19:00, Tue 5th – Sat 9th November 2024 at Corpus Playroom
Michaelmas Week 4
Content warning (may contain spoilers) Click to expandClick to close
Dangerous behaviour: a cigarette is smoked.
Discriminatory language or behaviour: One of the doctors struggles with depressive
episodes and another doctor undermines her clinical capabilities due to her mental health.
Drug misuse: the play is centred on a clinical trial for anti-depressants the characters
mistakenly exchange pills thinking one has been given a placebo, this is incorrect and
triggers an off-stage seizure so could be determined dangerous substance misuse.
Very strong language: Occasional use of f*ck/sh*t/b*tch
Nonsexual nudity: none
References to sexual activity/ masked depictions of sexual activity: Yes, it is implied
that two characters have a sexual relationship, we see them kiss. In a concluding scene it
is meant to be obvious that a man has an erection, and a woman touches him under
blankets.
Non-graphic or veiled depiction of sexual violence or threat- none
Threat and/or horror- mild threat during an intense argument
Strong violence- none
it is implied that two characters have a sexual relationship, we see them kiss.
Can we ever control how we feel?
Are our feelings an emotional or physical sensation?
Are love and sadness anything more than a chemical reaction?
Lucy Prebble’s gripping play "The Effect" delves into the lives of four individuals involved in a clinical trial for a potent new antidepressant, RLU37. Doctors Lorna and Toby, once lovers, find themselves in a heated scientific debate about ethics and the extent to which we should seek to manage human emotion. Volunteers Connie and Tristan quickly find themselves ensnared in a turbulent love affair where every developing affection is tarnished and they question if their love is true, or simply a side effect. This expansive and exhilarating play willingly asks us a multitude of questions, but does it provide the answers?