the rarest of the beings. And with it some magic, and the power to heal, then he kissed it with his own sweet lips to place his sacred seal. Now for those who want to go, (and not just to see) in search of this chosen flower, for all of its beauty. They themselves must be, of the courageous kind, with open eyes and opened hearts, and a willingness to shine. But first one must meet the green eyes of her kin, for through their eyes it is known, who’s ready to begin. For they hold the power the magic and the key, for one to find that secret path, to the cave in Cha Loo Lee. ------------------------ (Applause) “Next I’ll read these two poems.” “There’s a garden over there; can you see it? With a child in her mother’s arms. They are walking down a path with rainbowed flowers, where tears are not allowed to touch the eyes. There’s a garden over there; can you see it? Look at the river passing through, it’s carrying lily pads in clusters, with frogs madly waving, proud to be the crew. There’s a garden over there; can you see it? Look at the man who cares, he’s petting the animals who love him, while birds keep circling in air. There’s a garden over there; can you see it? Look what’s coming in view, those people, look they are smiling, and one has a face, just like you; can you see it?” “Now my last poem, it’s called Peace.” “Peace? Is it a cloud white against blue, passing through? Is it a river meandering along, speaking to you? Is it the dawn before the bird calls on day? Is it the rain that touched our hearts with music it played? Is it the field that stretched itself beyond our sight? Is it the stars too many to count that came one night? Is it the candle ------------------------ that burned until its light went out? Is it the feeling that comes with love when there’s no doubt? Is it when life gives its last breath and fills a room? Is it the sound of a crick in a wheel from a weaver’s loom? Is it the war left behind after those weep? Is it a choir that sang and put our soul’s to sleep? Or, is it a grace of which no words will make increase, the truth of which was asked, for what is peace; is peace.” “Thank you.” (Applause) [Just then the girl who first interfered (Sylvia) stands up and says] Sylvia: “Listen, I just want to apologize for my intrusion, I too missed what was here. Just to let you know, I had just gotten out of an institution; yes mental, and, well I’m sorry.” [Sylvia gets a big round of applause. The person next to her gives her a big hug. All the other regulars were smiling their approval, as well as their understanding.] BOB MULDOON: ------------------------ “Next on our list is Peter.” [Peter gets up has a banjo with him, and of course his catching smile] PETER: “Well I’d like to lighten things up a bit; and I need audience participation for this number. It’s a gospel song I wrote, don’t know where the heck it came from, but it did. So when I put my hand up you will say, “It is free!” You’ll get it I promise. (Laughs) [Starts plucking on his banjo] Here we go; oh ya, the first line you’ll say is “Don’t you know!” Let’s try this first; There’s a promise straight ahead, don’t you know? (Raises his hand audience says) AUDIENCE: “Don’t you know” PETER: “One more thing, there’s three parts to this song, not really but I feel like adding two other pieces to it. [Laughs] ------------------------ OK you’re ready.” (Laughs) Its called “Hop ON”. “There’s a promise straight ahead don’t you know?” [Raises his hand) AUDIENCE: “Don’t you know?” PETER: “There’s a promise straight ahead don’t you know?” AUDIENCE: “Don’t you know” PETER: There’s a promise straight ahead where the hungry will be fed, with so much love it just overflows. Come on and hop on, come on and hop on. Don’t worry if you have to stand. Come on and hop on, come on and hop on, ‘cause we’re going to the promised land. “We’re heading to the land where it is free,” ------------------------ AUDIENCE: “It is free! PETER: “We’re heading to the land where it is free,” AUDIENCE: “It is free! PETER: We’re heading to the land that God himself has planned, and he’s here today calling you and me. Come on and hop on, come on and hop on. Don’t worry if you have to stand, come on and hop on, come on and hop on, ‘cause we’re going to the promised land. Hop on, come on and hop on there’s a promise straight ahead we’re going to find, so leave that baggage you’ve been carrying leave it all behind ‘cause we’re heading to that place where the sun always shines. Come on and hop on come on and hop on, don’t worry if you have to stand, come on and hop on come on and hop on, ‘cause we’re heading to the promised land. [End of first song ] The light of the Lord illumines the dark night and day as long as I pray He promised me that to show me the way. The light ------------------------ of the Lord can never blow out and that’s good news we all can shout and that’s good news we all can shout the light of the Lord can never blow out. The light of the Lord is on in my heart night and day as long as I pray He promised me that to show me the way. The light of the Lord can never blow out and that’s good news we all can shout and that’s good news we all can shout the light of the Lord can never blow out…..[End of second ] [Peter walks up through the invisible curtain while the cast is in tableau and says to the real audience "Look you can join in this next song and follow what the cast does, it will be easy and don't worry the cast won't be able to see you (pointing over to Robert Doyle the narrator) look this is just a fantasy of his mind, this is not really happening" Then smiles and goes back and takes his place.] Peter tells the cast "I will recite I love Jesus my brother, which ends with the line "I sit here and think and to write". After which we are all going to sing a song called "Aum Father Father" and you will repeat each line that I sing right after me" I love Jesus my brother and Mary his mother and God the father of all. I love Krishna and Buddha Mohammed and Judah and all those who rose from the fall. I love what can be with peace that is free and right here for anyone. It’s the sea it’s the land the place where