What a wonderful piece of writing. Like all great one acts, secrets are revealed one at a time, like peeling an onion. Characters and dialogue are top-notch, each with their own unique voice even though they're from the same zip code. It's a compelling story I'd love to see produced.

Some of my favorite Arthur Jolly plays can be described as "exquiteitely dark." Here darkness is far more literal but equally exquisite. Meant to be performed by the low flame of an oil lamp, two miners are trapped by a cave-in as oxygen and hope run low. All they can do it wait and wonder: Will they be found? Is anyone looking? Who's fault was it? The pressure builds as panic and paranoia mount. Complex characterization illuminate their outside lives, enhancing helplessness and hope. Riveting.

I saw this two-hander performed at the 2024 OOB Festival. It begins in the stress and suspense of a coal-mine collapse as Carl and Thomas wait for rescue, and somehow ups the stakes from there! The first reveal is sobering, and the second reveal will send a literal chill down your back. Produce this play!