Tryin' to fly

Tryin' to fly

(Jonas, Alexandros, Aisha are all together in the living room of their new house, they are decorating it now)

Aisha: Finally we have our own house, guys.

Alexandros: Yes, it might not be perfect but it’s good.

Aisha: Just good?

With our decoration it can be a palace!

(Alexandros and Jonas are looking at her with doubt)

Aisha: Well, almost!

Jonas: Whatever, I still can’t believe it, can you? We forgot any limitation and we did what we wanted, it’s the first time I’ve done that.

Alexandros: Actually you were living the life that your parents wanted you to live, it’s time to do something for yourself, don’t you think so?

Jonas: Well….

Aisha: Come on now, Jonas we’re talking about our future now, our life!

Jonas: Yes, you’re right, guys, I have to change my thoughts.

Aisha: For example, look at me, I’m a young girl who just finished school and I’m already dreaming about things I want to do.

Jonas: Thank God that your father wanted to offer you this help, Aisha, you know, I mean money.

Aisha: Yes, my dad always wants to do the best for me, even now.

Alexandros: Even though he knows that his little princess wants to become an actress!

Aisha: Yes, he was actually shocked by this, but… Anyway he’ll survive.

Jonas: Whatever…

Alexandros: I’ve heard that there is an audition for a music play, for the cinema. I’m surprised that Lisa wasn’t interested.

Aisha: Who said that? She’s already there, and this moment we’re talking now, who knows? Maybe a great career is beginning for her!

(Everybody is laughing and suddenly they hear a sound of fighting and voices)

Jonas: Or, maybe not!

(Lisa is coming and she is holding her shoe in her hand, trying to put it on. She’s angry.)

Alexandros: Wow! Have you been fighting with cats?

Aisha: Or, tigers!

Lisa: Well I was ready to get into the house when a stupid thief tried to steal my bag, can you imagine? Well I guess he’ll never do this again!

Aisha: Poor thief!

Jonas: Anyway, I can see you’re ok.

Lisa: Definitely, you should have been there and watch me.

Alexandros: And, what happened with the audition?

Aisha: Let me guess, you were not good enough for them, were you?

Lisa: Guess again. The role was for a sixty year old lady, don’t look at me like that. I was wrong, ok?

Aisha: Don’t worry, Lisa, you will have another chance.

Lisa: Yes, I hope so.

Jonas: It’s ok, we all want to succeed.

Alexandros: We have almost the same dreams.

Aisha: Don’t let the others disappoint you. Look, it’s difficult for all of us. I had to get a job at a café to persuade my parents what do.

Jonas: Well, even I worked at two jobs it wouldn’t be enough for my parents, they wanted me to become a doctor, do all they couldn’t do and provide my kids with everything they couldn’t offer me.

Lisa: That’s not true, you never had big problems with money.

Jonas: I know, but I can also imagine what my parent think!

Alexandros: Oh, no! I forgot my camera.

Lisa: What why?

Alexandros: I promised my little brother that I would show him my new house.

Lisa: I wasn’t allowed to leave home, you know, my parent are a little bit different.

Jonas: Different! What are you talking about? It can’t be that bad!

Lisa: My Dad lives alone, spending his all day writing stories from his past, and as if that was not bad enough, my Mom, decided that she wanted to travel all over the world.

Jonas: I always used to say that my parents are strange, now, I can see that there are worse one!

Alexandros: Really? I thought that your mother didn’t speak any languages, Lisa!

Lisa: She doesn’t, I have no idea how does she survives!

(Laughing)

Jonas: Seriously, what are we going to do now? I mean with our life, what are we going to do for our future?

Alexandros: We will follow our dreams, each one will work hard to do what he wants.

Jonas: How do we know if we did the right thing? We are just four teenagers, we left home to get a house together, as we had been planning for many years but, was it the right choice?

Lisa: We don’t know, Jonas, we just hope for the best.

Alexandros: Oh, don’t make me cry now, come on guys, this is ridiculous! Who can make our future better than us?

Aisha: You’ve right Alexandros, we have to trust ourselves.

Alexandros: Good, can we do something now, I’m so bored.

Lisa: Yes, but, what? The house is not ready yet, we don’t have many choices.

Aisha: But we have a TV. Who is with me?

Lisa-Alexandros: We are…

Aisha: What about you Jonas?

Jonas: Well, I don’t have another choice. Let’s do it.

(They turn on TV and they are sitting on a sofa)

Lisa: Not this movie, I’ve seen it seven times and I always cry at the end.

Jonas: Neither this one. I hate TV shows.

Aisha: Shh… Listen what they are saying.

Alexandros: What is it?

Aisha: It’s a talent show. You send them your show from your camera, and if it’s good they may give you a programme on TV.

Lisa: Hey… I’ve got an idea.

Jonas: Don’t tell me.

Lisa: Why don’t we make our own show!

Jonas: Exactly, this is what I was afraid of!

Lisa: No! Look, we have the stars (she shows herself and Aisha!) the technology ( she shows Jonas) and the manager (she shows Alexandros) Who can compete us?

Jonas: No, it’s impossible, how could we…

Aisha: (is interested) keep talking.

Lisa: We were looking for a chance, well here it is.

