The two rival groups of students in The Seven Ages of Dan can represent any two factions found in the population of any high school. Those producing the play are invited to change the names of the characters to fit the ethnic or cultural makeup of the student body. In the original production there was no mention of color, nationality, or ethnicity. Obviously the theme—that we must cooperatefor mutual survival— is the same no matter what selfish factors cause divisiveness. Even the playgoer who has never heard of Shakespeare or his "Seven Ages of Man" may still enjoy The Seven Ages of Dan. The author recommends that the quotation be included in the program, if possible, thereby giving the audience access to Shakespeare's original. "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages..."—William Shakespeare.

This emotional, tense, yet humorous drama revolves around the seven ages of those around him as perceived by Dan, a quiet, somewhat shy, high school student. It's a typical school life—food fights, trips to the principal's office, detention, and a lot of other things. Dan comes to the aid of Virginia, a girl in one of his classes, when she is harrassed by Juan, a macho, athletic, very intelligent wise guy whose anger at the system takes the form of disdain. The custodian, Harve, a cantankerous, wise old man who sees through most nonsense, casually guides the two boys to a higher level of maturity and understanding.

The 2-act is broken into scenes that alternate between the apron and stage. If there is no act curtain, the same effect may be accomplished through area lighting or area staging. The set is a school interior; costumes are modern.

"This play sends an important, timeless message to high school students."—Plays for Children and Young Adults.

Another by Avery: Lissa Stratton Strikes

See also: Plays About Social Issues