The End of America - a Play

This one-act play for three men and two women is set in Seattle in early 2007. All characters are in their early 20's. Four are college students at the University of Washington, while one of the girls works at a large department store. The young people find themselves in a lively debate of issues related to global warming and alternative fuels. They argue vigorously about ethanol, solar and wind energy, and other means of avoiding fossil fuels that contribute to global warming....
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This one-act play for three men and two women is set in Seattle in early 2007. All characters are in their early 20's. Four are college students at the University of Washington, while one of the girls works at a large department store. The young people find themselves in a lively debate of issues related to global warming and alternative fuels. They argue vigorously about ethanol, solar and wind energy, and other means of avoiding fossil fuels that contribute to global warming. Colorful characterization adds dramatic flair to the debate, and a budding romance adds humanity.Peter advocates for establishment of 50 power grids nationwide instead of six. He promotes use of solar panels on every roof, and use of ethanol and biodiesel, plus increased use of public transportation. He displays a quirkiness in which he paces, jumps, and gestures wildly. His passion for the cause is extreme. In a discussion of terrorism Peter asserts that self-sufficient citizens are less vulnerable in the event of an emergency. People who live simply, he asserts, will be able to survive better when power and fuel are scarce. Bill, a business student, believes that American citizens are unwilling to make significant sacrifices regarding fuel usage, or changes in lifestyle to reduce energy consumption. In his view, Americans are so devoted to oil that they will see the country destroyed before changing their habits.