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Real English!
A Conversation Course for the 21st Century
Featuring Pronunciation Practice Tongue Twisters Basic Conversation Exciting Dramas from Everyday Life
Reno Dal!s
Real English
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION _______________________________________________ 4 COURSE SEQUENCE ___________________________________________ 5
SECTION ONE: WARM UP EXERCISES & PROTOCOLS __________ 7 TONGUE TWISTERS (OHT) ______________________________________ 8 SCRIPT MARKS _______________________________________________ 10
SECTION TWO: BASIC CONVERSATIONS _____________________ 11 WARM UP: INTRODUCE YOURSELF ____________________________ 11 1: CONVERSATION, BASIC GREETINGS _________________________ 13 2: CONVERSATION, SMALL TALK ______________________________ 15 3: SALES DO YOU HAVE ANY.....?_____________________________ 17 4: SALES I WANT SOMETHING THAT.... _______________________ 18 5: SALES WHAT DO YOU WANT? _____________________________ 19 6: COMPLAINTS IM SORRY ABOUT THAT.... __________________ 20 Complaints This vacuum cleaner doesn!t work! pp 77-79
SECTION THREE: DRAMATIC DIALOGUES ___________________ 21 1. DUCKS ____________________________________________________ 21 2. GIRLS NIGHT OUT _________________________________________ 24 3. THE BIG GUNS _____________________________________________ 26 4. THE BUTTON ______________________________________________ 30 5. AFTER A LONG TIME _______________________________________ 31 6. DON'T TOUCH _____________________________________________ 33 7. THE EMBRACE______________________________________________ 36 8. HOSPITAL _________________________________________________ 38 9. PACE ______________________________________________________ 40 10. AMBITION_________________________________________________ 42 11. HIS EYES WERE BURNING. _________________________________ 47 12. NOTHING SPECIAL PRESS RELEASE ________________________ 48 13. JOHN & UNTHIA __________________________________________ 50 14. THE COUNTRY BOY _______________________________________ 54 15. THE OPEN HEART _________________________________________ 56 16. CHRISTMAS RADIO PLAY (3 PARTS) ________________________ 60 17. THE FIRST INSPECTION (3 PARTS) __________________________ 63 18. THE SMOKER (6 PARTS) ____________________________________ 66 19. THINK 4 - VERSION 1 (4 PARTS)_____________________________ 73
COPYRIGHT 1999 RENO DAL PTY LTD INCORPORATING DRAMATIC TEXTS COPYRIGHT FROM 1969 TO 1994, PERFORMED AND PRESENTED IN TERMS OF THE THEATRICAL COPYRIGHT CONVENTION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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Introduction
This course has been developed to address a crying need in ESL students across all levels- from basic General English all the way up to Academic Preparation for Post-Graduate students. What is this all-pervasive need? To be understood. Two key elements seemed to be missing from our teaching agendas; the ongoing drilling in pronunciation and detailed practice in spoken expression. As a result of this, our students continue with many bad habits in their expressions, so bad in fact that most native speakers would find it impossible to understand what they say. This course provides a guided progress through a range of skills, focusing on the key areas of meaning signs- time, grammar, pronunciation and conversation. The last item, conversation, is supported by basic and complex conversation texts that provide students with natural models on which they can build their own expressions. This course will not magically create native speakers but it will take students at an intermediate level into a new world of fluency and confidence, hopefully giving them a useful foundation for future work. Aims & Objectives This is a conversation course, but then, you probably guessed that already. The idea of the course is to do some in-depth work on pronunciation, spoken rhythms and day-to-day expressions. By the end of the course, the students should have a good grounding in how to conduct a conversation. They should also have a much better chance of guessing what a native speaker means in daily speech. Course Format The course uses a range of materials that provide exercises across a range of skills. Timelines (Dal) Grammar (Murphy) Free Speaking (Hadfield) Dialogues (Dal) Graphs of Tenses & Expression Theory & Practice Free Practice Detailed Skills Development
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Writing Tasks (Dal)
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Creating Dialogues & Stories
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Week 2
Intonation & Phrasing Select Key Dialogue Commence Writing Task
Week 3
In-Depth work on key dialogue OR- Present written dialogue for selection. Selection of Presentation Piece
Week 4
Dress Rehearsal & Grading Hand-In Writing Task
Week 5
Dress Rehearsal Finale
Party Time
Wednesday- Lunchtime (Or Friday) Group Presentations
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Tasks Each section of the course requires teamwork for the practice and monitoring of results. At the end of lesson one, after the students have presented their SelfIntroduction, teams of three students should be created.
Section 1
Quick Warm Up- pronunciation exercises Theory- Grammar & Writing Games- Conversation Practice Short Dialogue Practice
Section 2
Longer Warm-Up Lesson Focus eg intonation, phrasing Long Dialogue Practice What Students Will Need a blue & a red pen a note pad (A4 size) a folder with clear file envelopes (10) a clipboard (for writing on, during standing exercises) In the second half of the course, students will be expected to develop stage properties (props), costumes and backdrops to their presentations. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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Word Groups 1. work 2. yuck 3. buck 4. cluck 5. celebrate 6. sparsity 7. insider walk yawn born corn cerebral scarcity consider wack yak back cacky cement varsity wild wok yon bond conned centre perfidy bewilder woke yolk baulk calk certain silly child wick yen bend cell* celebrity dilly children
Stockhausen: Set Sails for the Sun Make a tone, and change the tone until the sound of the whole group expresses the feeling of liquid gold.
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10. Very few vacuums vend vapours. 11. Terrible Terry tends to tamper. 12. The quick brown fox rejuvenated the lazy frog.
13. super/califrag/alistic/expi/ala/dotious supercalifragalistic expialadotious 14. chrono/synchlastic infin/dibilum chronosynchlastic infindibilum 15. anti/dis/establish/ment/arian/ism antidisestablishmentarianism 16. I want to be someone like somebody else was once.
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Each player takes a turn in each role through each exercise until they have attempted and practiced every role in each section.
