The story takes place in a Roman prison in Jerusalem during the Jewish Passover festival. The time is early in the first century, around 33 AD. As the play opens, a small cell appears with a barred window to the center rear, and containing two cots, one on either side. There is a prisoner on each cot, staring at the ceiling.

(As the lights go on, the roar of a crowd is heard off-stage.)

Theudas

(He gets up from cot and goes to the window.) Well, I see the natives are restless. I wonder what all the commotion is about out there. (He looks at Barabbas, as if trying to make conversation.)

(Barabbas lies motionless, as if not hearing him.)

Theudas

(He looks back out the window.) The fickle crowd is probably framing another poor beggar. As if our blood won’t be enough entertainment for them today. O…