we stand and all because what love has done. It’s the feelings we have the joy and the sad as each day that’s filled with surprise, it’s life it’s the death it’s the sun that will set that someplace always will rise. It’s the things that we hoe and the things that we grow that gives us a little insight. But it’s love with its grace and mysterious face that I sit here and think and to write…I love Jesus my brother and Mary his mother and God the father of all. I love Krishna and Buddha Mohammed and Judah and all those who rose from the fall. I love what can be with peace that is free and right here for anyone. It’s the sea it’s the land the place where we stand and all because what love has done, and all because what love has done, and all because what love has done. (Ends song big hand) [Peter says, "Ok, this is the next one, it's called "Aum" and just repeat each line after me."] "Aum Father Father you're my Father you're my only Father Father my Fatha. Aum Mother Mother you're my Mother you're my only Mother Mother my Motha. Aum Sisiter Sister you're my Sister you're my only Sister Sister my Sista. Aum Brother Brother you're my Brother you're my only Brother Brother my Brotha. Aum Krishna Krishna you're my Krishna you're my only Krishna Krishna my Krishna. Aum Buddha Buddha you're my Buddha you're my only Buddha Buddha my Buddha. Aum Jesus Jesus you're my Jesus you're my only Jesus Jesus Joshua. Aum Mary Mary you're my Mary you're my only Mary Mary Maria; Maria, Aum Aum Aum..." ------------------------ “You’re really wonderful, that was great. Now for my next number, I’ve asked Gertrude and Amelia to come up and help me. [They get up from their seats, walk up to the stage. Both are on the plump side and dressed conservative. In fact their dresses are long and black] We already rehearsed this number outside so we’re ready, aren’t we girls?” [Round faced and smiling; twitching their bodies nod yes] “Here we go. I fell in love three times today, one more time than yesterday that’s OK. [Gertrude and Amelia smile and lift up their hands and say] “That’s OK.” PETER: Four times was the day before, tomorrow who knows maybe more, who can say? [Girls again lifting up their hands] “Who can say?” ------------------------ PETER: ‘Cause when I meet someone I find my heart just wants to make them mine, that’s my way, ‘cause I fell in love once fifteen times and that before the clock struck nine; what a day! [Girls stretching their hands up smiling say] What a day! PETER: So glad to meet ya, gee you’re looking well, I know that I love you 'cause my heart I know just fell, maybe see you later, maybe we can dance 'cause today I’m feeling lots of love and ready for romance. Gertrude Gertrude what a name, Gertrude Gertrude do you feel the same 'cause today I fell in love three times but tonight I’d like to make you mine Gertrude stay, Amelia stay, is that OK?” [Gertrude and Amelia] “That’s OK, it’s OK.” [Then Gertrude and Amelia break out with] “Four times was the day before tomorrow who knows maybe more who can say. ‘Cause when I meet someone I find my heart just wants to make them mine that’s my way that’s my ------------------------ way. Peter Peter, what a name, Peter Peter do you feel the same ‘cause today I fell in love three times but tonight I’d like to make you mine Peter Stay Peter stay, is that OK?” [Peter laughs] PETER: “That’s OK, that’s OK.” [Bob Muldoon still laughing along with the audience, says] BOB MULDOON: “Let’s take a break.” [Laughs some more] [Sylvia walks over to Jacob] SYLVIA: “Ya know I’m really sorry.” JACOB: “Everyone has their place, as was said, suppression retards evolution. Think of yourself as an apple that just went from being green to the next stage; see wisdom comes with ------------------------ patience, that’s how we learn. A shaman friend of mine once told me you have to see the beauty in the shit” [Sylvia jumps in] SYLVIA: “Ya but you don’t have to stand in it.” JACOB: “See you’re getting smarter already.” (Both Laugh) JACOB: “Sylvia, let me tell you this story. A man once told me he was having a conversation with a woman outside this supermarket where she worked. She was on break. When her break was over she was heading back in when she saw this canary lying on the ground in front of the glass door. It must have slammed into the glass. So she picked up the bird and brought it over to my friend. She asked him if he would try to revive the bird, that appeared dead. She herself had to get back to work. So, here’s my friend with this bird in his hands. He started stroking its head and after about fifteen minutes, the bird started to come back to life. Then after awhile, it got up on one of his fingers, it was wobbling quite a bit. My friend was really ------------------------ happy and said to the bird, hey you’re going to be OK, you’re going to make it. When the bird finally got its composure back, and noticed the man, the bird started chirping. My friend thought the bird was thanking him. But then the bird flew to a nearby tree. And soon a grackle came out of nowhere and attacked the little bird. It fell to the ground when another grackle came and finished the canary off. It was as if the grackles heard the canary’s cry for help; that it was its time to move on. My friend thought how intelligent those birds are, and that’s when he also knew; there was nothing to fix.” SYLVIA: “Jacob, are you one of those enlightened gurus?” JACOB: “Sylvia, if I could remember where pencils or pens, or pockets where keys or matches are in; I’d stand like the Buddha’s right beside them, just as enlightened, as soon as I can. No, I’m only a man what more can I say, I’m only a man as I was yesterday. I’m only a man, honest it’s true, and if you think I’m more; I’ll disappoint you.” [Both smile; she walks away] [Flower walks over to where the Indians are sitting. She addresses White Owl] ------------------------ FLOWER: “Please, what does the symbol you are wearing mean?” [It is a circle with three parallel lines within] WHITE OWL: “This symbol first appeared to my cousins the Anasazi almost a thousand years ago. Then recently it was revealed in a vision