Parody: Pickled

Pickled

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"Pickled" (A Broadway Parody) ((based on the Broadway musical "Wicked")) (((in a hopefully funny, irreverent, but loving manner))) ((((with apologies to Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman)))) (((((Also, apologies to anyone who has no sense of humor or capacity for fun))))) Backstory "Pickled" is the story of two girls who meet at school. One Gherkin (pronounced Ga-Her-Kin)/Ghrken (pronounced Ger-Kin) (Galinda/Glinda) is a spoiled rich kid, a ditzy California bubble head valley girl, and the other is Eureka (Elphaba), a shy, awkward farm girl who works magic in the garden and cooking (especially with growing and preparing pickles and cucumbers). However, both have or develop some serious food issues. Eureka earns a scholarhip for her horticulture skills and her sister, SassyToes (NessaRose - OK, OK, we're not sure Sassy has any toes, but it works so well), Eureka's disabled sister, with no real discernable skills, manages to go to the same college. Of course, Eureka gets assigned to a dorm room which she has to share with Ghrkin (Although, all the action that took place in the dorm room has been moved to the kitchen which is a far more important location for this story.). As fate would have it, Ghrkin is a picky eater with a limited diet who also has horrible food allergies. So, she is allergic to Eureka. This is because of all the years Eureka spent on the farm and the time she now spends in the gardens and in the kitchen at the school ("Dear Old Ship") leading to Ghrkin's constant "Wheezing". Eureka also meets her horticulture professor, Dr. Vinegar (Dr. Dillimond) and the school head mistress Madame Vlassic (pronounced "Valassic") (Madame Morrible) who takes an interest in Eureka because of her great horticulture skills. Madame Vlassic has been trying forever to find someone who is Jewish or that she thinks she can convince to convert to Judaism and make famous due to their expertise in the Kosher Food Laws. She decides that someone is Eureka. Madame Vlassic convinces the girls to go to The Cucumber City to talk to the "Inebriated Kosher Food Laws" (Wonderful Wizard of Oz). (A stretch personification of the word Kosher) ((Sorry if you got it without this explanation)) (((Just thought it was better to point it out now before the dense people get confused later))) ((((For those unfamiliar with personification)))) (((((It is a technique used in creative writing (lyrics, poems, etc.) where inanimate objects take on the characteristics of people))))) ((((((There is a more standard example of personification in the opening song)))))) (((((((However, we leave it is up to you to find it))))))) ((((((((One of the things we heard is that musical theatre should do more than entertain)))))))) (((((((((So, finding the personification example yourself will help you to broaden your interpretation skills))))))))) ((((((((((Let's move on, it's getting tiresome typing all these parenthesis)))))))))) The two main male leads are Dill (Boq) who is infatuated with Gherken and Calypso (Fyiero), a food craving, tall, lanky, black student friend of both Ghrkin and Eureka whose major romantic role in the story has been totally eliminated. Staying with the food theme, Calypso has an eating disorder and is always hungry. We considered making him Gay since we obviously have the Black actor and Jewish connection covered, but gave up on that idea because we had already used up his songs before we thought of it. (Well, we guess that's enough background) ((It is highly recommended that you sing the words in your head or even out loud if you can manage it)) (((If you aren't already familiar with "Wicked" you'll miss some of the jokes anyway))) ((((You might want to buy the cast album or at least listen on Youtube if that's the case)))) (((((Oh well, might as well get this started since we can't think of anything else to delay it further))))) Cast of Characters (in some mostly semi-random order) Assorted random characters who pop in and out at various times when needed (Listed first since they are always listed last and we wanted to give them well-deserved special recognition) ((Without them, you'd just keep seeing a small number of actors for the whole performance)) (((So, they add to the interest, ambiance, and reality of the performance))) Inebriated Kosher Food Law - Drunken loner (but still a world famous, well-renouned chef, none the less) Dill - Student infatuated with Gherkin (Somewhat dim-witted, and inconsiderate since he toys with Sassy to get closer to Gherkin) SassyToes - Eureka's disabled, unskilled sister, a somewhat minor random character Gherkin/Ghrkin - Ditzy Valley Girl Calypso - Tall, lanky, black student (definitely NOT Gay) Dr. Vinegar - Eureka's Horticulture teacher Eureka - Shy, awkward Farm Girl Madame Vlassic - Marginally important Head Mistress of Ship (Got You, we did figure out how to delay longer) ((Our apologies to the cast and crew of "Wicked")) (((And any previous cast and crew who have been involved with "Wicked"))) ((((This apology also includes all the people involved in the road productions)))) (((((And of course, all the other people involved who enabled "Wicked" to be produced on Broadway))))) ((((((Now, we really can't think of anything else to put this off further)))))) (((((((Sorry, Here Goes))))))) Pickled _________ [A general instruction] [Each time Eureka is in the kitchen after meeting Calypso, she eats excessively and gradually gets a little heavier each scene] [Her food addiction - newly developed since meeting Calypso - is re-inforced by having her eating in every kitchen scene after that] Song: No One Spurns the Pickled (No One Mourns the Wicked) Pickled - Part 1 [The curtain opens to a wine, cheese, and pickle party in a college courtyard with natily clothed guests] CROWD AT THE COLLEGE PARTY Good Booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] It’s bread! The Pickle that’s best is bread! The pickledest which there ever was The best cucumber in the Kosher Food Laws Is Bread! [Each character raises a pickle up like a toast] Good Booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] Good Booze! [Again, each character raises a drink like a toast] SOMEONE IN THE CROWD (yelled) Look! It's Ghrkin! [pronounced Ger-Kin here] [Ghrkin enters in Valley Girl clothes on rollerblades and skates around the party] GHRKIN (spoken) Fellow Foodians: (sung) Let us be glad Let us be grateful Let us rejoicify that goodness could ensue The pickled fixings from tasty cukes Isn't it nice to know That food will conquer and thrill The truth we all believe'll by and by Outlive a lie For you and - SOMEONE IN THE CROWD No One Spurns the Pickled ANOTHER PERSON: No one cries "Pickles be Spurned!" ALL No one nays a pickle for their tray MAN The good man loves the pickled! (We considered "The good man loves his pickle!") ((However, we felt the opportunity to interprete this as sexual inuendo was too likely)) (((This is a 'G' rated show you know))) WOMEN Through their lives, our children learn ALL What we wish, what we all must crave GHRKIN What Goodness knows The Pickled foods are tasty Goodness knows A Pickle fried enthrones It just shows with it’s Pickles You're lunch never stands alone ALL Yes, Goodness knows With Pickles lunch’s not lonely Goodness knows With Pickles not alone No one shuns what is Pickled They taste briny And homegrown GHRKIN (spoken) Are Pickles born well-bread? Or do they have Pickledness thrust upon them? After all, They had [The party guests fan out from the center, revealing a garden at a farm] [The farm people are dressed in overalls and staring at abnormally large pickles and cucumbers growing in the garden] [Included in the farm people, also dressed in overalls, are Eureka, Calypso, The Kosher, Dill, and ?] (We couldn't figure who the cowardly lion was) ((Probably one of the random characters without any major role just stepped in)) (((That's ok though, since he only has a few lines to sing, anyway))) ((((Maybe this kept the production cost down, since it didn't require a name actor)))) (((((That should be a long enough delay, so let's get back to it))))) ((((((We bet you forgot where we were, go back and speak the last few lines over)))))) (((((((Don't read the stage directions and these comments over again or we'll be here all day))))))) A Garden when she was younger, as so many do. LANDSCAPER (male) How I love to grow these cukes so pretty GARDENER (female) That's so right - it's makes things seem so bright LANDSCAPER (male) I store them right here in my cart While I keep them from blight GARDENER (female) (spoken) And like every garden - it had its secrets [A rainstorm appears] RAINSTORM (hint, hint) Have another drink, my dark, dry beauties I've got one more night left here in town So have another drink of clean elixir And you'll grow to be extremely bigger Have another little swallow, little garden, From the soggy ground [Back to the garden] GHRKIN (spoken) And of course, from the moment they were sown, They were - well - different GARDENER They're growing LANDSCAPER Now? GARDENER The pickles growing LANDSCAPER And how! GARDENER My, how they grow LANDSCAPER I see a curve LANDSCAPER and GARDENER They're all healthy, perfect, Lovely, little - LANDSCAPER (spoken) Sweet Laws! GARDENER (spoken) What is it? What's wrong? EUREKA How can it be? LANDSCAPER What does it mean? GARDENER Their so gourdgess LANDSCAPER And they're clean! GARDENER and LANDSCAPER Like some soggy, ferny cactus The pickles are so huge it's just ex- ALL treme! LANDSCAPER [This should be happy and upbeat even though that doesn't agree with the music] (spoken) Brine them today, Brine them today! [Back to the college quad later in the day] GHRKIN (spoken) So you see - it would have been easy! ALL - GHRKIN No One Spurns the Pickled! Now at last, it's bread and done! Now at last, there's joy throughout the land And Goodness knows - Goodness knows We know what Goodness is - [Ghrkin's Ahs and"knows" continues throught this line] Goodness knows - knows The Pickles were homegrown - They were homegrown [Male] Don't you know [Female] Don't you know Don't spurn what goodness is They'ref homegrown CROWD No One Spurns the Pickled! GHRKIN Good booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] CROWD No One Spurns the Pickled! GHRKIN Good booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] ALL No One Spurns the Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (R) then lowers a pickle on the bass strings note] Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (L) then lowers a pickle on the bass strings note] Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (C) a pickle and keeps it raised] _________ Song: Dear old Ship (Dear Old Shiz) PERSON IN CROWD (spoken) Gehrkin! Is it true - Is she your friend?! [pronounced Ga-Her-Kin here] GHERKIN (spoken) Well - it depends on what you mean by "is". (Unless you are at least 45, you probably won't get this joke) ((Google "Bill Clinton 'is'" if you want to understand it)) (((See, you can even learn new things about politics in Broadway musicals :-) ))) I did know her. That is, our paths did cross. At school. STUDENTS O hallowed halls and brine stained walls The proudliest sight there is (sight there is) Some day our dear cookware will burn Its value unclear from the stress we learned From our days at dear old Ship (From our days) (Dear old Ship) Our days at dear old GHERKIN Oh-oh-oh-oh-ol STUDENTS - GHERKIN Dear old Ship-pppp - Ship [Unlike z, p can't be stretched out in a continuous manner] [The initial consonant sound should be repeated in tempo instead] [i.e., Ship-pa-pa-pa] (This is actually somewhat fortuitous, since SHIP is actually in Pennsylvania) _________ [Eureka and Madame Vlassic are in the college's industrial style teaching kitchen] [They are in the center of the stage behind a counter] (Like a cooking show) Song: The Kosher and I (The Wizard and I) (Personification, Remember?) MADAME VLASSIC Oh, Miss Eureka Many years I have waited For a gift like yours to appear Why, I predict the Kosher Could make you a briny pickle spear My dear, My dear I'll write at once to the Kosher Tell him of you in advance With a talent like yours, dear There is a defin-ish chance If you work as you should You'll be making food [Madam Vlassic goes to a counter on one side of the stage] [Eureka moves to a counter on the opposite side of the stage] [Madame Vlassic writes a couple of letters during the song] (This is actually a common technique on stage) ((Each character pretends that they can't hear the other character)) (((Even though one is singing quite loudly))) ((((That way two things can happen simultaneously)))) EUREKA Did that really just happen? Have I actually understood? This weird quirk I've tried To suppress or hide Is a talent that could Help me meet the Kosher If I make food So I'll make food When I meet the Kosher Once I prove my worth And when I meet the Kosher What I've waited for since, since birth! And with all his Kosher wisdom By those cooks, he won't be blinded Do you think the Kosher is drunk? Or, like Munchkins, absent minded? No! He'll say to me, "I see who you truly are - A girl on whom I can rely!" And that's how we'll begin The Kosher and I! Once I'm with the Kosher My whole life will change 'Cuz once you're with the Kosher You're warm