A Number

A fascinating meditation on human cloning, personal identity and the conflicting claims of nature and nurture. Bernard thought he was an only child. One day he learns the shocking truth: he is just one of a number of clones. Together, he and his father confront epic questions of identity, intimacy and belonging. A Number pushes the boundaries of science and ethics with an astonishing twist on the dynamics of the father/son relationship. It was originally produced at the Royal Court Theatre, London, winning the Evening Standard Award for Best Play. This edition was published alongside a revival by the Nuffield Theatre, Southampton, which subsequently transferred to the Young Vic, London, in 2015, and featured real-life father and son John and Lex Shrapnel.