The North Pool is a suspense thriller set in a seemingly typical American public high school. The play consists of two characters: an over-worked Vice Principal, Dr. Danielson, and a Middle Eastern student, Khadim Asmaan. On the afternoon before Spring Break, Khadim is called into Dr. Danielson’s office for a one-on-one meeting. It turns out that Khadim had skipped out on class so Dr. Danielson gives him detention. Danielson, by all appearances, is a dedicated education professional. At first, it seems that Khadim was called into his office just for the absence. But bit by bit, Danielson reveals that he knows about sordid details of Khadim’s past and present; including Khadim’s management of an underground business selling black market goods and involvement in the recent suicide of a local girl. Meanwhile, Khadim also has done his research on Dr. Danielson’s past. The play is riveting and constantly moves in unexpected directions. It captures the essence of contemporary high school life, political correctness, morality and the legacy of teen suicide. In the end, the play is about forgiveness and living with unresolved issues.
The North Pool guide sections