Exercises
#1 Learning to do Nothing At All (Being Present) Two ( A & B) sit opposite each other, hands on knees, looking at each other. The aim of the exercise is to be able to just be present with another person while doing and thinking nothing. The director sits to one side and monitors the pair, noting movements and loss of concentration. Each player should have a turn for at least one successful minute. #2 Speaking a Sentence (Origination)
Text: I want to be someone like somebody else was once. A speaks, B acknowledges (eg Uhuh!). D watches for no movement, good expression, pronunciation. D only works on one thing at a time, until it improves. Only after consistent improvement should the director move to the next issue. Swap places after a few minutes. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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Script Marks
to block a script means to add marks and instructions that give the script meaning through new timing, speed and movement. blocking (gerund): This is a term used in theatre and refers to the process whereby actors and directors work together to orchestrate their movements and meanings, thus creating an organic whole. In this course, we will use the following marks, thus allowing different people to perform the same role with the same meaning.
looks right
away
looks up
(p)!!!!!!!!!!!!!pause
exclaim!
wander off...
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Hobbies
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In my free time I like to ___________________ . On the weekends, I usually ___________________ . When I was young, I ___________________ . Travel Ive been to a number of other countries, including ___________________ . I like ___________________ (country name) most because ___________________ ___________________ . I hope to visit ___________________ , sometime in the future, because _____________ . Love & Relationship I have been in love ___ times. Each time I was very ________. I want to fall in love _____ times in my life because _____________ . In the future I hope to ___________________ and have ___________________ . Conclusion (summarise the points above) Place / Nationality Family Job/Hobbies People: likes & dislikes Food: likes & dislikes General: lazy/busy, tall/short, happy/sad, serious/silly. Hopes for the future At the end of my life I want people to say I was ___________________.
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Nothing really. Just the usual. But I had an awful headache all day.
A: B: A: B:
(Bad luck!)
Well, Ive got to run. See you later. Sure. See you! (Seeyah!)
(Gotta go!)
1A: More Conversation, Basic Greetings B: A: Hi, how are you? Not at my best- my dog died, my wife left me and I just lost my job. B: A: B: A: It could be worse, at least you still have your health. Not really. My doctor says I have only six months to live. Im sorry to hear that. Well, Ive got to run. See you later! Farewell dear friend!
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HELLOHi!, Good-day Good morning/ afternoon/ evening GOOD-BYE- Seeyah! Bye! See you later! Dont be a stranger! GREETINGS- Hows it going? Hows things? Whats up? How ya dooin ? Dyaveagdwee-gend? Ow ah yah? HOW ARE YOU? Terrible, Very sick, Awful, Not bad, OK, Fine, Wonderful, Fabulous. Cool. Could be better.
Practice:
Run through dialogue 1A with your partner. Then do it again, playing different roles.
Now run through 1B with your partner. Then do it again, playing different roles.
Writing Exercise:
Now create a dialogue with your partner Changing the text to suit your own situation. Try to make it the most terrible or silly situation you can think of.
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B A
B A
B A B A B A B
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What about yourself? I work in the travel industry as an accountant, not as exciting as your job I suppose, but I prefer a profession that is calm and steady. Well, its been nice meeting you. I hope to see you again soon. Me too. See you soon! For sure! Bye!
B A B
Practice:
Run through dialogue 1A with your partner. Then do it again, playing different roles.
Now run through 1B with your partner. Then do it again, playing different roles.
Writing Exercise:
Now create a dialogue with your partner Changing the text to suit your own situation. Try to make it the most terrible or silly situation you can think of.
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A: B: A: B: A: B: OR A: B: A: B:
Directions: upstairs, downstairs, just across from X, just after the X, in the X department, beside the X, on the X floor, on B1 Chairs: Executive style with wheels and arms, secretary style, guest chair lounge chair, pool chair, dining chair, directors chair (canvas) Areas: reception area, executive office, board room, staff room
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A: B:
A: B: A; B: A: B: A: B: A: B:
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A: B: A: B:
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'They took me down there before sunset wrapped only in a blanket!' T: S: T: S: T: S: And there were flashing lights!! And they kept asking me questions about my dead aunt!!! They tortured and dismembered me!!!!! But I wouldn't tell!!!!! I wouldn't tell!!!!!!!!!! I wouldn't tell!!!!!!!!!!!!!
They repeat I wouldn't tell like 10 times, louder and faster, and then, silence. S: T: S: T: S: T: S: I wouldn't tell... I wouldn't tell either... I think I'll just say, It was vermilion. It's easier. Yeah. It's a nice day, isn't it? Yeah, the suns nice. Hey! What are those things flying in a V-formation across the sky ?!! T: S: (looks) Ducks... (disappointed) Oh...
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G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1:
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( Getting really angry and rougher) You really are dumb you know. the only way...(calming and resuming her pose) ...Well, you don't... Go get him then. Go on it was your idea. ( Getting mad again) You can't just walk up to a bloke and get him
G 1: G 2:
G 1: G 2:
So go and chat him up for a start. ( All North Shore again ) But I can't...my...my bedrooms in a mess. That doesn't matter-do it in the lounge. No it wouldn't feel right. Then use your flat mates room, isn't she staying at her boyfriend's tonight. That's a thought-no that's dumb. What if she comes home. She'd be cool. This is crazy. A guy like that's not going to go for someone like me - look he's chatting up that bitch from the media department. He might like it different/rough for a change. Go on! I'll make it $20.
G 1: G 2: G 1:
G 2: G 1: G 2:
G 1:
G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2:
Listen this stupid - why don't you do it. It was your idea. But I don't want to find out you do. You're scared. I am not. I just don't want to make a fool of my self, that's all. Chicken. You're the one who's chicken. Why don't you do it? Go on - you do it. Or are you chicken. Not me - I'm not chicken. Well go then I'll put up the $20 dollars. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
G 1: G 2:
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( sulkily) I'll have to think about it. Chicken! Chicken! chicken! Shut up! Everyone's looking. All right stuff ya' I'll do it - give me the $20.
G 2:
G 1 walks towards the guy. The turns around then goes back to the guy. They talk quietly for awhile. G 1 comes backsmirking. G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G 2: G 1: G1: G2: G 1: ( Blushing) He thinks I'm cute. (Rough) Yeah sure. Shut up he does. You haven't done anything, where's my $20. Hah. It's mine now. We're going to his joint. There see how easy it is? Piece of cake. Listen... there is just one thing. I thought so. I thought so. No every things alright- really. It's only a small thing. (smutty) Oh yeah, it looked pretty big to me (giggles) Well? Just between you and me. Promise not to laugh. Ok, come on. What is it? Look. I gotta' go through with it - so I gotta' ask ya. (plaintively) How do you do it? What happens. has a shocked look.)
