Catatonic

First Five Pages

Synopsis

An empty nest couple try to fill the void in their lives by arguing about their dog's haircut, but sometimes the concern for each other shines through.

Time
The present

Setting
A country house in Rhinecliff, New York

Cast
Mary and Tom, empty nesters 50 +

AT RISE:

Pavarotti on the TV singing in the background for Princess Diana. Is there a time for tying ribbons, for tying Christmas trees. A time for laying the table with.

MARY
I hate our dog groomer. Coming with his portable table and clippers and trying to skin our miniature poodle. Thank god he doesn't do cats.

TOM
He's cheap. Comes to the house.

MARY
Last time, I heard Tattoo yelping in the kitchen.

TOM
It's summer and he needs to feel cool.

MARY
I had to go stop that Russian scalper, long-bearded, hippy, razor happy dog shaver.

TOM
He says the solution is for you to comb the dog's mats.

MARY
That's right, put the wife to work. The cat sheds just fine.

TOM
(pause)