Oxford Playscripts

In a desolate Ethiopian dumpsite, two boys fight for survival while escaping their traumatic pasts in Oxford Playscripts, a moving adaptation.

Set against the harsh backdrop of an Ethiopian dumpsite, Oxford Playscripts presents a compelling adaptation of Elizabeth Laird's award-winning novel. The narrative follows the harrowing journey of two young boys, Mamo and Dani, as they navigate the treacherous streets of Addis Ababa. Both boys are fleeing their troubled pasts: Mamo has escaped the horrors of slavery, while Dani has chosen to abandon a life of privilege under the oppressive control of his father. Their paths converge in a desolate graveyard, where they form a bond born out of shared hardship and the instinct to survive.

As the boys seek shelter and safety, they are forced to confront the grim realities of their existence. Living and working on a dumpsite, they must rely on each other to endure the daily struggles of hunger, danger, and the ever-looming threat of their pasts catching up with them. Oxford Playscripts not only highlights their fight for survival but also delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the quest for freedom in a world filled with obstacles.

This engaging classroom playscript invites readers to reflect on the broader social issues that impact vulnerable youth. Through Mamo and Dani's journey, Oxford Playscripts encourages empathy and understanding, making it a valuable resource for both educational and theatrical settings.