Character

Age Range

Description

Joy O’Malley

30’s

Joy is a cynical, sarcastic freelance graphic artist in her 30s who spirals into severe survivor’s guilt after receiving a heart transplant and decides to meet the donor family.  Although caustic and a bit acerbic, the character has to be likeable.  

Jack Borden

30’s

Jack died in a car accident before the play begins and donated his heart to Joy. Jack appears throughout the show watching the events unfold.  He also interacts during flashback scenes.  Requires a male with strong stage presence, incredible patience, and subtle variations. His contribution to the show should be immense even though he doesn’t often speak.

Alice Borden

50’s – 60’s

Alice is mother to Jack and Sammy. Alice is crucial to the momentum of the play, attempting to drag both Joy and Hank from their grief while trying to come to terms with it herself.  She is “the glue” for her family.

Hank Borden

50’s – 60’s

Hank is Jack’s father and Alice’s husband. Hank is trying very hard to wallow in or even barely acknowledge his grief and guilt about Jack. He can be quite abrasive, prone to alcohol, and doesn’t really want to talk to anyone about anything.  He is very closed off to the reality around him.

Sammy Borden

20’s – 30’s

Sammy is Jack’s sister and daughter of Alice and Hank. A pre-school teacher, she is somewhat “new agey” with an enormous heart. She really wants to help all the time.  She writes a blog that over-shares her life and lets emotions get the better of her.  She is the comic relief of The Tin Woman.

Darla

30’s – 40’s

Darla is Joy’s best friend. A flamboyant, artsy, very caring friend. Darla is there to give Joy motivation and help.  She is also a source of comedy in this play.

Nurse

Any age

Nurse is a very competent but somewhat condescending nurse during Joy’s stay in the hospital.