to another cousin, White Bear. Only this time it came with a message. “The path that’s neither left nor right, nor in the middle, is the one that circles all three” In other words all paths are sacred, yours as well as mine, and the potential we have, is the fourth path that embraces all.” FLOWER: “Oh thank you, that means so much to me.” [Break ends] BOB MULDOON: “Next we have Two Feathers.” TWO FEATHER’S: “Many years ago I was inspired to write this poem. It’s about a ------------------------ flag. I think it applies today more than ever. It’s called “One Flag” “I see one flag solid white, sparkling with a passive light. I see one flag not displayed, with pomp or glory, or parade. I see one flag more radiant still, as in unity this world to fill. I, see; one flag.” “Back in the eighties I had a vision. In the vision an old man appeared to me. He was at peace. I asked him his secret; and he said; “To kill”. I thought he meant to kill desires. One year later, I am shown in another vision the old man’s meaning. This vision involves a black dog and a white dog. One has me by the left hand and one has me by the right. I see how they are pulling me apart, and how ferocious they both are. I then have them both killed, and for the first time felt peace and freedom. I could see how they represented good and evil, and were tearing the world apart; and needed to be killed psychologically. I adapted this experience into a poem called “In Their Names”. Now before the poem, I should add that my cousin Black Elk had a similar vision. He thought it meant, “Kill your enemy like a dog”. Anyway here’s the poem.” “In Their Names.” “Here we go again with the same thing, in a world still just insane. Each side choosing sides on all sides, each thinking they are right, with something to be gained. It’s a world still mad, and it’s really really sad, 'cause we’re not that bad, just think we’ve all been had. ------------------------ Mohammed and the Jesus Christ, or those who we pray to, I think they would have stayed away, seeing what we do, it’s so insane, it's in their names. Every form of prejudice makes somebody rich, so with those who think they’re not when off to fight this itch. Good against the evil ones each thinking they are good, trying to kill the so called beast, while it hides right under hood. Arms dealers fueling fires playing deadly games, countries seeing lots of jobs, in each cross exchange. Profits are the motives in those deadly flames, dividing each by their beliefs, inflicting words of pain. Compassion waits the message, let go step aside, while those who think an eye for eye, I think they call that pride. Still makes you wonder why, prophets ever came, when here we go again, in a world still just insane. It’s so immature when all is said and done, but the pain and sorrow that is real and felt by everyone. It’s a world still mad, and to think that we are had, while some are even glad and that’s really really sad. Mohammed and the Jesus Christ, or those who we pray to, I think they would have stayed away, seeing what we do, it’s so insane, it’s in their names, it’s so insane, it’s in their names, ------------------------ it’s so insane; it’s in their names.” (Applause) BOB MULDOON: “Next on our signup sheet is a new comer, Fredrica” [Fredrica walks up to the stage, she’s in her mid thirties, tall and thin, and very pretty. She’s more an artist but also a poet] Fredrica: “I have two poems I’d like to read that seem very synchronistic as to what Two Feathers had to recite. Maybe one of them expands on his vision, especially this first one, its called “The War Of The Trees” “I sit in magnificent silence, with nature trying to retrieve. The war of the trees for now over; where many a comrade now bleeds. Birch against maple, maple against pine, pine against poplar, war without lines. Shields made of stainless, diamonds in ice, bodies of anguish, lain over thrice. The weight of their armor too much for their racks, exploding within, and snapping their backs. Ice that shatters like broken glass, a shower of crystals adds to the mass. Sapphires and rubies, topaz and quartz, an illusion of beauty in frozen tear drops. The war of the trees their pain I can feel. A partridge who saw me makes it all real. And there right above, clouds passing through sun in between, sky that is blue.” “And last, “The Perfect Storm” ------------------------ “It’s the perfect storm in the perfect place, rising to that pinnacle, one day we all face. It’s in the winds that blow, it’s in the desert sands. It’s in an ocean ‘round us, held in nature’s hands. And a hero finds something deep inside, something someplace, some of us deny. And they reach on out, using perfect form, reaching someplace higher, so we can carry on. It’s the perfect storm. And we may ask this question, where are you tonight? Where is that courage? Why do I lose sight? When perfect life meets perfect death, why do I feel such a loss? Why do I forget? When love is torn to pieces, like a ship tossed at sea, when I know it is for certain, an act of destiny. Why do I cry for you? Why do I cry for THEE? Is it not, that perfect storm, rising up in me? It’s the perfect storm.” “Thank you.” (Big applause) [A tableau. Peter the minstrel man slips through an invisible curtain to face the real audience] PETER: ------------------------ “See, I told you I’d be back. Now the story I am going to read to you is allegorical, and really goes back to the Garden of Eden, now I know the Garden of Eden idea has been mentioned by Jacob, as well as Jacob’s mosquito vision, which is in this story. But, this story is an overview and although the events really happened to another (a man called White bear) only confirms what has already been suggested. It’s really like the Tale Of Two Loves, but a little deeper. Are you ready? Shhh, (places his finger over his lips) don’t wake them back there ( pointing to the cast in tableau) this is called “Happy Rain.” “There’s a woman who stole Thunder, when he rolled across the sky, then she took him way down under, where fire keeps things dry. When days and months and years passed by and Raincloud didn’t cry, the