Bump the Dump - a musical about a rural county's fight to keep a nuke dump out
Bump the Dump
a musical in two acts
Based on Allegany County's (New York) citizens' fight to keep a nuclear waste dump out of their county as told by:
John Arden-Hopkins and Anna Eskenazi Bush (formerly Woodbridge)
Dedicated to the memory of Dale Misenheimer, a professor of English at Alfred State College and a gifted musician who led the B.A.N.D.I.T.S. (Bands Against Nuclear Dumps in this State)
Based on actual events that took place in Allegany County, New York. All characters are fictitious.
c 1995 John Arden-Hopkins and Anna Eskenazi-Woodbridge
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. v.2 For performance information contact Anna Eskenazi Bush at annabush@gmail.com
Characters of the play:
Emily Trubeck - 15
Randy Trubeck - 17, her brother
Bonnie Trubeck - 35, her mother
Dennis Trubeck - 39, her father
Billy Shear - 18, friend of Randy
Joseph Stern - 57, Principal of Belfast Central School
Siting Commissioners - FOUR people, male and/or female
Citizen #2 - leader Paul Murphy
Citizen #1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Mother
Child #1, Child #2
Citizen G - singer with guitar, Mary Burdock
Citizen S - senior citizen, Merle Morton
Lt. John Steed
four to six state police persons
other citizens of all ages, including children
newspaper and television reporters
ACT I, Scene 1 - the gym/auditorium at Belfast Central School
Scene 2 - the Trubeck home, the following evening
Scene 3 - any town, Allegany County, one month later
ACT II, Scene 1 - office of Concerned Citizens of Allegany County
(CCAC) about two months later
Scene 2 - the bridge at Caneadea, NY, the next day
Act I
Scene 1: The gym/auditorium of Belfast Central School. A snowy, cold winter evening. Actors/citizens are in the actual audience, while the stage holds four chairs and a podium to be occupied by the commissioners. The citizens in the audience are holding protest signs, dressed as the grim reaper, etc. and are handing out flyers/programs. There is some general dialogue, a buzz of excitement ("I hear they think there's about 5000 people here tonight," etc.) Principal Stern enters, stands at a microphone, does the whole "testing" bit/gets some feed back etc.
Stern: Testing...testing...1,2,3...can you hear me? (micro-
phone whistles) testing...testing.
Citizen: (teasing) Sure, Joe. We can hear you LOUD and clear as usual. (Laughter)
Stern: Thank you all for coming out on this bitter night. For those of you who don't know me, I am Joseph Stern, principal of Belfast Central School. We have opened up some of the classrooms and put in closed
circuit television to make room for the other citizens of Allegany County who have come to our school tonight. We ask that everyone be seated. The Governor has sent four siting commissioners here tonight to explain why Allegany County is under consideration as a potential site for a low-level nuclear waste disposal facility. As we all know, recent federal regulations requires that each state be responsible for the disposal of its own nuclear waste. This is the first time we in Allegany County will be getting a chance to meet with the commissioners from New York State to find out exactly what they are proposing. It is obviously a major concern to all of us who live here in rural Allegany County and your presence here tonight will show the commissioners just how concerned we are. (a student hands him a slip of paper) I have just been notified that there are an estimated 5000 people here at Belfast Central School tonight. (General reaction from the audience/citizens "Wow, that's amazing, etc.) That's significant, since our total county population is only 50,000. School buses have been sent in from 8 of our 14 school districts. I commend each of you for being here tonight and getting involved. The commissioners will make their presentation and then there will be time for those of you who have questions or opinions to step up to the microphone and be heard.
Thank you. (polite applause from the audience)
(Stern exits. Music begins/beat. The four commissioners enter, all wearing black suits and carrying black attaché cases. They walk out in a synchronized fashion, turn to face forward at the same time in front of the chairs. Sit at same time. Each takes a picture out of their own case. #1 has picture of Allegany County, #2 has picture of something "scientific", #3 has picture of nurse or doctor with patient, # 4 picture of money sign or money. They each go to a board and put the pictures up - also synchronized - then return to seats. Each takes a pointer out of attaché case and sits poised, #1 goes to podium and begins song. As they sing they point frantically at the pictures, then later at the audience.)
SONG - Take the Offer
Com. #1: Listen
Allegany people listen
we've got a special tale to tell you
Listen well to what I say
Problem
Your government has got a problem
We need your help to find an answer
You can help us - here's the way
Com. #2: Science
Our universe is full of science
But science can bring us problems
And that's what we came to say
Garbage
Everything we do makes garbage
It's a special kind of problem
We must solve it right away
Com. #3: Nuke waste
High-tech health care can make nuke waste
Sometimes curing folks makes nuke waste
Which we have to put away
Help us
Every one of you can help us
Help our doctors help our nurses
Find a dump site that's OK
Com. #4: Money
We can offer you some money
Lots of jobs and lots of money
If you help us we will pay
Future
High-tech science is the future
You'll be part of New York's future
If you join with us today
ALL 4: Listen to us/we will help you
Don't be nervous/we will help you
It's OK
Take the offer/it is generous
You can help to make it happen
It's OK
#1: Empty
Your whole county's kind of empty
There's no houses, there's no people
A nuke dump won't be in your way
Poor folks
Your whole county's full of poor folks
We can offer jobs to poor folks
Help them earn some decent pay
#2: Science
The future of our world is science
Join the techno revolution
Help to point the future way
Leaders
All you people will be leaders
Showing others how to do it
Allegany lead the way!
