Dumping Ground

The scene is the road leading to a dumping site used by a local chemical company. Monica, a young divorcee who works as a cleaning woman to support her family, and Clayton, a widower who runs a feed store, have set up barriers across the road, and are determined to turn away the next company truck which shows up

They have not met before, but their shared concern and outrage quickly builds a bond between them. When a truck does arrive they hold firm, much to the consternation of the young driver, who is only doing his job, and who seems more interested in arranging a date with Monica than in carrying out his responsibilities

Frustrated on both counts he leaves, and Clayton and Monica, flushed with victory, make a date to go square dancing the next night - but not before making it clear that they will be quickly back at the barricades should circumstances demand

Produced by New York's Ensemble Studio Theatre, as part of its annual festival of one-act plays. A compelling yet warm-hearted study of two indigent citizens who decide to blockade a dumping site which is threatening to pollute their air and water

" the outstanding play in the third round of the Ensemble Studio Theatre's seasonal festival of one-acts she has a talent for portraying recognizable people in emotionally charged situations" ~ NY Times

" the strongest of the lot - a tough-minded protest play" ~ Village Voice