Cheaper by the Dozen

Cheaper by the Dozen is a stage adaptation of the novel about the real-life Frank and Lillian Gilbreth and their 12 children. The Gilbreths were pioneers in time and motion studies, which paved the way for modern-day ergonomics and efficiency studies. Christopher Sergel’s tender adaptation is equal parts memory play and family comedy, with appearances by 9 of the dozen children. Anchored by the memories of son Frank Jr. and daughter Ernestine, the ensemble play is a warm look at a little-known but seminal figure in history. The varying ages of the characters provide good acting opportunities for performers in a high school or community theatre setting, and the unit set and no costume changes provide for a technically easy production.