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1.
ACT I
Pre-Scene
The Aguilar family are sitting around the dinner
table. The kids and mom are eating as Thomas reads
the paper.
PENNY
How was school today kids?
THERESA
It was okay, mom.
STEPHEN
Mom! I participated in a reading for Theater class
today and the teacher said I was really good! I really
like acting.
PENNY
That’s great, anak! I’m so proud of you! (Stephen
smiles) How about you, hunny? (looks at Christian)
CHRISTIAN
It was good, mom. Just applying for colleges.
PENNY
Keep up the good work, anak. You know your father and I
will support you in whatever you decide.
Comfortable silence for a few seconds.
PENNY
Tessa, hunny. Have you ever thought about having a
Debut?
THERESA
Not really.
PENNY
I think it would be a wonderful opportunity for you,
anak. Your cousins are already planning their own.
THERESA
Yeah, I know. It sounds really fun! I’ll think about
it. I promise.
PENNY
It can be our own Mother-Daughter bonding activity.
Since your father and brothers have their own thing.
(rolls eyes)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 2.
THOMAS
I heard that, dear.
Penny and Theresa smile at each other and go back
to eating.
Scene 1: Dinner Table
The Aguilar family are sitting around the dinner
table. Thomas and Penny are at the heads of the
table, while the kids are on the side. There’s an
erie silence in the air as everyone eats. Penny is
sitting at the table, twiddling her fingers.
THOMAS
So how was school today kids?
THERESA
Good.
CHRISTIAN
College is hard. (Teasingly) Just wait until you
experience it.
THERESA
Ugh don’t remind me. I’m already stressed enough with
applications.
STEPHEN
WELL. My day was GREAT. We had auditions for the school
play and I’m pretty sure I had the best monologue. (He
folds his arms in conceited satisfaction)
THOMAS
That’s great son!
Awkward silence ensues.
THOMAS
So Theresa....hunny...I’ve been thinking recently. And
I, uh, I was wondering...ifyouwantedtohaveadebut?
The room goes silence. Theresa slightly looks
toward the direction of Penny.
THERESA
What did you say?
THOMAS
(Stammering) I...was wondering if you wanted to have a
debut?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 3.
THERESA
Uhm...why are you asking me this?
THOMAS
Well, you’re turning 18 soon and it’s tradition in our
culture. You know like a Filipino rite of passage.
STEPHEN
So you had one right dad? Must have been a fun....
THOMAS
(interrupting) No no no! Debuts are for young ladies
becoming adults. A celebration of your youth and
showcasing your future!
CHRISTIAN
So my debut was like going to college and paying for
loans? That’s horrible.
THOMAS
I said it was for ladies!
STEPHEN
So do they have debot? For Deguys?
CHRISTIAN
Really? I couldn’t have been this naive in high school.
THOMAS
Settle down, guys. This is about your sister! I even
have some old diagrams that we planned with your Tita
with....
THERESA
Wait, am I obligated?
THOMAS
Well no. But your Tita has been bugging me about it
and she has some decoration ideas....
THERESA
I’m thinking you should tell Tita to ask me instead of
you.
THOMAS
Well I’m your dad so I think I should have a big part
of this. Plus you know how great I am at planning!
PENNY
You don’t need to push her. Lying is definitely not
helping out.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 4.
THOMAS
(sighs) This is all for you honey and we just want to
show the family how great you’ve become and have great
you will be!
THERESA
I’m not sure if I...
THOMAS
And don’t worry your auntie can come and help...
THERESA
But I didn’t ask...
THOMAS
And you just need to approve some decisions.....
THERESA
(interrupting) But I didn’t approve of anything!
The table becomes silent and awkward. Penny and
Thomas look deeply at one another. Thomas reaches
to hold Penny’s hand, but recoils just before they
touch.
THERESA
I know how important this is to you and the family. But
this isn’t what I want. This is what SHE wants.
(gestures to Penny in her chair) And I just don’t know
if I can do it.
Theresa storms off leaving a defeated-looking
Christian.
STEPHEN
I’m gonna go do homework now. (leaves table)
CHRISTIAN
Don’t worry, dad. She’ll come around.
THOMAS
I hope so.
Scene 2: Daughter and Friends
Theresa and her friends are hanging out after
school in the squad. The girls are sitting on the
benches speaking about their day.
OLIVIA
So do ya’ll know you’re taking to prom? We all know I
have a date.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 5.
SARAH
Why does it matter who you’re taking? Your "after prom
night" happened sophomore year.
JORDAN
Sarah that’s savage. Let’s tone it down. Pull it back
real quick.
SARAH
I’m real. Don’t be mad.
OLIVIA
Once again I have a date, do you even have one?
SARAH
I’m looking!
OLIVIA
Just like you looking at that vending machine huh? With
wet lips...
JORDAN
Stop! Theresa are you hearing this? Theresa?
Theresa?!?!?!
THERESA
Huh? Oh sorry, I zoned out for a bit.
OLIVIA
So you must know who you are taking to prom then.
THERESA
No I don’t know. My mind is a bit preoccupied.
SARAH
What’s going on? Is everything alright?
THERESA
(sigh) No...Yes...maybe, I don’t know. My dad sprung
some things on me yesterday.
JORDAN
Bad news?
THERESA
No, he just wanted me to have a debut.
ALL GIRLS
A debut!!!!
THERESA
Yeah...
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 6.