earth and everything she grew, all began to die. One day when Thunder closed his eyes a Goddess did appear, her eyes were green, her hair was blond, with skin fair and clear. Thunder asked this Goddess, tell me what is it? And she answered patience, then made a quick exit. The next day Thunder again closed his eyes, and another face appeared to him, this time with one green eye. No nose, no mouth no hair appeared, and not a word was spoken, with the eye between where brows would be, he read this as a token. ------------------------ Now Thunder had been shown, it was almost a year. When Turtle taught him what to do, and not to interfere. So when this fall a spirit came, with gift a turtle too, Thunder new that what he heard about patience was, all true. Now spirits being kin to him; showed him many things, like two crows that did appear, early that last spring. One was stopped in mid air, while mosquitoes covered it, and the same was true for the other crow, though in a nest the crow did sit. Thunder watched and thought, that the crows would not survive, with all that irritation circling in two massive hives. But then they disappeared, and the crows, the crows had changed, there was a transformation and the crows were not the same. For they became lambs, white as winter snow, and so he thought that this must be, the way that change, must go. Wolf, Horse and White Bear, all had played their part, opening up the pathways that lead back to the heart. Hawk and Changing Moon, Spider with its loom, Goatfish and Lioncat showed wisdom in his doom. Now the woman who stole Thunder, when she took her love away? Could give it to another on that very day. For this was in her power, her power to survive, so when lightning came between her, she could leave with tears she’d cry. Thunder learned many things, while deep inside the earth, one was how his Thunder, had its place and worth. He was tested ------------------------ like a precious stone, in case there was a flaw, and when his heart was full and his head was clear, he was given the White Bears claw. Then Fire Fly and Twinkly Star, knew this summer night, Thunder was now ready, with faith and new insight. Patience the Goddess, called upon the sea, to bring around her daughter Mist, who herself was just as free. Thunder and Mist, then chose to both unite, and together they made Happy Rain, to end five thousand years of blight!” (Again Peter to the audience) “I think we’re almost ready to come back; don’t you? See this is about going back to the Garden of Eden and setting things right. The myth just doesn’t apply today. We don’t need that shame and guilt in our psyche, like succubus and incubus. We don’t need to give those negative energies any more power. Though it is illusion. OK, you’ve had your belly full of me, so let’s see what happens next.” [Slips back through invisible curtain, tableau ends] BOB MULDOON: “Well it’s been another great night, see you all next week, and be sure to drive safe.” ------------------------ Narrator: "A shade goes up, it's where the poet Dave Black lives. He is asleep downstairs on a couch in his tiny place. There's a set of stairs that lead up to a loft. Dave wakes (so he thinks) a beautiful woman is standing at the top of the stairs. She is wearing a sheer lace outfit that covers her from head to toe. Her bare breasts are exposed through the sheerness. It is a very sensuous moment. She makes her way towards David, the term succubus comes to mind, but he let's the judgment go. She approaches him and takes his hand, when he stands they embrace, and just as suddenly they both have rapture; bliss. (For the audience, they see a cloud engulf them and sparks that seem to be happening inside). She then leaves. He next sees a child of about four months old, he has the child by the foot. The baby shapes its mouth and says these words, "I know you well" It is said not in a scary voice and Dave although frightened still holds on and says "I know you do" The scene ends and Dave gets up and writes the experience. He knows this was a major breakthrough, and sees this woman as she truly is DIVINE. He calls her Mysteria. Dave also knows this is the kind of breakthrough that has been necessary in order to have true parity, because this was the first time he was able to face her without running away out of fear. Dave recites aloud as he writes Mysteria, he thinks of a woman he had seen earlier in the evening at a club who was flirting with several men." DAVE: ------------------------ “Men surround her as she smiles with sweet candor, at their boyish dreams. She's sleek and mysterious, a bit nefarious, if, you know what I mean. And as each comes to woo, she's polite, not a shrew, letting each make their pass, men who want her, come as they saunter, then huddle like peacocks with brass. The night it wears on as the music that plays, each thinking they her pick, but, when night near finishes and teasing diminishes, there's only that dream that will stick. ‘Cause she's queen of the ladies, shameful and shady, though shyness, she likes to project. Teasing's her bedding, it's part of her netting, and one that she always protects. For, she is of night, and eyes to delight, as in dreams that could never compare. But there she waits, as if only to fate, and to those who only will stare. Yet, she's there for us all in hopes and in dreams, we who call ourselves men. But lucky are those if in dreams she will hold, for men are still boys in the end. Her image may come at the top of stairs as a bride on her wedding night. Dressed in white lace from her feet to her face, transparent, a sensuous sight. She slowly walks down with you on her mind, for she is what you have dreamed, to take you by hand, and together you stand with nothing but love in between. Her touch aroused a rapturous bliss, till both are divinely relieved, like when stars they burst as does a universe and the ------------------------ heavens above are as pleased. Then she smiles once again and you're happier when, even though this time she leaves. But that memory lives on like the wake of a storm, when happy are those out at sea. And you never