The Shadow (Envisage Theatre Company)

OLIVIA: Dear Lord and Savor Jesus Christ….(Stops) I’m sorry that just feels so formal to me. Not that I feel like I should be informal! It’s just I got a lotta stuff on my mind and addressing you as the Almighty Savor sorta makes me feel like I’m writing a letter to Santa Clause. (Quick beat change) Oh my God I just realized how awful that sounded! Oh my god! I said oh my God! Jesus. Damn it! Okay. (Takes a breath.) I’m just gonna call you Father. 

DR. GRAM: During the follow up we will give you your dilators and teach you how to use them properly. This is just to make sure you do not lose depth or width of your new vaginal cavity. You may experience some slight bleeding in the early stages of dilation, which is completely normal and should not concern you. However,  I am requiring that you keep a journal so that you can write down any discomfort you may experience. You may have trouble controlling your bladder the first few weeks. That is also completely normal and not permanent. Don’t worry. You’ll get the hang of things. Now the most important thing to do during this process is relax and try to get as much rest as you can. The body needs time to heal so don’t over exert yourself with strenuous tasks and if you have any concerns, please feel free to voice them to me or my staff. Any questions so far?

 OLIVIA: Do - (Slight beat. She considers if she should say this. Then:)  Do you think I want to be here? To be getting this surgery? To go through weeks of recovery, swollen stitches, not being able to go to the bathroom on my own - 

GEORGE: It’s what you want - 

OLIVIA: It’s more than just about WANTING or FEELING - Dad! It’s about being able to breathe fully in my own skin. I am doing this not just because I want to or because I feel it the best choice. It’s a need, Dad. I need to just be...me. 

GEORGE: Aren’t you?....Just you?