#3: Helping
You'll be on the side that's helping
Battling the dread diseases
That might kill us all one day
Cancer
Nuke waste comes from fighting cancer
Help to save our kids from cancer
That's the role that you can play
#4: Struggle
Allegany people often struggle
Take the jobs that we will bring you
And you'll see a better day
Taxes
We will help you pay your taxes
We'll pay for schools, for roads, for bridges
You'd never have another way
ALL 4:Listen to us/we will help you
Don't be nervous/we will help you
It's OK
Take the offer/it is generous
You can help to make it happen
It's OK
#1: (musical tag)
We have provided this opportunity for you to tell us
your reaction to our generous offer.
Remember, there are other areas in the state that are
also being offered the opportunity for these jobs and
these benefits.
If you have a question or comment please step to one of the microphones provided for the audience.
If you have technical questions, we'll do our best to
answer them. Please talk for no more than a few minutes
so everyone has a chance. Who's first? Yes, miss, what do you have to say?
(Emily walks down the aisle in the auditorium and stands at microphone at the end of the aisle. Acoustic guitar music starts. This is a contrast to the empty, high-tech sound of "Take the Offer.")
SONG - Allegany Children
EMILY: Allegany Children
to us your words are clear
you want to take our homes away
and dump your garbage here.
Allegany children
we're here to take a stand
we don't want your nuke dump
not in our promised land.
I grew up amid the fields
of corn and wheat and hay
our county is a special place
for kids like me to grow and play.
(Other children join Emily)
Allegany children
our message isn't hard
we don't want your nuke dump
not in our backyard
Allegany children
please listen to us say
all we have's our future
please don't take it away.
We may be simple people
our lives are in the land
we belong to Allegany
in a special way
you can't understand.
Allegany children
our message isn't hard
we don't want your nuke dump
not in our backyard.
Allegany children
we're here to take a stand
we don't want your nuke dump
not in our promised land.
Allegany children, Allegany children, Allegany children
#2: (condescending) We thank you for your input, children, but these
kinds of questions are better left to older people.
(Children begin to leave the stage, Emily lingers)
Maybe you should ask your parents what they think about
this generous offer that your government is making.
If there is anyone else--perhaps a little older, or who
represents a point of view of the taxpayers of this
community--we would be happy to hear you now.
(Emily stands her ground - family joins her)
SONG - "We're a Family"
Trubeck Family: We're a family
What does that mean?
We stand together when
times get hard.
We're a family
we've always been
four lives together
that's what we are
Bonnie & Dennis: When something threatens
what we are
We come together to stay.
We stand as one, that's how it's done
That is the family way.
Family: We're a family
The world should know
we help each other through
any trouble.
We're a family
and as we grow
our trust is strong and our
love is true.
Randy & Emily: When something threatens
what we are
We come together to stay.
We stand as one, that's how it's done
That is the family way.
Family: We're a family
the world should know
we help each other through
any trouble.
We're a family
and as we grow
our trust is strong and our
love is true.
We're a family
we're a family
we're a family
#3: (Condescending)
Well, that was a really refreshing view of the kind of
family values that make America great. (The Commissioner
turns his back to the family, the family returns to the audience). We have, for the SERIOUSLY interested, a large amount of material that explains the absolute safety of waste disposal facilities and the outstanding economic benefits that such a facility will bestow on a REMOTE RURAL location such as this. We have heard from one family so far, and we are interested in knowing what the OPINION LEADERS here in Allegany County have to say.
You sir, yes you in the shirt and tie. What do you say? Step up to the microphone please. Don't be afraid. What do you say?
Citizen: We're gonna fight you!
#3: I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that. Speak into the
microphone please.
SONG - We're Gonna Fight You!
Citizen: We're gonna fight you!
(MORE VOICES): We're gonna fight you!
(MORE VOICES): We're gonna fight you!
(MORE VOICES): We're gonna fight you!