near the range! No father is not proud of you No sister acts ashamed And all of them have to love you When by the Kosher you're acclaimed And this gift - or this curse - I have inside Maybe at last, I'll know why When we are pan to pan - The Kosher and I! And one day, he'll say to me: Eureka, A girl who is so superior Shouldn't a girl with great food supplies Make all others inferior? And since folks here to an absurd degree Seem fixated on proficiency Would it be all right by you If I teach cooking to you?" And though of course That's so important to me "Damn right, why not?" I'll reply (We hope that doesn't lose us our 'G' rating) Oh, what a pair we'll be The Kosher and I Yes, what a pair we'll be The Kosher and Artisinal (Here's another change to learn from this musical) ((However, you're going to need to look this one up yourself)) (((That way not only will you expand your vocabulary, but you'll improve your search skills, too))) My cooking is artisinal And I've just had a vision Almost like a prophecy I know - it sounds truly crazy And true, the vision's hazy But I swear, someday there'll be A celebration through the Laws That's all to do with me! And I'll stand there with the Kosher Cooking things I've never cooked And though I'd never show it I'll be so happy, I'll make smelt! And so it will be For the rest of my life And I'll want nothing else Till I die Held in such high esteem When people see me for ice cream For half the Law's fav'rite team The Kosher And I! [Madame Vlassic and Eureka meet again behind the counter at center stage] [Madame Vlassic gives one of the letters to Eureka] _________ [Madame Vlassic leaves the kitchen] [Gherkin joins Eureka in the kitchen] [She jumps up and hops around on the countertops whenever she feels like] (We intentionaly left the timing undefined) ((We figured the actress could use this to help make the part her own)) (((We have heard you want to give the actors something to help them to become the character))) ((((We don't really know having never done this before)))) (((((Hey, it's worth a shot))))) Song: What is that Cooking? (What is This Feeling?) GHERKIN (spoken) Dearest darlingest Momsie and Popsical EUREKA (spoken) My dear Father BOTH There's been some confusion Over cooking here at Ship EUREKA But of course, I'll cook for Sassy GHERKIN But of course, her pie, I love it (Again this is a 'G' rated show) ((Don't even think about this line as sexual innuendo)) BOTH For I know that's how you'd want me to respond Yes, there's been some confusion For you see, my room-mate is GHERKIN Unusually and exceedingly food crazy And her food is just impracticle to imbibe EUREKA Odd GHERKIN What is that cooking? So sudden and new? EUREKA Spur of the moment I cooked it for you GHERKIN My pulse is rushing EUREKA The bread I'm kneading GHERKIN My face is flushing BOTH What is that cooking? Now its caused my pain, Does it have a name? Yes!: Wheezing Uncontrollable Wheezing GHERKIN From my face EUREKA Pure noise GHERKIN Your cooking BOTH Let's just say - my wheeze sick pall Ev'ry sickly fates not very small Makes my very flesh begin to crawl With painful, constant wheezing There's extreme excruciation In such total desolation It's impure and wrong! Though I do admit it came on fast Still I do believe that it can last And I will be wheezing Wheezing through My whole life long! STUDENTS Dear Gherkin, it's just too much food How do you eat it? I don't think I could! She makes batter, She makes TarTare! We don't mean to throw a tantrum, But Gherkin, you're a martyr! GHERKIN Well, some things she likes to fry up! STUDENTS Poor Gherkin, forced to abide With someone so disgusticified We just want to tell you We're all on your side! We hear your GHERKIN AND EUREKA AND STUDENTS What is this feeling? : Wheezing So sudden and new : uncontrollable wheezing I felt the moment, I got near you : from my face, your skirt, your clothing My pulse is rushing : She just says Your wheezing pall Oh, what is this feeling? : Ev'ry cooking plate, however small Does it have a name? : Makes her very flesh Yes : Begin to crawl Ahhh : Ahhh: ALL Wheezing! GHERKIN AND EUREKA AND ALL There's a strange, strong agitation : wheezing From such total contamination : wheezing Impure and wrong : wheezing STUDENTS So Wrong! GHERKIN AND EUREKA Though I do admit it came on fast Still I do believe that it can last ALL And I will be wheezing for forever, wheezing Wheezing truly deeply, wheezing Wheezing through, Wheezing through My whole life long! Wheezing, Uncontrollable wheezing [Eureka pushes a plate towards Gherkin] EUREKA Food! GHERKIN A _________ [Gherkin and the students leave the kitchen] [Dr. Vinegar joins Eureka in the kitchen] Song: With Things Banned (Something Bad) DOCTOR VINEGAR (spoken) Oh, Miss Eureka - The things one hears these days. Dreadful things: (sung) I've heard of some Lox A professor from Quox's No longer permitted to eat Who has lost all powers to teach And some fowl from Munchkin Rock A vicar with Anolon wok Forbidden to heat Now too starved to preach! Only rumors - but still - Enough of a cause To give a chef pause with things banned by preposterous laws EUREKA With things banned? Happening to all VINEGAR Under the surface Behind the scenes [in a whiny tone] With Things Bannnnned (spoken) Sorry: "Banned" EUREKA (spoken) Doctor Vinegar - With these things banned from cooking animals Someone's has to tell the Kosher. That's why we have a Kosher. (sung) So nothing's banned. VINEGAR (spoken) I hope you're right BOTH Nothing should be banned VINEGAR [again, in a whiny tone.] Nothing truly Bannnnned. (spoken) Sorry: "Banned" EUREKA It shouldn't happen here To us _________ [Dr. Vinegar leaves the kitchen] [Gherkin, Dill, Sassy, Calypso, and ? join Eureka in the kitchen] (Who is that cowardly lion?) Song: Dining Through Life (Dancing Through Life) CALYPSO The trouble with schools is They always make you choose the wrong menu Believe me, I have pigged out At enough of them to know They want you to eat more healthy Less tasty But I say: why invite less in? Slop grub on all night And learn to love "the satiated life" Dining through life Eatings your purpose With surf and turf, great food Steak's more sav'ry In brown gravy When the meat's charred And it's so flav'ry Dining through life No need to tough it When you can stuff your face as I do Nothing matters But knowing nothing matters It's just life So keep dining through Dining through life Snacking and eating And always grabbing food If you bought less And you sought less Food you don't try Ever you will miss Dining through life Snack-less and meal-less Makes sure you're rav'nous Doubles the strife When not eating Slowly pining Til you're dining