DUOLOGUES

LEAVING

by Philip Jamieson

Suitable for Grade 1

Stage directions

Cam and Lou have been best friends since primary school. Cam is sitting in their favourite cafe when Lou arrives with a surprise present – but with it comes some unexpected news.

Excerpt

Lou

Hello, Cam! I’ve brought you a present.

Cam

(Surprised) Oh, thanks. You shouldn’t have. You do know that my birthday is not until next month, don’t you?

Lou

Of course I do. Think of it as an early birthday present.

Cam

(Confused) Okay.

Lou

Go on then – open it. Then I can tell you a good place to keep it.

Cam unwraps the present. It is a framed photograph of Lou.

Cam

(Surprised) It’s a photograph of you, Lou, and in a lovely frame too. And, (even more confused) you’ve signed it!

Hints & tips

  • This duologue is ideal for Grade 1 exams – but can also be used at other levels.
  • Either of the characters Lou and Cam can be male or female.
  • You will need a framed photograph wrapped up as a present as a prop.
  • There are lots of contrasting emotions to develop in the duologue.
  • Use a table and two chairs to represent the meeting in a cafe.
  • You can add other props too if you like.