This is a Test

by Stephen Gregg

Genres: Plays

28 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1988

Reviews

[Morena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was "The Voice" in a high school production of this play. It was difficult to represent this character in a physical form on stage. I can't recall how Gregg describes the character, but our director had me dress up all in black, wearing multiple glow sticks.

It's a funny one-act that at times can be irritating (This is a test. A what? A test. A what? A test. Oh, a test.), but is crucial in establishing the main character's anxiety.

I think that if you're looking for a one-act to read or perform, this would be a great one to start off with.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, hilarious play. I am previewing plays now to figure out the spring play, as well as next season. So far, I am thinking of matching this play with another one-act (or 2) for the spring, and then doing Doubt for the fall. I am not sure about next spring. I still want to do Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog, but rights are at issue...

[Addie Barton]

It wont let me read it!!!

[Tom Varner · Rating 2 out of 5]

THIS IS A TEST is a one-act play written toward being performed by high school students. Alan has to take a test and although he has studied, he doesn't feel at all prepared. When he arrives in class, just about anything that could go wrong does. He's constantly berated by the instructor and no matter how hard he tries, he can't think of any correct answers! The unique part about this play is that there is a "Greek" chorus that acts out what is going on in Alan's head as he takes the test. This part of the play is what most students and drama groups performing it find most memorable. It also is popular because it's a one-act play that features 13-15 actors with relatively easy dialogue. However, with that said, I'm really surprised at how well THIS IS A TEST rates. The actual plot of the play is really boring, dull, and unimaginative (even if you don't know anything about it, you can probably guess the ending). It's not poorly written, but it just isn't entertaining. Not only that, but the script itself is incredibly dated. There are all kinds of references and allusions that high schoolers in the 21st century just won't understand, no matter how much you explain it to them or try to show them on YouTube. This happens sometimes with scripts and you can update the references. However, just be prepared because you will have to do a lot of updating. In short, THIS IS A TEST is a one-act play that is unique because of the element of the Greek-type of chorus that is featured. It also has a large number of roles for a one-act play. However, it has a dull plot and feature many outdated references, so unless you are specifically wanting to teach about Greek theatre, I'd recommend looking for a different one-act play.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

very funny.. play about the worst test you could ever take.

[Juliette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a perfect one act comedy about test anxiety. It's a funny yet challenging play.

[Mikella · Rating 3 out of 5]

i liked it after i read it but more after it was explained to me, it was couldn't understand it at first

[Mahin Ali]

It's good