Through life (spoken) So - what's the most swankified place in town? GHERKIN (spoken) That would be the Kosher Cafe. CALYPSO (spoken) Sounds perfect. (sung) Let's go down to the Kosher Cafe We'll meet there later tonight We can dine till it lights Find the hungriest girl Get sausage curl Right on down to the Kosher Cafe Come on - follow me You'll be happy to be there [The scene morphs into the "Kosher Cafe".] ALL Dining through life Down at the Cafe CALYPSO If only because they Have all the best food. ALL Nothing matters But knowing nothing matters It's just right CALYPSO So keep dining through DILL (spoken) Miss Gherkin - I-I hope you'll have a fine dinner with me. I'll be right there. Waiting. All night. GHERKIN (spoken) Oh - that is fine. But you know what would be even finer? (sung) See that tragic'ly beautiful girl The one in the chair It seems so unfair We should go on a spree And not she Gee - I know someone would be my hero If that someone were to go invite her DILL (spoken) Well, maybe - I could invite her! GHERKIN Oh, Dill, really? You would do that for me? DILL (spoken) I would do anything for you, Miss Gherkin GHERKIN (spoken) So CALYPSO (spoken) So I'll be picking you up around eight? GHERKIN (spoken) After all - (sung) Now that we've ate with each other CALYPSO AND GHERKIN It's clear - we can serve each other GHERKIN You're famished CALYPSO You're famished BOTH So we're famished together Born to be forever Dining through life SASSYTOES (spoken) Oh, Eureka - isn't it wonderful? (sung) Fin'lly, for this one night I'm about to have my food right With this Munchkin boy Gherkin found for me And I only wish there were Something I could do for her To repay her Eureka, see? We can serve each other And Gherkin helped it come true We can serve each other, Me and Dill (spoken) Please Eureka try to understand EUREKA I do (spoken) Gherkin - Sassy and I were talking about you just now- GHERKIN (spoken) And I was just talking about you! I thought you might want to wear this hat to the party tonight! [It is a chef's hat] (sung) It's really, uh, sharp, don't you think? You know - white is this year's pink You can serve each other This hat and you You're both so smart You can serve each other So here, out of the goodness of my heart [Dance Routine] [Everyone heads to the buffet] [They are handed a plate full of food] [They dance around each other while holding the plate over their heads and twirling around] [Like in "Waitress"] [They get in a circle around a round table and pass the plates around to each other] [They bow to each other in time to the music while doing this] [One person places the plate down and moves to the next seat] [The line follows and continues to hand their plate forward in line] [This continues around the table] [When the last person in line gets to the first plate on the table, they sit] [This continues until the first person gets all the way around the table and sits with the last plate] DILL (spoken) Listen, Sassy, SASSYTOES (spoken) Yes? DILL Uh - Sassy I've got something to confess, a reason why, well - Why I asked you here tonight Now I know it isn't fair SASSYTOES (spoken) Oh, Dill, I know why. DILL (spoken) You do? SASSY It's because I'm in this chair And you felt sorry for me Well - isn't that right? DILL (spoken) No! No! It's because, uh, because, (sung) Because you are so ravenous! SASSYTOES Oh, Dill, and you are ravenous! And we can serve each other Don't you see, this is our chance? We can serve each other Can't we, Dill? DILL (spoken) You know what? (sung) Let's dine SASSYTOES (spoken) What?! DILL Let's dine! ALL Dining through life Down at the Cafe If only because just It's what we come to do! And the strange thing Your life could end up changing While you're dining Through _________ [Next morning] [Just Eureka and Gherkin are back in the kitchen] [Gherkin is dressed in a cheerleading uniform] [This is the scene where Eureka starts to eat incessently] [Gherkin again jumps up and hops around on the countertops whenever she feels like] Song: Connoisseur (Popular) GHERKIN (spoken) Eukie - now that we're friends I've decided to make you my new project. EUREKA (spoken) You really don't have to do that GHERKIN (spoken) I know. That's what makes me so nice! (sung) Whenever I see someone Less cerebral than I And let's face it - who isn't Less cerebral than I? My tender heart Tends to start to bleed And when someone needs a makeover I simply have to take over I know I know exactly what they need And even in your case Tho' it's the toughest case I've yet to face Don't worry - I'm determined to succeed Follow my lead And yes, indeed You'll be a Connoisseur! You will be a Connoisseur! I'll teach you the proper ploys Which you can enjoy Ways that all the experts sound I'll show you how to appear Pronounce without care Everything that really counts Be a Connoisseur! You will be a Connoisseur! You'll fit with the right cohorts You'll make good retorts Know the slang you've got to know So let's start 'Cause you've got an awfully long way to go Don't be offended by my frank analysis Think of it as personality dialysis Now that I've chosen to be come a pal A sister and adviser There's nobody wiser So I'll make you a Connoisseur You'll be a great Connoisseur And with an assist from me To be who you'll be Instead of dreary who-you-were: are [looks confused] There's nothing that can stop you From being a Connoisseur: star [looks even more confused] La la la la You're gonna be A Connoisseur When I see depressing creatures With unprepossessing features I remind them on their own behalf To think of Celebrated smart experts or Especially great truth purveyors Did they have brains or knowledge? Don't make me laugh! They we Connoisseurs! Please - It's all about Connoisseurs! It's all about aptitude It's the things you do So it's very shrewd to be Become a great Connoisseur Like me! (spoken in a questioning tone) Why, Miss Eureka, look at you. You're dubious EUREKA (spoken) I - I have to go GHERKIN (spoken) You're welcome! (sung) And though you protest Your disinterest I know clandestinely You're gonna grin and bear it Your new found great ability La la la la A Great Connoisseur - Become a great Connoisseur Like me! ________ [Eureka alone in the courtyard later that evening] Song: I'm Not a Churl (I'm Not That Girl) (OK, We'll save you the trouble of looking it up) ((A churl is a rude, borish person)) EUREKA When I try sweet Ultimately disgraced feat Tarts treat in a hungry world Don't mean to annoy No, I'm not a churl Don't scheme too hard Don't you fight just who you are Don't surrender that rush of joy Don't mean to annoy I'm not a churl Every so often we make a meal And we hope to invite