The Outsiders Libretto

7/21/2019 The Outsiders Libretto

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S.E. Hinton's“THE OUTSIDERS”

- A rock musical -

Songs and score by Darryl Chute

www.theoutsidersmusical.com

LIBRETTO

Script originally extracted from novelby Angela Szczotko



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CHARACTERS

GREASERS Ponyboy Curtis

Johnny CadeSodapop CurtisDarry CurtisSteve RandleTwo-Bit MatthewsDallas Winston

Tim ShephardBuck Merril

• and other Greasers (chorus)

SOCS Cherry ValanceMarciaRandy AddersonBob SheldonDavidPaul Holden

• and other Socs (chorus)

Plus Doctor; nurse; man from fire; woman from fire; police; reporters;superheroes; Mayor; judge; townspeople; etc



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ACT ONE

Scene 1 Street Scene - Pony, Socs, Darry, Soda, Two-Bit, Steve, Dally.

Scene 2 The 'Nightly Double' Drive-in - Dally, Pony, Johnny, Cherry, Marcia, Two-Bit.

Scene 3 Street Scene - Two-Bit, Marcia, Pony, Cherry, Bob, Randy, Johnny.

Scene 4 The Boys' House - Darry, Pony, Soda.

Scene 5 Street and Lot - Johnny, Pony, Bob, Randy.

Scene 6 Buck Merril's Place - Buck, Pony, Johnny, Dally.

Scene 7 Church on Jay Mountain - Pony, Johnny, Dally.

Scene 8 The Roadhouse Diner - Pony, Johnny, Dally.

Scene 9 Church on Jay Mountain - Pony, Johnny, Dally, man, lady, kids, extras.

ACT TWO

Scene 1 Hospital - man, Pony, Soda, Darry, reporter, doctor, nurse.

Scene 2 The Boys' House - Pony, Two-Bit, Steve, Darry, Soda.

Scene 3 'The Tasty Freeze' Hangout - Two-Bit, Randy, Pony.

Scene 4 Hospital - Johnny, Two-Bit, Pony, nurse, Dally.

Scene 5 Street Scene - Two-Bit, Pony, Cherry.

Scene 6 The Boys' House - Pony, Soda, Darry, Steve, Two-Bit.

Scene 7 The Vacant Lot - Pony, Soda, Darry, Steve, Two-Bit, Tim Shephard, other Greasers/Socs

Scene 8 Hospital - Dally, Pony, doctor, Johnny.

Scene 9 The Boys' House - Pony, Soda, Darry, Steve, Two-Bit.

Scene 10 The Vacant Lot - Dally, police, other Greasers.

Scene 11 The Boys' House - Pony, Darry, Soda, Randy.



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ACT 1

Music Cue #1 "OVERTURE" (stage blackout)

Scene 1 - The Street

(Ponyboy walking home from the movies - makes way through audience singing)

Music Cue #2 "PAUL NEWMAN ": Ponyboy

I want to be like Paul NewmanHe's my hero up on the screen yeahI like his movements his frozen eyes of blue

I want to be like Paul NewmanHe's my hero up on that screen yeahI like his action and when he smiles real cool

Whistle and dance

And when I get like Paul NewmanI'll drive my limo right through the stars yeahI'll throw a wheelie and leave this dead end zoo

Whistle and dance

Segue into next song

(His thoughts are interrupted, first by one SOC who jumps out with a knife, then byfour other SOCS who jump him)

Music Cue #3 "WE GOT HIM ": Randy & the Socs

Randy Hey there little Greaser just for us to teaseSocs We got him!Randy It's a big mistake for you to be out lateSocs We got him!

Oh, oh oh why aren't your greasy mates here now?

Soc1 He looks scared boysSoc2 You're awful quiet GreaserSoc3 Cut him!

Randy This blade is far too clean this really ain't your sceneSocs We got him!Randy Why not a blood filled mark for our hero in the dark Socs We got him!

Oh oh oh what will we do with baby nowOh oh oh if he wants to fight we'll teach him how

(Socs attack Pony - Pony starts screaming, going wild)

(Greasers enter and chase Socs away. Pony left lying dazed while Darry, Soda,Two-Bit, Steve, Johnny fight the Socs off)



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Darry: (Lifting Pony to his feet) Are you all right Pony?

Pony: I'm OK, quit shaking me Darry, I'm OK.

Darry: I'm sorry. They didn't hurt you too bad did they?

Pony: I'm OK.

Soda: You got cut up a little, huh Ponyboy?

Pony: (Looking blankly) I did?

Soda: You're bleeding like a stuck pig.

Pony: I am?

Soda: Look! (showing him bloodied handkerchief) Did they pull a blade on you?

Voice Over: Need a haircut greaser?

Pony: Yeah (shaking, ready to cry)

Soda: Easy, Ponyboy, they ain't gonna hurt you no more.

Pony: I know, I'm just a little spooked, that's all.

Soda: You're an OK kid, Pony.

Pony: You're crazy Soda, out of your mind.

Darry: You're both nuts.

Soda: It seems to run in this family.

Dally enters

Dally: Hey Pony, we've got one rule in this gang - and that's stick together and don't get caught.

(The three brothers clown around - then Dally, Steve, Two-Bit, and Johnny join in….)

Music Cue #4 "GREASERS ": Dally and the Greasers



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Music Cue #4 "GREASERS ": Dally and the Greasers

Dally: Shirt tail hangin' from an east side glareBlack leather jackets go with slicked back hairTennis shoes a pumpin' our souped up wheelsWe love danger dancin' with a switchblade feel

Yeah we're Greasers - if we stick together we won't get caught

Greasers: Stick together we won't get caughtDally: When we go rumblin' on a Saturday nightAll the blinds are a-lowered and the streets go quietOh yeah - alright

Well Darry over here is the head of the gangSodapop and Steve give one hell of a bangWise guy Two-Bit plays aboutDon't worry Johnny - wouldn't leave you out

Cos we're Greasers - if we stick together we won't get caughtGreasers: Stick together we won't get caughtDally: When we go rumblin' on a Saturday night

All the blinds are a-lowered and the streets go quietOh yeah - alright

Dance

Greasers: Shirt tail hangin' from an east side glareBlack leather jackets go with slicked back hairTennis shoes a-pumpin' our souped up wheelsWe love danger dancin' with a switchblade feel

Yeah we're Greasers - if we stick together we won't get caughtDally: Stick together we won't get caught

Greasers: When we go rumblin' on a Saturday nightAll the blinds are a-lowered and the streets go quietOh yeah - alright

Well we're GreasersDally: If we stick together we won't get caughtGreasers: Stick together we won't get caught

Yeah we're GreasersDally: If we stick together we won't get caughtGreasers: Stick together we won't get caught

Greasers: GreasersDally: If we stick together we won't get caughtGreasers: Stick together we won't get caught

Dally: The kid OK?

Pony: I'm OK. I didn't know you were out of the cooler yet, Dally.

Dally: Good behaviour, got off early.

Two-Bit: Nice lookin' bruise you got there kid.

Pony: Really?



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Two-Bit: Nice cut too, makes you look tough.

Steve: What were you doing walking on your own?

Pony: I was coming home from the movies. I didn't think…..

Darry: (Breaking in) You don't ever think. Not at home or anywhere when it counts. You mustthink at school with all those good grades you bring home - and you've always got

your nose in a book - but do you ever use your head for common sense? No sirree,but, and if you did have to go by yourself, you should have carried a blade.

(Pony looking sorry for himself)

Soda: (Glaring at Darry) Leave my kid brother alone, you hear? It ain't his fault helikes to go to the movies, and it ain't his fault the Socs like to jump us, and if he hadbeen carrying a blade it would have been a good excuse to cut him to ribbons.

Darry: (Impatiently) When I want my kid brother to tell me what to do with my other kidbrother, I'll ask you - kid brother.

Two-Bit: Next time get one of us to go with you Ponyboy. Any of us will.

Dally: Speakin' of movies, I'm going to the Nightly Double drive-in tomorrow night.Anybody want to come and hunt a piece of the action?

Steve: (Shaking his head) Me and Soda are picking up Evie and Sandy for the game.

Darry: (Sighing) I'm working tomorrow night.

Dally: How about you guys? Two-Bit? Johnnycake - you and Pony wanna come?

Pony: Me an' Johnny'll come. Okay Darry?

Darry: Yeah, only 'cos it ain't a school night.

Two-Bit: I was planning on getting boozed up tomorrow night, if I don't I'll walk over and findyou.

Steve: (To Dally) You break up with Sylvia again?

Dally: Yeah, and this time it's for good. That little broad was two-timing me again while I wasin jail.

Darry: C'mon you guys, let's call it a night.

(All exit except Ponyboy)

Music Cue #5 "OUR KIND ": Ponyboy



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Music Cue #5 "OUR KIND ": Ponyboy

Our kind - born on the wrong side of the tracksWaste time - gettin' Socs off our backsWhite trash - labelled heroes in ourJunk world - but I tell myself it's

Getting better, it's getting better

I've writ to Mr Sun he's gonna read my letterIt's getting finer, it's getting finerThe thunder clouds will part the sun is shining brighter

Dream on - all you've got is hope inside your headDing dong - the ringside bell is ringing it's round tenGang fights - rebels with no cause but instant thrillsYou're low class - but I tell myself it's

Getting better, it's getting betterI've writ to Mr Sun he's gonna read my letterIt's getting finer, it's getting finerThe thunder clouds will part the sun is shining brighter

Instrumental (maybe slides of run down areas of town)

It's getting better, it's getting betterI've writ to Mr Sun he's gonna read my letterIt's getting finer, it's getting finerThe thunder clouds will part the sun is shining brighter

Dream on - all you've got is hope inside your headDing dong - the ringside bell is ringing it's round tenGang fights - rebels with no cause but instant thrillsYou're low class - but I tell myself it's getting better

(Enter Soda)

Soda: Come on Ponyboy, we just got through telling you you shouldn't be on your own. Youcold?

Pony: A little.

Soda: Listen kiddo. When Darry yells at you he don't mean nothing. He's just got moreworries than somebody his age ought to. Don't take him serious… you dig Pony?Don't let him bug you. He's really proud of you 'cause you're so brainy. It's justbecause you're the baby - I mean - he loves you a lot. You know?

Pony: Sure. Soda?

Soda: Yeah?

Pony: How come you dropped out of school?

Soda: 'Cos I'm dumb. The only things I was passing were auto mechanics and gym.

Pony: You're not dumb.

Soda: Yeah I am. Shut up and I'll tell you something. Don't tell Darry though.

Pony: Okay.



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Soda: I think I'm gonna marry Sandy, after she gets out of school and I get a better job andeverything. I might wait till you get out of school though. So I can help Darry with thebills and stuff.

Pony: Tuff enough. Wait till I get out of school though, so you can keep Darry off my back.

Soda: Don’t be like that kid. I told you he don't mean half of what he says.

Pony: (As they both walk off) You in love with Sandy? What's it like?

Soda: Hmmm (sighing happily) It's real nice.

(Both exit as lights fade)

Music Cue #6 "OUR KIND " - PLAYOUT

End Scene 1



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Scene 2 - The Drive In

(Dally, Johnny and Pony walk over to a row of seats behind two girls and sit down -Dally puts his feet up on the back of Cherry's seat)

Cherry: Take your feet off my seat.