Jonas: It’s not a chance, we can’t do this, you always think than everything is that easy, well, it’s not!

Lisa: Come on Jonas, forget all this and be more, open-minded.

Jonas: Ok, then! And what are you going to do with your show?

Lisa: I don’t know yet, but I’ll find something, as I always do.

Jonas: You think that you’re the center of the world, but you’re just a girl.

Lisa: Listen……

Alexandros: Hey, guys, are we going to fight now?

Aisha: Alexandros is right, whatever we do, we should be together, or we’re already lost.

Lisa: But, listen to what he is saying he doesn’t want me to succeed.

Jonas: It’s not true, I’m just asking you to be more down to earth.

Lisa: No…..I don’t want to be like you, I don’t want to be….

Jonas: A loser? That’s what I’m for you?! Well, threes no reason for me being here anymore.(He is leaving)

Aisha: Jonas, where are you going? Lisa!!

Lisa: What? I didn’t do anything bad.

Alexandros: He shouldn’t be that sensitive! I mean, he is not a little boy anymore, he needs to be more mature.

Lisa: I guess he’ll be soon.

Aisha: What are you, two talking about? He’s our best friend, we can’t leave him!!! He will be alone, he will get crazy!!! We should find him and you, Lisa, have to say sorry!!!! To him.

Lisa: Jonas knows I didn’t mean that .Don’t worry, he will come back sooner or later, and by the way, why don’t we stop talking about him? We were talking about the show, remember?

Alexandros: Yes, I’m sure he won’t go for away!!! Let’s plan about this.

Aisha: But, do we have even one possibility to win? There will be thousands of talented people there!!!!!!!

Lisa: More talented than me? I don’t think so!!!!

Aisha: Seriously!!! What kind of show are we going to make?

Lisa: Something about music!

Alexandros: I prefer dancing.

Aisha: I would say a show for kids!

Lisa: Perfect, each one wants something different!

Alexandros: So, it would be better if each of us makes what he likes and then we will decide which one is the best

Aisha: Ok, your idea, so you can start first.

Alexandros: Ok, then! Lights on, music!

[He is dancing “sound of the song: You can’t touch this “CRAZY FROG (this one)]

(For about a second)

Lisa: Well, I don’t think it’s exactly what we need, next one please.

Aisha: You are the next one!

Lisa: Me, why always me?

Aisha: I’m keeping the best for the end!

Lisa: Ok then! DJ, music please.

(Sound: the song “Last Xmas”)

Lisa: (After 2 seconds) Wrong song, I said wrong!

[Sound: the song I “II survive (ABBA)]

(She doesn’t sing herself, we hear the song from the singer)

Alexandros: (After 2 seconds) Oh, no, why are you doing this to us?

Aisha: Ok, listen to me, I thing I’ve got the best idea.

Lisa: Hello, guys, it’s a TV show! Who would watch a show for children?

Alexandros: Come on Lisa, let’s listen to her!

Aisha: Can I start?

Lisa: Go on!

Aisha: Right. Dear, children, now, I’m going to tell you the story of Cinderella. Once up on a time there was a little girl with a red dress. She wanted to go to a party but her mother told her to be back before it gets 12 o‘clock or the bad wolf would eat her. But in the party she met a prince and she forgot what…..

Alexandros: Jonas was right! We will never win.

Lisa: No, we will not prove we are wrong. I can do it on my own. You were never able to understand me, I’m bored of you, guys. (She’s leaving)

Alexandros: Perfect! Now Lisa is gone too.

Aisha: Alex, I want to tell you something, now we are alone?

Alexandros: Is it something serious? Or, it’s something personal you know!

Aisha: No it is not what you imagine just, Lisa has been a little bit strange for the last two weeks.

Alexandros: Since we decided to live here in this house?

Aisha: Yes, Alex, she is really different, she doesn’t care about anything else but herself.

Alexandros: What makes you say that? I mean, Lisa always had a different way to dream about the future, but, she’s not bad.

Aisha: No, not bad, but if you could see her with my eyes, you would understand.

Alexandros: Understand what?

Aisha: Well, in the morning I heard her speaking with Jonas.

Alexandros: It’s not something unusual.

Aisha: Listen! I thing Jonas is in love with Lisa, and he tried to tell her about it.

Alexandros: You mean… No! It can’t be possible, he is my best friend, he would say this to me if it was true.

Aisha: Alex, you know Jonas, he’s shy.

Alexandros: But he never said something about a girl. Imagine, Lisa?

Aisha: He just couldn’t control his feelings.

Alexandros: But…

Aisha: Hey, will you let me tell you what I’ve heard?

Alexandros: Yes, tell me.

Aisha: I was in my bedroom, so I couldn’t hear well.

Alexandros: I’m sure you’re wrong!

Aisha: But I was near enough to hear Jonas saying Lisa makes him see life different and imagine the future.

Alexandros: And what did Lisa say?

Aisha: She said that he was lying, Jonas, was angry.

Alexandros: So, that’s why he had a fight with her.

Aisha: Exactly, but you haven’t heard the best!

Alexandros: About Lisa?

Aisha: Yes, I know why she forgot about Jonas, she has got a boyfriend, and guess what, he is an actor.

