Character Breakdown
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Gender: Any
Age: Flexible (often played by someone older, around 35-60)
The Stage Manager is the narrator and guide through the story, breaking the fourth wall and speaking directly to the audience. This character is omniscient, wise, and empathetic, providing insights into the lives of the townspeople and the passage of time. They often act as an observer with a warm, reflective, and sometimes philosophical demeanor.
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Gender: Female
Age Range: 16-30 (plays younger in Act I and ages to early 20s by Act III)
Emily is bright, optimistic, and intelligent. She is the love interest of George Gibbs and serves as a central figure in the play’s themes of life and mortality. Emily’s journey is marked by her growth from a spirited young girl to a reflective woman who understands the value of appreciating everyday life.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 16-30 (similar arc as Emily, aging from teen to early 20s)
George is a likable, earnest young man who is passionate about baseball and dreams of becoming a farmer. He is caring and respectful but somewhat naive, especially at the beginning. George’s character evolves as he marries Emily and becomes more grounded and responsible.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 40-60
The father of George Gibbs and the town doctor, Dr. Gibbs is practical, grounded, and dedicated to his family and community. He is somewhat reserved but has a deep love for his family, evident in his actions rather than words. His work as a doctor embodies his sense of duty.
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Gender: Female
Age Range: 35-55
Mrs. Gibbs is a caring and somewhat wistful mother, who dreams of visiting Paris but is content with her life in Grover’s Corners. She represents the nurturing side of the family unit, providing love and support to her children and husband. She has a gentle, compassionate nature.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 40-60
The father of Emily Webb and the editor of the local newspaper, Mr. Webb is a well-read, thoughtful man who values education and knowledge. He offers a grounding perspective on the events around him and supports his daughter with quiet wisdom and care.
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Gender: Female
Age Range: 35-55
The mother of Emily Webb, Mrs. Webb is practical, hardworking, and invested in the day-to-day tasks of family life. She cares deeply for her family, though she can be stern. Her grounded nature contrasts with Mrs. Gibbs' softer dreams, showing the diversity in women’s roles and ambitions within small-town life.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 30-60
The church organist and one of the town’s troubled souls, Simon struggles with alcoholism, and his outlook on life is darker than most. He often feels disconnected from the community. Simon’s presence serves as a reminder of the complexities and sorrows that can exist in small-town life.
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Gender: Female
Age Range: 10-14
Description: Rebecca is George’s younger sister, curious and somewhat mischievous, with a playful nature. She looks up to her brother and is both fascinated and perplexed by the world around her. She represents innocence and the pure wonder of childhood.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 10-14
Emily’s younger brother, Wally is a typical young boy, full of energy and curiosity. Though his role is small, he represents the fleeting nature of childhood and serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 30-50
The town’s milkman, Howie is a friendly and dependable character, representing the consistency and familiarity of small-town routines. He has a lighthearted presence, often bringing a bit of humor to the scenes he appears in.
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Gender: Male
Age Range: 10-14
A young paperboy, Joe is bright and ambitious, dreaming of a successful future. Though his role is minor, he represents the hopes of youth and the tragedy of unfulfilled potential, as the audience later learns of his fate.
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Gender: Female
Age Range: 30-60
A gossipy yet warm-hearted townsperson, Mrs. Soames brings humor to the play. She represents the social aspect of the town, attending weddings and funerals and engaging with others’ lives in a light-hearted manner.
Our Town
Show dates: Aug. 15th - 17th & Aug. 22nd - 24th
Directed by: Bridget Poor | bridget.poor@gmail.com