Dally: Who's gonna make me?

Marcia: (to Cherry) That's the Greaser who jockeys for the Slash J sometimes.

Cherry: You'd better leave us alone, or I'll call the cops.

Dally: Oh, my, my - you've got me scared to death. You ought to see my record sometimebaby. (grinning slyly) Guess what I've been in for.

Cherry Please leave us alone. Why don't you be nice and leave us alone?

Dally I'm never nice. Want a coke?

Cherry: I wouldn't drink it if I was dying of thirst. Get lost hood!

(Dally shrugs and strolls off; Cherry looks at Pony and Johnny)

Cherry: Are you going to start on us now?

Pony: No!

Cherry: (Smiling) You don't look the type - what's your name?

Pony: Ponyboy Curtis.

Cherry: That's an original name!

Pony: My dad was an original person. I've got a brother name Sodapop - it says so on hisbirth certificate.

Cherry: My name's Sherri, but I'm called Cherry. Cherry Valance.

Pony: I know. You're a cheer leader. We go to the same school.

Marcia: You don't look old enough to be going to high school.

Pony: I'm not. I got put up a year in grade school.

Cherry: What's a nice smart kid like you running around with trash like that for?

Pony: I'm a Grease, same as Dally. He's my mate.

Cherry: I'm sorry Ponyboy. Your brother Sodapop. Does he work at a gas station?

Pony: Yeah.

Cherry: Man your brother is one doll. I might have guessed you were brothers - you look alike. (Pony grins with pride)

Marcia: How come we don't see your brother at school? He's not any older than sixteen orseventeen, is he?

Pony: He's a dropout.(Dally returns with cokes, hands them to the girls - sits down beside Cherry)



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Dally: This might cool you off.

Music Cue #7 "TALK TO ME" : Dally, Cherry and Chorus

Dally: Hey there foxy ladyI can't help invadingI feel tension springingMy heart's got me singing

Feel me - believe me - it's true

How come no reactionI'm the main attractionWhy watch B grade moviesI'm here cool and groovyBaby - oh take me - I'm yours

I've a little nestCherry: I'm just not impressedDally: Where I can satisfyCherry: His wish will be denied

Dally: There's no point avoidingCherry: This boy's quite annoyingDally: Let's go take a walk Cherry: He hovers like a hawk Dally: Baby - oh save me - I'm yours

Dally: When I look in your eyesCherry: His thoughts I do despiseDally: My pulse rate's double paceCherry: He's just not in the raceDally: I've a little nestCherry: I'm just not impressed

Dally: Where I can satisfyCherry: His wish will be denied

Boy chorus: Talk to meGirl chorus: Oh won't you leave me aloneBoys: Can't you seeGirls: Why don't you just go homeBoys: One, two, three and we'll be in paradise - oh baby

Boys: Talk to meGirls: I just can't stand his faceBoys: Can't you see

Girls: Your head is out of placeBoys: One, two, three and we'll fly through the skies - oh baby

Boys: Talk to meGirls: Oh won't you leave me aloneBoys: Can't you seeGirls: Why don't you just go homeBoys: One, two, three and we'll be in paradise - oh baby

Boys: Talk to meGirls: I just can't stand his faceBoys: Can't you seeGirls: Your head is out of placeBoys: One, two, three and we'll fly through the skies - oh babyDarry: Talk to me!Cherry: Just go home!



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Cherry: (gives him an incredulous look and throws coke in his face). This might cool you off,Greaser. After you wash your mouth and learn to talk and act decently, I might cooloff too.

Dally: (smiles, wipes his face, tries to put his arm around her)Fiery, huh? Well that's the way I like 'em.

Johnny: (reaches over and stops him) Leave her alone, Dally.

Dally: (in disbelief) Huh?

Johnny: You heard me - leave her alone.

(Dally storms off - fist in pockets, scowling)

Cherry: Thanks, he had me scared to death.

Johnny: You sure didn't show it. Nobody talks to Dally like that.

Cherry: From what I saw you do.

(Johnny looks embarrassed)

Marcia: You can sit up here with us. You can protect us.

(Johnny and Pony grin at each other and move next to the girls)

Pony: Okay, might as well.

Marcia: How old are you guys?

Pony: Fourteen

Johnny: Sixteen

Marcia: That's funny, I thought you were both……

Cherry: (finishing for her) Sixteen.

Johnny: (looks embarrassed but grins) How come you girls ain't scared of us like you wereDally?

Cherry: You two are too sweet to scare anyone. First of all you didn't join in Dallas's insultingtalk, and you made him leave us alone. And when we asked you to sit with us you

didn't act like it was an invitation to make out for the night. Besides that, I've heardabout Dallas Winston, and he looked hard as nails and twice as tough. And you twodon't look mean.

Pony: Sure, we're young and innocent.

Cherry: No, not innocent. You've seen too much to be innocent. Just not…..dirty.

Johnny: (defensively) Dally's OK. He's tough but he's a cool guy.

Pony: He'd leave you alone if he knew you.

Marcia: Well, I'm glad he doesn't know us.

Cherry: (softly) I kind of admire him.



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(Pause - group settles to watch movie)

Pony: How come you're here without a car?

Cherry: Oh we came in a car alright.

Marcia: We came with our boyfriends, but we found they'd brought booze along. So wewalked out on them and they left.

Cherry: I don't care if they did. It's not my idea of a good time to sit in a drive-in and watchpeople get drunk.

(Pause - watch movie - beach-party move with bikinis, swinging songs)

(The four are sitting in silence - Two-Bit enters and moves behind Johnny and Ponyand suddenly grabs them both by a shoulder - making them jump)

Two-Bit: (sounding like a snarling Soc) OK, Greasers, you've had it.

Pony: Hell, Two-Bit, you scared me to death!

Johnny: Hey, Two-Bit (weakly)

Two-Bit: Sorry kid, I forgot.

(Climbing over the seat, sits beside Marcia) Who's this - your great aunts?

Cherry: Great grandmothers, twice removed.

Two-Bit: (enjoying himself) Shoot, you're 96 if you're a day.

Marcia: (brightly) I 'm a night.

Two-Bit: (admiringly) Brother, you're a sharp one. Where'd you two ever get to be picked upby a couple of greasy hoods like Pony and Johnny?

Marcia: We really picked them up. We're really Arabian slave traders and we're thinking aboutshanghaiing them. They're worth ten camels apiece at least.

Two-Bit: Five. They don't talk Arabian, I don't think. Say something in Arabian, Johnnycake.

Johnny: Aw, cut it out. Dally was bothering them and when he left they wanted us to sit withthem to protect them. Against wisecracking greasers like you, probably.

Two-Bit: Where is old Dally anyway?

Pony: He went hunting some action - booze or dames or a fight. I hope he don't get jailedagain - he just got out.

Two-Bit: He'll probably find the fight, that's why I came over. Mr Tim Shephard and Co arelooking for whoever slashed their car tyres, and since Mr Curly Shephard spottedDally doing it…. well. Does Dally have a blade?

Pony: Not that I know of. I think he's got a piece of pipe .... he busted his blade thismorning.

Two-Bit: Good. Tim'll fight fair if Dally don't pull a blade on him. Dally shouldn't have anytrouble.

Cherry: You don't believe in playing rough or anything do you.



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Two-Bit: A fair fight isn't rough. Blades are rough - so are chains and pool sticks and rumbles.Skin fighting isn't rough. It blows off steam better than anything. There's nothingwrong with throwing a few punches. Socs are rough. They gang up on one or two, orthey rumble each other with their social clubs. Us Greasers usually stick together, butwhen we do fight among ourselves, it’s a fair fight between two. And Dally deserveswhatever he gets 'cos slashed tyres ain't no joke when you've got to work to pay forthem. He got spotted too and that was his fault. Our one rule, besides 'stick together' is'don't get caught'. He might get beat up, he might not. Either way there's not going to

be any blood feud between our outfit and Shephard's. If we needed them tomorrowthey'd show. If Tim beats Dally's head in and then tomorrow asks us for help in arumble, we'll show. Dally was getting kicks. He got caught. He pays up. No sweat.

Cherry: (sarcasticly) Yeah, real simple.

Marcia: Sure, if he gets killed or something you just bury him. No sweat.

Two-Bit: You dig okay, baby. Anyone want a smoke?

(girls shake heads)

Cherry: (changing subject) Ponyboy, will you come with me to get some popcorn?

Pony: (jumping up) Sure. You guys want some?

Marcia: I do.

Two-Bit: Me too, get Johnny some too, (flipping Pony a coin) I'm buying.

(Pony and Cherry walk apart from rest of group)

Cherry: Your friend Two-Bit - he's okay?

Pony: He ain't dangerous like Dally, if that's what you mean. He's okay.

Cherry: And Johnny…… he's been hurt bad sometimes hasn't he? Hurt and scared.

Pony: It was the Socs - a few months ago we found Johnny lying face down in a pool of blood. Someone had beaten him badly. We were used to seeing him banged up - hisfather clobbered him a lot but we couldn't do anything about it. But those beatingswere nothing like this. He was all cut up and bruised and swollen. It hurt him insidetoo. He'll carry those scars all his life. Johnny could take a beating - but they scaredhim, really scared him. He's nervous and jumpy and he swears blind nobody is evergoing to beat him again like that. He carries a six inch blade and he'll use it too if heever got jumped. He would kill the next person who jumped him.

(Pony has almost forgotten Cherry is listening - he snaps back to reality)

Cherry: (white as a sheet) All Socs aren't like that Ponyboy, you have to believe me.

Pony: Sure.

Cherry: That's like saying all you Greasers are like Dallas Winston - I'll bet you think the Socshave it made. The rich kids, the westside Socs - but I'll tell you something Ponyboythat may come as a surprise - we have troubles you've never even heard of. Things arerough all over.

Pony: Yeah - I believe you. It seems to me that Socs are just like us - Greasers act a lottougher, but there's a basic sameness. Maybe its money that separates us.

Cherry: No, its's not just money. You Greasers have a different set of values. You're moreemotional. We're sophisticated - cool to the point of not feeling anything. Nothing is



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for real with us. Sometimes I'll catch myself talking to a girlfriend and realize I don'tmean half of what I'm saying. You know, you're the only person I've spoken like thisto… Rat race is a perfect name for it. We're always going, going, going and neverasking where. Could you ever dream of having more than you wanted? So much thatyou couldn't want anything else - but we still look for something else to want,something to satisfy us - and we never find it. Maybe if we could lose our cool wewould.

Pony: That's why we're separated - it's not money - it's feeling. You don't feel anything andwe feel too violently.

Cherry: You read a lot, don't you Ponyboy?

Pony: Yeah. Why?

Cherry: I could just tell . I bet you watch sunsets too. (Pony nods)

(reflective) I used to watch them too….before I got so busy…..I'd just stand there andwatch and forget everything…

Pony: It's funny - the sunset you watch and the sunset I watch is the same one - maybe theworlds we live in aren't so different.