Chorus: We're gonna fight you
we'll fight you all the way
We're gonna fight you
we're gonna make you pay
We're gonna fight you
no matter where you go
we're gonna fight you
we think you oughtta know
Citizen:Go tell the stooge that sent you
your trash ain't welcome here
Go tell 'em Allegany
will shout out loud and clear
Chorus: We're gonna fight you
There's evil in your plan
We're gonna fight you
every woman, every man
we're gonna fight you
we're all together now
we're gonna fight you
that's Allegany's vow
Citizen: There's poison in your nuke waste
we know that very well
you try to make us take it
we'll blow you straight to hell
Chorus: We're gonna fight you
we'll fight you all the way
we're gonna fight you
we're gonna make you pay
we're gonna fight you
we're gonna fight you
we're gonna fight you
we're gonna fight you
(As the menacing tone of the crowd grows, the head stooge attempts to break in)
SONG - Medley - Take the Offer/We're Gonna Fight
You!/Allegany Children
#1: Listen
Allegany people listen
There is something that your missin'
Listen to me, listen well!
Chorus: we're gonna fight you, we're gonna fight you!
#1: Listen, Allegany people listen...
(he is drowned out)
Chorus: we're gonna fight you, we're gonna fight you!
Emily: Allegany Children
Chorus: we're gonna fight you, we're gonna fight you!
#1: Listen! Listen!
Chorus: we're gonna fight you, we're gonna fight you!
#1: Listen! Listen!
Chorus: we're gonna fight you, we're gonna fight you!
#1: Listen, Allegany people
Chorus: (crescendo drives commissioners towards upper right)
We're gonna fight you! (repeat 5 times)
Fight you (repeat 4 times)
(as curtain falls...)
Emily: (a capella, plaintively) Allegany children...
Act I, Scene 2
The Trubeck home. It is Saturday, the day after the Belfast 5000. Emily is in a basketball uniform; the whole family has just come back from a game which her team won.
Dennis:You gals did great today, Em. You really knocked the socks off those Bulldogs.
Emily: Everybody really played well, it was real teamwork.
Randy: I think Em was all psyched up from the speech she
gave 'em last light in Belfast. Those commissioners
didn't know what to say when Emily stood up for us kids.
Bonnie:Wow, between last night in Belfast and today's game, I'm pooped. So much excitement for our "little
rural county."
Dennis:I can't believe those stooges from Albany actually
thought we would let them put a nuclear waste dump
in our county.
Emily: I think they thought we were a bunch of hicks or
something.
Randy: They're the ones who are jerks, thinking we'd just
sit by and let it happen. That one guy looked like
Pee Wee Herman, ya know?
Bonnie: I don't know, I thought the short guy looked more like
Barney.
Emily: Mother, how can you be so insulting? Even Barney is
a lot cuter than that guy.
Dennis: Well, they can't help being that way. Maybe their brains have been fried by that nuclear waste. (laughs)
Bonnie:And to think they had the NERVE to approach US about
selling OUR land to them so they could put the dump
right here.
Dennis:Emily, you'd better go feed the dogs. They've been
waiting all day for us. Randy, go see if there was
any mail today and bring the recycling bins 'round back.
(Emily and Randy exit)
Bonnie:Honey, it's really good to see the kids
getting into this "bump the dump" thing.
Dennis: It's a good way for them to see real politics in action. They're making a difference in their own community.
Bonnie: How did you like it when those guys called us NIMBYs?
Dennis:Well, what did ya expect? Of course we're going to say "Not in my backyard" but they don't realize, we don't
want this stuff in anybody's backyard.
Bonnie:We've already seen what happened with the nuclear stuff over there in West Valley.
Dennis:And it's happening all over. I mean, you read articles
in the paper everyday about people getting sick mysteriously, and you never know whether radiation is involved...
Emily: (entering) Hey mom, dad, I hope you guys are ready to be grandparents! (parents both react shocked). Just relax...you know how we said we were going to get Lady Gray fixed? Well, I think we're too late. (Bonnie breathes sigh of relief, Emily giggles)
Bonnie:Well, it's not what we planned, but I'll bet she'll
have great puppies.
Dennis:Damn those Smiths. They always let their dog
run loose at night. He's probably the father.
Bonnie:Don't worry dear, we'll find someone to take the
puppies. (Randy enters)
Emily: I get to keep one, don't I?
Bonnie:We'll see.
Randy: Keep one what?
Dennis:Emily thinks Lady Gray's going to have pups.
Randy: (hands father the mail) Cool, I think we should keep
one, the runt.
Emily: How do you know there'll be a runt?
Randy: There's always a runt.
Emily: What if they are all the same size?
Randy: There will be a runt. (Emily and Randy ad lib arguing)
Dennis: OK you two. That's enough. Let's get this place
picked up before bed so tomorrow we can take it easy.
(Dennis sorts through the mail while the rest
of the family picks up around house) Uh oh, this doesn't look good.
Bonnie: What is it?
Dennis:It's from the bank. You know, we're three months
behind on the mortgage payment. This can't be good
news.
Bonnie:Oh, don't worry so much. It's probably just a late notice. Soon the weather will be better and you'll get plenty of work. We'll catch up in no time.
Dennis: Oh my God.
Bonnie:What is it?
Dennis:They're gonna foreclose on the house. We're losing our
home.
