A Musical Play in Two Acts
Book, Lyrics & Music by Richard Jennings

As the nation became enthralled with the Laci Peterson story, I realized it embodied all of the elements of an epic tragedy. The emotions run deep to the core of what is human. Song is a natural response.

In Laci's Lament, I created a story about a made up group of Laci's friends as they deal with betrayal and death. Their story begins when Laci was alive and ends at her nationally televised memorial.

The four main characters are; Tracey, Mara, Tommy and Dave. Four more important roles are; Laci, Scott, Mom and Amber. There is also a mixed chorus. Sets and costumes could be simple or elaborate. One could describe the score as "classic pop/rock". The core orchestra is: 2 keyboards, guitar, bass & drums.

An information packet, full script and a recording of all of the songs is available.

ACT ONE

In a dream, the four friends see the soul of Laci on a rocky shore searching for her unborn son. Scott stands defiant and thinking only of himself. The dream friends wake, confused. The next day, pregnant Laci has a slumber party. Scott phone brags to his old friend, Dave, that he's getting lots of action. Tommy, a gay guy, joins Mara, Tracey and girlfriends. Tracey is teased about her affair with Dave. As Scott leaves on a "sales trip", Laci is suspicious. Scott meets Amber at a bar and woos her. He tells her his wife is dead. She falls for him. At Christmastime Laci's friends and her Mom are excited about the baby. Scott brags to Dave about Amber. Laci confronts Scott about his affair. Scott promises fidelity then pursues Amber. Laci finds out and confronts Scott with his lies. Entering their dark house, Scott calls Mom and says Laci is missing. Mom calls Tracey who calls everyone and then Dave.

ACT TWO

The friends organize publicity and searches. The press is amazed at the response. Challenged by Dave, Scott responds, "I'll be OK". On a tip from one of Tommy's gay cop friends, Tracey and Mara meet Amber, who goes public about the affair. Tracey indicts Scott for cheating on Laci. Carrying golf clubs, Scott heads south to "find the killer". The friends gather as Laci's body is found and Scott is arrested. Scott calls Dave from jail. Nerves are raw. Laci's Mom holds a news conference and lays a mother's curse on the killer. They plan a memorial for Laci. Tracey is nasty to Dave about his connection with Scott. Tommy and Mara defend Dave. Another dream is interrupted as Dave steps out and confronts Scott. To Tracey, he sings of his love. Tracey offers stinging retorts. It ends in a stalemate of wills. Backstage before Laci's memorial, all are tense. Mara and Tommy compare notes on the dreams. Dave Asks for Tracey's friendship. She resists, but after coaxing from Mara and Tommy, she accepts Dave. All hug and the entire ensemble sings a song of hope and reconciliation.

©2005 Richard Jennings Music