Performance Preview Guide for Save As...
This production was written by teens for teens;
and is a product of the 2009 KIDSTAGE Company.
Performances: March 6-15, 2009 at First Stage Theatre, 120 Front Street North, Issaquah
Patrons have different ideas of what material or themes are appropriate for them or their
families. For this reason, we provide the following information:
The Program and Process
Village Theatre KIDSTAGE Company Originals is excited to produce Save As..., a brand-new
musical play created by the teens and adults of the KIDSTAGE Company. The characters,
storylines, scenes and songs are created through a process of improvisation and collaborative
writing that aims to tell stories relevant to teens, with characters, conflicts, behaviors and
language reflective of the diversity of teens today.
The Company Originals process begins with improvisation. Teen actors and writers work with an
adult coach to learn improvisational skills and exercises. Next, each actor uses those skills and
exercises--along with writing, and research and group discussion--to create a character to portray
in the show. Those characters are further developed in improvised conflicts and scenes. A
writing team of up to eight teens works with an adult mentor to observe these scenes and
transform them into a written story, while suggesting further ideas for improvisations.
Drawing on the actors’ improvisations and writings, with input from the actors and the adult
creative team, the writing team works together to outline the show and write and revise the
scenes. An adult composer and adult lyricist create songs based on the ideas and conflicts in the
improvisations and writing, and the adult writing mentor and directors assemble and edit the
script for performance.
Created by teens, for teens, Save As... strives to depict the teen experience honestly and
authentically. The goal is that the serious issues raised will provoke thought and discussion
among teens and their families, and move teens toward stronger communication, deeper
understanding, and better choices.
The Production



Save As... may not be appropriate for children ages 13 and under.
Save As... was written by teenagers and edited by a professional directing team. It is
about issues teens face. The language and content is realistic.
Save As... reflects various perspectives and explorations on teen relationships and
contemporary subject matter including peer pressure and healing from a tragedy.

The challenging material is treated with respect and humor to assure the story is truthful
and compelling.
Versions available to preview: As this is an original work, the information provided below is
subject to change and there is no electronic version available to preview. A working script is
available at the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre Box Office in Issaquah for you to read.
Production length: The show will run approximately two hours, including one 15 minute
intermission.
Synopsis: What happens when a popular advice blogger suddenly goes offline, leaving
everyone-from the Queen Bee to the lovesick nerd-without a connection? Exploring the themes
of faith, forgiveness and healing, Save As... tells the story of high school senior Taylor and her
best friend Natalie. After Taylor's brother and subsequently Natalie's soulmate, Jason, suddenly
dies, Taylor takes over his advice blog in a misguided attempt to fix everything for everybody.
Helped along by Jason's ghost--with the aid of the resident goth girl Elvira-- the students of
Taylor's school learn how to connect with each other again.
Themes: The differences in one's own self image versus the image one projects to the world.
Being able to express oneself to others and the value of true friendships. The need to have
personal contact in a world that distances people through technology
Script Content Details
Please note: the following information contains plot spoilers.
Violence: The story centers around one character having died in a car accident (not shown on
stage). One characters father physically abuses her (this is never depicted on stage but is
discussed).
Sexual content: Teen relationships are central to the story of Save As.... The writing team has
written dialogue that is authentic and sounds as if it was lifted right out of a high school hallway
or locker room. Characters kiss on stage. There is talk of pressure to have sex to maintain a
relationship, there is discussion about if it is appropriate for a 15 year old to be dating a 19 year
old, and the term “statutory rape” is used jokingly. One character alludes to the fact that she is
pregnant.
Language: The story is set in an environment where adults are virtually absent. Language,
including sexual references and innuendo, name-calling and swear words realistic to the
characters and situations are heard throughout the production. One characters brother is called a
“retard” frequently.
Substances: Alcohol is discussed. Characters talk about smoking, being stoned, and buying pot,
but it is not depicted on stage.
Other: One of the characters is a kleptomaniac and steals i-pods throughout the show. One of
the characters is religious and at some points is teased because of her beliefs.