( G2
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(Gun fight music. they back up, draw Mac shoots. Alf falls, blood shoots from his sleeve.) Alf: Mac: Shit!! Sorry about that.
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S'alright. I'm sort of use to it. (pause) You know, I'm sort of use to it. You know, I enjoyed that. Do you want to do it again? Nah. O come on, I might just manage it this time. Yah reckon. (enthusiastic ) Yeah, I think I might. Say, would you mind?
( He produces a bonnet and holds it out to Mac ) Mac: Alf: Mac: (outraged ) Hey! What is this? Maybe if you look like a woman, then I'll be able to shoot you. Your crazy.
( He looks quizzically, and gives in to Alf's winsome look) Mac: Oh. All right.
( Alf rushes to him and puts the bonnet carefully on his head ) Mac: But don't tell anyone!
( Alf finishes and eyes his work appreciatively. Mac is uncomfortable walking) Mac: Let's go.
( Gunfight music. They pace up, this time they both draw together and Alf is shoot in the leg. More blood gushes forth ) Mac: Alf: This is stupid. ( Dragging himself up on one leg ) Gee Whiz! Gee Whiz! You know what? You know what? I almost did it. I almost did it! ( Bored ) Gee, that's great. One more time. No.
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Oh please. I might just manage it this time. You'd be doing me a big favour. You know it's mighty hard when you can't shoot men. ( Looks in to his beer ) Huh! ( Getting more strident ) I'd be obliged, mighty obliged. Besides think of all those woman, children and roaches you'd be saving from an early grave.
Mac: Alf:
Mac:
( He fumbles in his coat and producers a bras ) Alf: Mac: Alf: Mac: Alf: Say would you mind? ( He smiles ) I've squashed men bigger than you for less than that. For me it'll make it easier. OK. ( As he puts the bras on Mac ) Thanks Mac, you have no idea what this means to me. Mac: You're right, lets get this over with.
( Gun fight music. Alf draws and fires while Mac's gun is still in his holster. Alf calls out as Mac falls ) Alf: Maria!
( Alf limps to Mac's limp form. He takes Mac in his arms. A light as if from heaven appears above their heads. The sound of angles singing ) Alf: Mac: Alf: Mac: Alf: Mac: Alf: Oh Maria, (sob, sob ) I'm sorry, it as beautiful. Really beautiful. Don't call me Maria. Call me a doctor!! Maria? How can you talk about an other man at a time like this? Listen you stupid shit, I'm dying, need a doctor. Oh, Maria, I'll be your doctor. I'll be your everything. Stop calling me Maria. But...(He sits looking at Mac in shock and then warms to him) Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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Get me a doctor. Get me a doctor. You don't need a doctor. You just need love, and a man to look after. A nice home, a family, roaches. What more can a woman want? ( His dying breath) Not woman. Not Maria....You! ( A sudden realisation comes over him ) The pervert! I can think of nothing, more disgusting than a man found dead in woman's clothing. Disgusting!!
Mac: Alf:
( Mac lies bleeding while Alf storms off mumbling to himself as if remembers nothing)
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4. The Button
A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: Press the button. What button. This button. I don't see any button. Press it anyway. (Looks) Go on. Press it. What button! That one, you idiot. That one. ( presses the imaginary button) (closes his eyes) That's better. What's better ? Can't you feel it. No. Listen very carefully. Just sit and feel and listen. (Closes his eyes) Can you feel it now ? Just the slightest, almost imperceptible difference ? A slight, beautiful, almost intangible sense of relief. B: A: I think I can. you see ? Next time I'll press it.
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Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob: Jimmy: Bob:
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river, covered in mud trying to hide his private parts and get his clothes. You would have liked him if you would have meet him. He was like an old dog, you could have done anything to him, and he would still come back for more. Incredible guy. Jimmy: It certainly sounds like it, but your not. Excuse me.
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6. Don't Touch
A: And you look at the thoughts as they form in your mind, and consider the gaps of the patterns that made them as they are and then you thought again. And no-one knew quite what it meant. And then a thought passed through your mind that perhaps there was one... B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: Yes, only one. Who might understand. Yes. There must be one. There must be. Of course there must. A pretty one. One who feels good at night. A cute one. One who really cares. We went through all of that. All of it. Only to find... To find? No, not finding really... just a sort of... Frustration leads to understanding. No, not that. Not really. More like a resignation. You resigned or you were resigned? I became resigned as you did... to the fluid nature of space... to the thought that it might just go on being the way it is... But I still dream. I still dream of jacarandas at night.. the smell of them... the moving of their fronds in the small summer night breezes.. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
B: A:
A:
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I haven't given up hope. I have simply become practical and thoughtful. I have become circumspect. There is no room for depression, only thought to the future. B: I see. I do see. I don't feel but I see. I mind the space that has taken me to this point. How is it that we live in this sad vacuum? I know that we are all in this space. I know that I am not the only lonely soul. Even those out there, sitting, being voyeurs, sitting and listening their own thoughts, they share my feelings. Even if they have their own lovers, their wives or husbands, there is gap- an emptiness... You are my comfort on this cold night. A: It's hot tonight, and I am far too sweaty to touch you. Besides, even if you did enjoy it, I would be lying here so self conscious that I couldn't cope. I'd have to leave the room. It wouldn't work. B: A: B: I thought not. But it was worth a try. But don't think that I am rejecting you as a human being. Oh no. I am very clear. What you are saying is that you reserve the right to reject me again- and frequently, whenever I am drunk and soft and silly. Oh no, I am very clear. You are the sadist I have been scared of all my life. You are the unattainable slut, who weaves a spell around the needs of poor souls to keep them enthralled. You want me to go on looking, but don't touch. A: B: A: B: Oh no, don't touch. Oh no. Don't touch even the tinsiest bit. Don't Touch1 Dont Touch! (repeat, louder and faster- 10 times) Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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Oh no ! Don't Touch!
(move through repetition into) A: B: Oh no! Own Touch ! Oh! Please One Touch!