OLIVIA
Why WOULDN’T you have one?
JORDAN
Yeah, this is so exciting! I’ve always wanted to go to
a debut!
SARAH
Same!! And it’s perfect because it’s YOUR debut!
OLIVIA
We can help you pick colors, your dress, your
decorations, your music, your dance...
THERESA
Whoa, whoa, whoa! I didn’t say I was actually going to
have one yet.
OLIVIA
Why not? We get to be in your court, we can dress all
fancy, and most importantly you get to have a hot guy
on your arm the whole time.
Chad rushes in to interrupt
CHAD
Why do you need a hot guy when you have me?
JORDAN
Obviously we are still looking a for a hot guy. And I
do not believe you fit the criteria.
SARAH
Plus we all know who Theresa has the hots for....
THERESA
Stop!
The rest of the boys walk in and greet the girls.
JACOB
Who does Theresa have the hots for?
OLIVIA
Oh nobody babe.
CHAD
So why do you need a hot guy on your arm?
THERESA
For a possibly improbable debut...
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 7.
NICK
A debut? That would be cool.
THERESA
Really? You think so?
NICK
Yah! I’ve always wanted to go to a debut.
The girls begin to gesture to one another. Theresa
begins to blush and becomes bashful
SARAH
Uh yah but we don’t even know when or if it will
happen. So don’t get your hopes up guys.
THERESA
Shut up Sarah! Its definitely happening so plan ahead.
CHAD
Sounds awesome! So aren’t you going to need an escort
Theresa?
THERESA
I’m still confirming the debut, but if I possibly have
one maybe I could get one if I needed one but I’m not
sure if ...
OLIVIA
Theresa, slow down you’re starting to slur.
SARAH
To answer you Chad, yes she will need an escort. Her
court is filled with us and we need dates too ya know.
JORDAN
Plus we all know that that there is probably only one
escort Theresa will consider....
THERESA
(stammering) Oh uh my phone is dying...I mean
ringing...I mean twittering. I gotta go home! C’mon, I
got to go home!
The girls role their eyes and say goodbye to the
boys and exit stage right.
JACOB
So...Theresa, huh? (nudges Nick)
NICK
Oh, shut up. If she asks me to be her escort than I
will happily oblige. (Nick does a big, elaborate bow)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 8.
CHAD
IF she asks you.
JACOB
She’ll definitely ask you.
NICK
(shyly) I hope she does.
CHOIR: Scene 3: Family/Friends
Gathering
Theresa comes back home and flops down on the
couch. Christian comes in and sits next to her.
Penny is lingering at the dining table.
CHRISTIAN
What’s wrong with you?
THERESA
Well, besides embarrassing myself in front of Nick that
I basically decided to have a debut? Everything’s fine.
CHRISTIAN
I bet it wasn’t that bad...Wait. Did you say you
decided to have the debut?
THERESA
(groans) Yeah...
CHRISTIAN
Is that really what you want, though?
THERESA
I mean I guess. It’d be nice to have the family come,
and have my best friends there, and besides, it’s what
she...
Theresa looks in the direction of Penny. The two
look at each other for a moment. Theresa drops the
gaze and looks back at Christian.
THERESA
Never mind. Maybe it’d be a good experience. And I’m
sure dad would be thrilled. (rolls eyes)
Stephen and Thomas walk into the house.
STEPEHN
Dad, you should have seen it! I basically almost made
the whole theater cry when I...
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 9.
CHRISTIAN
Dad, guess what.
THOMAS
What, anak?
CHRISTIAN
Theresa decided to have a debut.
Stephen rolls his eyes, annoyed that no one let
him finish his story. Thomas looks at Theresa,
shocked and Theresa looks down at the floor.
THOMAS
Hunny, is that true? Did you really decide to have one?
THERESA
Yes.
THOMAS
(excitedly) YES! Perfect! All right! We should probably
start planning right now then right? I’ll call all your
aunts and uncles, your grandparents! Do you think we
should invite our neighbors?
THERESA
DAD! Calm down. I’ll do the debut, but you can’t plan
everything. I want to have a say in it too, okay. After
all, this is MY thing.
PENNY
(smiling) You’re maturing so gracefully, anak.
THOMAS
(smiling at Theresa) You’re right. My little girl is
growing up so fast. (hugs Theresa tightly)
THERESA
Dad. Stop. Please.
THOMAS
Sorry. Well, I guess that means I don’t have to tell
Tita Evelyn to not come anymore!
THERESA
Wait, what? You told Tita Evelyn to come over?!
THOMAS
Yeah...
THERESA
WHY?! You know how she gets about stuff like this!
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 10.
Thomas looks down, sheepishly as the doorbell
rings. He goes to answer it. Tita Evelyn, Tito
Ramon, Ate Josie and Ate Steph come in.
TITA EVELYN
HELLO EVERYBODY!
She goes around kissing all the kids and pinching
their cheeks. Everyone else says hi to each other.
THOMAS
You should tell them.
THERESA
Dad, no.
TITO RAMON
Tell us what?
THERESA
(sighs) I’m having a debut.
Tita Evelyn, obviously very excited, screams very
loudly. The others coil and cover their ears.
TITA EVELYN
OH MY GOODNESS. I AM SO EXCITED. I WILL HELP YOU PLAN,
DEAR. DON’T YOU WORRY ABOUT IT!
STEPHEN
I’m gonna go upstairs....