Music Cue #8 "AT THE END OF DAY" : Ponyboy and Cherry



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Music Cue #8 "AT THE END OF DAY": Ponyboy and Cherry

Pony: At the end of dayYou can see a light just before the nightIt's coming out to playWash across the sky like a magic dyeA masterpiece unfoldsOn a canvas sprayed with gold

A signal from the sunTransmit your dreams on cosmic beamsEnlighten everyoneThere is more to life than a silver knifeDon't fade behind my soulLift it up and let it go

Cherry: Day by day there comes a twilight callAnd when it fades I'm alone

Pony: At the end of dayYou can see a light just before the nightIt's coming out to playWash across the sky like a magic dyeA masterpiece unfolds on a canvas sprayed with gold

Instrumental (they turn to watch huge slide of sunset)

Pony: At the end of dayCherry: At the end of dayPony: You can see a light just before the nightCherry: You can see a lightPony: It's coming out to playCherry: Coming out to play

Pony: Wash across the sky like a magic dyeCherry: Like a magic dyePony: A masterpiece unfoldsCherry: On a canvas sprayed with goldTogether: And it's there for you and me each day

It never can be sold

Cherry: A masterpiece unfoldsPony: On a canvas sprayed with goldTogether: And it's there for you and me each day

It never can be sold

End Scene 2



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(Enter Two-Bit, Marcia and Johnny)

Two-Bit: Hey, where did you two get off to?

(Car sounds back stage)

Marcia: Cherry, look who's coming… what're we going to do?

Two-Bit: Who is it? The FBI?

Cherry: No... it's Randy and Bob.

Two-Bit: And a few other of the socially elite checkered-shirt set.

Johnny: Your boyfriends?

Cherry: Maybe they won't see us. Act normal.

Two-Bit: (grinning) Who's acting? I'm a natural normal.

(Car sound fades into distance)

Marcia: That was close.

Cherry: (turning to Pony) Tell me about your oldest brother. You don't talk much about him.

Pony: (shugging his shoulders) What's to talk about? He's big and handsome and likes toplay football.

Cherry: Yeah - but what's he like? I feel I know Soda from the way you talk about him. Tell meabout Darry. Is he wild and wreckless like Soda ... dreamy like you?

Pony: (bitterly) He's not like Sodapop at all and he sure ain't like me. He's hard as a rock andabout as human. He's got eyes like frozen ice and thinks I'm a pain in the neck. Helikes Soda - everyone likes Soda - but he can't stand me. I bet he wishes he could stick me in a home somewhere.

Two-Bit: (dumbfounded) No Ponyboy, that ain't right...you got it all wrong.

Johnny: Gee, I thought you and Darry and Soda got along real well.

Pony: Well we don't ...and you can shut your trap Johnny Cade cause we all know you ain'twanted at home either. And you can't blame them.

Two-Bit: (slaps Pony across the face) Shut your mouth kid. If you wasn't Soda's kid brother I'dbeat the tar out of you. You know better than to talk to Johnny like that.(to Johnny) He didn't mean it Johnny.

Pony: I'm sorry. I was just mad.

Johnny: (bleakly) It's the truth. I don't care.

Two-Bit: (fiercely - while messing up Johnny's hair) Shut up talking like that! We couldn't getalong without you, so you can just shut up.

Pony: (passionately) It ain't fair. It ain't fair that we have all the rough breaks.

Two-Bit: I know. The chips are always down when it comes to our turn. That's the way it is.Like it or lump it.



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(Car sound returns and doors slam )

Cherry: (resignedly) They've spotted us.

(Two Socs come forward - four others remain in background)

Bob: Cherry, Marcia, listen to us - just because we got a little drunk….

Cherry: A little? You call passing out in the streets "a little"? Bob, I've told you, I'm nevergoing out with you while you're drinking. It's either me or the booze.

Randy: (To Marcia) Marcia, you know we don't get drunk very often - and even if you are madat us it's no reason to go walking the streets with these bums.

(Greasers all stiffen - look mean)

Two-Bit: Who you callin' bums?

Bob: Listen Greasers, we got four more over there.

Randy: If you're looking for a fight

Two-Bit: You mean if I'm looking for a good jumping, you outnumber us so you'll give it to us?Well… (Two-Bit breaks the end off a bottle and flicks out his switchblade)… Try itpal.

Cherry: (Crying out) No! Stop it! We'll go home with you. Just don't fight! I can't standyour fights!

(The two groups back off)

Cherry: (to Ponyboy) We'd better go with them, Ponyboy..I mean...if I see you at school or

someplace and don't say hi, well, it's not personal or anything, but...

Pony: I know.

Cherry: We couldn't let our parents see us with you - you're a nice boy and everything but….

Pony: It's okay. We're not in the same class. Just don't forget that some of us watch thesunset too.

Cherry: (aside to Pony) I could fall in love with Dallas Winston. I hope I never see him againor I'll ...(Cherry is dragged away)

(The Socs leave the Greasers alone on stage)

(Pony, Johnny and Two-Bit walk in silence for a moment)

Two-Bit: (folding blade, throwing away bottle, shrugging) Well, those were two good lookinggirls if I ever saw any.… easy come, easy go. You going home?

Pony: No I think I'll stay out a while - where you headed?

Two-Bit: I dunno - play snooker or poker - or get drunk. Se ya tomorrow (EXIT)

(Johnny and Pony remain in silence)

Johnny: It's because we're Greasers - we could have hurt her reputation.



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Pony: Yeah. Big time Socs. It's not fair, they have everything. We're as good as they are. It'snot our fault we're Greasers. I can't just take it or leave it - like Two-Bit - or hardenmyself like Dally - or even enjoy it like Tim Shepherd.

Johnny: I can't take much more. I'll kill myself or something.

Pony: You can't kill yourself Johnny.

Johnny: I won't, but I gotta do something. There's gotta be a place without Greasers or Socs -with just people; plain ordinary people. (looking at his watch) You better go home. Ithink I'll stay out here.

Pony: Okay. See you then.

Music Cue #9 "OUR KIND " - Reprise: Johnny

Our kind - born on the wrong side of the tracksWaste time - gettin' Socs off our backsWhite trash - labelled heroes in ourJunk world!

(Blackout)

End Scene 3



20

Scene 4 - The Boy's House

(Pony runs home trembling at the thought of facing Darry. At home Soda is stretchedout asleep while Darry sits up waiting reading a newspaper under the lamp)

Darry: (angry) Where the heck have you been? Do you know what time it is? (Pony shakeshis head) Well it's two in the morning kiddo. Another hour and I'd have the cops outafter you - Where were you Ponyboy?

Pony: I was talking to Johnny at the lot.

Darry: (shouting) You what?!

Soda: (waking up) Hey Ponyboy. Where ya been?

Pony: (pleading with Darry) I didn't mean to. We were talking and I forgot what time it was.

Darry: Use your head Ponyboy! What's the matter with you? Something like this could getyou thrown in a boys home so quick it'd make your head spin.

Pony: I said I didn't mean to!

Darry: I didn't mean to. I didn't think. I forgot. That's all I ever hear out of you!

Soda: Darry……

Darry: (turning on Soda) You keep your trap shut. I'm sick and tired of hearing you stick upfor him.

Pony: (shouting) Don't you yell at him?

(Darry wheels around and slaps Pony hard against the door - all three freeze - Darrylooks at his hand and back at Pony - Ponyboy turns and runs out)

Darry: Pony…. Ponyboy, I didn't mean to! Pony!

(Darry, Soda freeze - black out)

Pony: (running towards the lot) Johnny! Come on Johnny, we're running away!

End Scene 4



21

Scene 5 - The Street and Lot

(Pony and Johnny run - finally sit down. Pony buries face in arms and cries)

Johnny: Easy, Ponyboy.

Pony: Johnny, I'm scared.

Johnny: Well don't be, you're scaring me. What happened?

Pony: It was Darry. He hit me. I don't know what's happened. We used to get along okaybefore mum and dad died - now he's always nagging and yelling. He can't stand me.

Johnny: I think I like it better when the old man's hitting me. At least then I know he knowswho I am. Nobody notices if I'm there at all - I walk in that house and nobody saysanything - I walk out and nobody says anything. At least you got Soda. I ain't gotnobody.

Pony: You got the whole gang Johnny.

Johnny: It ain't the same as having your own folks care about you.

(a sudden blast from a car horn makes them both jump)

Pony: It's the Socs! What do they want? This is our territory!

Johnny: I bet they're looking for us. We picked up their girls.

Pony: This is all I need to top off a perfect night. Want to run for it?

Johnny: Too late now. Here they come.

(five inebriated Socs come towards Pony and Johnny - Johnny reaches for his blade -

the Socs surround Pony and Johnny)

Bob: Hey, whatta ya know...here's the little Greasers that picked up our girls. Hey, Greasers.

Johnny: You're outa your territory. You'd better watch it.

Randy: No, pal. You're the ones who'd better watch it. Next time you want a girl, pick up yourown kind - dirt!

Bob: You know what a Greaser is? White trash with long hair.

Pony: You know what a Soc is? White trash with Mustangs and madras.

Bob: You could use a good working over, Greaser. And we've got all night to do it.

(Pony tries to run - is caught by a Soc and is rumbled by the others)

Music Cue #10 "JOHNNY KILLS SOC " (instrumental)

(Pony tries to fight - falls to ground, Johnny jumps Bob and knifes him with his blade.Bob falls, other Socs run away. Pony wakes to find Johnny sitting, staring, holdingbloodied switchblade)

Johnny: I killed him. I killed that boy.



22

Pony: (looks from Johnny to Bob's body) I think I'm gonna be sick….. This can't behappening….it can't be. You really killed him, huh Johnny?

Johnny: Yeah. I had to. They were hurting you Pony. And they had blades - they were gonnabeat me up - like they did before. They all ran when I stabbed him.

Pony: (starting to panic) Johnny! What are we gonna do? They put you in the electricchair for killing people. I'm scared Johnny. What are we gonna do?

Johnny: Calm down Ponyboy. Get ahold of yourself.

Pony: Okay - I'll be OK.

Johnny: We gotta get outa here. Get somewhere. Run away. The police'll be here soon. We'llneed money and maybe a gun, and a plan…. Dally….Dally'll get us outa this. He's atBuck Merril's place, there's a big cowboy party going on over there tonight.

End Scene 5



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Scene 6 - Buck Merril's Place

(big party atmosphere, dressed up as cowboys)

Music Cue #11 "UNCLE SAM AND MAGGIE ": Buck Merril and Party Goers

Buck: Well Uncle Sam and Maggie's got it all sewn up

There's tea leaves laced with bourbon in their china cupsCome congregate and celebrate our new found mightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it right

Well Hitler had them marching over hill and daleKing Arthur got them searching for that holy grailBut neither really made it to the mountain topGonna clean up the world with a red, white and blue striped mop

Party goer #1: Well it's one step forward and two steps back Party goer #2: What's up with you gotta serve with the pack

Buck: Well don't you turn your back on meDon't you turn awayLet's fly the flag of liberty

Party goer #1: If there's weeds in your gardenOr there's cows in your corn

Party goer #2: We'll give you all a gun if your not overdrawn

Buck: Well Uncle Sam and Maggie's got it all sewn upThere's tea leaves laced with bourbon in their china cupsCome congregate and celebrate our new found mightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it right

Instrumental - barn dance

Party goer #1: Well it's one step forward and two steps back Party goer #2: What's up with you gotta serve with the pack Party goer #1: You know I ain't no turkey in the strawParty goer #2: You gotta follow me gotta win this war

Buck: Well don't you turn your back on meDon't you turn awayLet's fly the flag of liberty

Party goer #1: If there's weeds in your gardenOr there's cows in your corn

Party goer #2: We'll give you all a gun if your not overdrawn

Chorus: Well Uncle Sam and Maggie's got it all sewn upThere's tea leaves laced with bourbon in their china cupsCome congregate and celebrate our new found mightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it right

Well Uncle Sam and Maggie's got it all sewn upThere's tea leaves laced with bourbon in their china cupsCome congregate and celebrate our new found mightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it rightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it rightUncle Sam and Maggie's got it right

(After song - Johnny and Pony ask Buck Merril for Dally)

Buck: (can of beer in hand) Whatta ya want?



