©John Levine, 2014
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ZAK is relaxing in his backyard. ARI enters his adjacent backyard and begins building a fence. ZAK watches, tries to catch ARI’s eye, but ARI is intent on building his fence.
ZAK: Whatcha building there?
ARI: (without looking up) A fence.
ZAK: A fence?
ARI: Yes.
ZAK: There’s really no need for… I’m Zak, by the way.
ARI continues building.
ZAK: And you are…?
ARI: Building a fence.
ZAK: (making a joke) That’s not your name, is it?
ARI builds, ZAK watches. Suddenly, ZAK lets out a long, ear-piercing shriek. ARI stops
building, looks at ZAK for the first time.
ARI: What was that?
ZAK: Break Time. Local law: No resident shall work during Break Time.
ARI: That’s not a real—
ZAK: Working through Break Time is grounds for expulsion. Didn’t you read the
Neighborhood Bylaws?
ARI: How long does Break Time last?
ZAK: Depends.
ARI: On…?
ZAK: On how long we talk. (ZAK motions for ARI to sit.) Now, what did you say
your name was?
END OF PLAY
©John Levine, 2014
John Levine (TC 2000) has had plays presented throughout the U.S. International productions include India, Australia, Mexico, and the U.K. His work has also been published in a number of anthologies. He teaches in the College Writing Programs at UC Berkeley. Coming soon: his short film “Human Resources.” Please contact John at jblevine@berkeley.edu
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