CHRISTIAN
Same. Tita Ramon, wanna play video games with us?
TITO RAMON
What? Do you think I still play those old things?
(beat) Because you’re right. Now move over, oldest is
obviously Player 1.
The boys go off stage.
TITA EVELYN
Thomas, hah! Come with my to the kitchen, let’s
brainstorm about this.
Tita Evelyn drags Thomas to the kitchen and Penny
is seen following them.
THERESA
Oh, what did I get myself into? How did you guys do it?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 11.
ATE STEPH
Trust us, it wasn’t easy.
ATE JOSIE
Yeah, I’m lucky I even had a say in the dress I was
wearing.
THERESA
I suck at planning. I didn’t even know which shoes to
wear this morning. I almost left the house in my bunny
slippers.
ATE JOSIE
Honestly, it all comes kind of naturally. And it’s very
exciting.
ATE STEPH
Think about it. Everyone’s there to praise you. You’ll
get compliments the whole night. It’s really a night
devoted to you.
THERESA
(sigh) You’re right. It all just seems very stressful.
Especially since...you know.
ATE STEPH
Yeah, we understand Theresa. But we’re here for you. If
we can do it, you can definitely do it.
ATE JOSIE
Definitely, and we’ll be here to make sure our mom
doesn’t go too crazy on you.
ATE STEPH
And as long as you don’t turn into a Debut-zilla on us!
THERESA
(laughs) You’re ridiculous. But thank you. It means a
lot.
TRIBAL: Scene 4: Driving Lesson
Thomas is pacing around the room, looking anxious.
THOMAS
THERESA! GET DOWN HERE RIGHT NOW.
THERESA
(off stage) I’M COMING HOLD ON!
Thomas shakes his head. Stephen enters.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 12.
STEPHEN
Hey, dad. Can you take me to my friend’s house?
THOMAS
Stephen, you know I’m going to take your sister out
driving today. Why don’t you ask Christian to take you.
STEPHEN
(annoyed) Fine. Whatever. (yells) KUYA!!!
CHRISTIAN
What?
STEPHEN
Can you take me to my friend’s house? Dad is too busy
treating Theresa like a princess.
CHRISTIAN
Sure. Wanna go to Diamond Jamboree and get Lollicup on
the way?
STEPHEN
Hell yeah. Bye dad. At least someone in the family
wants to hang out with me.
Stephen walks out angrily while Christian follows.
THOMAS
(rolls his eyes) THERESA.
Theresa runs out.
THERESA
I’m ready. Let’s go.
Thomas and Theresa get into the car.
THOMAS
Have you been reading your driving handbook.
THERESA
Yes, like the bible.
THOMAS
You don’t read the bible...
THERESA
(laughs) Exactly.
THOMAS
(shaking his head) Okay well, what’s the first thing
you do when you get into the car.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 13.
THERESA
Play music?
THOMAS
NO! You check your mirrors.
THERESA
I knew that! (fixes mirrors)
THOMAS
Now, turn the car on. (beat) Put it in reverse. (beat)
Now back up slowly...
The car jerks a lot as Theresa tries to drive.
THOMAS
Anak, you can’t always put your foot on the breaks.
Someone can rear-end you.
THERESA
Sorry, sorry. I’m just nervous. (takes a deep breath)
Okay, I’m ready.
THOMAS
Okay, now make a right here. (Theresa starts to make a
right) WAIT YOU DIDN’T PUT YOUR BLINKER ON.
THERESA
DAD STOP YELLING AT ME.
THOMAS
Sorry. Okay, let’s just drive around for a while.
(beat) So...are you excited to start planning your
debut?
THERESA
Yeah...I’m excited. I’m glad to have the girls be so
supportive and I’m excited to do a dance with them and
look all fancy schmancy.
THOMAS
Are you still going shopping with your Tita and cousins
this weekend?
THERESA
Yeah, I’m gonna ask the girls to come with me, too. You
know, moral support.
THOMAS
Can I come?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 14.
THERESA
No.
THOMAS
Why not?
THERESA
It’s a girls thing, dad. You wouldn’t understand. Just
be happy I’m actually having a debut.
THOMAS
You won’t admit it to yourself yet, but I know deep
down you want to have one. I remember when you were
younger, you and your mom would wear dresses all over
the house and-
THERESA
Okay, that’s enough dad.
And awkward silence is shared between the two of
them.
THOMAS
(clears throat) So, have you thought about who to ask
to be in your court?
THERESA
Definitely going to ask Olivia, Sarah and Jordan. And
Jacob and Chad as well. Just the usual friends from
school. And well, I was hoping that Nick...never mind.
THOMAS
Who’s Nick?
THERESA
No one dad.
THOMAS
Why are you lying to me?
THERESA
I’m not lying! He’s just a guy at my school.
THOMAS
And you hope he does what.....?
THERESA
Uhm, give me his answers for Calculus homework?
THOMAS
(laughing) You can’t lie, Theresa. I guess you get that
from your mother.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 15.
THERESA
(beat) I want him to be my escort.
THOMAS
ESCORT?!?!?!
THERESA
Dad! What did I say about the yelling?!
THOMAS
Sorry, anak. I was just, uh, I mean...
THERESA
Dad, you know there has to be an escort right?
THOMAS
Well, of course I know! I just assumed you would ask
your kuya to escort you...?
THERESA
What?! Dad, no that’s weird.
