Doc Faustus

Adapted for Young Performers by Terence Patrick Hughes

About the Work

Doc Faustus is a comic, 1980s-infused reimagining of Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus, written specifically for young performers. It’s 1984 at Hope High, and Doc is the most awkward, bullied student in school — invisible, overworked, and always one humiliation away from disappearing entirely. Everything changes when he encounters Mephistopheles, a charismatic demon dressed like the coolest kid in the hallway, who offers Doc a deal: fame, knowledge, and power in exchange for one small thing… his soul.

When Doc’s newfound influence tips the school into chaos and puts his friends at risk, he must undo the pact and learn the real source of strength — connection, kindness, and self-acceptance. Packed with comedy, heart, and a big cast of mortals and supernatural troublemakers, this is a fast-moving, family-friendly play with roles for actors of every energy and style.

Production Details

Licensed through: Drama Notebook
Play Page: https://www.dramanotebook.com/plays-for-kids-and-teens/doc-faustus/

  • Characters: 19

  • Running Time: ~65 minutes

  • Ideal For: Grades 5–12, after-school theatre, community youth programs

  • Style: Comic fantasy, 80s nostalgia, accessible classical parody

Excerpt

It’s 1984 and Doc Faustus is the most awkward and bullied teen at Hope High until he meets the demon Mephistopheles and sells his soul in exchange for knowledge and fame. When Doc learns that his actions have turned the school upside-down and endangered his friends, he fights to reverse the curse by learning to love himself and others. This comedic spin on Christopher Marlowe’s classic is a delightful play for the entire family and offers a large, zany cast of both mortal and supernatural characters.

Critical Notes

A clever, high-energy riff on Marlowe that blends 80s nostalgia, teen comedy, and supernatural mischief into a charming youth-theatre adventure.
— Drama Notebook Reader Response

Related Works

If you enjoyed Doc Faustus, you may also like:

  • A Midsummer Camp’s Dream

  • The Tempest (youth adaptation)

Inquiries

For rights or classroom materials: admin@terencepatrickhughes.com

Image Credit

Image generated using AI, art-directed to evoke the 1980s high-school setting and the comic clash between Doc and Mephistopheles.