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7. The Embrace
J: I wanted to embrace you. I saw all possibility. For a moment I felt myself on the edge of the dream... You were dreaming. Wandering... I was not that. I was not that at all. But I thought... Yes, you thought, and made great plans, and hardened your life around the jigsaw of your needs. It is not for me. You knew. You knew all the time and still you bother me. Still you persist in helping me. I only meant to embrace you. There is no true embrace. Only the squeezing of the flesh. You will not squeeze mine. You will not. J: B: I only wanted to help. Like a small heavy machine your help hinders my suffering. You stand in the way of the pain that leads to life. don't help, just go into the wilderness and face that you are alone. Go away. J: B: J: B: J: B: But you owe me so much... For holding me, you owe me. I shall not collect. Go. But how can you live without me? I don't know. You see, let me help you? I will not. I will by myself. Now go before I abuse you for your love and care, you slimy creature bent on holding me. Just go! J: B: J: I have given so much to you. And now you are the slug, the leech that draws my blood. And I tried so hard.....
B:
J: B:
J: B:
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8. Hospital
A: B: A: Huh? Don't say "huh" say, I beg your pardon. That seems pretty silly to me. Why should I beg your Pardon? You mumbled, you should beg my pardon. B: (confused) I suppose your right. That's it. There just nothing else for it. the writing is on the wall. The moving finger writes and moves and having writ the finger displaces itself and the irredeemable affect remains unchanged until the end of time growing in intensity. (coughs) And having been through the eternity till the end of time, it stops. It's rather like a squashed melon really. I think I'll give Einstein a call. A: B: A: For god's sake, shut up! Shut up. You're repeating your self again. You came in here, mumbled some in coherent nonsense, disturbed my work, upset my train of thought, let my sanity out at the next stop and you have the temerity to tell me that I am repeating myself? B: A: B: A: I've got news. I'm tingly all over. They're dropping the bombs. Well I'm glad to see that you've finally overcome your speech impediment. Now go back to your work. (pause) Now go away! Shoo! Did you hear what I said. Yes I heard what you said. Let's not go through that beg your pardon nonsense again.
A: B:
B: A:
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You may have heard but I don;t think you quite understand. They're dropping the bombs. So, big deal. On us. Yeah. I know. How do you know? You just told me. But you thought I was joking. No I didn't. But you said. That was just to up keep your morals. Now what are you doing? Helping you keep your head. (the paper bag now covers his head) I see. Perfect. Now go away. (walks into a wall ) Ouch!
A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A: B:
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9. Pace
A: The thought comes up like a surprise. That they might move like this, thinking and meandering through... As though there was unlimited time. Or no time at all. Don't waste my time. I only meant to say, that as it all moves in paradox, that, perhaps they saw it the same- no time, and therefore no time to waste. A paradox, yet workable. I was going to sayAnd so, when there is so little time, one might as well do one thing as another. After all, nothing will ever be complete. Only close enough.. and never good enough. A: But I am still angry. The reason doesn't matter. Are you suggesting that I spend my time trying to explain time? Trying to get such a small point across? Ridiculous. I'll only thought to explain that there is another way of looking. That's all. And, in the meantime, what of me? Am I to hibernate while their silly little minds begin to scratch the surface? Shall I sit still and wait? Will I put myself in a cryonic tank till they find out they can't defrost me? And then begin again? No, there is no hope for it. Your idea resembles this- to get a random group of people- and using plastic surgery, hormones, brain development drugs, steroids and whatever program one can devise that will work- and turn that random group into an Olympic team. You might do it once, but they'd probably all drop dead the day after the event. The metal of the average human isn't made for excellence. It cracks under the strain. B: But isn't that what being humane is all about? Allowing people to be human? Isn't it? Copyright Reno Dal 1999
B: A: B:
A: B:
B:
A:
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Then, how do we judge people? If we are going to be generous and "humane", then there is no room for assessment. We might as well say that we are all the same, and be done with it. And that's a lie. Of course people are different. I see that. But I... I was trying to say that one has to be forgiving; that we all have our faults, and imperfections. You're lying to yourself if you don't acknowledge that. And that's precisely what I was saying; that we are different. And, because we are different, and get annoyed by others slowness, or maybe even their pace- that we need to see just what that means. That seeing the strengths and weaknesses is an essential part of being here.
B:
A:
B:
But you were saying that people are a waste of time if they don't come up to your personal standard. No I did not! What I meant was that I was angry at having other people waste my time. Sick of it. That I was sick of hearing what I had heard before, of seeing them go through the same unpleasant nonsense over and over. But you're same. (SHOUTS) I know I do the same, but I do it at a different pace! You're as bad as anyone. Can't you see? You're doing it again. No-one is as bad as anyone. Each of us is quite different. And that is the whole point.
A:
B: A: B: A:
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10. Ambition
A Play About The Value Of Beauty Man: Woman: Man: I wanna rule the world. Youre too American. Why not want to be happy? Well I don't mean rule the world, exactly. I just meant, well, I want to be important, run a big company. Have people call me "sir". If we had a son, he'd call you sir. I don't want to be a big fish in a small pond. But a family is a wonderful thing. A man needs a wife, sure, but children aren't really useful, till you've made it. Theyre a burden. A man with a family can't take risks. What do you mean? You've seen them, family men. Bowed shoulders. Cowed and beaten. They can't do anything. They're 'family men' true enough and that means a sort of respect. People lay them off a bit later, and stuff. They're looked after. But that's because they're ..... they're invalids. Their lives are controlled by their family. They might as well be dead really. Oh, really, that's ridiculous. You sound like some sort of maniac. Homosexuals talk like that, not all of them of course. They look furtive, as if.....as if death were chasing them. In a way I suppose it is. The only true immortality is children. Don't talk nonsense! I don't want a life of posturing, that's all. There's no choice. Even the head of a company has to pose, perhaps even more so. You can't escape being a product. Rubbish. If youre rich enough you can pay people to do anything.
Woman: Man:
Woman:
Man: Woman:
Man:
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You're a thorough capitalist. You just want power so you can push people around. Everyone wants power. Not everyone. Yep, everyone. There are people in the world who, who just want peace. A regular job maybe. But basically all they want is peace and quiet. They've given up. Maybe they always wanted peace. When I was a kid....Well there was this guy, there wasnt anything special about him. He was a nobody and he would be a nobody all his life. One day we were walking home from school. He said "Do you know what I want to be?" He stood up straight. I guarantee he was a foot taller. He wanted to be a dynamic man. That's what he called it. He said it meant a man that could do anything, fit in to any scene, be a success at every party. Then he shrank. He said "But I couldnt ever do it ".
