About the Play:

The Giver is a full-length drama adapted for the stage by Eric Coble, based on the Newberry Medal Book by Lois Lowry. Twelve-year old Jonas lives in a perfect world – no pain, no poverty, no prejudice, no choices. Everyone has an assigned role. Very, very rarely, someone special is selected to hold the memories of all that once was. Jonas is that one. Does he have the strength to face it? This highly inventive theatrical adventure is a faithful adaptation of the beloved novel by award winning author by Lois Lowry. Particularly suitable for schools and play contests. 

The Giver introduces us to Jonas, who's world is perfect. Everything is under control and safe. There is no war or fear or pain. There are also no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the community. But when Jonas turns 12, he is chosen for special training from The Giver – to receive and keep the memories that society can no longer face. The Giver is the only person who holds the memories of real pain and real joy. Now Jonas will learn the truth about life – and the hypocrisy of his utopian world. Through this astonishing and moving adaptation, discover what it means to grow up, to grow wise, and to take control of your own destiny.

The Giver premiered in 2006 at Oregon Children's Theatre before going on to have more than 300 productions on three continents. The play has been performed in regional, middle school, high school, college, and community theatre productions.

Cast: 4 female, 4 male, extras as desired

What people say:

"Questions are imaginatively, sensitively, and deftly explored in a gorgeous tale." — Lexington Herald-Leader

"A grand morality tale with a magical quality." — Pegasus News

"An absorbing production that asks both children and adults compelling questions about how we want our world to be." — The Oregonian

"There are lessons for those of every age in this compelling adaptation." — Sarasota Magazine

About the Playwright:

Eric Coble is an American playwright and screenwriter. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland and raised on the Navajo and Ute reservations in New Mexico and Colorado. Before turning to playwriting, he received his BA in English from Fort Lewis College in Colorado, and his MFA in acting from Ohio University. He is a member of the Playwrights' Unit of the Cleveland Play House.