Bonnie: (Grabbing the paper) It can't be. How can they throw
a family out on the street?
Dennis:We're losing our home. (general commotion from the
whole family. Bonnie calms the kids down as the music
begins)
Bonnie:Don't worry kids, well figure something out.
SONG - They're Throwing us Out
Bonnie: We're a family
Dennis: They're throwing us out
B/kids: We stick together through all our troubles
Dennis: How can it be? What can we do?
We're losing our home, my life is through
Emily/Randy: We're a family
Dennis: They're out of their minds, they're out of control
Emily/Randy: We stick together no matter what happens
Dennis: I don't understand, it's all so unfair
We're losing our home and nobody cares
Bonnie: Calm down dear, don't worry dear
Dennis: Foolish wife, look at life
we're country folks
we have no rights
whatever they want to do they'll do
and they just don't care about me and you
Emily: There's got to be something we can do
you've always taught us that we'll come through
Randy: I'll sell my guitar, I'll work at the store
Emily: You can have all my savings
there's got to be more
Dennis: Foolish kids, it not enough
There's no hope left
We gotta give up
It's useless, we're done
the story is through
there's nothing more that we can do
Bonnie/kids: There's got to be something that we can do
Dennis: It's over
B/k: It's not
Dennis: We're done
B/k: Don't give up
Dennis: But what can we do?
B/k: We're a family
Dennis: We try our best
all: we stick together when bad times hit
we're a family
we don't give up
we'll solve the problem, we'll stick together
(end with tag: we're a family)
Dennis:So what can we do?
Bonnie:We'll figure it out. Let's get some rest. We can
talk about it in the morning. (Bonnie and kids start
upstairs)
Dennis:(speaks tentatively - he is unsure of his suggestion)
I know what we could do. (all run back, "What, dad?",
("tell us," "do you have an idea?", etc.)
We could sell some of our land to the siting commission.
Bonnie:We can't do that Dennis.
Kids: No way, Dad. Bad idea. (etc.)
Dennis:We might have to Bonnie. Maybe there's no way around it.
Bonnie:(she is trying to be calm, attempting to be patient)
I am not going to sell our land so they can put in a
nuclear waste dump and poison all of us.
Dennis:(he is trying to convince her, she is getting angry)
But don't you see, if we sell the land we'll have
enough money to pay off the mortgage and all of our
other debts. We'll never have to worry any more.
Bonnie:(she is adamant and yelling by this point)
I don't care. The health of our children and our neighbors is too high a price to pay for
getting you out of debt.
Dennis: I don't care what you think, I think I'm gonna do it. And I can. The deed is in my name.
Bonnie:Children, go upstairs. (kids complain, "aw, mom," etc) Your father and I have some discussing to do. (children exit) Now you listen to me Dennis Trubeck! You are NOT selling OUR land to that siting commission.
Dennis: There's no discussing it. I'm selling and that's it.
Bonnie:Have you lost your mind? This is crazy Dennis. If you
do this, I'm taking the kids and leaving. I won't have
them living next door to a nuclear waste dump.
Dennis:You're blowing things out of proportion as usual. It's
not that dangerous. They told us they could store it
properly and monitor it. You're overreacting.
Bonnie:You have gone crazy. You're willing to believe that
crap just so you can feel good about selling out.
Dennis:Who are you calling crazy?
Bonnie:You, damn it, you ARE crazy. I don't even know you
anymore. What happened to the man who always put
his family first?
Dennis:I am putting you first. I want you to have a house to
live in.
Bonnie:Next to a nuke dump? So we can get cancer and still
have a cozy little home to die in?
Dennis:You're an idiot. You're just being an emotional
female. You're not approaching this logically at all.
Bonnie:(she is wounded, but still angry) I can't believe you just said that.
Dennis:Well it's true. I'm selling and there's nothing more
to say.
Bonnie:(she gives up arguing, but is still very angry) O.K., have it your way. I'm leaving with the kids. (calls upstairs) Emily, Randy, pack your bags, we're going to stay at Grandma's for a while.
Dennis:Fine, be stubborn. You'll come running back in no
time. And you'll be thankful I had enough sense to
sell some land and save our home. (he exits. Bonnie is angry at first, then collapses on to sofa, lights fade down to a tight spot)
SONG - Nuclear Waste Wasted our Family
Bonnie:Where did he go when he walked out on our family?
What did we do, when everything went wrong?
What can I say to put us back together?
It hurts so bad, we've been together for so long.
Nuclear waste, wasted our family
nuclear waste, wasted our love
nuclear waste, wasted our family
all I can do is pray to God above
There was a time when we would stick together
There was a time we could not be pulled apart
but now we've been through a nuclear fall out
and it's tearing, just tearing at my heart
Nuclear waste, wasted our family
nuclear waste, wasted our love
nuclear waste, wasted our family
all I can do is pray to God above
(music continues, Bonnie crosses to stairs)
O.K. kids, it's time to go.
