Author
Reginald C Ofodile

Synopsis
Dale is a successful young man, a barrister. He is black British, of West Indian background. Alerted to the plight of Ali, a destitute immigrant from West Africa, Dale takes Ali into his flat. They have joyous moments of chatter and banter, and Dale is fascinated by the tribal lore with which Ali entertains him.

Ali goes for a job interview, and knows one rejection too many. He gets deliriously drunk. Dale, coming home to find Ali drunk and seemingly ecstatic, concludes that Ali has got the job. Sasha and Arthur, Dale’s friends from University days, come for a visit. There are hilarious moments, with poetry and mime. The three friends’ obvious ease and success cracks Ali’s armour of feigned glee. Stricken with envy, frustration and bitterness, Ali becomes rude and violent, and ultimately exposes himself to punishment by the law.

Dale, deciding he could not go on accommodating disruptive Ali, throws Ali out of his flat. Ali appears at night when Dale is alone, brandishing a knife. He doesn’t intend to murder Dale, but to commit suicide. He makes clear he has exhausted all avenues to survival - unless Dale takes him back into his house and gives him food and funds, he will commit suicide. Dale realises that Ali is not bluffing - Ali is in dead earnest. Dale is plunged into a grave dilemma:- Should he risk further disruption by Ali of his hard worn tranquillity, or should he leave Ali to die? Dale’s decision takes the play into a startling realm. View extract.

Cast
3 male, 1 female

Duration
55 mins

Contact
Thornlea
New North Road
Exeter
EX4 4JZ
UK