24

Johnny: Dally... we gotta see Dally.

Buck: He's busy.

Pony: (commanding) Tell him it's Pony and Johnny. He'll come.

(Buck moves over to Dally who is occupied by several girls)

Buck: Dally - there's someone here looking for you.

Dally: Okay kids, whatta ya need me for?

Johnny: I killed a Soc, Dally. He was hurting Pony and I got scared. I stuck him with myblade.

Dally: What!!

Johnny: We figured you could get us outa this mess if anyone could.

Dally: Okay I'll see what I can do.

(Dally exits, reappears with goods for Pony and Johnny)

Here ... here's a gun. Careful it's loaded ... and fifty bucks. Pony, do Darry and Sodaknow about this?

(Pony shakes head)

Well I ain't itchin' to be the one to tell Darry and get my head busted.Listen - hop on the three fifteen freight to Windrixville. There's an old abandonedchurch on top of Jay Mountain. There's a pump in back so don't worry about water.Buy a week's supply of food and then don't so much as stick your noses out the door.

I'll be up there as soon as I think it's clear. Man, I thought New York was the onlyplace I could get mixed up in a murder rap.

(Johnny shudders at the word 'murder')

Okay get going. Take care kid (messing up Johnny's hair).

Pony: Sure Dally, thanks.

(Pony and Johnny run into the darkness)

Music Cue #12 "UNCLE SAM " - PLAYOUT

End Scene 6



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Scene 7 - The Church on Jay Mountain

(Pony wakes alone in the old church - is confused as to his whereabouts at first - callsfor Johnny and finds his message 'Gone to get supplies - be back soon')

Pony: Johnny! What a mess! What's happening? Maybe I'm just dreaming.

Music Cue #13 "MAYBE I'M DREAMING": Ponyboy

I'm tired of losingLife's just a nuisanceShow me a way out of here - where am I anyway

Maybe I'm dreamingIt never happenedI'll wake and find I'm not here

Dream on - our kindPlay on - my mind

Maybe I'm dreamingIt never happenedI'll wake and find I'm not here

(Settles down to sleep again at end of song)

(Enter Johnny with box of supplies)

Johnny: Hey Pony!

Pony: Johnny - What'd you get?

Johnny: (unpacking box) A week's supply of baloney, two loaves of bread, matches, cigarettes.

Pony: (diving in) Wow! A copy of 'Gone with The Wind' - how'd you know I always wantedone?

Johnny: I remember you saying something about it. I thought you could maybe read it outloud and help kill time or something.

Pony: Gee thanks (puts book down - searches through box) Peroxide, a deck of cards….peroxide! Oh Johnny you ain't thinking of….

Johnny: They'll have our descriptions in the paper. We can't fit 'em. We gotta change our hair.

Pony: (hands flying to hair) Oh no! No Johnny, not my hair. Hair is a Greaser's trademark!

Johnny: We'd have to anyway if we get caught. The first thing the judge makes you do is washthe grease out. I'm gonna change mine too. Come on Ponyboy, it's not permanent.

Pony: Okay - get it over with.

(Johnny sprays Pony's hair)

Pony: Not too much Johnny, please! Can I see what I look like now?

Johnny: No. I haven't finished yet!

(Pony looks in an old cracked mirror they found)

Pony: Great. I look younger and scareder. I look like a blasted pansy.



26

Johnny: (hands Pony the spray can)(when spraying finished) Well I guess we're disguised.

Pony: I guess so.

Johnny: Hey, it's just hair!

Pony: It took me a long time to get that hair the way I wanted it. This just ain't us - we'reGreasers.

Johnny: Well, we gotta get used to it. We're in big trouble and it's our looks or us.

(boys settle down to kill some time).

Johnny: I'm sorry I dyed your hair, Ponyboy.

Pony: Oh, it ain't that. I'm just a little spooked. I really don't know what's happened, I'm justmixed up.

Johnny: I know…. Things have been happening so fast.

Pony: Remember how we was fooling around last night. Last night - just last night we werewalking Cherry and Marcia home - just last night we were laying in the lot looking upat the stars and dreaming…

Johnny: Stop it! Shut up about last night. I killed a kid last night. I killed him. How'd you liketo live with that. (Johnny cries - Pony tries to comfort him)I didn't mean to….but they would've killed you - and I was so scared…there sure is alot of blood in people.

(Johnny gets up suddenly and starts pacing - Pony starts to get upset)

Pony: (crying) What are we gonna do?

Johnny: This is my fault - for bringing a thirteen year old kid along. You ought to go home.You can't get into any trouble. You didn't kill him.

Pony: (screaming) No! I'm fourteen! And I'm in it as much as you are! I'll stop crying in aminute! I can't help it.

Johnny: (slumping down beside Pony) I didn't mean it like that, Ponyboy. Don't cry, Pony.We'll be OK. Why don't you read us some of that book.

Music Cue #14 "STAY GOLD" (instrumental)

(Music continues softly under dialogue, fog machine creates fog across stage, lightingeffects)

Pony: Hey - the dawn's coming….mist, golden, grey, pink.

Johnny: (watching sunrise behind Pony) Gosh, this is pretty.

Pony: (sighing) Yeah.

Johnny: The mist is what's pretty. All gold and silver. Too bad it couldn't stay like that all thetime.

Pony: Nothing gold can stay.



27

Johnny: What?

Pony: (remembering a poem)'Nature's first green is gold,Her hardest hue to hold.Her early leaf's a flower;But only so an hour.

Then leaf subsides to leaf.So Eden sank to grief.So dawn goes down to day.Nothing gold can stay.'

Johnny: Where'd you learn that? That's just what I meant.

Pony: Robert Frost wrote it. I always remembered it 'cos I never quite got what he meant byit.

Johnny: You know I never noticed colours and clouds and stuff until you kept reminding meabout them. It seems like they were never there before.

Pony: You’re not like the others in the gang. I couldn't tell Two-Bit or Steve or Darry aboutsunrise and clouds and stuff. I couldn't even remember that poem around them - justyou and Soda and maybe Cherry Valance.

Johnny: Yeah. I guess we're different.

Pony: Hey, maybe they are.

("Stay Gold" music becomes much louder as they watch the dawn)

(at the end of "Stay Gold" mood is interrupted by noises and long, low whistle - boysare startled - Dally appears)

Dally: Hey, Greasers!

Pony: Hey Dally!

Dally: Man! Look at the hair on you two.

Pony: How's Soda? Are the cops after us? Is Darry alright? Do the cops know where weare? What….

Dally: Hold on kid. I can't answer everything at once. You two want to get something to eatfirst. I'm starved!

Johnny: You're starved?!

Pony: Is it safe to go out?

Dally: The cops aren't looking for you around here. They think you've headed towards Texas.Hey Ponyboy, I gotta letter for you.

Pony: A letter! Who from?

Dally: The President of course stupid. It's from Soda.

Pony: Sodapop! But how did he know….?



28

Dally: He came over to Buck's and found you'd been there. He didn't believe me when I said Ididn't know where you were. He gave me this letter and half his pay cheque to giveyou. But kid you oughta see Darry - he's taking this mighty hard.

(Pony reads Soda's letter)

VOICE OVER:

Soda: Ponyboy, well I guess you got into some trouble, eh? Darry and me nearly went nutswhen you ran out like that. Darry is awful sorry he hit you. You know he didn't meanit. With you and Johnny missing and the dead kid in the park, the police hauled Dallyin and came by to question us. I couldn't believe Johnny could kill someone. I know

Dally knows where you are but he won't tell me nothing. It's nearly killing Darry. I wish you'd come back and turn yourselves in but I guess you can't. You know you're

famous - you got a write up in the newspaper even. Take care and say hi to Johnny for us.

Your brother, Sodapop Curtis

Dally: C'mon kid - I told you it's okay outside - the cops aren't looking for you 'round here.We'll go down to the roadhouse for some grub.

(Pony, Johnny, Dally exit)

Music Cue #15 "STAY GOLD" - PLAYOUT

End Scene 7



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Scene 8 - The Roadhouse Diner

(Pony and Johnny discovered gorging themselves on hamburgers and cokes)

Dally: Man! (watching Pony and Johnny in amazement). You don't need to make like everymouthful's your last. Take it easy, I don't want you getting' sick on me. (Eating hisown hamburger) And I thought I was hungry!……I haven't told you….the Socs and

us are having all-out warfare all over the city. The kid you killed had plenty of friendsand all over town its Soc against Grease. We can't walk alone at all. Tim Shephard'sgang and ours are havin' it out with the Socs tomorrow night at the vacant lot. We gothold of the president of one of their social clubs and had a war council. If they win,things go on as usual. If we win, they stay outa our territory but for good…. Hey - Ididn't tell you we got us a spy!

Johnny: A spy? Who?

Dally: That good looking chick I tried to pick up that night you killed the Soc, CherryValance.

Pony &Johnny: Cherry?!

Dally: Yeah. She came over to the vacant lot the other night . She said she felt the wholemess was her fault, which it is. She said she'd keep up with what was comin' off withthe Socs in the rumble and would testify that the Socs were drunk and looking for afight and that you fought back in self defence. (laughing) It's hard to believe a Socwould help us. (kicking a drink can) Man, this place is out of it! What do they do forkicks around here? Play checkers!

Johnny: (quietly announcing) We're going back and turn ourselves in.

Dally: (gagging) What?

(Pony looks surprised but not shocked)

Johnny: I said we're going back and turn ourselves in. I got a good chance of being let off easy.I haven't got a record and it was self-defence. Pony and Cherry will testify to that. AndI don't aim to stay in that church all my life! We won't tell that you helped us Dally -we'll give you back the gun and what's left of the money and say we hitchhiked back so you won't get into trouble. Okay?

Dally: You sure you want to go back? Us Greasers get it worse than anyone else.

Johnny: (nodding) I'm sure, besides it ain't fair for Ponyboy to have to stay up at that church

with Darry and Soda worrying about him all the time.(a slight pause) My parents….did they ask about me?

Dally: No they didn't. Blast it Johnny, they don't matter. Hell, my old man don't care a damnwhether I'm in jail or dead in a car wreck or drunk in the gutter. That don't bother menone.

(Johnny remains silent - hurt and bewildered)

Dally: Blast it Johnny - why didn't you think of turning yourself in before? It would havesaved a lot of trouble!

Johnny: I was scared. I still am. I guess we ruined our hair for nothing, Ponyboy.



30

Dally: (pleading) Johnny, I ain't mad at you. I just don't want you to get hurt. You don'tknow what a few months in jail can do to you - oh blast it Johnny! You get hardenedin jail. I don't want that to happen to you. Like it happened to me….

