The Setting
Set in a small town in Texas, Paradise Diner is the story of a family-owned diner that becomes threatened for takeover by developers. Inspired by the immigrant kids who work at the diner—those immigrants who sacrifice a great deal for their families—a small group of high school students decide to lead the fight against the rule of eminent domain, the local politicians and the greedy developers. The ending brings a great surprise as their efforts pay off in a totally unexpected way!
The Cast List
Full of heart, humor and intelligent writing—this is a musical your audience will remember for a long time, and most importantly, your students will love performing. Written by a musician and psychologist, Paradise Diner was created specifically for high school and community music programs and takes into account the specific needs and developmental issues of a high school performance cast. There are many great characters including:
- Buck, the crusty, paranoid but loveable grandfather who co-owns the diner with his daughter
- Susan, Buck’s daughter and Jill’s mother—responsible and a great mom
- Jillian, a high school senior-- beautiful, smart and knows what she wants
- Jason, Jill’s classmate who is bright but a chronic underachiever—he’s been in love with Jill since sixth grade and wants to win her over
- Jill and Jason’s friends—Carrie, Rachel, Kristine and Bo—all who have singing and dramatic parts and well-developed characters
- Lara and Oswaldo, two young, Mexican immigrants who work at the diner and are trying hard to blend in while being true to their own values
- Darla, the quirky, eccentric waitress who loves to crack jokes and dotes over her boyfriend
- Randy, Darla’s boyfriend and Paradise Diner fixture
- The charming but devious Hering brother, Todd, and his bumbling brother Reese, the developers who want to put a mall where the diner now stands
- Chris, the local politician who must choose between his friendship with Susan and the lure of money and favors
- Miss Mamie and Miss Dot—the two sweet elderly ladies and friends of Buck’s, who help give the diner so much of its character
- Opal, the legendary TV star whose surprise visit brings national attention to their fight
In total, there are ten parts for girls, and eight for boys, as well as many opportunities for smaller parts and group scenes.