African Americans have a long history of scientific inventions; this play helps expose teens to the contributions of African American scientists.
Round Rock, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/29/2012 -- The Real McCoys Science 4 Life is a play about urban youth who do not think they need school, especially science. The play explains that the phrase, ‘the real Mccoy,” is synonymous with quality. It originated based on the superiority of the lubricating cup invented by African American scientist, Elijah McCoy. It also spotlights the contributions of other African American inventors. In a very natural way, it exposes youth to scientific disciplines while highlighting the significance of inventions we take for granted.
Although The Real McCoys Science 4 Life was originally written in 1996, this play is timeless. When it was mounted in 2010, you could hear a pin drop as the teens read through the script. The colorful characters capture teenagers’ attention and engage them using relevant experiences. Not only through the poignant language does the play remain timely, but it also demonstrates some of the persistent diversions competing with education. The play is now available for download in PDF form at ourstorypublications.com and softback copies can be ordered online at Amazon.
The Real McCoys Science 4 Life promotes the themes of education, challenging yourself, community involvement, and overcoming obstacles.
“I found myself having insightful “ah-ha” moments of learning, outbreaks of laughter, and wanting not only another play performed, but more information about science and the world. I fell in love with the play."
Marvie Ellis, M.S., CCC-SLP Award Winning Children's Book Author of "Keisha's Doors”
Excerpt:
Tony (twirling a basket ball off his fingers): Well, I’m with you sista. I’m going to college to get paid! Then, I’m going pro. Your grandchildren’s grandchildren are going to remember my name.
Ken: You and every other wannabe Michael Jordan.
Tony: Oh, no, playa. You have to give me my props. I got skills. (He twirls the basketball around.) I know college ain’t all that. But, I ain’t trying to hear that about those books. (He raises the basketball in the air.) It’s all about the Benjamins. After I help win the Olympic gold and break the record for most valuable player, my stock is going up!
Shuronda: Then your endorsements are gonna blow up! Hollywood will call you to make a movie. (pretends she is on the phone) Hello? Spike, can you hold please?
Tony: I can see it now. The new national treasure being interviewed by Anderson Cooper, Gayle King…
Shuronda: I heard you on Oprah! (They give each other fist pounds.) And Orman is gonna handle your money!
Ken: Who is Orman?
Princess: That money lady that Oprah blew up with her Midas touch.
Shuronda: She got cheddar. And I don’t mean from serving grill cheese sandwiches when she was a waitress.
Baby K: She is a financial advisor and she helps people manage their money.
Princess: You’re gonna need her. You know you don’t like to count, Tony. (laughs)
Tony: Why you throwin’ shade? (pretends to shoot a basketball shot) I count by twos and threes just fine.
Princess (smiling): I’m just tryin’ to help a brotha out.
Baby K (bursting the fantasy): But, how are you going to make it in college, if you don’t learn anything now?
Tony: If you good enough, which I am! They take care of it for you.
Princess: What did an education ever get anybody? I know plenty of hobos with degrees.
Baby K (ignoring Princess): But, Tony, you’re flunking science. So, how do you plan on getting to college for them to take care of it if you don’t get out of high school?
Tony: Girl, please! Science ain’t important.
Ken: Ain’t none of them important.
Shuronda: Especially science. I hate science.