Open Boat, The

One-Acts 20

By: Arthur Reel
Cast: 4 M
Performance Time: Approximately 30 minutes, 24 pgs.

DRAMA. Adapted from Stephen Crane's classic short story, this play chronicles the harrowing events of four men shipwrecked off the coast of Florida. Trapped at sea in a small lifeboat, the men take turns rowing. Soon they spot a lighthouse, but as they get closer to shore, the surf becomes dangerously rough. When no rescue boat arrives, the men become increasingly weary and despondent. Desperate, the Captain realizes that the only chance for survival is to row the lifeboat as close to the shore as possible and then swim the rest of the way. This absorbing and masterful play reveals man’s alienation and vulnerability as he faces a fierce and unforgiving existence, and humanity’s inexorable search for unattainable answers.

Freeviews: To read play excerpts click here.

About the Story: To read more about the story click here.

Arthur Reel founded the Drama Repertory Theatre in 1973 and has co-produced more than 200 shows, many of which he directed. Mr. Reel has adapted for the stage many prose classics, including Voltaire’s Candide and works by Gogol, Gorky, and Chekhov. He currently resides in New York City, where he teaches acting, voice, and communications.