forget, and will wait for her yet, with a smile yourself that's pleased. For you know what it's like to have her as wife, for a night you were more than just teased, for Mysteria took with her; your seed." [It's Monday night again] BOB MULDOON: "Well first on our signup sheet is Christian." [Christian is young maybe seventeen, wearing baggy pants, he's a rapper] “Another day I feel the hunger, some are on top most down under. The Man he has a limousine, his wife beside him she’s the queen. I know it all sounds familiar, some are even thinking, I want to kill ya. But let me explain, it’s really profane, we are the ones caught in the game. Shoot em with fear, anxiety, be sure to tell them they’re living free. He’s a puppet, part of the plan, living off the fat of the land. Our way of life is a TV dinner, or a jack in the box where fatter means thinner. Two ------------------------ million now in the pen, people getting rich off a them. Roaches, rats, running in packs, rents so high rooms are stacked. Sharing soiled, now obscene while greed is green comes out clean. Give em guns, booze and drugs, heavy fines, blue shirt thugs. Keep em movin, keep em screwin and they won’t know what we’re doin. Control means insurance providers, the real serpents those insiders. Corporate lions are the Zions so the telling of the Mayans. Paradise now paved over, oil and rubber making closure. Good means no dissent, three strikes, no defense. Terrorist, a word in season, corrupt officials get off treason. And now we have the night news cast, a Fox who has his line of hats. Another is a CNN, playing the middle for the end. Minimum wages are the gages, one needs two as MORE it rages. Eight dollar movies, S-U-Vs, Cell phones, daddy’s keys. A third world, 1-2-3, move over free is me. Another day I feel the hunger, a few on top, most down under. The man he has his limousine, his wife beside him; this bee’s the Queen.” (Applause) [When Christian finishes his rap "Another day I feel the hunger" then the production of "Raise the World" comes up next. This is sung by three of the cast. In that production while "Raise The World" is being sung by two of the cast, the third is reciting at the same time the poems: "Faces In The Flames" and "Carnival" and also the third poem, "If It Wasn't For Osama"] [Flower and Carl get up next.] Flower and Carl say "We would like to now sing the song to you called "Raise The World" Put down your guns Put down your bombs. Put down your government Who wants the fight go on. Put down your anger Put down your hate. Put down your government Today just let them wait. Put down your brainwash Put down your pride. Put down your government Be the coming tide. Put up your dignity Put up your heart. Put up your government Peace just let it start. Put up your neighbor Put up yourself. Put up your government Today be no one else. Put down the walls Put down the chains. Put down the government Today give peace your name. Put down the struggle Put down the fight. Put down the government And put up the white. Put down your wants Put down your greed. Put down the government Planting your own seeds. It isn't Them, it isn't They. There is only ONE, who has all the say. It is I, it's not WE, For true peace It is up to ME! Put down your arms Put down the wars. Put down your government And put up What is yours [Dave Black recites "Faces In The Flames", "Carnival", and "If It Wasn't For Osama"] FACES IN THE FLAMES Bombs in buildings, tired of the game. Us and them them and us, faces in the flames. A spaceship and comet, leaving us behind. Suicides passengers, stepping out of time. U.S. executions, tired of the game. Us and them them and us, faces in the flames. Where is this going, cancers on the rise. Living in a cesspool, right before our eyes. Everyday predictions, how it's going to end. What a sad message, tabloids will defend. Money money money, tired of the game. Us and them them and us, faces in the flames. Hidden in the valley, flowers under snow. Waiting for the thaw, wanting just to grow. Hidden in this valley, tired of the game. Us and them, them and us, faces just the same. Carnival Who are they that ride this train beneath the city streets? Who are they in carnival, as those who seem discreet? What does make each one, a they; as I myself declare, is it from those eyes I see, that look at me and stare? I ride with you the newest child, and those who are the least. I ride with you the many lines that squeal under our feet. I ride with you this day a dream, that seems an acid trip. The purple hair, the dress, the tie, the pierced as one with lip. Could they be, those who ride, so we could finally meet, those like me who think they’re not like those who share these seats? And if they didn’t and it’s just something of our times; then who are they now telling me; this carnival is mine? IF IT WASN'T FOR If it wasn't for Osama, if it wasn't for Saddam. If it wasn't for the Sunnis, if it wasn't for Islam. If it wasn't for the Shiite, If it wasn't for Iraq, If it wasn't for Afghanistan, the opium the crack. If it wasn't for the Bush plan, Taliban or Iran. If it wasn't for Somalia, or those along the Sudan. If it wasn't for the Chechen's, and Russia's intervention, If it wasn't for the U.S, tortures and detentions. If it wasn't for the Christians, Moslems and the Jews, If it wasn't for the terrorist, insurgents and the news. If it wasn't for the Clans, if it wasn't for the tribes. If it wasn't for the warlords, if it wasn't for the pride. If it wasn't for Milosevic, Putin, Kim Jong. If it wasn't for Castro, Rumsfeld-Pope John. If it wasn't for the Chinese, the Buddhist, Tibet. If it wasn't for Zarqawis, al-qaida and the rest. If it wasn't for the socialist, the Capitalist the Communist. If it wasn't for the royalist, the deist and economist. If it wasn't for Wall Marts, K-Marts and Food Marts. If it wasn't for the so smart, the young ones and the old farts. If it wasn't for the Aryans, or purest vegetarians. If it wasn't for the Gays, straights and those Kavarians. If it wasn't for the Co-ops, and those Co-operations. If it wasn't for our brains, and all those inspirations.. If it