SHORT PLAY
Drama
Drama
A father and daughter struggle to find each other
across divides of universal proportions.
They must discover what's most important
for their relationship and for their own survival
before time runs out.
across divides of universal proportions.
They must discover what's most important
for their relationship and for their own survival
before time runs out.
CHARACTER INFORMATION
Cassidy - Daughter, Age 20s/30s
Ryan - Father, Age 50s/60s
THEMES
science fiction, interdimensional, mental health
REVIEWS & RECOMMENDATIONS
"Across the Veil" is a beautifully constructed and deeply moving two-hander that uses a clever multiverse premise to explore grief, parental guilt, forgiveness, and the terrible cost of time wasted between people who love one another. John Mabey keeps the science fiction wonderfully human, building to a quietly powerful final turn in which Cassidy is given the opportunity Ryan has been desperately seeking—the chance to reconnect before it is too late.”
(Donald Loftus)
(Donald Loftus)
“I loved how "Across The Veil" takes such a huge science-fiction concept and makes it feel intensely personal. What stayed with me most was the relationship between Cassidy and Ryan—the gradual recognition, the longing for connection, and all the things they need to say while time is running out. Mabey gives us an ending that I’m still thinking about after finishing the play.”
(Danielle Wirsansky)
(Danielle Wirsansky)
“The best science fiction creates scenarios for heightened emotions. John Mabey does exactly this in ACROSS THE VEIL. We get hints of fractured relationship(s) and the need to make amends and be redeemed. Parents and anyone else who has had trouble maintaining a meaningful relationship will find the setting familiar, despite the fantastic premise. I love the ambiguous ending trusting the intelligence of the audience. Well done.”
(Mike Byham)
(Mike Byham)
“Some difficult explaining to do in John Mabey’s inter-dimensional sci-fi play ACROSS THE VEIL and the playwright handles the backstory (sidestory?) masterfully. There’s also a lot to absorb - and I’ve just now reread it - and there's just so much that is wonderful going on - but maybe the best thing is the gradual and very human way that Cassidy begins to understand that this Ryan might actually be her dad from another dimension, which makes the ambiguous ending all the more powerful.”
(Charles Scott Jones)
(Charles Scott Jones)
“This is actually the play I needed to read today. The multiverse possibility is fascinating. The ending really gives you something to think about with its surprise twist. Extremely detailed and honest, highly recommended!”
(Dan Taube)
(Dan Taube)