SHORT PLAY
Drama
Drama
The start of a famine led to their relationship,
threatened now by the end of a famine.
At this pivotal moment of goodbye,
two women are on the cusp of a huge journey without the other.
Through prayer & poem, each makes a discovery
about their true destination.
threatened now by the end of a famine.
At this pivotal moment of goodbye,
two women are on the cusp of a huge journey without the other.
Through prayer & poem, each makes a discovery
about their true destination.
CHARACTER INFORMATION
Naomi - Female, 50s
Ruth - Female, 20s
THEMES
historical women, a play in verse, poetry, Biblical characters
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
COMMENDED WORK
Berkshire Theatre Group - 2024
Berkshire Theatre Group - 2024
REVIEWS & RECOMMENDATIONS
“A beautifully constructed and told version of the story of Naomi and Ruth. John Mabey writes in an innately poetical style and creates a play of depth with carefully crafted characterisation. An unusual, tender and inspiring play.”
(Paul Smith)
(Paul Smith)
“An absolutely lovely retelling of the story of the Book of Ruth. John Mabey combines both the physical elements of the staging and his lyrical dialogue to bring a great feeling of understanding and hope for these two women. Stunning!”
(Morey Norkin)
(Morey Norkin)
“John Mabey weaves a magnificent poem of a play in Feast & Famine, a theatrical and moving retelling of the Book of Ruth. We understand the kinship between these women intimately, even though they speak precious few words directly to each other. I love how Mabey uses techniques of performance poetry to reveal how of one mind and heart Ruth and Naomi are, even while they struggle to articulate this to each other until the play’s powerful ending. Excellent.”
(Sam Heyman)
(Sam Heyman)
“John Mabey, with "Feast & Famine", has crafted a sacred song of fire and light. The characters speak the lines like verses from a hymn. Like the biblical book of Ruth, it is emotionally devastating, yet life affirming. I believe that this is the 3rd work I've read by John Mabey. I look forward to reading more! Kudos!”
(Ken Love)
(Ken Love)
“The poetry and lyricism here is just spectacular as Mabey takes the old tale and finds new meaning in it, in terms of the importance of relationships and connections, particularly with women. The characters establish themselves effectively and then everything builds to an appropriate crescendo as two become one. We're left with a very impactful version of this story indeed. Wonderful.”
(Brent Alles)
(Brent Alles)
PRODUCTIONS
Garfield Theatre, Jewish Community Center, CA - 2025