Overview
Synopsis
Part of Neil Simon's Eugene trilogy, Biloxi Blues centers on the experiences of a young army recruit, Eugene Morris Jerome, during World War II. At basic training in Biloxi, Mississippi, Eugene is determined to use his army experiences to help his writing career and keeps detailed memoirs about his experiences. Eugene and his fellow soldiers-in-training suffer under a hard-nosed drill sergeant, Merwin J. Toomey; attempt to stomach the terrible army food served up in the mess hall; and bond over an adventure to visit the local prostitute. Along the way, Eugene is forced to learn about authority, danger, sex, assimilation, bigotry, homosexuality, and love. In the process, he discovers that life can be both ugly and tender.
This semi-autobiographical comedy has been termed by Frank Rich, "Mr. Simon's first serious attempt to examine his conscience as an artist and a Jew."
Show Information
- Book
- Neil Simon
- Category
- Play
- Age Guidance
- Thirteen Plus (PG-13)
- Number of Acts
- 2
- First Produced
- 1984
- Genres
- Comedy, Historical/Biographical
- Time & Place
- Biloxi, Mississippi, 1943
- Cast Size
- medium
- Licensor
- Concord Theatricals
- Ideal For
- College/University, Community Theatre, Diverse Cast, Ensemble Cast, Mostly Male Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Male, Includes Late Teen, Young Adult, Adult Characters, Medium Cast
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Lead |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Lead |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor, Baritone, Bass |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Featured |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Featured |
Female |
Non-singer |
Songs
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
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Videos
Quizzes
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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Guide Written By:
Emma Houlahan
Canadian vocalist and actor now based in London.