Jim struggles to run a failing diner in a bad neighborhood. His brother drops by once a week to give him a hard time. On one such visit, they come face to face with a strange shoeless visitor who can barely speak English. Is he a bum? A homeless man? Is he lost? Was he mugged? A searing conflict over how to help the mysterious visitor brings the brothers together on a touching, personal level and they realize just how important family is.
Published in
New York Stories: Five Plays About Life in New York.
Premiere Production:
Shoes was originally produced at Actors Theatre of Louisville on May 29, 1984, under the direction of Robert Spera. The set was designed by Sandra Strawn and the production stage manager was Chip Washabaugh.