(silence… a red glow flickers and grows in strength and attracts the boys attention)

Pony: Hey! Where's that smoke coming from.

Dally: (shocked) OH NO! The church is on fire!

(Pony and Johnny jump around excitedly - almost panicking; the red/orange glowbecomes more intense - flickers, sound; effects….)

Pony: Where? How?

Johnny: Let's go see. We gotta go!

Dally: Stay here or I'll beat your heads together!

(too late - Pony and Johnny head towards the fire - Dally follows - there is a crowd infront of the church)

End Scene 8



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Scene 9 - The Church on Jay Mountain

Pony: (tapping the nearest adult) What's going on?

Man: Well we don't know for sure. We were having a school picnic up here and the firstthing we knew the place is burning up. Thank goodness the old thing is worthlessanyway. Stand back children, the firemen will be coming soon.

Pony: I bet we started it. We must have dropped a lighted cigarette or something.

Lady: (running towards man; signs of panic) Some of the kids are missing!

Man: They're probably around here somewhere. You can't tell with all this excitement wherethey might be.

Lady: No. They've been missing for at least half an hour…. I thought they were climbing thehill….

(all freeze - a faint yell is heard from the direction of the inside the church)

Lady: I told them not to play in the church…. I told them….

Pony: I'll get them. Don't worry!

(Pony starts to run towards the church; man grabs him)

Man: I'll get them. You kids stay out!

(Pony jerks loose - Johnny is right behind him; both slam through window/wall intofire; smoke, sound effects).

Johnny: Where're the kids?

Pony: In the back I guess.

(Pony and Johnny stumble around; find a group of small children crying)

Johnny: Shut up! We're goin' to get you out!

(Johnny pushes open a window; Johnny and Pony start tossing kids out; a crowd hasgathered and Dally is heard)

Dally: For Pete's sake, get outa there! That roof's gonna cave in any minute! Forget thoseblasted kids!

(last of the kids is dropped outside as church starts to crumble; Johnny shovesPonyboy towards window)

Johnny: Get out!

(Explosions, timber crashing; fire effects increase)

END OF ACT I



32

ACT 2

Music Cue #16 "ENTR'ACTE" {stage blackout)

Scene 1 - The Hospital

(Pony discovered sitting in waiting room of hospital; dirty, tired, showing obviouseffects of his ordeal. Beside him sits the man from the last scene at the fire)

(LIGHTING: White, clinical)

Man: Take it easy kid, you're going to be okay. The doctors have checked you out. (Man'svoice is low, soothing, comforting to Pony) You just passed out.

Pony: I didn't either. Dallas hit me, how come?

Man: Because your back was in flames, that's why. That jacket you were wearing saved youfrom a bad burning, maybe saved your life. You just keeled over from smokeinhalation and a little shock - of course that slap on the back didn't help much.

Pony: Where…. how'd I get here anyway? I thought I'd be taken to the police station.

Man: The police station? (surprised) What would we want to take you there for? All three of you were brought here.

Pony: Are Johnny and Dally all right?

Man: They're bringing them in now. The older kid burned one arm pretty badly trying todrag the other kid out of the window. He'll be alright. The younger one - Johnny? -

well I don't know about him. A piece of timber caught him across the back - might bebroken, and he was burned severely. He passed out before he got out the window.

(man sees sick look on Pony's face and tries to change subject)

Man: I swear you three are the bravest kids I've seen in a long time. First you and Johnnyclimbing in that window - then the tough looking kid going back in to save him. Haveyou been sent straight from heaven - or are you just professional heroes or something?

Pony: (disregarding man's attempts to be humourous) No, we're Greasers.

Man: You're what?

Pony: Greasers. You know, like hoods, JD's. Johnny is wanted for murder, and Dallas has arecord with the cops a mile long.

Man: (staring blankly) Are you kidding me?

Pony: (weakly) No.

(conversation interrupted by orderlies carrying two stretchers; first is Johnny -unconscious - Pony near tears to look at him; second comes Dally - very consciousalthough weak)

Pony: (jumping up) Johnny! Dally!

Dally: (rising on elbow from reclining position on stretcher) Hey kid! You ever do a stupidthing like that again I'll knock ya from here to the next block - alright?



33

(stretchers exit; Dally trying to chat up a nurse)

(Pony returns to seat beside man)

Pony: (mostly to himself) Johnny's unconscious. He looked so pale and still….

Man: (feeling uncomfortable - yet wanting to comfort Pony) Your name really Ponyboy?

Pony: Yeah. Even on my birth certificate...and don't bug me about it. Are the little kids okay?

Man: Just fine. A little frightened maybe. There were some short explosions right after youall got out.

(Enter nurse)

Nurse: There are some people here to see you Ponyboy. Claim to be your brothers.

(Pony leaps up and heads for the door; Soda quickly has Pony in bear hug and isswinging him around - finally sets him down)

Pony: Oh Soda, Soda! (extremely elated)

Soda: Pony, Ponyboy (pushing Pony's hair back) your hair…. Your tuff, tuff hair…

(Pony sees Darry; Darry leaning in doorway, hands pushed into pockets, a helpless,pleading look on his face)

Darry: (swallowing, in a husky voice - full of emotion) Ponyboy….

Pony: (Pony lets go of Soda and stands looking at Darry; sees to his horror/amazementDarry is crying) Darry!! (Pony runs to him; hugs him) Darry, I'm sorry…

Darry: Oh Pony…. I thought we'd lost you…. Like we did Mom and Dad…

(Darry, Soda and Pony all cling together; laughing/crying)

(reunion is interrupted by a Reporter who hovers around taking pictures of the threeboys; individual and group shots; also firing question after question at Pony)

Reporter: Great shot - just hold it right there boys - smile (flash) great -Now over here (reporter moulds the boys into positions he wants)Now which of you is Ponyboy Curtis - so your name's really Ponyboy eh? And this isSodapop - cute - and Darry - you're the oldest huh? - big brother?(reporter is amusing himself; Soda is quite amused by it all; arranges for policemen,

nurses to be in photographs)Now….(questions on fire)

(Darry is getting impatient with all the fuss)

Darry: Listen you! Back off! This kid's in no shape for your questions….

(Darry towers over reporter who smiles and makes exit; some excuse about anotherstory)

Darry: Man, who do you see around here for some information. (to nurse) Listen sweetheart -I want to see Johnny's doctor.

Nurse: I'm sorry Sir, the doctor will only see the patient's immediate family.



34

Darry: We are as much family as Johnny and Dally have. Now what's the story and give it tome straight.

(Doctor appears)

Doctor: Dallas will be all right after a few days in here. One arm was badly burned and will bescarred for the rest of his life - although he will have full use of it in a couple of weeks.(slight pause) Johnny is in a critical condition. His back is broken. He is in severe

shock and is suffering from third degree burns. We are doing everything we can toease the pain, although he can't feel pain below his waist. Even if he lives… (at theword 'if' Pony goes weak; Darry puts an arm across his shoulder)… he'd be crippledfor the rest of his life….

(pause: all are obviously shocked)

You wanted it straight and you got it straight. Now go home and get some rest.

Darry: We'd better go home… we can't do anything here.

(Pony breathes hard; can't speak; tries not to cry. Soda stares blankly, stunned, Darryleads them out quietly)

(All Exit)

Music Cue #17 "OUR KIND "- PLAYOUT

End Scene 1



35


(Pony discovered alone at home; Darry and Soda asleep elsewhere, Two-Bit and Steveenter)

(Pony perhaps whistling/humming "Paul Newman" song and staring at himself inmirror; mourning over his hair)

Two-Bit: (From offstage) Hey in there? Anybody home?

Steve: Hey guys wake up!

Pony: In here!

(Two-Bit and Steve run in; start swinging Ponyboy around; push him playfully fromone to another)

Two-Bit: Hey Ponyboy! Long time no see!

Steve: How ya been Ponyboy?

Pony: Knock it off you two - quit shoving me all round the place will you!

Two-Bit: (walking in a slow circle around Pony) Man dig blondie here!

Steve: I'd never have believed it! What happened to that tuff looking mop of yours Ponyboy?

Pony: Aw, lay off.

Steve: (Two-Bit and Steve nudging, winking) He had to wash the grease out to get hispicture in the paper. They'd never believe a little Greaser could be a hero. How do youlike being a hero, big shot?

Pony: How do I like what?

Steve: Being a hero. You know (shoving newspaper at Pony) - big shot hero.

Two-Bit: (reading headlines) 'JUVENILE DELINQUENTS TURN HEROES' I love the 'turn'bit. You guys were heroes from the beginning. You didn't just 'turn' all of a sudden.

Steve: (to Pony who is reading paper) Yep, its all there - the whole story - the fight with theSocs, the murder, the church burning - EVERYTHING.

Two-Bit: And photos to prove it!

Music Cue #18 "LOCAL BOY HERO": Two-Bit, Steve and Chorus



36

Music Cue #18 "LOCAL BOY HERO": Two-Bit, Steve and Chorus

(During song a fantasy sequence occurs with superheroes, adulating townspeople,paperboys and a presentation from the Mayor)

Two-Bit: Read all about it - the local boy hero He's got off detention - attracting attention nowAnd when he smiles the cameras all flash

Everybody wants an autograph

Steve: Read all about it - the local boy hero He saved all the children from the fire of Satan yeahHe'll risk his life any day any night For the good of his fellow man -

Both: He's superman

Just look at this boy He maybe quite shy But deep inside there's a hell of a guy Credentials are good, lookout Hollywood He'll go alright in your neighbourhood

Chorus joins in :Na na na na naNa na na na na naNa na na na naNa na na na na na

Read all about it - the local boy heroHe's got off detention - attracting attention nowAs he makes his way to the victory lineYou can hear the people say he's mineHe's one of a kind

Just look at this boyHe maybe quite shyBut deep inside there's a hell of a guyCredentials are good, lookout HollywoodHe'll go alright in your neighbourhood

Na na na na naNa na na na na na (etc. under Mayor's speech)

Mayor:Ponyboy Curtis -as Mayor of this fair city

it gives me great pleasureto present you with this medallionfor your courageous efforts

Female admirer: (let me pin it on - let me)

Mayor:Wear it with pride

Chorus: Somebody's always gotta be strong And he's gonna be the one The son of a gun (continued on next page)



37

Just look at this boyHe maybe quite shyBut deep inside there's a hell of a guyCredentials are good, lookout HollywoodHe'll go alright in your neighbourhood

Come follow the crowdAnd sing it right out

Our Greaser hero has made us proudLet's give him a capeA hero first rateReserve him a place at the pearly gates

Read all about it - the local boy heroHe's got off detention - attracting attention nowRead all about it - the local boy heroHe saved all the children from the fire of Satan yeah

Extra - read all about it

(Chorus begin to dispurse, singing as they go)

Read all about it - the local boy heroHe's got off detention - attracting attention nowRead all about it - the local boy heroHe's got off detention!

(stage back to normal)

Two-Bit: Boy hero eh? Look - it goes on to say how you and Johnny risked your lives savingthose little kids. You know they even interviewed that Cherry Valance chick.

Steve: Yeh - she's okay you know. She said those Socs Bob and Randy were drunk that night

and looking for a fight. She said you fought back in self defence.

