THE SH*T

The Shit by Kenny Emson is a play about the relationship between those on the margins of society and the people employed to help them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2022
Publisher: Salamander Street Limited

In one of the countless abandoned youth centers scattered across our nation, Eric dedicates a solitary hour each week to rescuing Daniel from his downward trajectory, which threatens to lead him to either jail or the grave. However, what transpires when the very act of helping becomes a matter of life and death? Kenny Emson's play, "The Shit," presents a raw and unyielding exploration of the complex dynamics between those marginalized by society and the individuals tasked with assisting them.

The play takes place in a dilapidated youth center, where Eric, a young worker, is assigned to help Daniel, a troubled teenager. Eric's job is to provide guidance, support, and a sense of hope to Daniel, who has been struggling with addiction, violence, and a lack of direction.

As the play unfolds, Eric and Daniel form a bond that is both fragile and powerful. Eric sees himself as a mentor and a guide, trying to help Daniel break free from the cycle of poverty and despair that has plagued his life. Daniel, on the other hand, sees Eric as a source of strength and support, someone who understands his struggles and is willing to help him overcome them.

However, as the play progresses, the line between Eric's job and his personal life begins to blur. Eric becomes increasingly invested in Daniel's well-being, to the point where he is willing to risk his own safety to help him. He spends his own money on drugs and alcohol, hoping to keep Daniel from sinking deeper into his addiction. He even goes as far as to confront Daniel's abusive father, who has been neglecting and abusing Daniel for years.

Despite Eric's best efforts, Daniel's situation worsens. He becomes more violent and aggressive, and he is eventually arrested and sentenced to prison. Eric is devastated by the news, and he feels like he has failed to help Daniel.

However, the play also shows that Eric's efforts were not in vain. Even though Daniel's life has taken a dark turn, Eric's love and support have had a lasting impact on him. Daniel is able to reflect on his past and his actions, and he is determined to turn his life around. He is grateful for the time he spent with Eric, and he knows that he will never forget the lessons he learned from him.

"The Shit" is a powerful and thought-provoking play that explores the complex relationship between those on the margins of society and the people employed to help them. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of compassion and support. It is a play that will leave audiences thinking and feeling, and it is a play that is worth seeing.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914228650