A monologue for performance on the life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Playwright, Carlton E. Spitzer
Produced by The Hugh Gregory Gallagher Motivational Theatre, Inc.
This fast-moving play covers FDR’s presidency, 1933-1945, focusing on his personal relationships, dynamic leadership, physical disability, and extraordinary ability to restore confidence among a citizenry devastated by the 1929 stock market crash. His bold initiatives immediately upon taking office bolstered a nation in shock, with revolution in the air. Within his first 100 days he established programs to build schools and highways and repair the nation’s infrastructure that gave steady work to millions of unemployed citizens. FDR restored confidence in bank deposits, stabilized food prices, and calmed a fearful nation by his positive attitude, assuring the people they had nothing to fear but fear itself. His fire side chats kept people informed and encouraged.
The play reflects on FDR’s privileged youth, his experiences at Groton and Harvard, and old classmates who felt he “betrayed his class” by helping the poor and destitute, and creating old-age security. The actor speaks to the audience, confiding anecdotes and personal opinions never before dramatized. At other times, the actor converses candidly with unseen colleagues, such as Louie Howe and Winston Churchill. At other moments, the actor is at faux microphones, delivering excerpts of inaugural addresses, fire side chats, and key speeches. FDR’s attempt to pack the Supreme Court, and his deteriorating health as he led the war effort from his wheelchair are fully revealed.
FDR was devoted to the development of Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation. He loved being there among other “residents” recovering from polio, where he was affectionately addressed as, “Uncle Rosy.” He retreated to Warm Springs following his exhausting 14,000 mile journey to Yalta to negotiate post-war arrangements with Churchill and Stalin. And ended his days there, preparing a speech for the United Nations he created.
The audience will learn many new things about the personal life of the 32nd president, and the many lessons he provided for today.
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