Pony: It says Johnny and me have to appear at Juvenile court. (reading on) What do theymean if he recovers?

Two-Bit: For once there aren't any charges against Dally. Hey, he'll be mad as hell at thatreporter for not mentioning his police record - he's kinda proud of that.

Pony: This other column is just about Darry and Soda and me. How Darry works on two jobs, how Soda dropped out of school so we could all stay together - it says weshouldn't be separated after we'd worked so hard to stay together… (looking up,realising meaning of last line) You mean…. That they're thinking of putting me and

Soda in a boys' home?

Steve: Something like that.

Pony: (slumping down in a daze) No… no they can't!

Two-Bit: No they can't what?

Pony: No they can't put us in a boys' home.

Steve: Don't worry about it. They don't do things like that to heroes. Hey, where're Soda andDarry?

(Darry and Soda enter - dressing)

Darry: C'mon Soda, hurry up, you're gonna be late for work.



38

Soda: I'm hurryin', I'm hurryin'.

(Steve, Two-Bit, Soda involved in pillow fight; generally mucking around)

Pony: Darry, did you know about the Juvenile court?

Darry: Yeah, the cops told me last night.

Soda: (brightly; to no one in particular) You know what? When we stomp the Socs good,me and Steve here are gonna throw a big party to celebrate.

Pony: You gonna take Sandy to the party?

(Pony looks around at others who have fallen silent)

Pony: What's wrong?

Soda: No. She went to live with her grandmother in Florida.

Pony: How come?

Steve: Look - does he have to draw you a picture? It was either that or get married - and herparents almost hit the roof at the idea of her marrying a sixteen year old kid!

Pony: (embarrassed) Oh.

(heavy silence)

Darry: We'd better get on to work Soda. I hate to leave you by yourself Pony….

Two-Bit: I'll babysit the kid. I haven't got anything better to do.

Steve: Why don't you get a job. Ever consider working for a living?

Two-Bit: Work?! And ruin my rep?!

(Two-Bit and Pony involved in minor rumble)

Darry: Two-Bit, lay off Pony, he ain't looking so good. Pony, you take it easy today.

Pony: Yeah, you too. See ya. (exit Darry, Soda and Steve)

Pony: C'mon Two-Bit - help me clean up around here.

Two-Bit: This ain't messy! You oughta see my place!

Pony: I have. And if you had any sense you'd try to help around your place instead of bumming around!

Two-Bit: Shoot kid! If I ever did that my mum would die of shock! (laughing; hitting Ponywith a pillow) C'mon kid - let's go to the 'Tasty Freeze'. The hoods there are so greasythey slide when the walk.They go to the barber for an oil change not a hair cut.

(Pony and Two-Bit exit)

Music Cue #19 "LOCAL BOY HERO" - PLAYOUT

End Scene 2



39

Scene 3 - The 'Tasty Freeze' Milkbar

(laughter; music; both reappear at the 'Tasty Freeze' hangout; several Greasers arethere; so are several Socs including Randy)

(Socs and Greasers exchange threats, insults etc)

Two-Bit: You guys know the rules (to Socs) No jazz before rumble.

Randy: We know. (to Ponyboy) Come here - I want to talk to you.

(Pony looks to Two-Bit who shrugs - Pony and Randy move apart from the others)

Randy: I read about you in the paper. I would never have believed a Greaser could pullsomething like that. I'd have let those kids burn to death.

Pony: 'Greaser' didn't have anything to do with it. It's the individual. Maybe you would havedone the same, maybe a friend of yours - or mine - wouldn't have.

Randy: I don't know. I don't know anything anymore. I'm sick of all this. I'm not going to therumble tonight. It won't do any good. It can't bring Bob back…. Bob was a great guy,the best mate a guy could have… now he's dead. His parents spoiled him rotten - theygave into him all the time. He kept wanting them to say 'NO' - they never did. Hewanted somebody to lay down the law, set the limits, give him something solid to standon. That's what we all want, really.

Music Cue #20 "LAY DOWN THE LAW": Randy and Chorus



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Music Cue #20 "LAY DOWN THE LAW": Randy and Chorus

(Another fantasy sequence featuring two groups - parents and youths - a judgepresides, could include rap dancing)

Randy:They need someone to lay down the lawPut an end to this war that they're makingThey need someone to alter their aim

Put an end to this game that they're playing

You're asking me am I running outWell I've been here far too longIt's time to walk out the door and move on

They need someone to pull them in lineAnd show them a time that's worth livingI see nothing but pain in their eyesA facial disguise of what could be

Can you hear me judge bring your hammer downAnd line them 'cross the floorShow them a direction in which they can walk

Parents: Did our best for the boyBut we know that he's never gonna changeGave him all that we had, even moreCan you tell us who's to blame

Youths: When you're free and you're youngYou can find so much energy to burnOut of touch, out of timeAll they say is we're talking out of turn

Parents: Did our best for the boyBut we know that he's never gonna changeGave him all that we had, even moreCan you tell us who's to blame


Parents: Did our best for the boyBut we know that he's never gonna change

Gave him all that we had, even moreCan you tell us who's to blame


(repeat as stage clears)



41

Randy: You know, one time Bob came home drunker than hell - he thought his parents weregonna raise the roof! You know what they did? They thought it was something they'd done! They thought they'd failed him and driven him to it! If his old man had beltedhim - just once - he might still be alive… I don't know why I'm telling you this - myfriends would think I was off my rocker or turning soft. Maybe I am. I'm just sick of this mess….. That kid - your friend who got burned - he might die?

Pony: Yeah.

Randy: And tonight people get hurt in rumbles, maybe killed. It doesn't make sense. It doesn'tdo any good. You can't win. You'll still be where you were before - at the bottom…and we'll still be the lucky ones with all the breaks. So it doesn't do any good, thefighting and the killing. It doesn't prove a thing. Greasers will still be Greasers, andSocs will still be Socs…. I'm gonna leave town. I'm gonna get out.

Pony: Running away won't help.

Randy: Oh hell, I know - but what can I do? I'm marked chicken if I pike out at the rumble. Idon't know what to do.

Pony: I'd help you if I could.

Randy: No you wouldn't. I'm a Soc. You get a little money and the world hates you.

Pony: No. You hate the whole world….. you would have saved those kids if you'd beenthere. You'd have saved them same as we did.

Randy: Thanks Grease - I didn't mean that - I meant thanks kid.

Pony: My name's Ponyboy. Nice talking to you Randy.

(Pony walks over to Two-Bit; Socs go over to Randy)

Two-Bit: What'd he want? What did Mr Super-Soc have to say?

Pony: He ain't a Soc. He's just a guy. He just wanted to talk.

(All exit)

Music Cue #21 "LAY DOWN THE LAW" - PLAYOUT

End Scene 3



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(Johnny is discovered lying alone in his cold, quiet hospital room; a nurse ushers inPonyboy and Two-Bit)

Two-Bit: Hey Johnnycake.

Johnny: (weakly, slowly) Hi guys.

Two-Bit: They treating you okay kid?

Johnny: Don't….let me….put enough grease on my hair.

Two-Bit: Don't talk. Just listen. We're havin' a big rumble tonight. We're gonna hit those Socs.It's too bad you and Dally can't be in it. It's the first big rumble we've had. Did youknow you got your name in the paper for being a hero?

Johnny: Tuff enough.

Two-Bit: You want anything besides hair grease kid?

Johnny: The book….. (to Pony)…. Can you get me another one?

Pony: (He has been still, pale and quiet until now) He wants a copy of 'Gone with the Wind'so I can read it to him. Can you run down to the drug store and get one?

Two-Bit: Sure….don't you guys run off.

(Two-Bit exits)

Pony: (feeling uncomfortable) Dally's gonna be OK. And Darry and me, we're okay now.(Johnny tries to smile, gasps, goes white) Johnny!! Are you okay?

Johnny: (obviously in pain) Yeah. It just hurts sometimes. It usually don't… I can't feelanything below the middle of my back… I'm pretty bad off ain't I Pony?

Pony: (with fake cheerfulness) You'll be okay. You gotta be. We couldn't get along withoutyou.

Johnny: I won't be able to walk again. Not even on crutches. Busted my back.

Pony: You'll be okay. (Pony tries to convince himself as well as Johnny)

Johnny: You wanna know something Ponyboy? I'm scared stiff. I used to talk about killingmyself - but I don't want to die now! It ain't long enough! Sixteen years ain't long

enough! There's so much I ain't done and seen!

Pony: You ain't gonna die Johnny…. And don't get all juiced up because the doc won't let ussee you no more if you do.

(enter nurse)

Nurse: Johnny, your mother's here to see you.

Johnny: I don't want to see her. She's probably come to tell me about all the trouble I'mcausing. Tell her to leave me alone - for once - for once just to leave me alone.

(Johnny gasps, passes out; nurse ushers Pony towards door; Two-Bit is met on theway in)

Nurse: I'm sorry boys, you'll have to leave.



43

Two-Bit: Make sure he gets this when he comes around will you? (hands her the book)

(Lights fade on nurse and Johnny)

Two-Bit: I wish it was any one of us except Johnny. We could get along without anyone butJohnny. We're gotta win this fight tonight - for Johnny.

Music Cue #22 "SIXTEEN YEARS": Cherry



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Music Cue #22 "SIXTEEN YEARS": Cherry and Chorus

(Cherry Valance appears solo. Mood changes after second verse as various charactersfrom exotic destinations fill the stage with fun and excitement. All join in at the end)

Cherry: Sixteen years is not enough to liveWhen you're young you've got so much to giveOn the street life can be tough

Lamp post light can't guide your loveSixteen years is not enough to live

I find something new to do each dayEndless fighting's not my kind of playLook inside that crystal ballYou've got to let your wings unfoldGrab a ray of hope and gold might stay

If you believe in where you're going toThere's greater chance your dream will come trueJust look around and you can see

Take a trip with the sailor manHe's been to London, Paris, Amsterdam and he's learningThat there's more to a Friday night than a vacant lot filled with foolish fightsIt's insane

All you people listen to the bandThere's a world outside and it's playing dixie landAll you people come on join the bandBlow your horn and beat the drumThey're waiting to take your hand

Instrumental

Chorus join in: All you people listen to the bandThere's a world outside and it's playing dixie landAll you people come on join the bandBlow your horn and beat the drumThey're waiting to take your handBlow your horn and beat the drumThey're waiting to take your hand

Sixteen years is not enough to liveWhen you're young you've got so much to giveLook inside that crystal ball

You've got to let your wings unfoldGrab a ray of hope and you can liveGrab a ray of hope and you can live

(To blackout)

Music Cue #23 SIXTEEN YEARS" - PLAYOUT

End Scene 4



45


(Two-Bit and Pony walking home)

Two-Bit: You okay kid? You look awful!

Pony: I'm alright - don't tell Darry. Come on Two-Bit, I'll take a bunch of Aspirins - I'll be

well by tonight.

Two-Bit: All right - but Darry'll kill me if you're sick and go ahead and fight anyway.

Pony: I'm okay. And if you keep your mouth shut Darry won't know a thing.

Two-Bit: You know - you'd think you could get away with murder, living with your brothers.But Darry's stricter with you than your folks were.

Pony: I know.

Two-Bit: The only thing that keeps Darry from being a Soc is us.

