Elwood P. Dowd, the charming eccentric, whose best friend is Harvey, an invisible six-foot tall rabbit, is well mannered, very friendly, cordial, and displays an old-school charm, with time for and interest in everyone. Elwood is Veta’s older brother who never married and remained in the family home.
Veta Louise Simmons, Elwood’s younger sister, has returned home after the death of their mother and is looking for a suitable husband for her daughter, Myrtle Mae. She is concerned about her position and her family’s position in society and all that includes. She loves her brother very much and goes back and forth regarding her feeling for Harvey.
Dr. William B. Chumley, the well-known psychiatrist and the head of Chumley’s Rest is a difficult, exacting man who will do anything to maintain appearances and the reputation of the Sanitarium.
Dr. Lyman Sanderson, the young, attractive and highly qualified psychiatrist, has been handpicked by Dr. Chumley. His skill is only surpassed by his vanity.
Myrtle Mae Simmons, is Veta’s daughter and Elwood’s niece. Myrtle, with her mother leading the way, is intent on landing a “
suitable husband”. Myrtle is extremely self-centered and in some way slightly askew. Elwood and Harvey are interrupting her plans.
Wilson is the “muscle” or orderly for Chumley’s Rest. He does not have to have muscle but just be intimidating and/or assertive in some way and hands-on with others.
Judge Omar Gaffney, the old family friend of Elwood’s and also the family lawyer, is fiercely protective of the family and very understanding of Elwood’s friend Harvey.
