This Close!

5m/6w but the play was originally produced with a cast of six with some

doubling. This play was commissioned by the University of South Carolina as a short play to be performed for all incoming freshmen to inform and deter dangerous, immature, or naïve behavior resulting, primarily from alcohol abuse.  Much like “It Can’t Happen to Me”, the idea here was for students to watch the play in large groups, then retire to smaller groups for guided discussion on the concepts and ideas set forth in the play.  The production was very well received over roughly 20 performances in the first semester and got high marks from all those who signed off on the original idea.  The economy went in the toilet the following semester, the program was cut, and the play has languished in a flash drive ever since.  Funny, rowdy, and highly entertaining, “This Close!” walks the line between preachy sermonizing and Animal House as a representative group of young college students navigate the hazards of the freshman experience.