A hauntingly lyrical memory play about an old man - once a superb chef - and the young reporter who comes to interview him in the prison…where he has been locked up for a mysterious act. WHEN THE WORLD WAS GREEN is steeped in the elliptical, poetic style for which Shepard is justly celebrated. Though it is sketched in a world of sensual delight, of great journeys to distant lands, and exotic food "piled as high as a mountain, glistening in the sun”, the beauty of Shepard's landscape is only skin-deep. Under the surface lies a family vendetta that has lasted for seven generations. A tender story of regret and loss through which these two unique characters transcend their memories and reach mutual forgiveness and love.