THOMAS
Just a suggestion. Anyways, what’s this Nick boy like?
Is he a good student? In sports? In band? Is he
religious? Ugh, don’t tell me he plays Yu-gi-oh cards
like your last boyfriend...
THERESA
DAD! Enough! First of all, let’s not bring up
"he-who-shall-not-be-named" and secondly, why does it
matter? He’s a good guy, trust me.
THOMAS
Well, that’s good at least. I want to meet him first!
THERESA
(rolls eyes) Of course, dad.
Theresa’s phone dings from a text message and she
looks down for a second.
THOMAS
NEVER TAKE YOUR EYES OFF THE ROAD THERESA!
THERESA
You know what, I think we should go home now. This is
enough driving for one day.
THOMAS
Good idea.
16.
Scene 5: Boutique Shopping
Tita Evelyn, Penny and Theresa & her friends are
at a local boutique shop looking at possible
dresses and decorations for the debut.
TITA EVELYN
Have you thought about what color scheme you want your
debut to be?
PENNY
She’ll probably say maroon. She loves that color.
THERESA
Definitely maroon. I love that color.
TITA EVELYN
Are you sure? I do not remember this looking good on
you. You look better in black and white.
PENNY
It’s not a funeral.
THERESA
Auntie, this isn’t a funeral. Or a wedding...
OLIVIA
She wishes it was....
Theresa’s friends giggle among themselves
THERESA
Seriously guys?!?!
PENNY
It’s ok honey calm down. Just be patient, they are
excited to see their friend!
OLIVIA
Why don’t we switch things up a bit? What about the
decorations? I’m thinkin a bit of purple and some
yellow. And we’ll use big purple balloons!
JORDAN
Looks like there will be big purple Barney’s
everywhere.
THERESA
C’mon ya’ll! I don’t think any of those colors will
match my dress, my maroo.....
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 17.
TITA EVELYN
Green!
THERESA
Maroon Dress! (visibly frustrated)
PENNY
Honey....please.
JORDAN
Oh! What about center pieces! I’ve always liked pink.
We could do pink and white roses! Or even have flower
petals all over the table!
THERESA
I mean yeah that could work. But wouldn’t red roses
match more to the decorations and dress that are gonna
be MAROON?
PENNY
They’ll listen, anak. Just be patient.
TITA EVELYN
Ay! Pink would look so good with your skin color! It’ll
make your eyes pop! Your mom would agree with me.
PENNY
Actually, I want whatever Theresa wants.
THERESA
Well it’s not her debut, it’s mine.
SARAH
But let’s talk about the most important thing.
THERESA
Thank you! Finally someone is on my side.
SARAH
So who’s going to be the DJ at your debut? Because I
know some guys that my uncle knows who would be hella
sick at making this party poppin.
THERESA
It’s kind of early to be thinking about DJs and music
isn’t it, Sarah?
SARAH
It’s never too early for good music.
THERESA
Well, we haven’t even found the right dress yet and the
color scheme-
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 18.
TITA EVELYN
It will be this dress!
She holds up a odd-colored looking dress
PENNY
Oh no, I don’t like that one bit.
TITA EVELYN
Your mother would love it!
Penny rolls her eyes.
OLIVIA
How about this one?
JORDAN
No, this one is prettier.
SARAH
We could all match if we wore this one.
Theresa looks impatient as the girls run over to
the table with the decorations.
TITA EVELYN
Oh, this glass bowl would look beautiful in the center
with some confetti and chocolates!
SARAH
Or, we could have this vase in the center with
sunflowers!
OLIVIA
But what about these bunches of balloons that we can
tie around the chairs?
JORDAN
I still really like my idea of petals around the table.
All of the girls begin to continually annoy
Theresa with their ideas and ramble over on
another. Penny notices her daughter visibly upset
and walks over to comfort her. But when she’s
about to reach out to her, Theresa recoils.
THERESA
NO! Why are you guys trying to decide everything for
me?!
TITA EVELYN
We’re only trying to help, Theresa.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 19.
THERESA
There’s a difference between helping and forcing. You
guys aren’t helping at all.
OLIVIA
Theresa, we’re sorry. We just want what’s best for you.
PENNY
They’re right, anak. They just want to help.
THERESA
Ugh. But you’re not even listening to what I want, or
what my concept of the debut is! Do you think I can’t
do it by myself?
TITA EVELYN
We didn’t meant to be over-bearing...
THERESA
Well you are. (sighs) I just need some time to think,
and cool down.
Theresa exits leaving all the girls looking sad
and ashamed.
CHOIR: Scene 6: The Big Fight
Thomas is on the phone in the living room,
presumably with Tita Evelyn about what happened at
the boutique.
THOMAS
I see. I’ll talk to her, Evelyn.
Theresa enters the living room
THOMAS
I’ll call you back later. Hey Theresa. (visibly
worried)
THERESA
Dad.
THOMAS
How did shopping go?
THERESA
Good.
THOMAS
Did you figure out any major details? I’m sure you are
making some progress.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 20.
PENNY
We are making progress, I know it!
THERESA
Define progress.
THOMAS
(Sarcastically) I could get the dictionary! I know it’s
around here somewhere (pretending to browse)
THERESA
Dad would you like to be hired as the main comedian?
THOMAS
I was just joking hon...
THERESA
No! I have a better idea, I can give you a joker hat
and you will be my jester! Every court needs a jester!
