A SAMUEL FRENCH, LTD. TITLE

Words and Music

Radio Play, Dramatic Comedy  /  3m

Words and Music is a complex "radio play” that sets up a dynamic between “Words” and “Music” as two character voices, existing in an uneasy relationship and under the command of a mysterious figure named Croak.

Words and Music

  • Cast Size
    Cast Size
    3m
  • Duration
    Duration
    30 minutes
  • SubGenre
    Subgenre
    Fantasy, Experimental
  • Audience
    Target Audience
    Adult

Details

Summary

Words and Music is a complex “radio play” that sets up a dynamic between “Words” and “Music” as two character voices, existing in an uneasy relationship and under the command of a mysterious figure named Croak. A somewhat distracted tyrant, Croak issues commands to both Words and Music – whom he calls “Joe” and “Bob” respectively – to formulate expressions on a series of topics including “Love,” “Age,” and finally “the Face.”

History
Words and Music was recorded and broadcast on the BBC Third Programme on November 13, 1962, and was originally scored by Samuel's cousin, John Beckett. 
CROAK - a doddery old man, testy and maudlin.
JOE - Words
BOB - Music

In the original radio play, Bob (Music) was instrumental music, but in a staged version and actor could play the role. 

  • Time Period Not Applicable
  • Setting An unidentified "listening" space.
  • Features Contemporary Costumes/Street Clothes, Fantasy Costumes
  • Additional Features No Intermission
  • Duration 30 minutes
  • Cautions
    • No Special Cautions

Media

"...like many of Beckett’s short dramatic works, [Words and Music] provides a rich scaffold for the ivy of academic interpretation." - The Modern Word 

"...each production of Words and Music will naturally vary according the cast bringing it to life – the director, conductor, actors and musicians will all have their own interpretations as well." - The Modern Word

Music

  • Musical Style N/A (Not a musical)
  • Vocal DemandsN/A (Not a musical)
  • Chorus Size N/A (Not a musical)

Licensing & Materials

  • Minimum Fee: £30 per performance plus VAT when applicable.

    Please submit a license request to determine availability.

Authors

Samuel Beckett

Samuel Beckett (1906-1989) is widely recognized as one of the greatest dramatists of the 20th century. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1969.

Mr. Beckett is most renowned for his play Waiting for Godot, which launched his career in theatre. He then went on to w ...

View full profile

Now Playing