End Dream
by Sharon Pollock

Published by Playwrights Canada Press Toronto

"Three Plays Sharon Pollock" orders@playwrightscanada.com
PDF Manuscript copy available on request HC_Pollock@shaw.ca

 Number of Acts: 2
 Length: 110 mins
 Total actors required: 5
 Men: 3
 Women: 2

 Synopsis:
End Dream, set in 1924, plays out the haunting inner and outer world of Janet Smith, a young Scottish nanny recently employed by the Clarke-Evans, members of their city's social and political elite. Janet confronts a household beset by mysterious activities, secret assignations, and sadistic game playing. Perhaps, as her employers insist, such dealings exist only in Janet's mind. A potential friend, were she able to overcome her prejudice, is the Chinese house boy, Wong Foon Sing, but even he is unable to prevent the tragic result of Janet's search for answers.

Historical note: On a hot July day in Vancouver, BC 1924 a young Scottish nanny was found dead in her employer's basement. Rumors circulated regarding her employer's possible involvement in the drug trade and the nanny's awareness of it. However the racism of the era made inevitable the accusation of murder against a Chinese servant in the household. Perhaps not so predictable was his kidnapping, torture, and detention for 6 weeks by hooded men, later revealed to be members of the local constabulary. The Chinese houseboy was eventually charged and acquitted. The question of murder or suicide remains unanswered.