Alexandros: You mean, Lisa, is going to become an actress because of her new boyfriend.

Aisha: That’s it. She will become famous, and she will do what her parents told her not to do.

Alexandros: Do you think that she does everything to be independent.

Aisha: I’m sure about this.

Alexandros: And what can we do about it?

Aisha: We can call Jonas to ask him, and then we can call Lisa to find out what’s going on between them.

Alexandros: Ok, but first we have to go to the theatre. We have lessons.

Aisha: Yes, I almost forgot all about that. Let’s go (they are leaving)

(Sound: the song: stepping stone-Duffy when she is speaking alone)

(Lisa is coming in the room holding books, she is sitting on the sofa)

Lisa: (she is writing something in the book)

Perfect, I had a fight with my best friends, I came back and now everybody is gone. And all I wanted was to follow my fortune, I’m not like all the others, I feel it, I’m different, I’m born to succeed. Am I asking for too much? Now, everybody is angry with me, maybe they are kind of right, but I’m asking from my friends to help me, to trust me. I’m sure I’m just asking for a chance.

(The lights on her)

(Jonas is getting in the room, but he is sitting on a chair almost in front of the sofa and he doesn’t see Lisa. They’ve supposed to be in different rooms)

(The lights on him)

(Sound: song: They Unforgiven 2…Metallica)

Jonas: I’m here, I’m still alone, my best friends are angry with me, I’ve argued with Lisa. But, they have never asked what I wanted to do, I always do what the other people want me to do, I always forget my feelings to make them happy, I’m just asking for a chance, a chance to show everyone who I am and what I deserve.

(Lisa and Jonas are leaving the stage at the same time)

(Alexandros is coming)

Alexandros: I had a feeling that nobody would be here. I just hopes that Jonas or Lisa would be back, but, they’re not. I wonder where are they? Maybe they’re back with their families. That must be! Where else could they have gone?

(Aisha is coming)

Alexandros: yes, unfortunately. I’m worried about Lisa and Jonas.

Aisha: Alex, you are too sensitive today, what has happened to you?

Alexandros: No I’m not, I just…

Aisha: Hey, you should be happy now, you did something very good.

Alexandros: Yes, I didn’t expect to be accepted at the theatre team of this year. Really.

Aisha: Neither did I.

Alexandros: But I really want it!

Aisha: Who wouldn’t? It’s great chance.

Alexandros: You’re not jealous! Are you?

Aisha: No, of course not! I’m happy for you, I wish, ok, I am jealous, I can’t stop thinking about this! I’ve been planning about this job for months and you were just there!

Alexandros: You mean, I didn’t try at all!

Aisha: No, not as much as I did.

Alexandros: Well, maybe you should start thinking about something, called natural talent!

Aisha: What are you talking about? You didn’t even want to become an actor, as I do!

Alexandros: People change Aisha! We both tried, I won, why is this so bad for you?

Aisha: No, Alex it’s not this, it’s just, everything in my life is getting bad, and I’m starting losing my faith in me.

Alexandros: Don’t ever say that again. If you have a problem with my new job, I can forget it, I would really do, if I knew you would feel better.

Aisha: Thanks Alex. You’re so kind

(hugging him or holding his hands)

Alexandros: We’re best friends, right?

Aisha: Right!

Alexandros: (Looking at his watch) Look at the time. I’ve rehearsals. See you.

Aisha: Good luck!

(She is sitting on the sofa, reading a book, after two minutes Lisa is coming)

Lisa: Oh, you’re here, hi!

Aisha: Hi!

Lisa: Wow! What happened? Did I do something bad for you?

Aisha: For me, no!

Lisa: Then why…

Aisha: How could you do this to Jonas?

Lisa: Do what!

Aisha: Stop this, ok? I know what you’ve done.

Lisa: Aisha, I don’t know what are you talking about.

Aisha: I’m sure you don’t know! I’m talking about this morning.
Lisa: Oh, you mean…

Aisha: Yes, I mean everything you said to Jonas.

Lisa: But I didn’t say something bad, I just told him that he would always be always a good friend for me.

Aisha: Friend! All these things happened in the same house where we all live and you left us just about TV shows?

Lisa: Aisha, what happened to you? Why you are speaking to me like this?

Aisha: I thought we were friends, and you keep so many secrets room me.

Lisa: You mean Jonas?

Aisha: I mean, your new boyfriend, the actor, I know about this!

Lisa: Where did you hear that?

Aisha: It doesn’t matter, the point is that you didn’t tell me anything.

Lisa: I was afraid, ok? You would say I do this just because I want to be an actress, you would say everything you’re saying now!

Aisha: So, you really like him, right? That’s why do I have to apologize about everything I do in my life?

Aisha: It’s not this, I’m just bored of you Lisa, you forget your friends, you fight with Jonas, you want to be famous and rich and you have some other friends, you see, we’re not enough for you!

Lisa: Stop it. At least I didn’t hurt anyone?

Aisha: Ok then. We shouldn’t be friends anymore.

Lisa: That’s what I would say, my new friends remind me every day how special I am, but you always used to bring me down.

Aisha: Do whatever you want, but do it somewhere else.

