1M, 1F, 1 gender neutral (live or taped)
An art auction. Several chairs face outward, and a dais to the side of the stage with the back tucked into the wing, so that an auctioneer need not be visible if an actor is not available. A large sign says ART AUCTION TODAY; several frames can hang from drapes.
THOMAS: Fiftyish, almost impeccably dressed, someone trying to look the part, but not quite making it
MARY: Forties, dressed impeccably head to toe. This is her milieu
ANNOUNCER: Optional, if the play is staged as part of a series with an ensemble of actors. If not, the part can be pre-taped