Woman: Man:
Thats sad. Bullshit it's sad! Don't you see? His dream was his prison. He couldnt do anything, so he chose a dream he could always have, because it would always be impossible, especially for him. Dont you have dreams like that. I'm going to achieve my dreams. You sound so sure. Only because Im determined. It sounds like an awfully grim exercise to me. (thinks) Grim?...Yes, I can see how might think that. It's no fairy tale. Thought maybe it is. A sort of modern fairy tale; jet planes
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instead of palaces, corporations instead of kingdoms... It's the fairy tale of....of.. freedom at the top. Woman: Yes, it's a fairy tale alright. Those guys, those guys at the top are captives of their ambition. Do you think it's melodramatic? Don't think I cant see what a cliche I am; the ambitious young man -a 'real gogetter'. I'm the young fellow who appears in all the ads for yachts and good wines and never makes it in to the movies, unless he murders his wife of course, or something like that. Woman: Man: Would you ever do that? I can't imagine it. No but that doesnt mean Im a stereotype. I don't turn off my TV just to be trendy. What's that got to do with it? I used to believe in art once. Sorry, I don't see the connection. Very funny. But you don't understand. Then you should explain yourself better. And brush your coat, there's dandruff on the collar. Dandruff doesnt matter. It could be the difference between that big contract and someone else getting the promotion! Man: Woman: Man: Woman: Man: You're mocking me. You're bucking of promotion. That's what I was trying to talk about. Sorry. You see, I tried art, only to discover everyone's bucking for promotion. Only it's worse, because artists live art. There friends, their social guest are all organised to seduce minds. Oh, what an ugly thought - people with their hands inside each others skulls massaging the frontal lobes.....Ugh. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
Man:
Man: Woman:
Woman:
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But that's exactly how it is. 'Hello darling', they say, but they're just dying to knife you in the back. Surely there's more to it than that. More to it? More to it? Is that all you can say? They're all just interior decorators, selling snow jobs. Whiter than white becomes a star.
Woman: Woman;
Vote Omo. (pause looks at her) what? (doing lips in makeup case) Its just the same as anything, the world's mad.
(points with fingers) Right! So what's the solution? Shoot yourself. No. Forget it? No. Give up? Oh, alright. The answer is beauty. Create the illusion of beauty. I'm sure of it. I don't get it. Beauty sells, right. Yeah. So? So we create the illusion and sell. Instant obsolescence. They buy, they take it home and... Poof! All gone. So they come back for more. There's no money in art. But there is in the illusion of art. I see. What you're saying is, that the most sellable thing is the ill.. Illusion of the illusion of beauty.
Man:
Right, cause it's all in the head. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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That's shit. Exploitation of the miseducated worker for the sole purpose of manipulating and expanding capital. Not if it makes people happy. It's still shit. What if it makes us rich and powerful? It's still shit... but when do we start?
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2: 1: 2: 1: 2: 1:
2: 1: 2: 1: 2: 1: 2: 1: 2:
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I hate myself, I don't work, sweat or cry. I love myself, I am pretty, lets face it. I am very boring, but predictable, very sellable. I am a hypocrite. People will want to hear my opinions. I am a contradiction. I have the ability to be exquisitely boring, more or less. I am just a body with no head. I am just a chemical process. But I will not do ads for pantyhose. At least not for a small price. (I have great legs) My complexion isn't perfect. Everyone will really to my pimples. I have a beautiful smile, which I use on public Transport. As everyone should. I am just like you and me. And above all, I love you. No Matter what.
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J:
U:
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U:
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But dear, they'd get terrible tired of telling us what's going on if they had to tell us everything that's going on. Maybe they don't want us to know everting that's going on. Maybe they want some privacy. But there our friends. Of course they want us to know everting, that way we wont hurt them by saying the wrong things. They don't want us to hurt them.
J:
U:
J: U: J: U: J: U: J: U: J:
Do you want our friends to know everything about us. No, but that's different. Rubbish. If they didn't want us to know they'd keep it a secret. How can anyone keep any thing a secret in our neighborhood? we do it. Do we ? Yes. (pause while she thinks) when are you going to face the fact that the only reason you pry into the lives of our friends is to give you something to talk about.
U: J:
It's not. And when are you going to face the fact that I am very tired of all the muck you go on with. I don't want to know what's going on. But John! I don't care, can't you understand that. What do you care about ? I don't know. Do you care about me ?
U: J: U: J: U:
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I just wish you would shut-up, that's all. I'm tired of your voice, (p) I'm tired of your monotonous voice and your dull conversation. And what do you expect. A party ? I spend all my day washing, ironing, and dusting and doing all those dull things, and you expect me to be the life of the party as well? I-(get hand push down and sit) And I don't suppose it ever occurred to you, but your not exactly a walking talking marvel your self. In fact I'm tired of you too, so there's no need to feel alone. But.. (she's getting upset know) But what can you expect ? What can you realistically expect ? And did it ever occurred to you that I could have been in your position ? But I gave up my opportunity to look after you and your children.
U:
J: U:
J: U:
J: U: J:
And why did you do that ? For love. I use to think that, but now I see, it wasn't love, (breath) it was money. You were afraid; you were afraid to be left alone, you were afraid that I would leave you alone, and the only way to keep me was marriage. (draw out)
U: J:
It wasn't that really. Yes it was. But you see you fouled up one thing, my dear, because I am walking out and the children are walking out to. (horrified) You can't do it. You can't take the children. Yes I can, You see, dear Mrs Whitcock, who happens to be almost as much as a sticky beak as you are, dropped a hint about a certain gentleman caller ? She wanted to know who that friend of ours is that drops around everyday.
U:
U: J:
(shocked) There's no-one, there's no-one! I was a little curious myself, so I hired a private detective to find out what was going on. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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U: J: U: J: U: J: U:
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I didn't mean it. It was- (stand up) An accident. (sob, sob) O John, what I'm I going to do. The best thing you can do is disappear and never come back. But John, I don'tWill see you in court Unthia. (sob, sob) Oh but John, I didn't really mean it! I didn't really....
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Jack: Sue: Jack: Sue: Thanks
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Even if it is a bit obtuse at times. You still haven't told me. But, darling, I have. It's absolutely child's play. You just do what everyone else does.
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Jonathan
Harold:
Steven:
Harold:
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Oh Harry, you have no idea what I've been going through. Its been just awful. I can't sleep. I can't relax. I'm just a mess. And I really don't know what to do. I really don't. Uhuh. (Pause.) Well, listen, if you can just wait a second while I finish giving Peter mouth to mouth resuscitation, and get him into a stable condition, then we can talk. Sure Harry. Can I have a drink? Uhuh.