Lisa: That’s what I’m going to do.

Aisha: But you should know, if someday your new friends disappear, we will be here for you.

Lisa: Don’t be so good to me, I know you envy me and you always hated me.

(She’s leaving)

Aisha: Oh my God! I wish everything was different. If only we could be happy all together.

Alexandros: Don’t worry Aisha, everything is going to be ok.

Aisha: My mother knows that the guys have left. She told me that I’m stupid I’m staying.

Alexandros: What are you saying? Are you afraid of the future?

Aisha: No, I’m just trying to be smart.

Alexandros: We said we could try to succeed whatever we do, whatever would happen.Don’t you forget that!

Aisha: No, but, can’t you see? Lisa and Jonas are gone.

Alexandros: Nobody knows what they are doing now? Where are they?

Aisha: Oh, I know about Lisa. She was here flue minutes ago.

Alexandros: You mean, you spoke to her?

Aisha: Well actually we had a fight again.

Alexandros: This is our fault! We are doing exactly what we shouldn’t do.

Aisha: It wasn’t me fault, she was lying, she made me get angry.

Alexandros: Sometimes you should go a step back.

Aisha: She didn’t deny anything, when I told her I had everything.

Alexandros: How could she?

Aisha: Sometimes it’s impossible to forget something bad.

Alexandros: What is happening to us?

Aisha: Alex, we’re talking about our best friend.

Alexandros: If you work hard realize that it’s not that difficulty to find new friends, new choices, a big chance! You just need faith.

Aisha: I miss our past. We were all together and we were so happy about it.

Alexandros: Will we ever stop talking about the same things!

Aisha: Don’t be angry.

Alexandros: I’m not.

Aisha: I’ll forget Lisa.

Alexandros: It’s just…

Aisha: Don’t worry, after this I don’t think she will come here again!

Alexandros: I can’t see the time winning this competition.

Aisha: Well, it’s not just a competition it’s a life style.

Alexandros: Whatever. I have missed Lisa and Jonas.

Aisha: Yes, me too, but it was their choice to leave.

Alexandros: My father called me and he asked about you, and the guys.

Aisha: What did he ask?

Alexandros: How we are, if I have money, you know parents, there like this.

Aisha: Yes, I know every parent except mine.
Alexandros: I lied to him.

Aisha: What do you mean? Why?

Alexandros: I couldn’t tell him the truth, he would never trust me again when I want to do something on my own.

Aisha: Wake up Alex, you’re not a child anymore, you don’t need to ask your parents.

Alexandros: It’s me Aisha, we both know we would never do this without parents! Help.

Aisha: Sometimes, I just can’t believe I’m right!

Alexandros: I guess why!

Aisha: Look, they’re going to announce the winner.

Alexandros : The winner, oh my God, look at this boy!

Aisha: It’s Jonas!!??!!

Alexandros: No, it can’t be Jonas, he hates TV shows.

Aisha: It’s him, listen, he says that he’s sorry because he left his friends, he is talking about us!

Alexandros: Yes, I suppose he missed us too!

Aisha: I’m sure he did, but we can’t find him now, he would say we just CAE about his new job.

Alexandros: Jonas, I would never have believed, if I hadn’t seen it.

Aisha: Now, I know!

Alexandros: You know, what?

Aisha: That even we should have some dreams we shouldn’t forget that we are still young, and everything is possible for us now.

Alexandros: Sometimes it’s too late when we realize the right thing.

Aisha: But not always!!!

(Seven years later)

(Aisha, Alexandros, and Lisa are staying in the same living room, celebrating for their success)

Aisha: Who would ever imagine!

Lisa: Yes, after all, I found you again guys!

Alexandros: Can you realize it? We have become stars and everything is different now.

Aisha: Well, I knew it (laughing)

Aisha: Really!

Lisa: Thank God, everything is finally perfect. And you, Aisha, I can’t believe you are a teacher at a nursery school.

Aisha: Well, I suppose the stage is not for me. And you are a fashion designer!

Lisa: Yes, I always loved fashion. And what about you, Alex? You’re traveled all over the world with your new job.

Aisha: A pilot right? It must be amazing!

Alexandros: Yes it is!

Lisa: I wish Jonas was here to celebrate with us!

(Somebody is knocking on the door)

Lisa: I’m going.

(She opens the door)

Jonas: I hope I’m not late for the party.

Lisa: Jonas, it’s never late for you, big star!

Aisha: Where have you been all these years?

Jonas: Well…

(Speaking but we can’t hear him, we hear: sound: song)

Written by Maria Priska of B2 class of the 8th General Lyceum of Ioannina

The Wish

The Wish!

Persons: Alexandros, Aisha, Jonas, Lisa

Narrator: This story begins in Greece. Our star, Alexandros is 16 years old. Aisha is 16 too and she is Alexandros’ girlfriend. They met while Alexandros was on a vacation trip in Turkey. Aisha now lives in Greece with her family. It is June, holidays are approaching day after day and the two kids are sitting at a park near their neighbourhood enjoying the first days of summer. Suddenly they see a shooting star and make a wish. Alexandros not knowing what to wish for he wished he had the chance to see himself into the future! Then, without a warning a strobilus draws away the two teenagers and they found them selves lying at an apartment…

Alexandros: Aisha? Aisha? Are you ok? (Panicked)

Aisha: err…I guess… What has happened? What is this place? How… where the hell are we?