(She crosses center, puts on coat, lights fade to blue, she sings):
so now we've been through a nuclear fall out
and all I can do is pray to God above
yes now we've been through a nuclear fall out
all I can do is pray to God above
(lights out)
Act I, Scene 3
Scene opens with curtain closed. Citizens coming down aisles with signs, masks, coffin, etc. There should be some newspaper
reporters present.
C = Citizen
C #1: Everybody take a sign.
C #2: (with bullhorn) O.K. Any one who does not want to
get arrested, you must stand on the side of the road.
Those willing to get arrested must wear armbands. And
remember, no violence of any kind. This is a
non-violent protest. We are here to protect Allegany
County, not start a war.
C #3: Hey, what are the masks for?
C #2: The masks are only to be worn by people who have been
trained in non-violent resistance.
C #1: Somebody help me pass these out (signs, flyers, etc.)
C #4: (rushes to help #1) When do you think those guys are gonna get here?
C #5: I heard they're already here.
C #6: Nah, we're out here for nothing. They're too chicken
to show up.
C #1: Did you hear Dennis Trubeck is selling his farm to
to the Siting Commission?
(General reactions: "He wouldn't do that," "traitor," "I can't believe it," "I heard his wife left him"...)
C G: (some people and kids gather around the lady with the guitar as she sings:)
SONG - Take Care of your Mother Earth
A steady voice burned through the clouds
it was clear and soft, its message loud
It struck like lightning, it knocked me down
"Take care of your Mother Earth"
Chorus: Mother Earth, oh Mother Earth
Take care of your Mother Earth (2x)
I dusted away nuclear danger
I washed away acid rain
I polished on civilization to make it safe again
Chorus: Mother Earth, oh Mother Earth
Take care of your Mother Earth (2x)
Tomorrow I'll rise with a smile on my face
knowing children can flourish in this
cleaned and polished place
Chorus: Mother Earth, oh Mother Earth
Take care of your Mother Earth (2x)
Yes I dusted away nuclear danger
I washed away acid rain
I polished on civilization to make it safe again
Chorus: Mother Earth, oh Mother Earth
Take care of your Mother Earth (2x)
Kids: a mighty voice danced through the clouds
it was joyful, clear and loud (2x)
Chorus: Mother Earth, oh Mother Earth
Take care of your Mother Earth (2x)
(as the song ends, there is some cheering, clapping and chatter)
C #2: (using the bullhorn) Move back everybody. We're bringing up the coffin now. Clear out of the way.
C #4: What's the coffin for?
C #5: It shows what they're trying to do to us. They
wanna kill us. They wanna destroy Allegany
County.
C #8: Yeah, what do they think they're doing anyway?
C #9: I say we get out our guns and run that siting
commission off for good.
C #1: Yeah, let's get them rotten dogs.
C #5: A shotgun's too good for those SOB's.
Let's burn 'em alive.
C #7: This is war. We gotta do whatever it takes to beat 'em.
C #8: We didn't start this, but by God, we're gonna finish
it.
(General agreement: "Yeah," "let's do it," "let's get them, where are they?" etc.)
C #2: Now remember folks, this is a peaceful protest.
There's not going to be any violence. Everything we
do has to be legal and peaceful and under control.
Remember who the bad guys are here (walkie talkie
squeaks). Well folks, they're on the site. Everybody remember what you're doing. Get the coffin over there. Remember, if you're willing to get arrested, come over this way and keep your armbands visible. If you don't want to get arrested, get off on the side of the road. Here they come folks.
(Curtains begin to open. Commissioners are on stage, armbanded citizens approach stage from aisles and surround them. There are deputies on stage as well)
SONG - God didn't make no Nuclear Waste
Billy Shear: Looky here stooge we got something for you
If you don't know it now, let me give you a clue
well we got you surrounded, gonna get in your face
God didn't make no nuclear waste
You come around here with your lies and that sucks
you thought you could buy us for a couple of bucks
you think we look angry, let us give you a taste
God didn't make no nuclear waste
Chorus: God didn't make no nuclear waste
God didn't make no nuclear waste
BillY: Take a look around, you ain't got a friend
everybody here will fight you 'til the end
we're loading up our rifles and our shotguns too
we've got plenty ammunition for the four of you
we're pickin' up sticks and we're pickin'up stones
we'll beat you to a pulp
and then we'll pulverize your bones
better start out running, you're gonna get chased
God didn't make no nuclear waste
God didn't make no nuclear waste
Chorus: God didn't make no nuclear waste
(repeat, get audience going, clapping etc. Suddenly, we hear a police siren, everything stops, freeze)
(Pushing/shoving scene. Music starts up very rapid. Lights and other effects should be used to convey the chaos of the scene. Commissioners try to leave; they are blocked by the citizens. The law begins to remove people, including those without armbands. Randy Trubeck tries to free Billy by pulling on him and ends up getting arrested himself. Randy gets pulled off stage left as his mother and sister are swept stage right by the crowd trying to escape.)