Theresa mockingly dances around.
THOMAS
I was just trying to help.
THERESA
Help is exactly what I need Dad! I could seriously see
a counselor or a shrink or a damn philisophy!
THOMAS
Philosopher anak....
Theresa exclaims in frustration. Penny tries to
console her but Theresa’s mannerisms push her
away. Thomas sits down in disbelief
THERESA
It’s like everything is piling on top of me. And
nobody understands! Everyone wants what they want.
Nobody wants what they can’t have. Everyone thinks
they know what I want. What she wants! But I have news
for all of them, they have no idea what I want. I feel
like nobody has even met me before.
THOMAS
Theresa you have to be patient.
THERESA
Patience is a virtue that I do not have!
PENNY
Tessa.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 21.
THERESA
I have tried to be patient. I have pushed myself to the
brink. First, I had to apply to college. Next I have
to plan for prom. Now I need two different dresses for
two different events. Then I embarrass myself in front
of Nick and not to mention the car I backed into!
THOMAS
Wait what!
THERESA
I honestly can’t deal with this stress anymore. This
isn’t even what I wanted in the first place.
THOMAS
Well then what do you want Theresa! I’ve asked you a
million times!
THERESA
You barely asked me! You just threw this on me!
THOMAS
Then what do you want Theresa?!
PENNY
Hunny, don’t yell at her.
THERESA
What do I want?! I just want to be me! Everyone thinks
I should be living some dream that Tita wants, cthat my
friends want, what you want! Why can’t anyone just
leave me be!
THOMAS
Tessa you think getting angry all the time will solve
all your problems!
THERESA
Don’t....
THOMAS
You speak like you own all the damn world. What have
you done to change things recently Tess?
THERESA
Stop calling me...
THOMAS
And you keep going on and on! You know your tita is
pulling all of her connections just for us to pull this
damn thing off. I don’t know anything about debuts. I
hardly know enough about raising three kids. What have
you contributed recently!?!
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 22.
THERESA
Dad!
THOMAS
Yes Tess more yelling!
THERESA
Stop...
THOMAS
Stop what? Should we throw everything away now Tess?
Penny tries in vain to step in between the two
when Theresa finally explodes.
THERESA
STOP CALLING ME TESS!!! That’s not my name!!! It is
Theresa Rey Aquilar! Not Tess, not Tessa it is Theresa!
Penny begins collapse and fade into sorrow.
Thomas is slowly recoiling from Theresa’s words,
barely able to understand her.
THOMAS
Tessa...
THERESA
I will contribute everything I have to what you all put
forth but I will not be controlled. I am old enough to
make my own decision on this. This is my debut!
THOMAS
You will not be able to know all of the things you need
for this.
THERESA
Leave it alone dad.
PENNY
Please just relax both of you!
THOMAS
You need to open up to people more Theresa. You’re
shutting people out.
THERESA
I don’t need to open up to anyone.
THOMAS
Then how do you expect people to help you?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 23.
THERESA
I don’t need anyone’s help.
THOMAS
You can’t do this all on your own.
THERESA
(frustrated) All I want is her help! (gestures in
Penny’s direction)
THOMAS
I know Theresa, but you know that she...
THERESA
I don’t want to talk about this anymore, dad. I’m gonna
go to bed.
Theresa exits stages right, leaving Thomas looking
defeated.
KORDS
24.
ACT II
MORO: Scene 7: Father and Mother
Penny and Thomas are seen walking around a park.
They are standing close, but not close enough to
touch. Their body language is comfortable.
THOMAS
(sighs) I honestly don’t know how you did it.
PENNY
Trust me, it wasn’t easy. But I had you.
THOMAS
It just feels like everything is falling apart.
Actually, it’s been feeling like that for a long
time...
Thomas sits down and puts his face in his hands,
he appears to be in deep thought.
PENNY
I know it’s hard, dear. But the kids look up to you.
You’re one of their role models. Don’t ever forget that
they love you so much. As do I.
THOMAS
(sits up) You know, this is where I asked you to be my
girlfriend.
PENNY
(smiles) I remember. We were supposed to eat at that
fancy restaurant but you forgot to make reservations
and we ate at Mick’s Karma Bar instead.
THOMAS
I guess making those reservations was a good move on my
part. Even if it wasn’t intentional. (smiles) We had a
pretty great life together.
PENNY
(smiles) We did.
THOMAS
(beat) I need you, more than ever. How am I going to
handle this situation, Penny? (looks into distance as
if in deep thought)
PENNY
You need patience, dear. They’re just kids. They don’t
know how to do this by themselves.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 25.
THOMAS
How am I going to handle Theresa, especially? I feel
like I don’t relate to her at all. I feel like I can’t
help her.
PENNY
I know it feels like that. But you just have to remind
her that you’re there to help her. I know it seems like
she’s pushing you away, but that’s when you need to be
there for her the most. She needs her father.
THOMAS
(shaking his head) She needs her mother.
PENNY
I know...but she also needs you.
THOMAS
(beat) Our kids are growing up so fast, Penny. It’s
amazing what they’ve all accomplished.
PENNY
I know! They really are maturing.
THOMAS
Christian is doing so well in college. Theresa has been
working on her applications almost every day. And
Stephen is probably going to be a lead for this year’s
play.
PENNY
Those are the kids we raised, honey. Achievers and
dreamers.
