Imagine you could live for two lifetimes. Would you want to? How would it change you and those you love? What would you do with all those extra years? What second chances might you get? Would this be a blessing or a curse?
This world is an alternative version of our own. Except in this world, a minority of people are discovered to have Extended Life Syndrome (ELS). The condition might give an "Elser" two decades in their thirties, two in their forties, double the time in their fifties, and so on. Little is understood of the biological factors that govern ELS except that it affects a random selection of people. It is the ultimate lottery of genetics, crossing class, race, culture and gender.
And if a simple test existed to check your DNA for this double life, would you take it? Would you want to know?
Now think again. Would you?
Retired couple Elia and Mark are celebrating their pearl wedding anniversary when they discover one of them has ELS. The bond between them is tested as they deal with the fallout and face up to a momentous decision.
Written by Vanessa Montfort
Cast:
Elia ….. Raquel Cassidy
Mark ….. James Wilby
Simon ….. Ben Crowe
Anne ….. Clare Corbett
Keith ….. Jonathan McGuinness
Carol ….. Rosie Cavaliero
Saul ….. Joel MacCormack
Other voices played by the cast
Sound Design ….. Adam Woodhams and Steve Bond
Theme Music ….. Ioana Selaru and Axel Kacoutié
Academic Consultants ….. Tamas David-Barrett & James Fasham
Executive Producer ….. Sara Davies
Series created by Marietta Kirkbride
Directed and Produced by Nicolas Jackson
An Afonica production for BBC Radio 4
Limelight