Overview
Frances, Mary Todd and Janie, intelligent, sociable ladies, learn that Sally, the urbane new “fourth” in their bridge club, is transgender. The revelation prods Frances to address painful memories. Mary Todd, wrestling with moral issues, is challenged by her specially-abled son J-Pat. With wisdom and wit, Janie puts it all in perspective. And J-Pat provides a poignant unexpected insight. The bridge club survives: the three remaining members must search for a “fourth”—again. BRIDGE is a compassionate dramedy, that examines how people react when they encounter the new, the unknown or the misunderstood.
Casting & Production
Casting
MARY TODD — Late 40s-mid 50s. Effortlessly exuberant, socially and civically prominent.
FRANCES — Late 40s-mid 50s. Intelligent, a bit reserved, somewhat dry wit.
JANIE — Early-mid 80s. A generation older than the others. Wry and loves to tease.
SALLY ST. JAMES— Early 40s-mid 50s. Transgender. Stylish, intelligent, cordial, well-travelled, and accomplished.
JAMES PATRICK (J-PAT) — Early 20s. Son of Mary Todd. Specially-abled/special needs.
Note on Casting:
The character of Sally is, and would ideally be played by, a transgender woman. However, if necessary, Sally could be played by a cisgender woman, but should be done so respectfully and with forethought.
Setting
Place
A medium-sized city.
Most probably, but not necessarily, in the South.
Time
Present
Reviews
“BRIDGE cleverly employs the backdrop of a charming card game in order to seamlessly blend thought-provoking contemporary themes with witty repartee. The show has garnered an enthusiastic response from audiences…While grappling with weighty themes, BRIDGE maintains a light and humorous tone, eliciting both laughter and reflection in equal measure…BRIDGE emerges as a captivating exploration of human connection, wrapped in wit and warmth. Barton’s script navigates difficult terrain with grace, infusing the narrative with love and laughter while inspiring hope in its audience.”
—Broadway World
“A unique take on a tough topic, BRIDGE really resonated with people of all backgrounds and ages, genders, identities of all kinds…A play that shows compassion with good-natured humor mixed throughout…A heartfelt story with real characters for an audience to connect with and believe.”
—Shane Rohrbaugh, The Belmont Theatre
