Too
a wheel chair monologue
by Michael J. Hotchkiss

About the Play:
People with disabilities have a lot to overcome besides the obvious. When society throws sexuality at us at every turn, people with disabilities are usually never in the race to compete. Too allows Vincent to voice many views on the subject. Warmth, understanding, humor and courage can all be found while dealing with this “hot potato” subject.

Characters:
Vincent, who sits in a wheelchair.
The Place: The dayroom of a rehabilitation center.
The Time: The present

The Scene: Vincent is sitting on stage in a wheelchair. The entire speech that follows are his words. Although Vincent speaks to a few different people, they are unseen.

Vincent: Hey, Buddy. Let’s settle over here...maneuver your power chair next to me...’Looking snappy in that red shirt.

(Vincent motions to pat Stevie on the shoulder.)

We can talk here and get a good look at who’s coming and going. It will be nice to get to know you a little more after our first conversation yesterday. Yeah, Myrtle’s over there on the reception counter this afternoon--she’s pretty good--nice voice over the P.A. system. Ever notice every morning they make the same announcement?...”Good morning, and welcome. This is Waterview Home...it’s Tuesday (Thursday, Friday, whatever). Have a nice day.” Now why do they have to tell me where I am--I know where I am--where do they think I’ve been all night?

No, I haven’t been outside today...no one to go with me and they make a federal case out of somebody’s going out alone. I can operate this wheelchair just fine--I’m not going to roll out into traffic.

About the Playwright:
Michael Hotchkiss has been a member of the Tidewater Dramatists Guild for over 15 years. During that time, he has had several staged readings of his works for special audiences. His radio play, The Island, was a winner in the Writer’s Digest contest for radio plays and he has published short plays for church education.