Pony: Yeah I know.(pause) Two-Bit… tonight …. I don't like it. Something's gonna happen.

Two-Bit: Well of course somethin's gonna happen. We're gonna stomp the Soc's guts - that'swhat. I never knew you to play chicken before Ponyboy!

Pony: I ain't chicken Two-Bit Matthews and you know it! I just got a feeling.

(Cherry Valance appears suddenly)

Cherry: Hi Ponyboy. Hi Two-Bit.

(both stop in their tracks)

Two-Bit: Well, what's up with the big time Socs?

Cherry: They play your rules. No blades, fair deal. Your rules.

Two-Bit: You sure?

Cherry: Randy told me. He knows for sure.

Two-Bit: Thanks Cherry.

(Two-Bit and Pony turn away)

Cherry: Ponyboy, stay a minute. Randy's not going to show up at the rumble.

Pony: Yeah…. I know.

Cherry: He's not scared. He's just sick of fighting… Bob was his best friend.How's Johnny?

Pony: Not so good. Will you go to see him?

Cherry: No, I couldn't.

Pony: Why not? It was your boyfriend who caused it all!

(Pony angry, but stops; angry with himself for his outburst)



46

Cherry: I couldn't. (quiet, desperate voice) He killed Bob. I know Bob asked for it, but Icouldn't ever look at the person who killed him. You only saw his bad side Pony. Hecould be sweet sometimes - but when he got drunk…... it was that part of him that beatup Johnny. I knew it was Bob when you told me the story. You see - I can't go to seeJohnny - Bob wasn't just any boy - he was something special. He had something thatmade him different…. do you understand Pony?

Pony: That's okay (sharply) I wouldn't want you to see him anyway. You're a traitor to yourown kind and not loyal to us. Your spying for us doesn't make up for the fact you're arich west side kid while my brother drops out of school to get a job.(bitterly) Don't feel sorry for us. Don't give us handouts and then feel high and mightyabout it.

(Pony turns to walk away, but his shame makes him stop. Cherry is near tears)

Cherry: I wasn't trying to give you charity, Ponyboy. I only wanted to help. You're a nice kid -I liked you from the start. Do you realise how scarce nice kids are nowadays?Wouldn't you try to help me if you could?

Pony: Yeah - you and Randy both - if I could….. Hey Cherry - can you see the sunset realgood from the West Side?

Cherry: Real good.

Pony: You can see it good from the East Side too.

(they smile quietly at each other)

(fade)

Music Cue #24 "AT THE END OF DAY" - PLAYOUT

End Scene 5



47


(Pony, Soda, Darry, Steve, Two-Bit all at the boy's home - dressing, putting on hair oil;psyching themselves up for the fight)

Darry: C'mon get a move on you guys. The rumble is set for eleven - it's almost ten thirty. We

gotta meet Tim Shephard's gang and the Brumley outfit before the Socs show.

Steve: (to Soda) What're you getting all spruced up for?

Soda: (slicking on hair oil) We gotta show these Socs we're not trash. We're Greasers - andproud of it.

Pony: (inspecting himself in mirror) Hey Soda! When did you start shaving?

Soda: When I was fifteen.

Pony: When did Darry?

Soda: When he was thirteen - why? You figuring on growing a beard for the rumble?

Pony: Yeah - funny. (to Darry) You look mean tonight Darry. I'd hate to be the Soc whotakes a crack at you. (Darry turns and tries to swipe Pony) How come you like fightsDarry?

Soda: He likes to show off his muscles.

Darry: I'm gonna show 'em off on you mate!

Pony: You like fights don't you Soda?

Soda: Yeah, sure. I like fights.

Pony: How come?

Soda: I dunno. It's action. It's a contest. Like a drag race or a dance or something.

Steve: Hell! I want to beat those Socs heads in. When I get in a fight I want to stomp theother guy good. I like it too.

Pony: Hey Two-Bit. How come you like to fight?

Two-Bit: Everyone fights!

Darry: (to Pony) I don't know if you ought to be in this rumble Pony.

Pony: (fearing the worst) How come? I've always come through before, ain't I?

Darry: Yeah, you fight real good for a kid your size. But you were in shape before. You don'tlook so good now. You're tensed up too much.

Soda: Hell! We all get tensed up before a rumble. Let him fight tonight. Skin fights don'thurt - no weapons, no danger.

Pony: I'll be okay (pleading) I'll get hold of a little one, okay? Let me fight, Darry. If it wasblades or chains or something it'd be different. Nobody ever gets really hurt in a skinrumble.



48

Darry: Well I guess you can - but be careful. And if you get in a jam holler and I'll get youout.

Pony: I'll be okay. How come you never worry about Sodapop as much? I never see youlecturin' him.

Darry: (putting his arm across Soda's shoulders) Man, this is one kid brother I don't have toworry about. He uses his head.

Two-Bit: (tiring of the chatter and ready to go) Well, I see everyone's in prime condition for therumble. Is everybody happy?

Everyone: YEAH! (screaming into somersault)

Music Cue #25 "A PIECE OF THE ACTION" : Two-Bit and the Greasers



49

Music Cue #25 "A PIECE OF THE ACTION" : Two-Bit and the Greasers

Two-Bit: The time is getting nearAdrenalin pumping fear for the SocsLet's rock and roll their bandAnd frighten off their fansRip down their postersWhen they see the Greasers running

They are sure to back right downA wealth of muscle powerAnd a side step 'cross the groundOur hearts are full of fireAnd our heads are full of painWe never will retire got to

All join in: Fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny CadeDarry says - what's the go - vacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the action

Two-Bit: We're gonna win tonightWe'll show 'em how to fight at the rumbleSo they think they've got it madeBut they just won't make the gradeWatch 'em tumbleWith all our engines runnin'Gonna push the throttle downWe'll watch their plans backfireAs we circle 'round and 'roundOur hearts are full of fireAnd our heads are full of painWe never will retire got to

All join in: Fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny Cade

Darry says - what's the go - vacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the action

Instrumental (gymnastics; somersaults; cartwheels etc).

Greasers: The time is getting nearAdrenalin pumping fear for the SocsLet's rock and roll their bandAnd frighten off their fansRip down their postersWhen they see the Greasers runningThey are sure to back right down

A wealth of muscle powerAnd a side step 'cross the groundOur hearts are full of fireAnd our heads are full of painWe never will retire got to

All join in: Fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny Cade, fight for Johnny CadeDarry says - what's the go - vacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the actionDarry says - what's the go - vacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the action (sing last line 3 times)

Two-Bit: (yelling out) Come on everybody let's go!

End Scene 6



50

Scene 7 - The Vacant Lot

(during song scene changes from Boy's House to the Vacant Lot. The five boys are joined by other Greasers; notably Tim Shephard and his gang and the Brumley outfit.Tim Shephard and the Brumley leader move forward to greet Darry and his boys.Indicating the three gangs are on the same side in the fight, all the Greasers are sizingeach other up, mostly sticking with their own outfits)

Darry: Listen Soda, you and Ponyboy, if the cops show you two beat it out of here. The restof us can only get jailed. I don't want you sent to a boys' home.

Soda: Nobody in this neighbourhood's gonna call the cops. They know what'd happen if they did.

Darry: All the same - you two blow if there's any sign of trouble.

Shephard: Hey Curtis (to Darry) I don't like the 'no weapons' rule.

Darry: (to all Greasers) Let's get this straight. This is a skinfight. No chains, blades, bottles,pipes, pool sticks.

Music Cue #26 "SOC ENTRY TO RUMBLE" (instrumental)

(Socs start arriving; file in silently and stand together opposite Greasers)

Soc: Lets get the rules straight - nothin' but our fists - and the first to run lose. Right?

Shephard: You understand real good Soc.

(uneasy silence)

(Darry steps forward)

Darry: I'll take on anyone.

(slight stir among the Socs; one steps forward)

Paul: I'll take you Darry.

Darry: Hello Paul

(Paul and Darry move in a circle, eyeing each other, sizing each other up; heavy silenceexcept for hard breathing of all other boys; tension mounts as they wait for one toswing a punch)

(suddenly a call from somewhere apart from the crowd: Dally appears)

Dally: Wait! Stop! - don't you know a rumble ain't a rumble unless I'm in it?!

(Darry turns to see who called and Paul hits him on the jaw; the fight is on)

Music Cue #27 "THE RUMBLE" (instrumental)

(Choreographed fight sequence - heavy Soc pins Pony down, small Greasers/Socsrun between others legs, jumping on backs, Tim Shephard holding off two at once,

Acrobatics/gymnastics)

(Finally the Socs appear defeated; start to run)

Two-Bit: Hey they're runnin' - look at the Socs run!



51

(all Socs exit - Greasers ecstatic, congratulate one another)

(After effects of the rumble now visible:

Tim Shephard swearing; nursing a broken nose,Brumley leader working over one of his boys for using a pipe,Steve lying groaning, Sodapop beside him;

blood streaming down Two-Bit's face, etc.)

Darry: We won - we beat the Socs.

Dally: (to Pony) Come on! We're going! To see Johnny. Hurry! He wants to see you. Hewas getting worse when I left.

(Pony and Dally move forward; apart from other Greasers who fade and exit)

TO BLACKOUT

(heartbeat heard pounding out over P.A.)

End Scene 7



52


Dally: C'mon Hurry!

(Dally and Pony run into hospital waiting area;patients, nurses stare at their bloodied appearance,doctor tries to stop them, Dally threatens Doctor with Two-Bit's switchblade)

Doctor: I'm sorry boys you can't see him.

Dally: We gotta see him. We're gonna see him and if you give me any static you'll end up onyour own operating table.

Doctor: (without batting an eye at Dally's threat) You can see him - but it's because you're hisfriends, not because of the blade.

(Dally puts the knife away; they are still and quite; lights up on nurse wheeling Johnnyin; he is very still)

Dally: Johnnycake? Johnny?

Johnny: (weakly) Hey.

Dally: We won. We beat the Socs. We stomped them - chased them outa our territory.

Johnny: Useless….. fighting's no good.

Dally: They're still writing editorials about you in the paper. For being a hero and all.Yeah - they're calling you a hero now and heroizin' all the Greasers. We're proud of you Johnny.

Johnny: Ponyboy….

(Pony leans over close to Johnny)

Johnny: Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay Gold…..

(Johnny dies; Pony unable to speak or move; Dally in agony)

High pitched sustained sound from electro-cardiograph when Johnny dies

Dally: Johnny!!!…. that's what you get for tryin' to help people, you little punk - that's whatyou get.

(Dally suddenly whirls around; slams against wall; face contorted in agony)

Damn it Johnny - don't die - please don't die!!

(Dally bolts out of the hospital; scene fades)

Music Cue #28 "JOHNNY DIES" (instrumental)

End Scene 8



53


(Darry, Two-Bit, Soda, Steve sitting around in varying stages of disorder; ribs, facestaped up, reading paper etc).

(Pony walks in and Darry leaps to his feet)

Darry: Where've you been?! (Darry stops suddenly) Ponyboy, what's the matter?

Pony: Johnny….. he's dead.We told him about beating the Socs and….he just died.

(stunned silence; Soda appears to start crying; Two-Bit closes eyes and clenches teethetc).

Dallas is gone…. he ran out of the hospital like the devil was after him. He's gonnaexplode. He couldn't take it. Johnny was the only thing Dally loved. And nowJohnny's gone.