wasn't for Harold, if it wasn't for Maude, if it wasn't for the devil, If it wasn't for-OH NO- if it wasn't for, hu hu Ga GA GA GOD! "Next on our list is Flower." (Applause) FLOWER: "This is a very special night for me, as you shall see. ------------------------ (She has flowers in her hair and her simplicity of dress only accentuates her natural beauty.) I want to sing this song I wrote while coming over here tonight. I was thinking about this place. It's called, "I Think It Will Happen." I think it will happen like leaves that turn to gold. I think it will happen when hearts won't be so cold. I think it will happen a love that can't be sold. I think it will happen like a flower that does unfold. Look around and see what's there, you can feel it in the very air. I think it’s people trying to care, even if it seems unfair. Listen to what's being said, I think it's from the heart instead, and the shadow's finally being fed, facing fears that we all dread. It's the heart that sets one free, it's the head that can let it be. So spirit can look out and see, I think it will happen to me. It's the word it's what we say, it's the night that brings light to day, it's more at learning to play, like trees when happy to sway. I think it will happen like leaves that turn to gold. I think it will happen when hearts won't be so cold. I think it will happen a love that can't be sold. I think it will happen like a flower that does unfold. (Applause) ------------------------ [She then makes this surprised announcement] Well, I want to announce to you all that tonight, right here in this coffeehouse, I Flower will marry Carl. (Audience starts to applaud) Chief Red Eagle has agreed to marry us. [Carl comes up to the stage where she is standing, both hug and kiss. Their radiance practically lights up the room.] See, Carl, as I'm sure some of you noticed, kept wooing me till I was just; wooed." (Laughter) [The Chief walks up to them and says I would like to tell you how marriage first began.] This is the story how marriage began. Before there was anything, like life as we know it. There was only God, and God’s Angels. They existed in pure consciousness and bliss. Then something happened. Two of the angels ached for each other, feeling a strange new love. God knowing this became jealous. (Even though both still loved God.) God then admonished them, and as their punishment sent them out into the great void of NOTHINGNESS. Now trillions of years passed and God, seeing how devoted and lasting their love for each other was, became moved and compassionate. God then brought the two loving angels back from out of the great void of NOTHINGNESS. Then God called all the angels to come forth in order to bare witness to what God now would sacredly bestow on these two committed ones. When all were present God spoke. And this is what God said. “ Because of your unbroken love for each other; (and me) which has stood the test of what will be called time, I will perform a wedding ceremony and you will both be married. But first I must give you both souls, which will be our everlasting connection. (All was done simultaneous upon God’s words.) THIS WILL BE." With the wedding and marriage over God added: "As your wedding gift I will now create Chaos and give to you a paradise to be called Earth. There will be stars above and planets to view, and a moon to excite you. There also will be light and darkness, pain and pleasure, joy and sometimes bliss. You will also be made flesh and have beautiful senses, all to add to your pleasures in this most beautiful paradise. And because you are both true in this love you share, you will both have a feeling that you are home. And that is because you will be together and be truly soul mates. All those who follow you, they too will know their love is as true because of this same feeling of being home when first meeting each other." God continued: "All such marriages will be done in honor of you both. You will be the seed, and you will be in, all such marriages.” When God ended, the two angels kissed each other. God surprised, asked them "What is it that you do?" “Well, we kissed. We learned this while being out in the great void of NOTHINGNESS.” God was very pleased and smiled. The two angels were then transferred to this paradise we call Earth. And to give this story its credibility is the evidence between this marriage between (add persons name) as will be for all marriages that follow in this beautiful world without end…Amen "Are you ready for the next step, are you ready for it all? Are you ready for the next set, the wedding and the ball? Has that time finally come, that unfolding of the plan? Are you ready for the next step, being firm where you stand? Are you ready without question, but with faith without doubt? Have you now attained the wisdom to carry this plan out? Can you see the new horizon? Is there nothing left behind? Are you ready for the next step, in relationship to shine? Are you ready ------------------------ for the wedding?" ( Both say, while looking at each other) "We are ready." CHIEF: "I know you have vows that you'd like to say so now is the time." CARL: "I will look upon the flower, as day that comes to wake. And I will look upon her after, with night when sleep she takes." FLOWER: "And I the flower looked upon will open wide with day. And with night I'll sleep with dreams for you, believing what you say." [The Chief gives them their rings which they slip on and then he says to them now I will let you know how precious these rings will be. I would like to read this poem to you called "The Ring"] "It's a ring, not just a ring It's a ring that want's to sing. To sing to you its song of love The one it holds the memory of. For in its memory, it did feel The love it felt, that made it real. A love the ring now holds onto Like a love that's always new. And, no matter where the ring may lay The love it holds will not decay. For it is there, it has been saved And has since, that fateful day. And so this song it will remain Until the last will sing the same. For it was then that it became For that is when it was ordained. Now it's a ring, not just