(Alexandros goes near her and helps her stand up)

Aisha: I am ok! OK!

Alexandros: How did we get here? The last thing I remember is us sitting at the park when we saw that star falling! Hey! Now wait a second!

Aisha: What is it?

Alexandros: You remember that star, right?

Aisha: Yeah…go on…

Alexandros: You told me to make a wish…and… no, no… this is going to sound crazy…

Aisha: Crazier than the fact that we are some kind of transported here without even knowing how? I don’t think so! So speak up!

Alexandros: Yeah… I sort of make a wish to see myself in the future…But I didn’t really mean it …I just didn’t know what else to wish for!

Aisha: Couldn’t you wish for a good grade in history? We are taking our exams in two days! That’s what I wished for!

Alexandros: Riiight! This was the ideal wish for me! (Sarcastic)

Aisha: Anyway…well? Where is your future self? I can’t see anyone else in this hideous apartment!

Alexandros: Hey! Now that you mentioned it! This apartment reminds me of something!

Aisha: And what is it?

Alexandros: Oh! I know! This looks exactly like my uncle Mark’s apartment! Only the furniture is different!

Aisha: Do you at least know where this apartment is?

Alexandros: Of course! I was living there when I was 7 or something…

Aisha: So? Where is it?

Alexandros: USA, New York

Alexandros and Aisha: NEW YORK?

Aisha: You’re joking! Right?

Alexandros: I wish I were..!

Aisha: Ok…so…we’re in New York! Any idea about which year it is?

Alexandros: I didn’t wish for a particular year…just future!

Aisha: There must be a calendar around here!

Alexandros: Oh! Here we go! There are some documents on that table! (Goes and picks them up) Yeah! There’s a date on it! (Looks stunned)

Aisha: There’s nothing else to surprise me most! What is it? 2020?

Alexandros: Worse…2028!

Aisha: Ok…so you must be 36 years old now!

Alexandros: Oh! No! I really don’t wanna see how I look in my 36!

Aisha: Well, you know what they say! Be careful of what you wish for!

Alexandros: Aisha? Can I make a question?

Aisha: yeah?

Alexandros: What if I am an old guy with no hair and I work as… in a bank? Would you still wanna be with me?

(Aisha’s phone rings)

Aisha: err…Hold that thought! Don’t forget it! Would you?

(Answers the phone)

Aisha: Yes? Mom? I am fine yes…where am I? (Looks at Alexandros) you know…hanging out with Alex…yes, mom! With Alex! Would I be late? I don’t think so…I am losing you! Can’t hear you well! Bye! Kisses!

Alexandros: Poor mom! She must be really worried!

Aisha: Yeah! Don’t you think we should be worried about us first? At least she is at her home in 2009 and not in 2030!

Alexandros: 2028!

Aisha: Oh! Right! Thanks for the correction darling! (Sarcastic)

Aisha: Don’t you hear something?

Alexandros: Someone’s coming!

Aisha: Well? What shall we do now?

Alexandros: I don’t know…let’s just wait!

(One woman enters the stage)

Lisa: Aaaaaa! (Screams) Jonas? Jonas? Two kids are in our apartment!

(Jonas enters the stage)

Jonas: What is it Lisa?

(Jonas sees Alexandros and Aisha and he looks stunned)

Jonas: This…this…

Lisa: Are you ok, Jonas? Do you know them?

Jonas: This can’t just happen!

Lisa: What’s the matter?

Jonas: This is me!

Lisa: Excuse me? Honey are you ok? Do you need a glass of water?

Jonas: No…it’s ok…I’ll explain everything later!

Lisa: If there is anything to explain..!

Jonas: Oh my god! Is this Aisha? Gosh! Long time no see! (tries to hug her)

Aisha: Get off me you freak!

Alexandros: Don’t you touch her!

Jonas: Calm down! I am you! You are me! What can I do to prove it to you?

Alexandros: Tell me something that nobody else knows!

Jonas: Well…that’s easy! Remember at your cousin’s wedding when you were really young and you…

Alexandros: Ok! You can stop there!

Aisha: Hey! That’s not fair! I wanna hear what you did! Tell me!

Jonas: Actually, this would embarrass me too because we are talking about the same person! So I’d rather stop there!

Lisa: You have never talked to me about that either!

Aisha: That’s not fair at all! Anyway…sorry for calling you a freak before…I had no idea you were Alexandros!

Alexandros: So this is me! I am ok…except from the clothes…

Aisha: Now that you mentioned it! This is my future boyfriend! You asked me before if I would still wanna be with you! So…yeah! I would!

Alexandros: Hey! You waited to see me first and then you answered!

Aisha: err…

Lisa: Future boyfriend? Jonas? What is she talking about? What is everybody talking about?

Aisha: Who is she really?

Alexandros: Why does she call you Jonas?

Jonas: Ook! These are too many questions! I’ll explain! Lisa…I know this sounds crazy but this is me in my 16! And Alex… your life has changed a lot since you were 16!