THOMAS
I know so much about them, and yet I still feel so
distant from them. (beat) Tell me what I should do.
(beat) Anything?
PENNY
You know what you have to do, honey.
THOMAS
(sudden realization) I know what I have to do. I gotta
go talk to the kids. (mutters) I love you honey, thank
you.
Thomas runs off stage and leaves a satisfied
looking Penny on the bench.
26.
CHOIR: Scene 8: Family Talk
Stephen is sitting on the couch on his phone.
Theresa walks in from stage right.
THERESA
Hey.
She sits down next to him on the couch.
STEPHEN
(not looking up from his phone) Where’s dad?
THERESA
Not sure. We’re not exactly on speaking terms right
now.
STEPHEN
Why not? You’re obviously the favorite, am I right?
THERESA
What’s that supposed to mean?
STEPHEN
It means that you’ve been getting all the attention
lately and I’ve been pushed to the side.
THERESA
Do you think I want this attention?!
STEPHEN
Well it seems like you’re loving it.
THERESA
Well, you’re wrong. Do you think I want to be reminded
of this stupid debut every single day? My life has
literally been revolving around it and it’s stressing
me out.
STEPHEN
Oh boo hoo, Princess.
THERESA
What’s your problem?!
STEPHEN
My problem is that no one seems to care what I’ve been
doing recently. The director made me lead in this years
play which means casting directors might come watch but
all they care about is your stupid debut!
Christian walks in and stands behind Theresa.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 27.
CHRISTIAN
What are you two yelling about?!
THERESA
Why don’t you ask the spoiled brat over here!
STEPHEN
I wouldn’t be acting this way if you guys acted like
you cared about my life!
Thomas walks in looking exhausted.
CHRISTIAN
Dad. A little help please.
Thomas stands in-between Stephen and Theresa
THOMAS
What’s the problem here?
STEPHEN
Oh perfect, just the person we wanted to see.
THOMAS
(looks at both Theresa and Stephen) Care to explain?
THERESA
We DON’T need your help dad.
THOMAS
(sighs and sits down) No, Theresa. You’re right. You
don’t.
THERESA
(taken aback) What?
THOMAS
I know I’ve been very harsh lately. And I’ve been a
little pushy with this whole debut thing. I didn’t
understand then, but I understand now. What I want, is
whatever you want. Whether that be having a debut or
not. And I promise I will be here for you every step of
the way. Guiding and supporting you. Not controlling
you. (beat) (looks at Stephen) And Stephen. I know it
seems that I’m not paying attention to you and I want
to apologize for that. I know how important theater is
to you and I should have been there for you during your
auditions. But I can promise you now that I will be
front row during all your shows.
THERESA
Wow. I don’t know what to say, dad.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 28.
STEPHEN
Same...but I guess I have been a little selfish lately.
THERESA
Me, too. Sorry for acting like such a princess.
STEPHEN
Sorry for being a total attention seeker.
CHRISTIAN
When are you not though?
Thomas lightly hits Christian and the whole family
laughs.
STEPHEN
Truce?
THERESA
Truce.
THOMAS
FAMILY HUG!
Thomas grabs all of his kids and hugs them tightly
and the kids laugh and try to get away from him.
THERESA
Dad, I’ve decided that I really do want to have a
debut.
THOMAS
How long have you decided this?
THERESA
I’ve always wanted a debut, dad. I was just so stressed
out about the thought that I lashed out at everyone. It
was a lot to handle. But now, I think I can do it. And
I really mean that.
THOMAS
(smiling) I’m very happy to hear that Tessa. I mean,
Theresa.
THERESA
I like Tessa. Sorry I yelled at you about that. You can
call me Tessa.
THOMAS
I’m glad.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 29.
CHRISTIAN
Not to be the bearer of bad news, but your birthday is
a month away and I don’t think you have anything
planned?
THERESA
Oh, trust me I’m working on it! Me, Tita Evelyn, Ate
Josie and Ate Steph are going dress and decoration
shopping tomorrow! Kind of to make up for my erratic
behavior the first time.
STEPHEN
You should totally have Seafood City cater your debut.
Their chicken barbecue is BOMB.
THERESA
(laughs) Yeah, that would be really cool! I also asked
some people to help me work on choreo for the hip-hop
dance my court and I will do! Wanna see?
Stephen, Thomas, and Christian all agree as Senior
runs out and does their performance.
SENIOR: Scene 9: Friend talk
Theresa is sitting on one of the benches at the
quad as her friends come in, looking nervous to
approach her.
OLIVIA
(coughs to get Theresa’s attention) Theresa, can we
talk to you.
THERESA
Sure, what’s up?
JORDAN
We just want to say that we’re really sorry of how we
acted at the boutique.
SARAH
Yeah, we were so out of line. We just got really
excited. Can you forgive us?
THERESA
Of course I can. And you girls weren’t out of line. You
were just excited for me! And you should be. Since I’m
officially having a debut!
All the girls scream and get excited and start
jumping around.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 30.
THERESA
So that means I need people in my court. And it would
mean the world to me if you three were in my court.
OLIVIA
Of course!! This is such an honor!
JORDAN
I’m so excited for you!
THERESA
And I’m talking to you guys too! Will you be in my
court as well? The girls do need partners.
CHAD
Of course we will, Theresa.
JACOB
As long as I’m partnered up with my babe.
SARAH
Obviously. Chad, will you be my partner?
CHAD
I would love to!