a ring It's a ring that want's to sing. To sing this song of love that's true The ONE that says, I do; love you...." CHIEF: "You are now together in unity of body mind and spirit. May the winds carry your joy down from the mountain; and may ------------------------ your love spark the field, to fire." (Applause and cheers) [A Tableau: Jacob the Barrista comes out and recites the definition of a soul mate.] Jacob Says: "This is the Definition of a Soul Mate." Two separate beings Equal in part United by love Right from the start. Completing the circle Two halves become whole Each in the other AS ONE in their soul. CARL: "Flower and I wrote this song and we'd like to sing it for you now. It's called, "Together" [They sing the words at the same time ] You're the reflection of who I would be, you're the reflection inside of me. I knew who you were the moment we met, I've carried your picture, how could I forget. And when we're together the wind we will ride, ‘cause you are the wing, my other side. Together, together, I just like the sound. Together, together, we will be found. Together, together, high off the ground, together, together, circling around. Now it's just a heart beat a heart beat in time, it's just a heart beat that you will be mine. But the beat that I have as long as I live, will be beating for you with all it can give. Together, together, I just like the sound. Together, together, we will be found. Together, together, high off the ground, together, together, circling around. ------------------------ When I look in the mirror I always see two, one who's like me who looks just like you. For you are that mirror that woke me from sleep, you're my reflection that my eyes can now keep. Together, together, I just like the sound. Together, together we will be found. Together together, high off the ground, together, together, circling around. [When they finish their song, the garden of Eden scene with a dark still pond is projected on to a screen in the background. A large white lotus flower is in the center of the pond. Six small white lotuses surround it. The large white lotus in the center then slowly opens. The scene projected then remains] [A basket of apples is down near their feet. When they finish singing Carl picks up one of the apples and gives it to Flower. She smiles and picks one up giving it to Carl. They both take a bite smile and laugh. Then start handing them out to those around them, everyone just enjoys the apple for what it is, an apple.] [Everyone is so happy. The minstrel man jumps up and says] ------------------------ PETER: “I want to read this poem of love, and what it means to love. I read this in a news paper and cut it out. Little did I know it would find its place here, as you shall see. It starts off by saying this: "The greatest love IS the one that can only be seen with the heart. For nothing can blind it or separate it. How could it, it is free! Like wind that touches the patient pine until the next time. Hence, true love IS the leftover; I know." Next it says: The Mystery Of A Flower. Inspired by several conversations with an unknown face. With felicity I write to you; you but a voice, and because we haven't met age is a feather in the wind. Blinded, parity plays like an excited violin, and so the flower's nectar, touching, reaching, what is sweeter inside, like a lover who calls only at night whose face can never be seen passes the torch its eternal flame and mystery enters between. Like a rapture or bliss that comes to those like honey does to the queen, its ether a gift that does persist and will once given the means. For reason with doubt, are villains that look with eyes that cannot see, the beauty of love that hides itself within the flowers seed. And will it must for treasures sake and seekers in the mist, for only they with faith to stay will touch upon what sits. And as like day that falls to night guarding what is fate; you and I will surely learn just what it means to wait. For love’s desire is the soil and where the seed must go, and patience is its hidden power for those who want to know, what makes the flower grow." ------------------------ [Peter finishes and joins the crowd milling around, munchies are being eaten and of course everyone trying to reach the bride and groom , Bob Muldoon gets up to the mike and says] BOB MULDOON: "I'd like to propose a toast to Carl and Flower, [Everyone takes a cup filled with wine for the occasion] May the light that shines on your head, reflect off the soles of your feet!" [Everyone] "Here Here" [Bob Muldoon walks up to Jacob and says] BOB MULDOON: "I think we've all done a lot of growing up since we started this project" JACOB: “We're just people, different faces leaving traces here in time. Just people; like those that came before to leave behind. And today tomorrow mourns, leaving memories to be born, people ------------------------ different faces will define. Now, take my hand and you will touch the reason why. Touch my face and you will know what will one day say good bye. Touch my heart and you will take what was only meant to fly. Touch my soul and you will see what is known to never die. People, we're just people, different faces leaving traces here in time. People, just people, people different faces will define. Now the sadness that you feel, came from joy that made it real, from those traces that are sewn into are minds. But when the tracing it is done, like a weaving will be one, with each face to be seen for all times. People, we're just people, different faces leaving traces here in time. People, just people; people different faces will define." [Next, a tableau, then several of the cast, Gertrude, Amelia, Sylvia, Stark, Peter and Brandon, slip through the invisible curtain to face the audience. They all sing while dancing in a sort of scrub board manner.] “Our teenage years are done Mom, our teenage years are done. We finally reached adulthood, our world is twenty one. We’ve been through adolescence, been through puberty, I’m sure we’ll use our senses; in this century. ------------------------ It’s time to use our heads, connecting with our hearts. Stop