Glance at New York, A

Full-Lengths

By: Arthur Reel
Cast: 9 M, 7 F, 7 flexible, extras (Doubling possible)
Performance Time: Approximately 60-75 minutes, 54 pgs.

COMEDY WITH SONG. A hit in its day, A Glance at New York (1848) was one of the first plays to portray working-class life and speech, providing a snapshot of what life was like for those living in New York’s gritty Bowery district. George, a naïve country bumpkin, arrives in New York and is escorted about town by his cousin, Harry. Upon his arrival and throughout his visit, George is humorously swindled out of his watch and most of his money by fast-talking street hustlers. Along the way, George and Harry hook up with Mose, a hulking volunteer fireman and butcher, who loves nothing more than getting into street scuffles: “Dere ain’t one in dat crowd can floor me.” The mischievous three cross-dress to gain access to an all-women’s bowling saloon; make a stop at Loafer’s Paradise, a grimy bar; and manage to get into a street scuffle.

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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.