Harry:
Steven: Harry:
Harry goes over to peter, and continues with mouth to mouth resuscitation. Steven goes to the fridge. Steven: Harry, I think you've run out of ice.....I guess I should put some trays in the freezer....You know I always feel better after a drink....Its a bit of a worry really. I should think about it, but I enjoy it so much, just being able to relax...
Steven reappears. Harry: Steven: Harry: I don't suppose you got me one. I'm sorry Harry. What do you want? Just a G. & T. please.
HARRY CONTINUES SITTING ON THE FLOOR, HUFFING & PUFFING SLOWLY FROM THE EXERTION. STEVEN RETURNS WITH THE DRINK FOR HIM. Harry: Steven: Harry: Steven: Thanks. Say, are you alright? You look terrible. Mouth to mouth resuscitation is a bit exhausting. It would be easier if you didn't smoke too much. And besides, did you use one of those plastic things? Harry: Plastic things?
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Yeah, so you don't catch A.I.D.S. I mean, do you know much about that man? "That man" happens to be one of my longest and closest friends. And I wasn't going to go down to the chemist shop and try to buy a stupid piece of plastic while he suffocated. What happened? We were just sitting here, having a drink and a chat when he went into a fit and swallowed his tongue. Happens all the time I believe. Sounds like a bit of a worry to me. Uhuh. Maybe he should see a doctor or something. I think he'll be alright. Just let him lie there for the moment. You really are amazing Harry. I mean that... Why else would you say it? Mind you, I don't really know why you bother. I really don't give shit what you think. Have you had a bad week? I mean, you really are in a bad mood aren't you? Was it something I said? If it was, I didn't mean to. I just... I don't know why you put up with me really. I don't either.
Harry:
Steven: Harry:
Steve:
Harry:
THERE IS A WHEEZING SOUND. THE ROOM CHANGES. DARKENS WEIRDLY. THE LIGHTS FLICKER. SPRUCE APPEARS DURING ONE OF THE DARK MOMENTS. Steve: Harry, I feel very odd, all of a sudden. Cold. I think they're after me again. I can feel it. Harry, I'm scared. Of what? It was just a power fluctuation. Probably someone going on strike as usual. Steve: No, I can feel it, I can feel a presence. Really. There's something in the room. Have another drink.
Harry:
Harry:
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I mean it. There really is something very odd going on. I feel a demon, here, now. Uhuh....I'll get the drinks.
Harry:
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I can't say we were happy about sharing our nest But once the screaming was over It turned out for the best. Mary: You know all the pictures suggest That I was smiling and happy, But giving birth is a pest Especially for a good jewish girl And a virgin at that I feel like a funnel Or a walked upon hat. Wise Man: Mary: Oh praise the new born king! He's a baby mate. Where've you bin? Cleaner: If he's a king, then its anybody's guess Who just got born and made this mess. Wise Man: Oh silent silly servant And stitch up the tear. The place must be nice When the cameras get here! Cleaner: Its the workers lot, When all's said and done, We start with the dawn And end with the sun. We don't make the papers. We don't make the bucks.
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And when the wise man is randy, Guess who he asks to call a girl? No use complaining, It just stays the same, The dirt keeps on coming The poor man gets the blame. If the king was a giraffe or an emu Or something quite strange, Like an orange or a biro, Still nothing would change. The dirt keeps on coming, The poor keep on bummin. Let the children sing them carol songs. Once they get older, They'll see the wrongs. But forget it for now, With tears in your eyes, And I'll sing along too With the pigs in the sties. Mary: Oh come all ye faithful, Joyful and forgetful, O Come Yee, O Come Yee, To The Special on Television!
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Ghost:
Man:
Ghost:
Man:
Boy:
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For a moBoynt in the silence the impotent thoughts of a lost love affair. He had been in love, trapped, in love with a beautiful young man. It wasn't just him, everyone would agree that this man had been beautiful. Ask them. There are so alive who can remember. they all agree. And a beautiful soul. He had at the time thrown it all in for that beautiful young man. For a long time he had thrown it away for him. Now it was different. Life or death. Life or death. To spend life like a lap dog, hanging on favours. Never Knowing what he thought. Never entering that other black castle.
Man: Boy:
Ghost:
She had irritated him. She was know-one. they were closing, the nobodies. You can't play god. At school some friends told Boy that. I had written each one a letter, telling them exactly what I thought. I was a Christian. To this day I still see that they believed what I had said. Why else had they acted so Heavily? I was a fool to tell them. Better that they shouldn't know.
Man: Boy:
Man:
She was like that. you want to play god. So do I. Or perhaps you want Boy to believe that you want to have no control over your life, or future? It doesn't matter now. She is irrelevant. they all are, the ones that hate us. Yes, they hate us. We who take control, the ones that dare, because we can say go to hell and burn it. Sure, you can't ignore this (gesture) without people, you can't ignore them all, you don't want to. There's just no place here for vampires. There's no place here for people who tell you it can't be done. We don't need dream destroyers, there's enough of them. We don't want the ones who make you small, let them have there smallness. There is only one place here for courage. For people who would. For people who would be gods. No blasphemy please, we have weak hearts.
Boy:
Man:
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No blasphemy. Perhaps I'm too didactic, but no blasphemy. what do you want from this thing? Did you come for a life so you can go back to wasting your life? This is not for that. We grow tired sometimes. All of us need to replenish. Don't generalise with Boy. Don't pretend. Don't give me your many excuses for your smallness. Be proud of your size then exercise. No I'm tired of being funny. Many will tell you. we all know about hiding. Where've all been told how to be secure. Anyone can do such a thing who forgets... Watch them, There they go, eyes set, walking stiffly in the cold morning hurrying again to there weekly round. they read the papers. They watch the news. They know how bad it is. I lie awake at night. I lie awake, not thinking, not afraid. My whole being rests. But I lie awake. No I am afraid. A sudden sound makes me jump. A harsh word reminds me that I am fragile, that I will die soon. That I can do nothing alone. And there is a paradox. To do these things with people, to be with people.
Ghost:
Man:
Ghost:
And so draws to an end a tiring glimpse in to the life of an overworked director, producer, painter. I get the feeling I have heard it before.
