Accidental Friends

Jonathan Small is a twelve-year-old student who is recovering from a head injury. He sits alone in his hospital room temporarily blinded by his head bandages. He has nothing to do but contemplate why his popular best friends have not come to see him. Enter Hilda Meisberg, a geek and overachiever, who pays Jonathan a surprise visit to find out why he hasn't replied to the witty letter she was made to write in class. She challenges Jonathan to get out of his chair and join her on a sightless adventure around the room. With her persistent encouragement, Jonathan discovers that he can function quite well using his sense of touch. He realizes that although Hilda may be unusual, she is also interesting and funny. However, when Jonathan finally gets out of the hospital, he denounces his new friend in favor of his popular friends. Hurt, Hilda runs away, saying she will go live with her father and twin sister. Jonathan realizes his mistake, but it is too late. Hilda returns, pretending to be her sister Holly, whom everyone likes. Jonathan discovers that Holly is Hilda, who, with his encouragement, will be able to face the other kids and become their friend. Commissioned and produced by Idaho Theatre for Youth, this play is ideal for touring.