JORDAN
Well...I guess I’m partnerless.
OLIVIA
It’s okay. I’m sure you’ll find someone Jordan! Do you
have everything finalized for your debut, Theresa?
THERESA
Well, I went back to the boutique with my aunt and we
agreed to keep the color scheme at maroon. So is it
okay with you all if you wear maroon to the debut?
All the friends agree simultaneously.
THERESA
And although I couldn’t find a maroon gown that I
liked, I did find this gorgeous white gown.
All the friends huddle together as Theresa shows
them a picture on her phone.
CHAD
Girl, you look great!
JACOB
You look like a princess.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 31.
OLIVIA
I agree. You’re going to look so beautiful, Theresa.
THERESA
Are you saying I don’t look beautiful right now?
OLIVIA
What?! No!
THERESA
I’m just kidding.
All the friends laugh as Nick walks in from stage
left.
JACOB
That’s our queue to leave guys. Let’s leave the
lovebirds alone.
All the friends giggle as they exit stage right,
leaving Theresa and Nick alone.
NICK
Hey Theresa.
THERESA
(shyly) Hey.
NICK
Can I tell you something?
THERESA
Can I ask you something?
They both laugh as they say the same thing at the
same time.
THERESA
You first.
NICK
(breathes deeply) I just wanted to tell you that...even
if you don’t have a debut...
THERESA
Nick...
NICK
That I’ll still be here for you and support you as a
friend. Well, I mean... I shouldn’t say that. Because I
like you more than a friend. Oh my gosh, did I just say
that?
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 32.
THERESA
(grabs Nick’s hands) Nick. I like you more than a
friend, too.
NICK
(sighs) Really?
THERESA
Really. And now that we have this established, I was
wondering if you would like to be my escort for my
debut?
NICK
I would love to, Theresa.
THERESA
Great! Since the actual debut is coming up really
quick, do you mind if I teach you some of the waltz
right now?
NICK
Sure! I’m a quick learner.
Theresa and Nick do some simple waltz moves as
they waltz off stage, presenting MC to do their
performance.
MC: Scene 10: The Debut
presentations
On one side of the stage, Theresa’s friends and
whole family are awaiting her entrance, while on
the other side of the stage Theresa is sitting
"alone" getting ready.
TITO RAMON
How are you feeling?
THOMAS
Nervous is an understatement.
TITA EVELYN
Ay, Thomas. Don’t worry. It will be fine.
ATE STEPH
Yeah, and she has her cute boyfriend escorting her in.
THOMAS
Ugh! Don’t remind me. He’s a nice boy though. But I
still have my eye on him.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 33.
ATE JOSIE
Whatever you say, Tito.
The light switches to the other half of the stage.
THERESA
Wow, mom. I can’t believe the day is finally here.
PENNY
Anak, you look so incredibly beautiful. I’m so proud of
you.
THERESA
I can’t believe we’re finally having a debut.
PENNY
No anak, you’re finally having one. One you deserve and
worked so hard for.
THERESA
I couldn’t have done this without your guidance.
PENNY
I’m always with you, anak. Don’t forget that.
THERESA
I love you, mom.
PENNY
I love you too, anak.
Nick comes out from stage right.
NICK
Are you ready, Theresa?
THERESA
Ready as I’ll ever be.
Nick takes Theresa’s hand as they walk around to
the other side of the stage. The stage is now on
big stage.
MC
Ladies and gentlemen. I present to you, your debutante!
Theresa Rey Aguilar!
Everyone on stage erupts into applause and
screams. Tita Evelyn wipes tears from her eyes.
Theresa stands in the middle of the stage as
everyone comes up to her and greets her.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 34.
TITA EVELYN
(sniffling) Theresa, hunny. You look SO beautiful.
THERESA
Thank you, Tita.
TITO RAMON
Yes, you look like a shining star! Like Staryu. The
Pokemon.
STEPHEN
You play too many video games with us, Tito.
THERESA
(laughs) Thank you, Tito!
TITO RAMON
(smiling) It’s what I do.
CHRISTIAN
You look great, Theresa!
THERESA
Thanks Kuya!!
STEPHEN
You aight.
Theresa playfully hits him on the arm.
STEPHEN
Just kidding! You look great!
THERESA
Oh, I know. I just wanted to hear you say it.
The brothers go to the side of the stage where the
rest of the family is.
THOMAS
Boys, stop teasing your sister!
THERESA
It’s okay, dad. It’s funny.
THOMAS
Tessa, you looks absolutely stunning. You look like
your mother so much.
THERESA
Thank you, dad. That means a lot. This is all for her.
Theresa and Thomas hug as her friends walk toward
her.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 35.
THOMAS
Go talk to your friends. I’ll be over here trying to
keep Stephen from eating all the barbecue chicken.
(walks away)
OLIVIA
Theresa!! You look so beautiful!
SARAH
Like a princess!
JORDAN
AND you were able to get that hot guy on your arm.
Theresa blushes as Nick comes next to her and puts
his arm around her.
NICK
Is that hot guy me?
THERESA
(teasingly) I suppose... (laughs)
JACOB
This is so fun! Your family really knows how to throw a
great party!
THERESA
Thank YOU all for being in my court. It means a lot to
have you all with me. And the party is just getting
started!
OLIVIA
Theresa, shouldn’t we get ready for the court hip hop
performance?
THERESA
Yeah we should! Let’s get changed.