Emily: (shouting above the din) Mom, they've got Randy, mom what are we going to do?
Bonnie: Randy, Randy...
(Emily and Bonnie are pulled off stage right by the crowd as Randy and Billy are dragged off left by police as the curtain closes)
ACT II
Sc. 1: (this scene should take place in front of the curtain so that the big bridge scene for the second scene can be set up behind the curtain. The setting is the office for CCAC - Concerned Citizens of Allegany County. There should be a sign with CCAC, some Bump the Dump flyers, stickers, an old desk and chair, table and chairs, file cabinet, telephone on the desk, stacks of newsletters, envelopes, etc. As the scene opens, several citizens are at a table, putting newsletters in envelopes. Paul Murphy is on the telephone)
C #2: (into phone) Well, thanks anyway Joe. I know you've been giving all you can. We'll make bail somehow. (hangs up phone, addresses the group stuffing envelopes) Does anyone have any ideas on who else we can call to raise money to get our people out of jail?
C #1: How much do we have so far?
#2: Enough to get eight of 'em out. But we need to
raise enough to get 'em all out.
#4: How about asking old man Gunner? He's got lots of
money.
#5: Yeah, but he'd never part with any of it.
Bonnie:I wish I could come up with some of the money,
especially since Randy's one of the people who needs
the bail.
#2: Don't worry about it Bonnie. We'll come up with it
somehow. We're all doing our part. Things will work
out.
Bonnie: It's just been so hard. Randy's in jail, Dennis and
I have split up, and sometimes it looks like the
Siting Commission is going to put a dump here no matter
what we do.
#4: I know it's been rough on you Bonnie. I just think...
#8: (running on stage) I went to see Cliff Billings and he
gave us the cash we need to get everybody out of jail (hands a bundle of money to #2, everybody reacts/cheers)
#2: This is great. I'll run right over to the jail. I want to get there before they close the office. (exits in a hurry)
#4: See Bonnie. Things are going to shape up.
Bonnie: Well, I'll feel a lot better when I see Randy come through that door.
Emily: Me too. (Bonnie hugs Emily)
(The phone rings. #8 answers and animates talking as the rest of the dialogue continues)
#3: Well, we've just about got this mailing done. Hopefully
this one will bring in as much money as the last one.
#5: I don't know. Last time the fire was hot and people
were really scared of the Siting Commission. I think
people think the fight is over now even though it's only the beginning.
#8: (hangs up phone) Well, that was Sara Horton calling
from Albany. She went up there Monday for the
Siting Commission's public meeting. They're
still interested in Allegany County and they're coming
to Caneadea tomorrow morning. (general reaction from
the group)
#1: What are we going to do?
#3: (gets out a clip board and goes down a check list)
Jackie, you call the newspapers to see if they've
gotten wind of this. (#8 gets on phone to call newspapers) Greg, you call the radio stations and see what they know.
#5: Right, I'll go home and make the calls now. (he exits)
#3: Sue, you need to get the phone chain started so we can get our people together.
#9: When should everyone meet?
#3: We'll need to find out exactly when the Siting Commission plans to be there and then you start making
the calls.
#8: Well, I talked to the folks at the paper and they hear
it will be early in the morning tomorrow. That's all
they know.
#9: I'll start making calls and just let everyone know it's
going to be early. You think we should meet around
6:00 a.m.?
#3: Let's plan on that for now, until we hear something
more definite.
#9: O.K. (#9 exits)
#1: We'll need to make some new signs. Some of the old
ones are starting to look pretty beat and...
(The people who got arrested, including Randy, enter. There is general commotion: "Great to have you back, how'd you make out in the slammer, etc.")
Bonnie:Oh Randy, are you O.K?
Randy: Well, I kinda freaked out, but it was also really cool that we stood up for ourselves.
Bonnie:Yes, but you weren't supposed to get arrested Randy.
Randy:But mom, when they tried to take Billy in, I got mad.
I didn't think it was fair what they were doing, so I
guess I just got caught up in it.
Emily: Well, I'm really glad they got you out.
Randy: Me too. I mean, talking to you and mom
through the bars of a cell was not exactly what I had in mind.
Bonnie:Did Dad come to visit you too?
Randy: Yeah, about a half hour after you and Emily left.
Bonnie:Did he say anything about selling the land?
Randy: We didn't talk about it much, but he did say he
thought it was terrible they were throwing
people in jail just to get their way.
Bonnie:Well, I hope he comes to his senses. Maybe he'll
realize if they can throw his own son in jail they'll
do anything to put that lousy dump here.
#3: (to #2 who just walked in) Hey Paul, Sara called from Albany and we're on the hot seat again. The Siting Commission is going to inspect the proposed site in Caneadea tomorrow morning. We've got a lot of work to do.