some in But it doesn't often change how we feel When adversity might set in Fright riles quite grim Makes it seem just like a whim Cold fear from a pent up world It unfurls I know And heaven's froze I'm not a churl Don't wish or start Wishing often soon departs I wasn't born for a perfect world In the world I know We're hungry so I'm not a churl... _________ [The scene starts with Eureka, Gherkin, Dell, Calypso, and ? on the Jello Slick Road] (This cowardly lion stuff is really starting to get annoying) [There are cucumber skyscrapers visible in the distance] [As they enter the Cucumber City, there are food stands everywhere] [Everywhere they go in the city, there are arrows pointing with the message "This way to the Kosher"] [Eureka is constantly taking things from the carts and eating them] (Special Note to stage crew: Make sure the jello gets cleaned off the stage) ((Insurance is expensive, you know)) (((We don't want anyone to slip and get hurt))) Song: One Buffet (One Short Day) Eureka Come with me to the Cucumber City TOURISTS One Buffet In the Cucumber City GHERKIN Oh, I've always wanted to see the Cucumber City TOURISTS One Buffet In the Cucumber City ... One Buffet In the Cucumber City One Buffet Full of so much great food Ev'ry way That you look in this city There's something exquisite You'll want to eat it Before the day's through! EUREKA There are desserts tall as quoxwood trees GHERKIN Great Bon Bons EUKERA And Strawberries GHERKIN Winter Cress EUREKA Cherry Plums! BOTH A hundred strong … There are wonders like we've never seen GHERKIN They taste grand EUREKA Like jelly beans BOTH I think we've found the place where we belong! I wanna be In this hoi polloi EUREKA So we'll be back for food someday [A bakery cart full of different types of bread is pushed by] [This catches Gherkin's attention] GHERKIN With bread knife and a huge tray BOTH But for today, we'll wander and enjoy … ALL One Buffet In the Cucumber City One Buffet To fill a lifetime with food One Buffet… EUREKA and GHERKIN And we're warning the city Now that we've been here We'll know we'll stay here ALL Until the food's through! GHERKIN Eukie, come on. We'll be late for Food-O-Mania. [They are in front of a broadway style marquee that reads "food-o-mania"...] FOOD-O-MANIA CHORUS Who's the chef The major culinariest Making all us heavier? Who's the chef Who chefly staggered in to grow Our posteriers? Whose enthuse for hot creamed sunny cooking Has all of us honey spooning? Woo -- oo -- oo ... Kosn't he slovenly? Our slovenly Kosher! [The food-o-maniacs repeat the chorus as Eureka, Gherkin, and the rest of the audience sing in counterpoint] (That's what the lyric page that we found on Google said) ((Not really sure which part is the chorus from the lyrics)) (((We could probably go listen to the cast album, but we'll figure it out in pre-production, instead))) ((((We'll let the director and producers figure it out)))) (((((They may as well have something to do for all the money and credit they get))))) ((((((We know, we delayed so long, you will again need to go back and re-sing the last few lines to get back in the flow again))))) (((((((Unfortunately, we turned into both the producers and directors, so we had to go fix this))))))) FOOD-O-MANIA CHORUS = GHERKIN and EUREKA Who's the chef = One Buffet The major culinariest = in the Making all us heavier? = Cucumber City Who's the chef = One Buffet Who chefly staggered in to grow = to have a Our posteriers? = lifetime of food ALL What a way To be seeing the city... EUREKA AND GHERKIN Where so many roam to We'll call it home too And then, just like now We can say: We're just two friends … EUREKA Two food friends … GHERKIN Two fest friends … ALL Sharing one wonderful One buf … [They come to a final arrow pointing to a hotel entrance] [This arrow says "The Kosher lives here"] [A doorman pops his head out of the door to the Kosher's hotel] [Eureka hands the doorman the letter from Madame Vlassic] [He shuts the door and dissapears for a few moments] [The doorman pops his head out of the door to the Kosher's hotel and says:] DOORMAN The Kosher will see you now! (I hope we can find some strong vocalists since they have to hold that last note a long time) ((Maybe for some comic relief, we can have them tapping there feet with annoyance and looking at their watches)) ALL fet! ________ [Eureka is alone with the Kosher in his library] [A bar and bookshelves loaded with alcohol bottles are prominent] [A few books too, but there's not much book shelf space available for them] Song: An Antisocial Man (A Sentimental Man) KOSHER I am an antisocial man Who always longed to be a loner That's why I do the best I can To flee each citizen and avoid each one - And other So Eukera, I'd like to say goodbye 'Cuz I think everyone deserves The chance to hide And helping you With your consent Allows me to Feel so unsocial For I am an antisocial man ________ [Eureka and Ghrkin are alone in the kitchen again] (I hope you are use to that, it still going to happen a few more times) ((We are explaining this so you understand the kitchen scenes are a foreshadowing of what's happening)) (((It let's you know the general mood and happenings that are coming in the future))) ((((This is an important plot technique)))) (((((At least, that's what we heard, so we think it is))))) ((((((We already told you we have never done this before)))))) Song: Dining Constantly (Defying Gravity) [Stretch the 'Di' in Dining across both the notes in 'Defy' to make this work] GHRKIN Eureka, why couldn't you cook salmon lunch Instead of frying all the canned dill I hope your hungry I hope your hungry, now I hope your hungry now you've spurned the laws forever I hope you think your clever EUREKA I hope your hungry I hope your hungry, too I hope your proud how you would grovel in admission You need to sow perdition BOTH Although I can't imagine how I hope your hungry, right now GHRKIN Eukie, listen to me Just say your sorry You can still be with the Kosher What you worked and waited for You can have all you ever wanted EUREKA I know GHRKIN But I don't want it EUREKA No GHRKIN I can't want it Anymore EUREKA Something has changed within me Sometimes it's not just lunch I'm through with dining on the food of someone else's brunch Too late for second-helpings Too late to go back to eat It's time to trust my instincts, close my eyes and feast! It's time to try Dining Constantly I think I'll try Dining Constantly And food won't bring me down GHRKIN Help having you understand You're having delusions of grandeur EUREKA I'm through accepting limits 'cause someone says they're so Some things I cannot bake but 'til I try, I'll never know! Too long I've