A NUMBER explores the subject of human cloning and identity. Set in the near future, it focuses on the conflicts and overall relationship between a father and his three sons – two of whom are clones.

Imagine you found out one day that you were only one of a number of copies. How would you feel, and how would you know if you were the ‘real one’ the human one? A Number is a story of a man with two clones turning up on his “father’s” doorstep.

Through the eternal debate on nature versus nurture, award winning playwright Caryl Churchill explores what makes us who we are with this gripping and explosive drama that stars real-life father and son, George Costigan and Niall Costigan - both also known for their parts as Bob and Simon in Rita, Sue and Bob too!.

Director Juliet Forster said: “I am very excited to be working on a play by one of our country’s leading playwrights.

"This is my first Caryl Churchill production, and it’s one of my favourites – she manages so brilliantly to capture a range of big ideas within a tiny, domestic setting, exploring human ethics, identity, parental guilt and more, in a thoroughly relevant and contemporary manner. It is a short play, but it leaves the mind full.”

George Costigan returns to York Theatre Royal after his performance in David Harrower’s Blackbird. George is joined by Niall who played the role of King Arthur in York Theatre Royal’s 2012 summer show of the same name.

A Number is at the York Theatre Royal from Thursday, May 1 to Saturday, May 24.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or phone the box office on 01904 623568.