The Early Bird

The Early Bird taps into the darkest fears of any parent - what if your child simply disappears? Debbie and Jack blame each other and themselves, and in doing so reveal the inner secrets of their own relationship in this disturbing and darkly humorous play. Butler's language moves between naturalism and hyper-realism, brilliantly capturing the surreal quality of the worst time in this couple's life. The play premiered at the Belfast Theatre Festival in October 2006.

Leo Butler's previous plays are Made of Stone (2000 Royal Court Young Writers Festival), Redundant (winner of the 2001 George Devine Award) and Lucky Dog, all of which premiered at the Royal Court Theatre, London.