I took a bit of a chance on this one. Rather than go through the usual BBC commissioning process, I decided to write the script in full before sending it to a producer. Fortunately, they liked it and made it.
The story is told entirely from the perspective of two brothers, Ali (aged 15) and Steven (11). When their parents separate, Ali stays with their father while Steven heads off to live with their mother and her new lover. Isolated and confused, the lads try to piece together events from what they overhear.
The play was Critic’s Choice in the Daily Mail and Financial Times:
“David Varela’s two-hander is affectionately observed (there are no villains, only unhappy people doing their best), accurately charted and beautifully performed…”
Financial Times
David Varela 