Alexandros: Good changes?

Jonas: Sort of…when you grew up, you became a successful businessman!

Alexandros: Me? A businessman?

Jonas: Yes! And in fact the biggest!

Lisa: Good times..!

Alexandros: What happened?

Jonas: Well some people tried to take your money and they turned the Greek police against you…

Alexandros: Sounds like a movie so far!

Aisha: I like it! Go on!

Jonas: Well at the same time Uncle Mark died and left you this apartment…

Alexandros: Uncle Mark died? Oh, man!

Aisha: Don’t worry Alex...he is still alive in our reality!

Jonas: Yeah…after this event you started calling him more often and you’ve also visited him many times!

Alexandros: So…that’s why he left me this apartment…

Jonas: Most probably! But where was I? Oh! Yes! You were forced to leave Greece and change your life! You stayed here with your new name -Jonas- and enough money to live all your life!

Aisha: All this sounds great! But who is she???

Jonas: Yeah…right…I forgot..! Jonas, Aisha this is my fiancée Lisa!

Aisha: Your WHAT? (Looks at Alexandros)

Alexandros: Don’t look at me! He is engaged to her!

Jonas: It’s the same thing actually!

Aisha: Well, it seems that you wouldn’t like to be with me in the future! (Scowls)

Alexandros: What? Oh come on now! She’s not even my type!

Lisa: Not you’re type?

Jonas: Lisa, I was different in my 16!

Alexandros: I can always change the future right? Just because I saw it now it doesn’t mean that this is how it is going to be!

Aisha: Yeah! Who knows! Maybe in a different future I can manage to be your girlfriend!

Lisa: Dream on girl! I am the one wearing the ring now!

Aisha: Alex I’ll hit her! Hold me!!

Jonas: Come on girls! Calm down! Let’s change the subject…

Alex: Wait…how exactly did we break up?

Lisa: I don’t know! But I am glad you did!

(Aisha rolls her eyes)

Jonas: Well…I remember that exactly after you returned in 2009…you broke up!

Aisha: But why?

Lisa: Isn’t it obvious? I must be with Jonas eventually!

Aisha: Whatever!

Jonas: I think you just accepted this future! Aisha suggested you break up and you agreed!

Alexandros: Sounds weird!

Lisa: Not to me! Now if you excuse me I’ve got to use the restroom.

Aisha: Take your time!

(Lisa leaves the stage)

Jonas: So! Tell me! In which part of my life are you now?

Alexandros: Our life you mean!

Jonas: Oh yeah right! So?

Alexandros: It is June right now…exams period! I’m taking my history exam in two days! By the way, do you remember the subjects? I have only read…

Jonas: You have only read Civil War 2! I know! Of course it is not in! You haven’t studied 200 pages at least!

Alexandros: Damn it!

Jonas: I know! I remember I wanted to finish this game in play station! I couldn’t read anything!

Alexandros: Tell me about it! Do I ever get to finish this game?

Jonas: You’ll get bored of it after a bit!

Aisha: Too bad! I liked this game too!

Alexandros: What about my exams? I’ll pass…right?

Jonas: Don’t worry! You will! And with a really good grade actually!

Alexandros: Cool!

Aisha: What about me? Do you remember anything?

Jonas: We weren’t together then but I remember you had the best grade in the whole class!

Aisha: No way! Really?

Jonas: Yes! And well done to you! We weren’t talking then because of the break up so I never had the chance to say bravo!

Aisha: Wow! Thanks!

(Lisa comes into the room)

Lisa: Still here? Would you like something to drink? I am so rude!

Alexandros: No! We’re fine! Thanks anyway!

Aisha: How can we leave really?

Jonas: It is easy! The only thing to do is close your eyes and wish to get back in 2009!

Lisa: Finally! It was about time!

Aisha: Wow! This is the first time we agree!

Lisa: And the last I suppose!

Jonas: Yeah…any last words?

Alexandros: Just one thing! Dude… you really should change your clothes!

(Jonas looks at himself strangely)

Aisha: Honestly!!!

Alexandros: Anyway! See you in the future myself! You too Lisa I guess!

Aisha: Or not!

(Aisha and Alexandros stand in the middle of the stage and they close their eyes. The lights are off and in the next scene the two kids are in Alexandros’ room, they lie on the floor.)

Alexandros: Home sweet home!

Aisha: Well! That was fun!

Alexandros: Haha! Yeah!

Aisha: It is still early! What about going to cinema? There is a really cool movie on!

Alexandros: …Wait… (Confused)

Aisha: What’s wrong?

Alexandros: According to Jonas you are supposed to break up with me now…

Aisha: Yeah… I know! But I don’t want to! Do you?

Alex: No! Of course not! But what made you change your mind?

Aisha: You know, I thought that we might be able to change the future …just because he said we'd broke up…it doesn’t mean we absolutely have to!

Alexandros: Your know what? You’re right! I am not gonna let this crazy event change my life!

Aisha: That’s right!

Alexandros: Aisha?

Aisha: Yeah?

Alexandros: Thanks…

Aisha: Come on! I couldn’t let you make up with Lisa! In case you haven’t noticed I didn’t really like her!

Alexandros: Yeah! Haha! I noticed!