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Scene One:
The doctor's private room in the hospital. It has a desk and a large old chair, with one of those uncomfortable chairs for guests. Their is a window behind the desk through which the afternoon light falls. A large ash tray sits on the desk, with the smoke of unfinished cigarettes slowly wafting into the air. The desk has drawers. On a bookcase to the side of the room are a large box of Glen 20 room deodoriser and a large box of condoms. The room is smoky. There are two doors, one stage right, and another stage left. The characters always enter by stage right and leave stage right. As the scene begins, we see the doctor leaning back in his chair, taking a long drag of a cigarette, and breathing out with a long happy sigh. Ted, sitting in the guest chair, gets up, agitated, and goes to the door. Ted: On my God that's wonderful. I'd almost forgotten what it was like. Bob: There'll be hell to pay if we're caught.
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Caught smaught- what the hell does it matter? You think I'm going to walk for a quarter mile every time I want a cigarette? God, it would play hell with my emphysema. I couldn't do that. Ted, it's not funny. She's a got a real bee in her bonnet. If she catches us it'll be hard times. We'll be up before the head. He doesn't care. Smokes like a chimney himself. Nah, don't worry. Besides, I've worked it out.
Bob:
Ted:
(He gets up and goes to the window.) Ted: All we do is open the window, (opens window), and then a quick spray of the old glen 20, and ash tray out the window, (empties out ashtray) and-
(A scream sounds from outside the window. He looks out and down.) Ted: Bob: Ted: Bob: Ted: Bob: Oh my god. What is it? Sister. I just threw the ashtray all over her. Oh god, you're for it now. Me. Well, it's your room. I'll just slip out and-
(The door swings open, and Sister enters. She is still puffed from the run. She is covered in ash and cigarette butts. ) Sister: Doctor Smooth, just where are you going? I thought I'd find you here, IF I came before you ran away, you miserable little coward. Sister, I don't know what you're talking about. I just dropped in to say hello to Doctor Sharp here. Sister: Bob: You say you just dropped in? Well, yes.
Bob:
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Then tell how it is that you just dropped in through a door that has no knob on the other side? Doctor Smooth, don't lie to me, you're in this up to your weaselly little neck. Up to what, sister? Smoking Doctor Sharp. Smoking. A filthy disgusting stinking habit that has been banned in this hospital. I will not have it. Do you hear me?
Ted: Sister:
But Sister, I haven't been smoking. Then what do you call this? That sister? Why it looks like you've had nasty accident. I'm sure I have a clothes brush around here somewhere. So unlike you to be so untidy. Neatness and cleanliness are very important in a hospital.
(He finds the brush and passes it to the Sister. She automatically begins brushing her cape. She suddenly realises she has been duped.) Sister: Doctor Sharp! It was not I who has been untidy. It was you. You! Who threw your ashes over me, from that open window! Well, I'm sorry Sister. It was an accident. I am sorry. You see, I found the ashtray in my desk, and knowing about the ban, thought it should be cleaned up. Sister: (going to the door, she screams) Chow Min! Chow Min! Come here immediately!
Ted:
(She is getting more angry, she goes over to his desk, and leans over him, menacing.) Sister: Well Doctor Sharp, we'll soon get to the bottom of this. You see, I don't believe you. You're a sneaky little shit, and I'm not letting you get away with it.
(Chow Min appears at the door) Chow Min: Yes Miss ? You hungry miss? Or just want to talk? Did Chow Min not clean latrine to sparkling shine today? Miss is looking a bit of mess. Do you want Chow Min to clean?
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Oh shut up you silly little man, and talk English. And don't call me Miss, my title is Sister.
Chow Min: Sorry sister. Force of habit. Sister: Now listen to me Chow Min, even though I think it's a particularly silly name for a Chinese man. Chow Min: Sorry Sister, but my name is actually Po Yi Yip Chi Chou Lei Pyu Yen. You are most welcome to call me that. Sister: Listen Mr. Chow Min, this is no time to get smart. All I want to know is this, did you or did you not clean this ashtray this morning?
Chow Min: But miss, ashtray is forbidden. Sister: Stop talking like that.
( Doctor Bob Smooth has seen Mr. Sweet coming along the corridor, he leans out, and calls him in, with a whisper.) Bob: Ted: Sweet, Sweet, come here, quick! ( Coming over to distract Sister from doorway) He is right you know, they are forbidden, so you could hardly expect him to clean it. Besides, it wasn't even on the desk. Sister: Ted: Sister: Ted: If it wasn't on the desk Doctor, where was it? In a drawer. What? I put it in my drawer. I always do. Wouldn't want to set a bad example for the patients. (whisper to Sweet) Listen Sweet, we've got a problem. Ted just threw an ashtray over the Sister, and she's a bit upset. He did that? Great. I've always wanted to do something like that. Pity I missed it. Bob: Sweet, pay attention, we have to DO SOMETHING, or we're all in the shit. Mmmm, yes. I can see that. Leave it to me.
Bob:
Sweet:
Sweet:
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Chow Min: Doctor Sharpe very good Doctor Miss. Always do the right thing. Sister: Ted: Stop talking like that. Hey Sister! That's no way to talk to one of our multi-cultural brothers. He can't help it. I expect better than that from our senior staff. Sister: Of course he can bloody help it. He was brought up in Leichhardt for Petes sake. Don'tNow Sister, what's all the noise about? I don't think we really need to raise our voices do we? After all, I'm sure this can be sorted out peaceably. Peaceably?! Listen Mr. Sweet, I have just had an ashtray thrown over my head, been given a total cock and bull story by this uppity young intern, been strung along by this cunning little Jap, and now youChow Min: Pardon Miss, not Jap, Chinese, parents from Canton. Sister: (screams) Stop it! Stop it! I'm going to get you!