#2: Time to call out the troops. This time we're gonna
make such an impression that they won't come back.
SONG - They're Coming
(This song can be done in part unison, in part divided lines among the chorus. Staging should include people on the phone, people making signs, etc.)
They're coming, they're coming
The showdown could be anytime
We cannot let them cross our line
They're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We need to call our people in
We'll form our line, they cannot win
They're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We thought we'd shown them we would fight
but they might be here by tonight
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
we'll block the roads, we'll wait and pray
and then we'll drive them all away
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
we call out everyone in town
to bump the dump and shut 'em down
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We've laid our plans, we're ready now
we'll stop them dead and we know how
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
Some of us will go to jail
but we all know we must not fail
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We will protect our home and lands
we won't submit to their demands
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We've waited for this day to come
but now it's here, I want to run
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We've worked so hard, it ain't no fun
if they force me to, I'll use a gun
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
I can't believe that they don't care
they'll dump their poison anywhere
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We'll make our signs, we'll make a scene
so everyone knows just what we mean
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We'll call the papers and TV
We'll make sure everybody sees
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
This will be the final show
we'll go as far as we must go
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
The time has passed to talk and plan
we'll fight it out now, man to man
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We've tried to fight with letters and calls
but now it's time to form a wall
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
We'll lock our arms, we'll plant our feet
a solid wall is what they'll meet
they're coming
They're coming, they're coming
They will not get away this time
The biggest stooge is mine, all mine
they're coming
("They're coming" repeats, fade to black as repeating)
Act II Scene 2 (Curtain opens on the bridge. Citizens of all ages are present. They have been waiting a long time. Three senior citizens are handcuffed to the bridge. Newspaper and television reporters arrive during the scene. Background music/clock ticking)
Child #1: Mom, how much longer do we have to wait?
Child #2: Yeah mom, I gotta go pee.
Mother: They should be here soon, kids. I know it's
been hard waiting, and you've been really good.
C #7: Why don't you let me drive them into town, Joan?
I can take them to the restroom in the library.
Mother: Thanks, Tony, I appreciate it. (children and Tony
exit stage right)
C #4: So when do you think they'll get here?
C #8: I don't know. They should have been here by now.
C #6: Would anybody like some coffee? I have a thermos
full. (several people get some)
C #5: It sure is cold out here.
Bonnie: Emily, can you go get a blanket out of the
car please?
Emily: Sure mom (she exits stage right)
#9: So Merle, how are you doing? Would you like some
coffee?
C S: Thanks, dear, you're very sweet. (music begins)
You know, I've been sitting here thinking. It's
just so strange how things happen ...
SONG - How did this Happen?
All of my life I played by the rules
I've never spent a night in a jail
Now I've chained my life to this rusty old bridge
and I'm wondering if I've gotta make bail.
I never broke a single law
It took courage just to live the right way
but when the cops arrive on this chilly morning
I wonder if I'm brave enough to stay
CHORUS: How did this happen, what will they do?
What's goin' on here? I wish I knew.
I've never done a wrong thing in my life
I'm so clean that you can hear me squeak
But now I'm here waiting for a man with a gun
I'm so scared I can hardly speak
I never wanted any trouble at all
I'm old enough now to retire
but this nuclear dump has got me chained to a bridge
and my legs are so achy and tired
CHORUS: How did this happen? What will they do?
What's goin' on here? I wish I knew.
Nothing will ever be the same after this
I wonder if we'll end up o.k.
there isn't a person in the county I know
who doesn't feel kinda betrayed
The system has made criminals of everyone here
We didn't even know it at first
If we were believers, we've lost all our faith
The best of us suffer the worst
CHORUS: How did this happen? What will they do?
What's goin' on here? I wish I knew.
Emily: (runs in) They're coming - mom, there's all
kinds of cops and they're headed this way.
Bonnie: Calm down Emily, we're all ready.
C #2: (on bull horn) O.K. It's time folks. Those
with armbands stand in the middle of the road,
right behind the people who are chained to the
bridge. The rest of you stand off to the side of
the road. (citizens enter with casket, come down
aisle in audience as drummer does dirge roll.
Cops enter stage right. Casket is set down.
Everybody stops/silence.)
Lt. Steed: You people are blocking the road. You are in
violation of the law. You may not interfere with
the official government business of the siting
commission. Some of you are already under court
order to cease and desist your protest activities.
You must all clear the road or face charges of
obstructing governmental administration, punish-
able by a year in jail, a fine of $1,000 or both.
I advise you all to clear out now. (nobody moves)
You give me no other choice. (commands his force)
Attention! (all cops take out night sticks)
Ready. Forward. (Just as cops are about to move
Dennis runs in stage left, pushes his way through
the crowd, takes center stage between cops and
crowd).
Dennis: Stop. This is all unnecessary. I have something
I have to say.
Lt. Steed: I don't want to hear it. You people have to
leave. (music begins)
Dennis: But this is our land, you've got to at least
listen to me.