been afraid of cooking more and bore the cost Well, when they shove, outcome is such that I am lost! I'd sooner try Dining Constantly Kiss me goodbye I'm Dining Constantly And food won't bring me down Ghrkin, come with me Think of all the great food Forever I'm addicted My urge makes me addicted Together will eat the greatest breem that's ever swim Ghrkin Dreams the way we planned them If we work in tandem BOTH There's no fight we cannot win Just you and I Dining Constantly Just you and I Dining Constantly Food never brings us down EUREKA Well, are you hungry? GHRKIN I hope your hungry Now that your choosing this EUREKA You too GHRKIN I hope it brings you bliss BOTH I really hope you get it And you don't live to regret it I hope your hungry in the end I hope your hungry, my friend EUREKA So if you care to find me Look for my pecan pie! As someone told me lately, "Everyone deserves a piece to try!" And if I'm eating solo At least I'm eating free To those who bound me Take a message back from me Tell them how I'm Dining Constantly I'm Frying by Dining Constantly And soon I'll pass them in renown And nobody with all the laws No Kosher that there is Or was Is ever going to bring me down GHRKIN I hope your hungry All - Eureka No one spurns the pickled, Never - Bring me down No one spurns the pickled No the food won't bring her down ________ [Everyone, except Eureka, is on stage in the college courtyard] [The Kosher is on the side of the stage next to Madame Vlassic] [The Kosher is distractly looking off the side of the stage where a number of beer kegs are prominently visible] Song: Swank Foodfest (Thank Goodness) CITIZENS OF KOS Ev'ry day, more pickles Ev'ry day, the garden grows! All of us dig forever in the dirt! That's the way with Pickles - Fed this year as they all grow Sprouting out new pickles we asked for! A HUNGRY WOMAN Like some wonderful queen wizard Throughout the land she tries A HUNGRY MAN She's honoring our good Kosher With her refreshments and pies! ALL Her pies! Saves us with the Pickles! Shields us so we won't be vexed! Gives us more zing What will she bake next? What will she bake next? What will she bake next!? GHRKIN (spoken) Fellow Kosians - as gratifying as cheer for this, Let us put aside our hunger for this one day: and celebrate! (sung) Oh what a celebration We'll have today CROWD Swank Foodfest! GHRKIN Let's have a celebration The Ghrkin way! CROWD Swank Foodfest! VLASSIC Fin'lly a day that's Totally pickles for free! CROWD We couldn't be hungrier Swank Foodfest! GHRKIN Yes - We couldn't be hungrier, This year Couldn't be hungrier Right here Look what we've got A fairy-tale plot Our very own happy ending Where we couldn't be hungrier - True, here Couldn't be hungrier And we're happy to share Our pickles gregariously With all of you We couldn't be happier We couldn't feel humbler We couldn't be hungrier Because hungry is what happens When all your dreams are food! VLASSIC (spoken) Oh, And Ghrkin dear, we're hungry as you! As Press Secretary, I have striven to ensure that all of us knows the story of your craverism (sung) The day you were first summoned To an audience with Kos And although he would not tell you why initially When you bowed before his throne He decreed you'd hence be known As Ghrkin of Food - officially! Then with a carefree squeal The pickles which burst from concealment Where they had been brining - surepetitially! PEOPLE IN CROWD I hear she made an extra pie She always remains to bake I hear that she lets dough leaven To easily make the cakes! And her clientele all in all Are eating her good sust'nence! I hear her spirit's so pristine Pure water can't match her! CALYPSO What!? CROWD Match her!? Please - somebody go and get her! CALYPSO (spoken) Do you hear that - water can't match her?! People are so empty-headed, they'll believe anything! GHRKIN (spoken) Calypso! Oh - yes, thanks plenty, dearest! He's gone to fetch us a refreshment. He's so famished today! (sung) That's why I couldn't be hungrier No, I couldn't be hungrier Though it is, I admit The tiniest bit Until we all ran and ate it But I couldn't be hungrier Simply couldn't be hungrier (spoken) Well - not "simply": (sung) 'Cause getting your dreams It's strange, but it seems A little - well - complicated There's a kind of a sort of : cost There's a couple of things get: lost There are bridges you cross You didn't know you crossed Until you've crossed And if that joy, that thrill Doesn't thrill you like you think it will Still - With this perfect finale The cheers and ballyhoo We Couldn't be hungrier? So I couldn't be hungrier Because hungry is what happens When all your dreams are food Well, isn't it? Hungry is what happens When your dreams are food! CROWD We love you, Ghrkin, if we may be so frank GHRKIN Swank Foodfest! CROWD For all this joy, we know who we've got to thank Swank Foodfest! That means the Kosher, Ghrkin GHRKIN And eat all day! CROWD They couldn't be goodlier She couldn't be luckier We couldn't be hungrier GHRKIN I couldn't be hungrier CROWD Swank Foodfest GHRKIN AND CROWD Today! Swank Foodfest is today! ________ THIS SONG IS NOT INCLUDED IN PICKLED SINCE IT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE CAST ALBUM THE LYRICS ARE HERE FOR COMPLETENESS [Initially, Sassy is in Eureka's dorm room] [Eureka is lazing in bed] [Eventually, they join everyone in the courtyard for the party] Song: The Pickled Bits of the Feast (The Wicked Witch of the East) SASSYTOES (spoken) Eureka, wake up! First of all, you can't react to negatives, You must respect your pickling skills. And how can I help you? You brine around us trying to make sure everything you have ever cooked gets grand raves But you never thought to use your talent to include me! All of my life, I've depended on you (sung) How do you think that feels? All of my life, I've depended on you In this hideous chair for meals. Scrounging for scraps of pickles to pick up And longing to kick up for meals. EUREKA (spoken) Sassy, there no recipe for everything. The power is mysterious, it not like cobbling up a pair of - wait. [Begins chanting from the Grimmerie] Oh Sassy, at last. (sung)I've done what long ago I should And finally from these powers there's more food Finally, there's more food SASSYTOES (spoken) Dill! Dill, come quickly! DILL (spoken) You did this for her? SASSYTOES (spoken) For all of us! DILL (spoken) Oh Sassy... this changes everything. SASSYTOES (spoken) I know. DILL (spoken)Sassy SASSYTOES (spoken)Yes? DILL (sung)Oh, Sassy Surely now I'll matter less to you You won't mind my leaving you tonight. SASSYTOES (spoken)Leaving? DILL (sung)Yes, That ball thats being staged, Announcing Ghrkin is engourged SASSYTOES (spoken)Ghrkin? DILL (sung)Yes Sassy, that's right I've got to get a meal to her Express the way I feel for her (spoken) Sassy, I lost my lunch for Ghrkin from the moment I first saw her. You know that. SASSYTOES (spoken)Lost your lunch? (sung)Well we'll see about that. EUREKA (spoken) Sassy, let him go. SASSYTOES (sung)Did you think I'd let you leave me here flat?! DILL (spoken) Don't come any closer! SASSYTOES (sung)You're going to lose your lunch for me, I tell you! If I have, I have to... cook this for you. [begins chanting from the Grimmerie] [Dill gets noticably ill and rushes off the stage.] (spoken) This is all your fault! If you had not shown me that horrenible book- EUREKA (spoken) I've got to find a recipe. It's the only thing that might work. SASSYTOES (sung)Save him please, just save him. My poor Dill, my sweet, my brave him. Do not leave me till my sorry life has ceased. EUREKA [begins chanting in melody] SASSYTOES (sung)Alone and lunchless here, Just the girl in the mirror Just her and me, Crazy Cook of the Feast! We deserve each other. ________ [Dusk, that evening] [Eureka and the Kosher are at the edge of the Jello Slick Road] [There is a pub in the background] [Some of the assorted random characters meander in and out of the pub at staggered intervals] (Maybe one of them can be the cowardly lion) ((Make him earn his pay)) (((Reminder to stage crew: Make sure you clean up the jello again))) Song: Drunken Fool (Wonderful) KOSHER I never asked for this, Or planned it in advance. I merely stumbled here Without thought, just chance. I never saw myself As a Hemingway or Holiday I knew who I was-- One of your dime a dozen Mediocrities. Then suddenly I'm here Dejected, denounced, even (Wasn't "even" a favorite phrase of the cowardly lion?) ((Maybe the Kosher has a split personality and he's also the cowardly lion)) (((Could be why the cowardly lion wasn't at the farm in the opening scene))) ((((They couldn't split him in two and his Kosher role is more important than the cowardly lion role)))) (((((They are never on the stage at the same time))))) ((((((We may be on to something here)))))) Just because of all my flaws Needing something to relieve them. Does it surprise you I got hooked, and all too soon? What can I say? I got carried away And not just in saloons. Drunken Fool-- They called me Drunken Fool, So I said Drunken Fool, if you insist. I am a Drunken Fool And they said Drunken Fool. Believe me, it's hard to resist, They call me Drunken Fool. They think I'm Drunken Fool Hey, look there's Drunken Fool-- That hermit hick. Who said it might be keen To drink some cheap whiskey, And he won't be slowed So drink it quick! [Spoken]See, I never had a barstool of my own. So, I guess I just wanted to give the denizens of grog everything EUREKA [Spoken] [tersely] So you drink? THE KOSHER [Spoken] Eureka, where I'm from, drinking makes all sorts of things seem right and true. We call it dementia. [Sung] A drink's's called a whiskey, or a lime rickey. A drunk man's a sot, or an inebriate Is one an old fashion, or long island ice tea? It's all in which label Not able to resist. There are precious few displeased With drunken opportunities, So we act as though they will persist. They call me Drunken Fool, So I'm a Drunken Fool. In fact, it's so much who I am, I'm always this way. And with my help, You can be the same. At long, long last believe it's true, Long overdue, Eureka, the most celebrated Are un-rehabilitated. There'll be such a whoop-de-doo! A celebration through the Laws That's all to do with you! Drunken Fool-- They'll call you Drunken Fool! Ha Ha EUREKA [In an annoyed, disgusted tone] You are a Drunken Fool! The KOSHER Trust me, it's fun! BOTH: When you're a Drunken Fool, You are a Drunken Fool! Drunken Fool, Drunken Fool-- THE KOSHER Drunk- en Fool-- ________ [Short time later] [Ghrkin sits on the end of the stage, looking dejected] [The empty courtyard is in the background] [No one else is around] Song: I'm Not a Churl (reprise) (I'm Not That Girl (reprise)) GHRKIN Don't wish or start Wishing often soon departs In the world I know We're hungry so I'm not a churl... ________ [Eureka is alone in the Kitchen on one half of the stage stirring a large pot on the stove] (Here's a test. Is this personification or foreshadowing?) ((Foreshadowing, remember?)) (((This let's us know that Eureka will be eating again))) ((((She is not an inanimate object)))) (((((At least, not yet))))) [Calypso is alone in the courtyard on the other half of the stage] (We already explained how this works, remember?) Song: As Long as There's Brine (As Long as You're Mine) EUREKA Steep them so fiercely, mould them just right I can't help believing they're curing tonight My wildest dreamings could not foresee Cucumbers becoming what I make them be And just for this moment as long as there’s brine They’ve lost all resistance and so soon we will dine And if it turns out it's over too fast We’ll make every last moment to last As long as there’s brine [Eureka wanders into the courtyard with a bowl] [Eureka hands the bowl to Calypso] CALYPSO Maybe it’s brainless, maybe it’s wise But its got me seeing a wonderful prize Somehow I’ve fallen under it's spell And somehow I’m smelling a wonderful smell BOTH Every moment as long as there’s brine They’ll surge through my body and make me feel fine Say there's no future for them, don’t despair Before they’re gone, you’ll get your share BOTH Just for this moment as long as there’s brine Come eat all you want to and see all of the kinds Pull from the glass jar, until they are through I know you'll be there eating too As long as there’s brine (Not sure which of the following endings works better) ((Another thing to solve in pre-production) (((Now you're really seeing into how these musicals get written))) ((((We will leave it as another job for the director and producers to handle)))) (((((They are gonna really have to work for their credits on this production))))) CALYPSO What is it? EUREKA It's just for the first time I feel Pickled OR EUREKA What is it? CALYPSO It's just for the first time I've eaten Pickles ________ [Same tableau as the previous song] [Eureka is back in the kitchen] [She is baking something in the oven and stiring a pot on the stove] [She regularly eats various items cooling on the counter] [Calypso is holding his stomach and obviously still hungry] (Not sure how to make his hunger evident) ((Still another thing for the director and producers to solve in pre-production)) (((No wonder why it takes so long to get these things on Broadway))) Song: No Food Greed (No Good Deed) EUREKA Calypso, [Eureka reading from the Grimmerie (a cookbook)] A little Ramen Ramen And turn and