Turtle Tears (Two-Act Play)

"Set in rural Arizona, where the only things pricklier than the cactus are the wit and drama."

Only two things stand in the way of two cantankerous women maintaining peace and independence in their twilight years—their daughters. Nellie wants nothing more than to live out her days in a house trailer in the desert, but her daughter Margie wants to sell the land while the offers are still hot. Nellie’s sister-in-law, Iris, has no home and must rely on the kindness of others, but she has burned all of her bridges. Will she be able to mend the past hurts between she and her daughter Bethany, or will they part ways once and for all?

Turtle Tears is a heartfelt two-act play by J. Suthern Hicks, brought to life through humor, humanity, and unforgettable character moments.

Rooted in real emotion and stage presence, this dramatic work captures the beauty, complexity, and tenderness of everyday life through richly drawn characters and moving dialogue.

Critical Acclaim

“Suthern Hicks’ tale about two elderly friends has that kind of cozy, down-home feel that makes you want to grab a cold glass of lemonade, your favorite backyard chair and set a spell with Nellie and Iris behind their Arizona desert trailer.” —Critics’ Choice: LA Weekly, Jim Crogan

“Bring a hankie: Turtle Tears does it best to tug on the heartstrings. As its title suggests, the hankies come out late in “Turtle Tears” at the Taber Theatre. But since Suthern Hicks seems to have been inspired by the comedy-into-melodrama formula of “Steel Magnolias,” you know those tears are going to come. Hicks has written a character-driven play uncommonly dependent on strong audience attachment to the (mostly) women on stage. If you're willing to stick it out with Hicks' gals…Turtle Tears produces an emotional pull.” —Los Angeles Times, Robert Koehler

“What a serendipitous delight it is to discover both a small theatre production performed with such professional polish and a new play which entertains and moves us. Such is the case with Suthern Hicks’ new comedy-drama, Turtle Tears.” —The Burbank Leader, Alan Raeburn

Perfect For:

• Theater lovers

• Drama clubs

• Community theater

• Church productions

• Readers who enjoy character-driven stories

Original Production History Featured on this page is an original production still from the play, showcasing Peggy Cozzi (left) and Bette Rae (right) in a memorable scene from the original staging.

This authentic production image reflects the spirit of Turtle Tears and celebrates the performers who first brought these characters to life on stage. A wonderful addition for readers, performers, and collectors of original dramatic works.

Licensing & Performance Rights For reading enjoyment and personal use. Contact us for performance rights or production inquiries.

Personally Signed by the Playwright Every script ordered directly through our store is personally hand-signed by author J. Suthern Hicks.

Shipping Information Free shipping included on all U.S. orders.