Aisha: So cinema?

Alexandros: Cinema it is!

(They both leave the stage holding hands)

Narrator: Alex and Aisha stayed together and actually got married! Alex managed to finish his game in play station with a bit of help from Aisha!

(After their graduation, Aisha studied drama where she became a famous actress and Alexandros studied direction where he wrote and directed all of Aisha’s movies! Alexandros, as an artist is best known with the nickname Jonas! Uncle Mark did leave him his apartment and this is where they decided to live!

Finally, this story shows us that no matter who we are or where we live, we can always define our future with our own decisions!)

Written by Natalia Zikou of the A1 class of the 8th General Lyceum of Ioannina

Has anybody seen Europe?

“Has anybody seen Europe?”

A scene filled with rubbish… The region of “city’s leftovers” an area where all leftovers of the world are gathered… Ragmen work there so as to make ends meet… So do the heroes of the play… Let’s see, then, what they want to present us without knowing many things about them and the plot of the play…
(At the “city’s leftovers”, Elizabeth and Aishe...)
Aishe -Too much rubbish today, huh?
Liza – Yes, indeed
Aishe – I would like to know where they find so many things and throw them!
Liza – Aaah, what do you think? All those people are like us, who from the dawn until the evening we go from a rubbish bin to another!...
Aishe – Yes, but… Do all people have so much money for all these things and especially nowadays when there are wars?
Liza – Why? When did the wars stop? There have always been wars every time for different reasons. For oil, water…
Aishe – And you, how do you know about the past?
Liza – Aah, Aishe, my dear, when I was little, I used to go to school for a short time however, when my mother was living……. (A little pause) And so I learnt some things.
Aishe – How lucky you are!
(She sits down on a rock)
Liza – Why do you say that?
Aishe – You knew your mother and you went to school, but I…
Liza – But you… What?
Aishe – I never knew my parents. They didn’t love me, didn’t want me… For that reason, they gave me to a miserable orphanage.
Liza – (Stunned) You have never told us that you lived in an orphanage.
Aishe – I know, but, I didn’t want to tell you anything about it
Liza – Why?
Aishe – Because I…
Liza – Because you… what?
Aishe – Because… all the people there shouted at us, beat us and in general… There were wars, both outside and inside, too. For that, I… ran away from there… hoping that I will find a better life.
Liza – (Shaking her head unable to believe all this) Aaaah, this world, today…! Wars come and go! Men, women children babies are killed every day…Aaah, this world doesn’t think of us… even… (Turning to the audience) even these children who survive, even those who escape from their country in order to find a better life here…here for God’s mercy… at the “City’s leftovers”, here where all countries empty leftovers. (A little pause)
Liza – Aaah, poor and foolish world!
Aishe – (She looks at Elizabeth and she doesn’t speak)
Liza – (She turns to Aishe) so, are you sad because you didn’t go to school?
Aishe – Yes
Liza – Don’t worry, I know that school is very important but…. For ages it hasn’t offered the right education. Even when I used to go to school. For that reason, don’t’ worry. Do you know what you should learn nowadays?
Aishe – No. What?
Liza – The sense of your life. This is the most important thing which you should learn. To learn about life and its traps. To think “why did it happen?” and to wonder if life wanted it. This is the most significant thing… but nobody has managed to learn it.
Aishe – What about you?
Liza – A few years ago I thought that I had learnt the sense of my life but now…. I think I was wrong.
Aishe – I don’t understand you.
Liza – It doesn’t matter. Don’t worry…are you any better now?
Aishe – Yes
Liza – Ok. Then, stand up, let’s get on with our work. Let’s go! (Aishe stands up and they continue to work)
(After a short time)
Jonas – Good morning! How are you?
Aishe – Fine.
Liza - Fine and you? Why are you late today? Did you work overtime at the “lying in bed” industry?
Jonas – Ha ha ha…Every day with your jokes! You like teasing me all the time, don’t you?
Liza – That’s it!
Aishe – Why do you look so worried?
Jonas – Because, I want to tell you something important…
Liza and Aishe – What? What is happening?
Jonas – Don’t worry, girls, it isn’t serious.
Liza – Then tell us, what is wrong?
Jonas – Tonight, I had a peculiar dream, a very peculiar dream.
Aishe – What?
Jonas – It was a voice which was telling me continually that today will be a special day not only for me but also for you…
Aishe – Why?
Jonas – Because, we will find something important and of big value…
Aishe – And what is that which we will find?
Jonas – I don’t know but,… it may be a treasure.
Aishe – Ha ha ha…
Jonas – Why are you laughing?
Aishe – And do you believe in dreams?
Jonas – Why not?
Aishe – It’s easy. Look around you. Do you believe that you could ever find a treasure? Here?
Jonas – You never know!
Aishe – (She continues to laugh and she goes away from the scene)
Jonas – And you? Do you believe in dreams?
