The Effect at San Francisco Playhouse

Lucy Prebble; dir: Bill English.

Mainstage:

Authors

• Lucy Prebble

When people fall in love we often talk about the 'chemistry' between them. But what is this 'chemistry' and what causes it? In The Effect, acclaimed British playwright Lucy Prebble incisively examines the world of drug-testing clinics and neuroscience. And, perhaps, true love.

Two young volunteers, Tristan and Connie, take part in a drug trial examining the effects of a new anti-depressant. However, as their doses become stronger, they start to fall in love. But is their newfound passion real? Or just another side effect?

Sarah Goodes directs a superb cast led by Angie Milliken as the trial's overseeing physician who must contend with the unruly feelings of her charges while debating the ethical implications of their work with her superior. It's soon clear that this pair have a complex past, and neither is objective about the thorny issues that entangle them.

Interweaving reason and passion, science and art, Prebble's funny, tender and provocative play is guaranteed to keep you debating long after the lights come up.