I'm Proud of You - The Play
I'm Proud of You
A play by Tim Madigan and Harry Parker
A Heartfelt Journey of Friendship
Adapted from the book
I'm Proud of You:My Friendship with Fred Rogers
by Tim Madigan
Now available for professional licensing and production
“When Harry Parker told me he was writing a play about Fort Worth journalist Tim Madigan and his friendship with Fred Rogers, I knew it would be something special. Harry has directed some of the finest productions at Circle Theatre, and this collaboration with Tim was truly exceptional.
From the first rehearsal, I’m Proud of You radiated sincerity and heart — and audiences felt it, too. Our world premiere production sold out performance after performance, with audiences deeply moved by its message of friendship, compassion, and grace. For any theatre considering I’m Proud of You, know this: it’s a beautiful, profoundly human story that brings people together and reminds us what truly matters."
Tim Long, Executive Director -
Circle Theatre, Fort Worth, Texas
October 4 - October 26, 2024
"…a play that moves the audience to laughter and tears while affirming the radical, life-changing power of compassion and kindness…Now a year later, audience members continue to tell me how moved they were by the performance."
Ryan Crowder, Producing Artistic Director -
Penfold Theatre Company, Round Rock, Texas
“With just four actors and a handful of set pieces, I’m Proud of You creates an experience that feels intimate, profound, and almost holy. It’s a testament to the strength of the story that such a modest production can have such a monumental impact…with many performances selling out -- a testament to how deeply this story resonated with our community.
As the actor portraying Tim, with so many moments of direct address to the audience, I will never forget looking out and seeing tears in people’s eyes. In a time when the world can feel fractured, this play reminded us of love, listening, friendship, and the transformative power of human connection.
Stuart Landon, Producing Artistic Director -
Open Stage, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
"I’m proud of you was a huge hit for Theatre Arlington. We exceeded our projected sales which made it a commercial success as well as critically acclaimed. This script really touched our audiences. I received so many comments and emails from patrons thanking us for doing this show and saying that they needed this message.I highly recommend producing this uplifting, well crafted piece of theatre.
Steven Morris, Exectuive Producer
Theatre Arlington, Arlington, Texas
Audience Testimonial
I wanted myself and my friends to experience the kindness of Fred Rogers. I wanted my daughter and her husband (who are of a generation that did not experience the neighborhood) to meet Fred Rogers. I am so grateful we did. It was like a balm in the midst of a most difficult and frustrating time.
It was 90 minutes of release and love and what people can be. My non-theatre friends openly wept. They could not stop talking about it and want to return with other non-theatre friends.
Seriously, go see it. Your soul deserves it.
Audience Testimonial
What I experienced was far more powerful than I could have imagined. The story struck a deeply personal chord, stirring emotions and memories in a way few productions ever have.
Its message is timeless and vital — a reminder that each of us has the ability (and responsibility) to make the people we encounter a little better, simply by how we show up for them. The performance was heartfelt, authentic, and beautifully delivered, leaving me reflecting long after the final curtain.
This is more than just a play; it’s an experience that touches the heart and inspires change. I highly recommend seeing it — you won’t leave the same as when you walked in.
A PLAY WITH HEART
I’m Proud of You is a moving theatrical piece by Tim Madigan and Harry Parker, inspired by Madigan’s profound friendship with Fred Rogers, the iconic figure known for his kindness and empathy. The play delves into themes of vulnerability, mental health, and the transformative power of connection, offering a heartfelt narrative that resonates deeply. Set against a backdrop of personal struggle and redemption, it invites audiences to experience a story of pride and friendship that honors Rogers’ enduring legacy. This production is a compelling opportunity for theater companies to bring a meaningful drama to the stage.