punishing each other, might be the place to start. Let’s put away our differences, though different let us be, like leaves that have their place, though all from the same tree. Our teenage years are done Mom our teenage years are done. We finally reached adulthood, our world is twenty one. We’ve been through adolescence, been through puberty, I’m sure we’ll use our senses, in this century. The fish rose from the water to give birth high on land, this sign of Capricorn suggests we to expand. Let’s put away those childish things, put behind our fears, let’s celebrate this entry, with six billion cheers. Our teenage years are done Mom our teenage years are done. We finally reached adulthood, our world is twenty one. We’ve been through adolescence, been through puberty, I’m sure we’ll use our senses, in this century. Two thousand years let’s penetrate, two thousand years, this year that’s finally come, two thousand years let’s dedicate, remembering how we got here, thanking everyone; Oh, our teenage years are done Mom, our teenage years are done, we finally reached adulthood; our world is; twenty one.” [Tableau ends, picks up at the reception] ------------------------ BOB MULDOON: “If there’s one thing I’ve learned here tonight, (Music starts to play, cast gets into position facing audience] is that, “You Can’t Stop The Music, can you?” [This song and dance is like a Broadway show tune the whole cast then starts] No you can’t stop the music, no matter how you try. No you can’t stop the music, no it’s not about to die. No you can’t stop the music, or the words that make it fly. No you can’t stop the music once the music finds the sky. No you can’t stop the music, no, no no no. No you can’t stop the music, no, no no no. No you can’t stop the music no matter how you try. No you can’t stop the music, no matter how you try. No you can’t stop the music once it has the wings to fly. No you can’t stop the music it will never say goodbye. No you can’t stop the music ‘cause the music flies too high. No you can’t stop the music, no, no no no. No you can’t stop the music, no, no no no. No you can’t stop the music, no matter how you try. ------------------------ No you can’t stop the music once it has the wings to fly. No you can’t stop the music no it’s not about to die. No you can’t stop the music or the words that make it fly. No you can’t stop the music; no matter, how, you, try. [Narrator then quickly announces] "Well that's my pitch, what do you think?" [Man pitching the play then takes his place in front of the cast. Each performer then takes their bows until finally the whole cast, together, do the same.] THE END. [This is an alternative ending.] Robert: "Well, that's my pitch, what do you think?" [Just then a woman stands up in the real audience. She is sitting in the middle] Woman: ------------------------ "Tell me, what was your main push behind the play, what drove you?" Robert: "Well it's about love, being in love, and being enlightened, that is enlightenment at the same time in relationship. Flower and Carl, they represent that possibility. You see, all the characters in the coffeehouse, they represent the struggle, while Flower and Carl represent what we are struggling for. That is, reaching and bringing our souls together with rapture and bliss...This is our potential... An example is, in my present relationship we have come several times to that place when normally most people go their separate ways, that is, without working it through. I know we need the courage to go through this personal exorcism together. I think true love, with desire (passion), can work, and enlightenment will follow. But, first we have to see ourselves and deal with it; get beyond it; and that by understanding the forces that don't want the status quo to change, lest they lose their power. Desire has this enormous energy that I think it will take to make the kind of breakthrough I am talking about. Another example is; that in less than twenty hours I was able to make love eight times and still have plenty of energy, (without viagra), (Laughter) and this with only love as the stimulant. I think if we had kept going that enlightenment was possible through the grace of God. It was selfless. No ego, no ------------------------ control. It was sacred...Of course; this took two." Woman: "I think that reaching the point you're talking about is what we all seek either knowingly or unknowingly. But for most people our ties to the external world keep us from getting too close to that light. Eight times in twenty hours is a feat that goes beyond the physical. A thing like that would scare most people." Robert: "It really doesn't have to, we just need to let go in order to make this psychological and spiritual breakthrough. I believe our achievements happened because there were no distractions, no guilt, no shame, and therefore no impotence. It was like the return to the garden of Eden, with its innocence. So again, I think enlightenment can happen and happen at the same time to both during an act of love. Then the wars will stop. So what's behind the play, the main drive, the main push? For me it is about love, being in love, and being enlightened together." [Just then another woman stands up, she is more at the back.] Second woman: "It was really good hearing your play, thanks for sharing your vision. ------------------------ In hearing your words about your relationship, a recent quote that I read comes to mind. "The strongest; and surest way to the soul is through the flesh." And it seems that at that particular moment in time, that quote embodied your experience." Robert: "Thank you for your kind words. So, in a way this play is not finished, and won't be until the state I am talking about is achieved. Then transformation will happen." [Music to you can't stop the music starts to play, cast one by one walks back out on stage snapping their fingers while singing and slowly dancing. The two women from the audience run up on to stage joining in the number. Beat picks up for a rousing finally. Cast then takes their final bows] Robert: "Well again; THAT'S my pitch!" The End. ------------------------