Two-Bit: So he finally broke. So even Dally has a breaking point.

(Pony starts shaking; Soda comforts him)

Soda: Ponyboy…you look sick….sit down.

Pony: I'm okay….I don't want to sit down.

(Pony backs away like a frightened animal)

Don't touch me! (to Darry who stepped towards Pony)

(phone rings; Darry answers and quickly hangs up)

Darry: It was Dally. He's in trouble - he just robbed a grocery store and the cops are afterhim. We gotta help - we'll hide him. He'll be at the lot in a minute - let's go.

(All boys exit at a dead pace - no sommersaults this time)

End Scene 9

Music Cue #29 "GOODBYE DALLAS" : Dally and Chorus



54

Scene 10 - The Vacant Lot

Music Cue #29 "GOODBYE DALLAS" : Dally and Chorus

(Dally runs in; wail of sirens; police lights flashing; p.a. warning Dally; Dally reachesa circle of light, pulls out a gun from the waistband, raises it)

(Sung/cried by Dally in punk style, choir in background sing "Goodbye Dallas",

Police come through audience with a megaphone)

Dally: I can't stand another dayNow Johnny's gone awayIt's all - it's all a stupid gameDay after day it's never gonna change

Choir: Goodbye Dallas (repeat continually through song)

Dally: Gonna drink this booze and fill my headGonna use this gun and a pound of leadGonna use this knife with it's shiny bladeYeah, give me crowdWant to have my say

Gonna use this gun wanna shoot someoneGonna use this gun, wanna have some funYeah, use this gun, wanna shoot someoneWanna use this gone, wanna have some fun

Policeman: Dallas Winston - this is the policeYou are surroundedPut the gun on the groundAnd your hands behind your head - now!

Dally: Well, you're never gonna take me, take me aliveIf I had to go with you I would rather dieWell, you're never gonna take me, take me aliveIf I had to go with you I would rather die

Policeman: Dallas Winston - this is your final warningIf you do not comply with our requestWe will have no alternative

(At end of song police guns fire at Dally; he jumps with the impact of bullets and isdead before he hits the ground)

(Greasers come screaming in)

Greasers: No!Dally!He's just a kid!

Music Cue #30 "DALLY DIES" (instrumental)

End Scene 10



55


(both Pony and Darry are asleep; Darry in armchair; quiet atmosphere)

(Pony wakes; moves across to Darry)

Pony: Darry - Hey Darry wake up.

Darry: Ponyboy, you okay?

Pony: Yeah, I think so.

Darry: Gee kid, you had us scared to death.

Pony: What's the matter with me?

Darry: You were in no condition to fight that night - exhaustion, shock, minor concussion -and some fever Two-Bit was talking about. You were pretty torn up that night… we allwere.

Pony: Where'd I get concussion? How long have I been asleep?

Darry: You got concussion from getting kicked in the head at the rumble. You've been asleepand delirious for nearly three days - the rumble was Saturday night - don't youremember?

Pony: (mostly to himself) Dally and Johnny are dead…. Darry, do you think they'll split usup? Put me in a home or something.

Darry: I don't know kid - I just don't know. (trying to change the subject) Don't you evenremember being in the hospital? You kept asking for me and Soda - mostly for Soda.

Pony: Darry….

Darry: Johnny left you his copy of 'Gone with the Wind' - told the nurse he wanted you tohave it.

(Pony takes the book; puts it safely nearby)

Pony: Where's Soda?

Darry: Asleep I hope.

(Soda comes running in leaping at Pony)

Soda: Hey Ponyboy!

Darry: No rough stuff little buddy.

Soda: Gee you were sick - you feel okay now?

Pony: I'm okay - just hungry.

Darry: How'd you like me to fix you something to eat?

Pony: I'd like that just fine.

(Darry exits)

Pony: Soda, what did I say while I was delirious.



56

Soda: You thought you were in Windrixville and in that church most of the time. You keptsaying Johnny didn't mean to kill that Soc. You wouldn't eat anything - you keptsaying everything tasted like baloney.

Pony: Soda, did I ask for Darry while I was sick?

Soda: Yeah, sure, you asked for him and me both, and for Johnny.

Pony: I thought maybe I didn't ask for Darry - it was bugging me.

Soda: Well you did so don't worry. We stayed with you so much the doctor told us we weregoing to end up in hospital ourselves if we didn't get some sleep.

(Enter Darry)

Darry: Ponyboy, there's a guy here to see you. Says he knows you - his name's Randy.

Pony: Yeah I know him.

Darry: Want to see him?

Pony: Sure - why not?

(Enter Randy)

Randy: Hi Ponyboy - how you feeling?

Pony: I'm okay Randy - take a seat.

Randy: I came to see if you were okay ... but you ...we ... we gotta get this mess sorted out in juvenile court.

Pony: Yeah, I know.

Randy: My dad says for me to tell the truth and nobody can get hurt. He's kind of upset aboutthis. My dad's a good guy - and I kind of let him down, being mixed up in all this.

Pony: (not believing Randy's dumb remark) You're mixed up? You didn't kill anyone - youdidn't get your head busted in a rumble! What've you got to lose? Your old man canpay whatever fine they dish out for being drunk and picking a fight.

Randy: I wouldn't mind getting fined. But I feel lousy about the old man. And it’s the firsttime I've felt anything in a long time.

Pony: The only thing I've felt in a long time is scared.

Randy: I guess your parents feel awful about it too.

Pony: My parents are dead. I live here with just Darry and Soda, my brothers.

Randy: I didn't know that - (Pony finds it peculiar that a Soc is worried about a Greaser)Listen to me Pony. You didn't do anything. It was your friend Johnny that had theknife. The court will acquit you - the case is practically closed.

Pony: I had it! I had the knife! I killed Bob!

Randy: I saw it. It was Johnny that had the switchblade. Bob scared him into doing it. I sawit.

Pony: I killed him. I had a blade and I was scared they were gonna beat me up.



57

Randy: No kid, it was your friend…. the one who died in hospital.

Pony: Johnny is not dead…. (voice shakes as he repeats) Johnny is not dead.

(Enter Darry)

Darry: Hey Randy, I think you'd better go now.

(Randy joins Darry before he leaves: Pony still upset)

Randy: Sure - see you 'round, Ponyboy.

Darry: Don't say anything to him about Johnny. He's pretty mixed up emotionally. Thedoctor said he'd get over it in time.

(Darry leads Randy out)

(Pony is left alone; picks up the copy of 'Gone with the Wind'; a note falls out)

VOICE OVER(Johnny): Ponyboy, I asked the nurse to give you this book so you could finish it. The doctor

came in a while ago but I knew anyway. I keep getting tireder and tireder. I don't mind dying now. It's worth it. It's worth saving those little kids. Their lives are worthmore than mine, they have more to live for. Tell Dally it's worth it. I'm gonna miss

you guys. I've been thinking about it and that poem, and that guy that wrote it - hemeant you're gold when you're a kid, like green. When you're a kid everything's new,...dawn. It's just when you get used to everything that it's day. Like the way you digsunsets, Pony. That's gold. Keep that way. It's a good way to be. I want you to tell

Dally to look at one. He'll probably think you're crazy, but ask for me. I don't think he's ever really seen a sunset. And don't get so bugged over being a Greaser. Youstill have a lot of time to make yourself what you want; there's still a lot of good in theworld. Tell Dally, I don't think he knows.

Your mate, Johnny.

(Pony carefully folds the letter; puts it back inside the book; lies back and thinks)

(Darry and Soda return to Pony)

Pony: Darry - I'm not ever gonna be able to make up the school I've missed. I'll really louse itall up. I won't be able to bear people coming right up and asking me about the wholemess - or being scared of me. Anyway, what's the sweat about my school work? I'llhave to get a job as soon as I get out of school anyway. Look at Soda - he's doingokay and you don't mind that he dropped out.

Darry: You're not going to drop out. Listen, with your brains you could get to college. But

school work's not the point - you're living in a vacuum Pony, and you're gonna have tocut it out. (getting angry and frustrated) Johnny and Dally were our mates too - butyou don't just stop living because you lose someone. You don't quit! And anytime youdon't like the way I'm running things you can get out!

Pony: You'd like that wouldn't you? You'd like me just to get out and stop bugging you?Well it's not that easy, is it Soda?

(Pony turns to look at Soda; he looks extremely upset)

Soda: Don't…. oh you guys!…. Stop - why can't you stop!

(Pony and Darry stop dead; Soda continues)

I can't stand to hear you argue! It's like I'm the middle man in a tug o' war - and I'mbeing split in half!



58

(Pony and Darry show some recognition or Soda's problem)

I can't take sides. It'd be a lot easier if I could, but I see both sides. Darry yells toomuch and tries too hard and takes everything too serious. Ponyboy, you don't think enough, you don't realise all Darry's giving up just to give you the chance he missedout on. He could have stuck you in a home somewhere. Ponyboy, I'm telling you thetruth. I dropped out cos I'm dumb. I'm happy working with cars - you'd never be

happy doing something like that.

And Darry, you ought to try to understand Pony more - and quit buggin' him aboutevery little mistake he makes. He feels differently than you do. Gee you two, its badenough havin' to listen to it - but when you start trying to get me to take sides…..

(tears well up in his eyes; Pony and Darry obviously affected)

We're all we've got left. We ought to be able to stick together against everything. If you don't have anything you wind up like Dallas before he was dead - and that'sworse that death. Please - don't fight anymore.

Darry: Sure little buddy, we're not gonna fight anymore. Nor more fights okay Ponyboy?

Pony: Okay.

Music Cue #31 "ONE BIG FAMILY": Soda and Cast

(Soda sings, begins with just the three brothers then the rest of the cast appears. Socsmix in with Greasers)

Soda: Worn out sofa, broken TV setA fridge full of Cola and a cigaretteIt's all that we've gotAnd people ask us how we get by

But it's easy when you're one big family

We've all got our problems so we'll compromiseYou're working all day while his head's in the skyAnd what's wrong with that!We're all allowed to go for a dreamAnd it's easy when you're one big family

Cast joins in: So many things going wrong in this worldBecause we're so dividedIf we all get together it will be alrightYou've got to talk instead of fight

We've all got our problems so we'll compromiseYou're working all day while his head's in the skyAnd what's wrong with that!We're all allowed to go for a dreamAnd it's easy when you're one big familyYeah it's easy when you're one big family It's easy when you're one big family

Music Cue #32: CURTAIN CALL (A Piece Of The Action/One Big Family)



Music Cue #32: CURTAIN CALL (A Piece Of The Action/One Big Family)

("A Piece Of The Action" instrumental for bows)

Fight for Johnny CadeFight for Johnny CadeFight for Johnny Cade

Darry says - what's the goVacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the action

Darry says - what's the goVacant lot - power showOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the actionOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the actionOur big chance - let's all go and get a piece of the action

(Segue to "One Big Family")

So many things going wrong in this worldBecause we're so dividedIf we all get together it will be alrightYou've got to talk instead of fight

We've all got our problems so we'll compromiseYou're working all day while his head's in the skyAnd what's wrong with that!We're all allowed to go for a dreamAnd it's easy when you're one big familyYeah it's easy when you're one big family It's easy when you're one big family

The End

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