Liza – Of course I do. For me, dreams are always a warning about something.
Jonas – And if this is impossible to happen? Even then?
Liza – Even then. All dreams are impossible to happen until the moment that they come true. You must have faith!
Jonas – Thank you
Liza – Why?
Jonas – Thank you. (He goes away from the scene; however Liza continues to look inside the pile of the rubbish… Some time later, she finds a baby’s torso and she starts to cry)
(She kneels keeping the baby’s torso in her hands, and she starts to sing……)
Liza – …………….( She is singing an old Greek song)
(A man enters the scene but Liza doesn’t understand him and she continues to sing…… The man doesn’t annoy her)
Liza – …………….( She continues singing)
(The man approaches her and he kneels next to her… Having stopped the song, she turns to him frightened)
Man – How is it that a rag woman has such a great voice?
Liza – It’s because I want to express my pain through singing.
(Pause)
(Liza turns to him, and looks at him straight into his eyes)
Liza – How is it that so well – dressed a man wanders here? In a rubbish place?
Man – It’s because he has to survive, forgetting to change the clothes of the previous job.
Liza – And why do you look for a way to survive here?
Man – Because here is the only place where a fired man could be helped so as to live.
Liza – You, such a charming young man, you got fired?
Man – Charm isn’t a qualification which you must have in order to remain in a job.
Liza - …. You’re right.
Man – Can I ask you something?
Liza – Yes, what?
Man – Does your pain have to do with this baby’s torso?
Liza – (Feeling embarrassed, she stands up and doesn’t answer trying to keep her tears)
Man – Sorry I didn’t want to embarrass you…
Liza – No, no… don’t worry… I’m ok… yes, my pain is related to this baby’s torso….
(A little pause)
(She caresses the baby’s torso and turns to the audience)
Liza - … My son was about the same age when he died, when he passed away in my hands…… (She starts to cry and the man takes her in his arms)
Man – It’ ok… It’s ok…..
(Pause)
Liza – (She stop crying in the man’s arms)
Man – Are you ok?
Liza – Yes, but… let’s stop talking about it
Man – ok, ok… Tell me that please! What’s your name?
Liza – Elizabeth
Man – (He wipes her tears which had remained on her face…)
You have a pretty name!
Liza – Thank you. And yours? It will be so charming as you.
Man – My name is Alexandros….
(Jonas returns to the scene)
Jonas – Liza, Liza… (When he sees her with an unknown man, he is jealous… he stays still and he looks at them… he is ready to kill at Alexandros with this gaze…)
Liza – You, come here to introduce you to a friend who will be member of “City’s Leftovers”.
(Jonas approaches)
Alexandros – My name is Alexandros, but you can call me Alex… Nice to meet you! (Alexandros gives him his hand)
Jonas – (Jonas gives his hand, too) Hi!
(Aishe enters the scene)
Aishe – What is going on here? Do you have a meeting without me? (When she approaches and sees Alexandros…) Who are you?
Liza - This is Alex. He is a new member of “City’s Leftovers”.
Aishe – Nice to meet you, my name is Aishe.
Alexandros – Nice to meet you, too, Aishe.
(Jonas glares at Alexandros who hasn’t taken his eyes from Liza)
Aishe – And where are you from? And you are so well – dressed…
Alexandros – I used to work for a big company, but… I had too many qualifications for them and they fired me… and now I am here…
Jonas – Ok, let’s stop it now and begin the work…
Liza – You are right. Let’s go!
(She didn’t have time to complete her phrase and…)
Aishe – Aaaah……
Alexandros – Liza be careful!...
(A terrifying earthquake breaks out…)(The four heroes are in the rubbish)
(Alexandros stands up and….)
Alexandros – Liza, Liza (He approaches her and he helps her to stand up...) Are you ok?
Liza – Yes, Yes…. I’m ok, thank you. Aishe, Jonas… Where are you?
Aishe – Here, here…
(Liza helps Aishe to stand up and Alexandros goes to Jonas)
Liza – Are you ok?
Aishe – Yes… (She coughs)
Alexandros – Jonas, Jonas…. How are you?
Jonas – I hurt my leg and I can’t walk
(Alexandros helps him to stand up…)
Alexandros – Are you injured?
Jonas – No, no…
Liza – How did it happen?
Jonas – I don’t know. Something fell on my leg. It must be right here
(The heroes are looking for it…)
Jonas – Here, here… (All gather around it)
Aishe – What is that?
Liza – It must be a statue.
(Jonas takes it in his hands…)
Jonas – It’s too dusty to see.
Liza – Wipe it.
(Jonas wipes it…)
Aishe - Woow!!! Indeed, it’s a statue.
Alexandros – There are some words on it. Read it.
Jonas - I can’t read. You read it.
Alexandros – Ok…
(He finds it difficult to read… he kneels and they all kneel…)
Alexandros – Eu… Eu…, eur – ro… euro…pp…Europe… Yes, that’s it…
“Europe kidnapped by Zeus”. Yes, “Europe kidnapped by Zeus”!!!
Aishe – Eu, eu Europe? Europe?...
Jonas – What is Europe?
Liza and Alexandros – Where is Europe? Has anybody seen Europe?
(They look at each other they look around them as though, they wait for an answer from whoever knows…)


(Curtain)
(The lights switch off)
(After a little time)
(the lights turn on… the four heroes stand up and they dance a song of the group “Active Members”: “Sing and smile”

Written by Lamprini Gesouli, A3 class of the 8th General Lyceum of Ioannina