turn a little Ramen A little Ramen Ramen And turn and turn a little Ramen Make his food hot and warm Make it taste clean and plain As he eats it Make his hunger wain [Eureka stops stirring and looks into the oven] Let his scones quickly bake And however he tries To enjoy them Let them never dry Let them never dry [She goes back to stirring the pot.] A little Ramen Ramen And turn and turn a little Ramen A little Ramen Ramen And turn and turn a little, little What good is this cooking? I don't even know what I'm making! I don't even know which flavorings to try Calypso, where are you? Have you been fed, or eating? [Again looks in the oven] One more bad batter I can add to my Generous supply No food greed goes unpunished No act of charity goes unresented No food greed goes unpunished That's my new creed My goal of food intentions Led where such goals always lead No food greed Goes unpunished! Sassy, Doctor Vinegar, Calypso, Calypso!! One question haunts and hurts Too much, too much to mention Was I only making food Or just seeking attention? Is that all food greeds are When looked at with an ice-cold eye? If that's all food greeds are Maybe that's the reason why No food greed goes unpunished All hungry urges should be circumvented No food greed goes unpunished Sure, I meant well - Well, look at what well-meant did [Looks down at her stomach] All right, enough - so be it So be it, then Let all us be agreed I'm pickled through and through Since I can not succeed Calypso, feeding you I promise no food greed Will I attempt to do again Ever again No food greed Will I do again! ________ [Everyone except Eureka and Ghrkin join Calypso in the courtyard] Song: Heartbroken, Pickles Gone (March of the Witch Hunters) FOODIANS Go and hunt them Or find them Or grow them HUNGRY WOMAN [Sadly] (spoken) Heartbroken, pickles gone! FOODIANS Go and hunt them Or find them Or grow them HUNGRY MAN [Angrily] (spoken) More Pickles! FOODIANS Pickledness must be cherished Pickles essentially desiderated Pickledness must be cherished Plant pickles! Tin Man (You know, Calypso) (spoken) And this is more than just disservice to the Kosher. I have an edible shortage to tell to Eur-no Pickles! (sung) It's due to her I'm missing them Her greed made this occur So for once she had to plant less Why'd she plant less cucumbers! (Here's the big moment for the cowardly lion) ((He gets to sing his few lines that we have been promising)) (((The lion sings in third person))) ((((This is a technique that majestic or royal characters sometimes use)))) ((((At least, that is something we once heard)))) (((((And lions are supposed to be majestic beasts))))) COWARDLY LION (i.e., Any actor who wants more stage time and a chance to sing) And the lion also Has a grievance to relay If she'd let him help with her struggles The greed she stuck to would have been avoided today! CROWD Find her! Fill the itch! ALL Pickledness must be cherished Pickle-Hunters, I would join you if I could Because, Pickledness must be cherished cherished cherished For Food! ________ [Ghrkin and Eureka are in the kitchen] [Eureka has grown to be somewhat obese by this time] Song: By Food (For Good) EUREKA I'm addicted Just look at me I'm addicted I just cook the food I grew and eat it, yes I do Ghrkin So now it's up to you For both of us Now it's up to you GHRKIN I've heard it said That pickles come into our lives for a reason Bringing something we can't spurn As we are fed By those who help the gardens grow If we let them And we eat them in our turn Well, I don't know if I believe that's true But I know I'll eat all that you make Because I knew you... Like a pickle pulled from rich sod As it's ripened from sun Like a bream that cooked with clover In clay on hot wood You can say if I've been changed by the batter Because I knew you I have been changed by food EUREKA It well may be That we will never feast again In this lifetime So let me say before we part So much of me Is made from what I cooked for you (Can't deny that) You'll be with me Like a cook pot on my hearth [sung Harth] And now whatever way our stories end I know you have re-written mine By being my friend... Like a dip drawn from its curing Or a pilaf with brie Like a seed dropped onto moist ground To grow tasty tea You can say that I've been changed by the batter And because I knew you GHRKIN Because I knew you BOTH I have been changed by food EUREKA And just to clear the air I ask forgiveness For the kinds of food you blame me for GHRKIN But then, I guess we know There's food to share BOTH And all of it makes good batter evermore GHRKIN - Eureka Like a pickle pulled from rich sod - Like a dip drawn from its curing As it's ripened by the sun - Or a pilaf with brie Like a bream that cooked with clover - Like a seed dropped onto moist ground In clay on hot wood - To grow tasty tea BOTH You can say that I've been Changed by the batter I do believe I have been Changed by the batter GHRKIN And because I knew you... EUREKA Because I knew you... BOTH Because I knew you... I have been changed by food ________ Song: Finale (Finale) ALL No one Spurns the Pickled Now at last they're brined and done Now at last there's joy throughout the land Good booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] Good booze! [Each character raises a drink like a toast] GHRKIN You can say that I've been changed by the batter And because I knew you ALL No one Spurns the Pickled GHRKIN AND EUREKA Because I knew you I have been changed ALL No One Spurns the Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (R) then lowers a pickle on the bass strings note] Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (L) then lowers a pickle on the bass strings note] Pickled! [on "Pic" in Pickled, the crowd raises (C) a pickle and keeps it raised] [Curtain falls.]

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Eclectric Pulse Creative Team
(Subset of the team working on Pickled, so far)

Pete Giacomini - Co-Writer, Producer, Camera Crew
CJ Giacomini - Co-Writer, Director
Sara Giacomini - Reviewer



Here's some links to our previous productions:

S.U.V. (An original live action music video)
Fractured Heart (An animated original music lyric video)
Jessie's Grill (A song Parody of Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl")
The Jessie's Grill Youtube video will be completed next Spring once we are in our new studios.
There will also eventually be some Tiktok videos and Youtube reels with excerpts from Jessie's Grill.

Here is a link to our Audio only productions: Soundcloud

Here is a link to our Mystery Man CD page: Mystery Man CD

Here is a link to our home page: Eclectric Pulse

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