The friends exit stage right.
MC
And now, ladies and gentlemen. Get ready to be blown
away by the amazing dance moves from the court in their
hip hop performance!
MODERN: Scene 11: Candle Speeches
and Roses
Theresa is standing center stage while all her
candles and roses are standing on stage left near
the back. The MC is standing stage right.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 36.
MC
The debutante will now dance with her roses, as we hear
the candle speeches.
Nick walks up with a rose and hands it to Theresa
as they start dancing. Olivia, Jordan and Sarah
stand near the front to give their speech.
JORDAN
Theresa, we can’t thank you enough for letting us share
this special moment with you.
OLIVIA
You have always been a sister to us.
SARAH
From sharing your food with us or just shopping with
us...
OLIVIA
You’ve always been there for us through the good times
and the bad times...
JORDAN
And we just want you to know that we’ll always be there
for you.
SARAH
Even if we all decide to go to separate colleges...
OLIVIA
I know that we’ll all still be best friends...
JORDAN
And when we do see each other again, it’ll be like
nothing has changed.
ALL GIRLS
We love you, Theresa! Happy birthday!
All the girls hug each other as the girls and Nick
step to the side.
Tito Ramon steps up to dance with Theresa as Ate
Josie and Ate Steph start to speak.
ATE JOSIE
Theresa, me and Steph are so incredibly proud of how
far you’ve come.
ATE STEPH
You look so beautiful tonight and we’re actually
surprised you didn’t turn into a debut-zilla like how
we did.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 37.
ATE JOSIE
You handled the pressures of planning a debut, even
when our mom was hovering over you the whole time.
ATE STEPH
We’re actually pretty impressed that you didn’t pull
your hair out every time you planned with her.
The whole crowd laughs as Tita Evelyn screams
"Hey!" on the side.
ATE JOSIE
As you get older and start to become more independent,
don’t forget that your family will still be here for
you.
ATE STEPH
Your ates are always here for you, Theresa!
ATE JOSIE
Happy birthday! We love you!
The girls hug as they step to the side.
Theresa’s lolo and lola make a surprise
appearance.
LOLA
Theresa, hah! You’re growing up to be such a beautiful
young lady. Just like your nanay.
LOLO
That is true!
LOLA
Your lolo and lola are so proud of you. You will always
be our little girl. Don’t forget that. We love you,
hunny. Come visit your lola and lolo more often! We’ll
cook for you.
LOLO
And give you money. But don’t tell your tatay.
Theresa hugs her grandparents and they leave the
stage.
Christian hands Theresa a rose and they begin to
dance.
STEPHEN
Ate, I know we have our ups and downs and I know
recently we’ve been fighting a lot. But I just want to
let you know that I look up to you. You’re my older
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 38.
STEPHEN (cont’d)sister and you’ve taught me a lot. Honestly, I get
really sad when I think about you moving away for
college. Who else am I gonna bug for rides or call a
princess? But I know that no matter where life takes
you, you’ll always be the big sister I can count on for
everything. Love you ate!
Stephen and Christian switch places.
CHRISTIAN
You’re a brat I hope you know that. (laughs) Just
kidding, ading. As your big brother, it’s always been
my job to look out after you. Whether that be school
problems or boy problems I’m always here for you. I’m
looking at you Nick. As you go to college, just
remember that your kuya is always here for you to help
you with the transition. And Stephen and I are always
going to be a phone call or visit away. We love you
Theresa.
The siblings hug and stand in the center as
Theresa is given the mic.
THERESA
Thank you everyone for your kind words. Each and every
one of you has impacted my life in the best way
possible and I can’t thank you all enough for coming
out and supporting me tonight. I love you all! Let’s
continue with the party!
Scene 12: Speech and Dance
The guests and Theresa are standing around talking
while the MC comes to the front.
MC
Ladies and gentlemen. The debutante will like to say a
few words.
THERESA
Thank you all for coming today. As some of you may
know, I didn’t really want to have this debut. I lashed
out at my friends and my family. I pushed away my dad
and my brothers. I didn’t think I needed anyone’s help.
But now I realize that I needed all of their help. I
was so scared of being alone that I pushed people away
when they got too close. But I really wanted them all
to be with me. I got angry and mad because I was just
reminded of how much this debut meant to my mom. The
thought of doing a debut without her was so sad to me.
This was supposed to be our thing.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 39.
Penny comes next to Theresa.
And when she passed away, the thought of having a debut
passed with her. It wasn’t until my dad brought it up
to me that I was reminded of the promise I made to her.
Even though she’s not with us in this life anymore,
she’ll always be with me wherever I go. She’ll always
be in my thoughts and in my heart. And on most days, I
always feel like she’s watching over me. I miss her
everyday, but I know she would be so proud of me. This
debut is for her.
PENNY
Anak, I’ll always be with you. I love you.
Thomas comes over to Theresa and hugs her and she
silently cries on his shoulder.
THOMAS
I know how much you wanted a maroon dress. But... I got
this ribbon for you. I know it’s not much but...
THERESA
Dad, it’s perfect.
Theresa turns around and Thomas ties the ribbon
around her waist.
MC
The debutante and her father will now dance.
The crowd makes a half circle around them as CHOIR
comes out and sings while they dance.
THOMAS
Mom would be so proud of you.
THERESA
I know dad. Thank you for everything.
The dance comes to a close as the light shines on
Penny and fades out.