SONG - This is Where it all Ends
Dennis:You can take your clubs and go home now
Take your signs and you do the same
Break it up before it gets ugly
This entire thing is insane.
There's no need for you to be fightin'
No need for any arrests.
No need for this confrontation
If it stops here that will be best
I'm the man who said he would sell now
I'm the one who makes all this true
But I'm backing out of this contract
So there's nothing more you can do
I won't turn my back on my family
I won't say good-bye to my friends
I won't sell out for your money
So this is where it all ends.
'cause there comes a time in each man's life
when he must choose what's wrong, what's right
The dump you want is evil
and I can't be part of your plan
When you came to me I was frightened
We were poor and the future looked bleak
Your money looked like the answer
to the prayers of a family in need
I decided to sell you my farmland
I thought it would help us get by
But your nuke waste wasted our family
and that's something your money can't buy
Take your money and leave us alone now
Take your science, your promises too
We don't want your nuclear waste now
and we don't want no part of you
I won't turn my back on my family
I won't say good-bye to my friends
I won't sell out for your money
So this is where it all ends.
There comes a time in each man's life
when he must choose what's wrong, what's right
The dump you want is evil
I can't be a part of your plan
(the song ends abruptly as the Lt. grabs Dennis and shouts his commands)
Lt: Ready. Forward. (cops move forward, Dennis gets
dragged to stage right - a holding area -
more arrests are made, including those chained to
the bridge. Underneath all this, a vamp starts
for We're Gonna Fight You. More people are taken
to the holding area, mob gets wilder, on the verge
of intense violence. Siting Commission enters,
perhaps down the aisle. Head commissioner
wrestles with C # 2 for the bullhorn. A cop
intervenes, commissioner takes possession.)
Com.: (through bullhorn) Please, may I have your
attention. I have an announcement that will
be of interest to everyone. (jeers and catcalls)
I have just come from a meeting with the
governor of our state. (more jeers) The governor
has studied the situation with siting a nuclear
waste disposal facility. He has given this
matter a great deal of thought.
C #7: Why doesn't he put it in his OWN backyard?
(crowd yells in agreement).
Com: Now please, let me finish. After studying the
matter with great care, the governor has decided
not to site a facility in an unwilling community.
C #6: Nobody's more unwilling than we are. (General reactions)
Com: When looking at the social, economic and
geographic considerations of siting a
facility, Allegany County seemed like an
appropriate location to investigate for a low level nuclear waste storage area. (the crowd is confused and some still angry) However, after more complete deliberation and investigation of the factors surrounding the siting of the facility in Allegany County, the governor has determined to suspend site characterization activities in this location.
C #1: What the hell did he just say?
C #7: It means they're going to build it here anyway.
C #8: No, I think they're NOT going to build it here.
C #3: (yells to commissioner) What does all that crap
you just said mean?
Com.: The State of New York will not, I repeat, will not
put a nuclear waste disposal facility in Allegany
County.
(the crowd goes wild, cheering, etc.)
Com.: Those people arrested today will be released.
(cops let those out of holding area)
#2: What's going to happen with all the charges that
have been made?
Com.: No charges will be pressed. (muttering under his breath) I guess you NIMBYs got your
way. (hands bullhorn back to # 2, commissioners
exit, more general excitement from the crowd, people congratulate each other, hugs, the Trubecks
are reunited)
Dennis: (to Randy) So how's the jail bird?
Randy: I'm o.k., dad. How about you?
Dennis: (puts his arm around Bonnie) Doing great.
#2: Well, we did everybody (cheers from the crowd as
the music begins)
SONG - Lift up your Voices, Allegany
CHORUS: Lift up your voices, Allegany
Raise your standard high
Stand tall and strong, oh Allegany
Show the world your pride.
Emily: For Allegany's children
the future's looking good
we stand united, everyone,
united as we should
CHORUS: Behold your people, Allegany
standing strong and true
Neighbors, friends and families
we show our love for you
Randy & BillY:
We had to fight, protect our homes
As young men often do
CITIZENS: We took our chances every one
and somehow we came through
CHORUS: Come celebrate, oh Allegany
don't let memories fade
hold high the torch of history
pass on the truth we've made
Siting Commissioners:
Our hats are off to all of you
as we make our retreat
There is a power living here
we never thought we'd meet
CHORUS: So square your shoulders, Allegany
let fire glint our eye
We fought the foe with all we had
and now we watch him fly
Dennis & Bonnie:
Although sometimes our lives are hard
and we seem awfully poor
Family: our strength is in our families
our love helps us endure
CHORUS: (a capella)
Lift up your voices, Allegany
Raise your standard high
Stand tall and strong, oh Allegany
Show the world your pride
Behold your people, Allegany
standing strong and true
neighbors, friends and families
we show our love for you
(a beat comes in, reprise of "Take Care of your Mother Earth" into curtain calls)