Big Mary – Theatre Play Book

Age: High School Students

Set in the summer of 1916 in the small town of Eddington, Tennessee, “Big Mary” tells the dramatic and poignant tale of a circus elephant caught in a web of human folly and racial prejudices. The story unfolds as the circus’s star elephant, Big Mary, reacts violently to mistreatment from her new handler, leading to a tragic incident that stirs the local community into a frenzy of misguided justice.

This theatre play book, designed for high school students, explores deep themes of justice, mob mentality, and racial inequality through the lens of a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a travelling circus. Despite the simplicity of the setting and the minimalistic stage requirements, the play delivers a powerful message, mirroring the complexities of societal issues that are just as relevant today.

Originally performed by a diverse group of forty actors from ten different high schools, this play can be adapted for smaller casts and varied age groups, making it an adaptable and insightful addition to any educational theatre program. “Big Mary” is a thought-provoking piece that challenges audiences to reflect on the consequences of ignorance and the importance of compassion in a tumultuous world.