The Girl on the Gridiron

Time Out for Ginger is a lighthearted yet resonant comedy that premiered on Broadway in 1952. Set in the Carol family living room, the story begins when the youngest daughter, Ginger, takes her father’s lectures on “self-fulfillment” quite literally. To the shock of her school and the local community, she decides the best way to fulfill her potential is by trying out for the high school football team.

“A gentle satire on 1950s gender roles, exploring what happens when a ‘staid banker’ has to stand by his progressive principles in his own backyard.”

The Plot Summary

Howard Carol is a respected banker and father of three girls. After giving a speech to high schoolers about the importance of being true to oneself, his daughter Ginger shocks the town by joining the varsity football squad. While Howard initially supports her, he quickly faces intense social pressure from his boss, the bank president, and his other daughters, who fear their social lives are being ruined by their “tomboy” sister.

As Ginger becomes a local celebrity and even scores a touchdown, the play navigates the hilarious and touching fallout within the family. Ultimately, Ginger realizes she has proven her point and “goes feminine” again, trading her cleats for a gown, leading to a heartwarming reconciliation for the entire Carol clan.

Original Broadway Cast (1952)