BWW reviews: THE EFFECT, Crucible Studio, June 30 2015

Lucy Prebble's The Effect, currently playing in the Sheffield Crucible Studio Theatre in its regional debut, is a fast-paced funny and thoughtful meditation on love, madness and chemical reactions. The play is set in the environs of a drug trial, with participants Connie and Tristan trying to ascertain whether what they are experiencing is the result of the medication they are taking or something else, whilst the medics treating them are asking the same thing.

Daniel Evans is on directing duties. His name is fast becoming synonymous with some of the best, most creative directing in British theatre right now - and this production continues his excellent run. Prebble's fast-paced, intelligent and funny play is matched by exuberant performances, creative choreography and impressive lighting (designed by David Platt). Evans and designer Amanda Stoodley have created a real sense of the intensity of the characters' experience and the audience feels enclosed in the same space with them - the stage and seating is clinically white, with computerised lighting and effects utilised at key points to give the sense of us collectively being inside the experiment. The four actors (Priyanga Burford, Ophelia Lovibond, Henry Pettigrew, Stuart Bunce) are phenomenal in challenging roles that require them not only to master complex and layered dialogue, but to display a range of emotions and physical sensations with little-to-no let-up throughout the two acts.

The Effect is not a play that asks easy questions, and therefore it does not provide easy answers. It is an incredibly clever, yet very human, look at the mysteries of the brain and body, asking to what extent we can use medication and chemicals to alter our perceptions and feelings. It is a sophisticated piece of work and this production matches that sophistication through elegant direction, immersive staging and impressive performances.

Whilst this is not perhaps a play for those looking for easy entertainment and the feelgood factor, it is a must see for anyone with an interest in contemporary theatre, showcasing a playwright, cast and crew on excellent form.

The Effect is on at the Crucible studio, Sheffield until July 18, 2015.