Sweet:
Sister:
(She lunges at the Chinese man with an ashtray raised high. Chow Min cowers.) Sweet: Now sister, I can understand that you are upset. After all, the ashes falling on your head must have been very traumatic. Sister: Sweet: It certainly was! And I am sure that both Doctors Sweet and Smooth will apologise for this terrible accident. Oh yes, certainly, very sorry sister. Very. You see? Yes, I see, but they won't get away with it. But, sister, can't you see, it was an accident? If they wanted to conceal something as naughty as smoking, they wouldn't have thrown an ashtray at you, now would they? Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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(He pats her on the shoulder and during the following speech gets his arm around her shoulder, and gradually moves her to the door.) Sweet: And ashes are a bit more upsetting than usual things aren't they? (She nods) I can see that. Now how do you feel about? I'll bet you're quite upset. (nods) Well the best thing is a good sit down and a cup of tea. Take a full twenty minutes off and have a cup of tea. Now, just come with me. Bob, call a nurse will you, there's a good chap. Bob: Nurse! Nurse! Put that tray down and come here quickly, there's been an accident. Yes Doctor? Nurse, I want you to take Sister down to the tea room, give her a nice cup of tea, and see that she sits quietly for at least twenty minutes. Do you hear me? Twenty minutes. Yes Doctor Sweet. What happened? Never mind about that now. I'm trusting you with an important job here. Nurse: Sister: Sweet: Yes sir. Thank you Mr. Sweet. That's perfectly alright. Now you just go and have a good rest for a bit, and I'll come along soon. (The sister exits, sobbing , leaning on the nurse's arm. as they exit from offstage they can be heard.) Nurse: Sister: Don't worry sister, a nice cup of tea and you'll be fine. (sobs) I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
Nurse: Sweet:
Nurse: Sweet:
( after they leave.) Sweet: Well, gentlemen, they say life wasn't meant to be easy, but that seems like an awful lot of effort for twenty minutes peace. I certainly need a cigarette after that. Copyright Reno Dal 1999
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(They all fumble and bring out a cigarette.) Sweet: Ted: Sweet: I think one will do. (pause, Ted is opening a box.) What's that? Oh, I thought we'd do condoms tomorrow. A bit sticky, but I'm sure we'll manage it.
Chow Min: ( in Aussie accent, with a broad smile.) God Ted, you're a real bastard sometimes. Ted: Yeah, I know.
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L:
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I know exactly what you were going to say, and I don't want to hear it again ever!! Now John, lets try a new tack, what else can you talk about? Anything, anything at all. So why don't you? Huh? Why don't you talk about what happened to you on the way to work this morning. Or what Fred said at morning tea? Or how you like the dinner I've cooked for you? You use to talk about all these dull things.
J: L:
J: L: J:
Well.. Yes. It's rather hard to explain, Lee babe. It sort of crept up on me graduallike, and then all of a sudden I couldn't talk about anything else.
L: J:
But why? It seems to me if I say something about now, I'll realise tomorrow that I was wrong, and, if I talk about any further back than yesterday, I find out, after I've opened my big mouth that it wasn't how I said it at all. And I can't talk about it tomorrow either. Why not? Because there might not be anything to talk about. Do you know what I think, dear? No. I think you're off your face. I think you're a raving lunatic. I think I'm going to mothers. (exit) Lee, aw, Lee. I was only joking.
L: J: L: J: L:
J:
Leonie puts her head back on stage. L: So was I love....when I married you.
After pause, B reflects. B: I remember one night when we actuallyCopyright Reno Dal 1999
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No, I don't want to talk about it. But I do. Then you can just go and talk to yourself. Listen, how can you expect us to get along if youre going to talk like that? I don't know. But listen, I depend on you. You're the only friend I've got in the world.
A: B:
A: B: A: B: A: B:
I don't care, I just don't stand it any more. So you're going to like dish water, like dust. Huh? You're going to dispose of me. Exactly. In that case let me save you the trouble. (exit)
J at the table reading the newspaper. Lee is not there, but John still talks to her J: It says here that a girl killed her self after her boyfriend told her he was pissing her off. Isn't that just terrible? I think it's terrible the way people depend on each other. Don't you.
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Addendum 6.1
Complaints This vacuum cleaner doesn!t work! Scene: In the store at the sales counter. Cast A: Sales Assistant B: Customer S: Supervisor Dialogue A: (on the phone) Oh yes, it was fabulous. You really must come along next time. (pause) Hmmm, I see. B: A: Excuse me. Just a moment. (pause) Hmm, oh yeah. Sorry Jill, Im afraid Ill have to call you back. Sorry. Excuse me. Uh? Excuse me, Im afraid this vacuum cleaner doesnt work. What happened? Well, I took it home and plugged it in and it just didnt work. Do you still have the receipt? Yes I do. Can I see it?
B: A: B: A: B: A: B: A:
B gives receipt to A. A: (looking at receipt) Hmmm. Well, its still under warranty so if you wait a few weeks well get you a replacement. A few weeks?!!
B:
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Well, yes. We have to wait for the distributor to visit us and then we can ask for a replacement. But you have other ones here, on the shelf. Yes, I know. But they are for sale, not replacement. I beg your pardon, but I cant wait a whole month for a replacement. Can I speak to your supervisor? Yes, of course. Just a moment.
B: A: B:
A:
A leaves for a while and then returns. A: B: A: B: A: B: Im sorry, hes gone to lunch. OK then, can I see the manager? Im afraid hes on holidays. In that case, can I see the owner? Well, you might, but hes actually in Melbourne. This is totally unsatisfactory. Can you get the owner on the phone? A: B: No, I dont think I can. Could you come back in a few weeks? Absolutely not. I am going to sit here and wait until I get some satisfaction. As you wish.
A:
(They wait for a while until the Supervisor appears.) S: A: S: B: S: B: Good afternoon. Now what seems to be the problem? This gentleman (lady) wants to return a faulty vacuum cleaner. I see. Is it still under warranty? I bought it yesterday. What seems to be the problem? The problem is that this person refuses to replace it with a machine that actually works. I never said that. I only said thatCopyright Reno Dal 1999
A:
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I would have to wait a month, a whole month and thats just ridiculous. I want one of them, over there. Right now! Im sorry sir (madam) but we cant just give you a new machine. Why not? It is against our policy. Then you should change your policy. I am going to sit here and wait until someone gives me some satisfaction. You cant do that sir! (madam) It would be most inconvenient. Then either give me a new machine or call the police! Oh dear. Very well then __________(B), call them. Call the police. Right now!
S: B: S: B:
S: B: S:
Key Expressions Its out of warranty Its broken. I turned it on and it made a strange noise. I plugged it in and smoke came out. While I was using it I got an electric shock. I think the thermostat is broken because it just gets very hot and thats it. Theres no temperature control. faulty- intermittent fault It just doesnt work.
Poor Reasons My wife bought it for me and I hate the colour. My husband bought it for me and I dont play golf. My mother bought it for and I hate the style. She still thinks Im 12 years old.