Writer: Lucy Prebble
Director: Sam Edmunds
Reviewer: Christine Stanton
“Captivating“
4.5 / 5
Connie and Tristan have met in somewhat unexpected circumstances, both undertaking a medical trial that focuses on alleviating depression with a ground-breaking new formula.
Connie (Millie Smith) is completing a degree in psychology, and is anxious to get back to her boyfriend on the outside. Tristan (Shadrach Agozino) in comparison, is a free-spirit, preparing to go travelling around the world once he receives the payment for the anti-depressant trial. The pair hit it off almost immediately, getting to know each other and bonding over light-hearted banter. The clinical surrounding makes their easy connection intriguing, so when their feelings start to develop, rapidly and intensely, it forces them to question; are they actually in love or are their feelings just a side-effect of the mind-altering drug?
The doctors administering the trial – Lorna (Sara Odeen-Isbister) and Toby (Andrew Pearson-Wright), are fascinated by the findings, eager to continue monitoring the pair even when rules are broken and vitals change that should really make them pull the plug on the study. But they too are victims of a shared intense connection, albeit not one confused by supplements. Their past romantic relationship and opposing views on medicating depression begin to muddy their conduct and compromise the study even more than it already has been.
Prebble’s brilliantly written script presents a variety of well-outlined debates surrounding medication, love, and the inner-workings of the brain. Prebble doesn’t take a clear stance herself – there is well balanced, well presented dialogue on both sides of the argument, allowing the characters to shape the discussion rather than there being an inbuilt message. This ensures that the debate itself remains intriguing and natural, forcing the audience to think themselves about their own viewpoints on the matters at hand. The dialogue is intelligent, and clearly articulated, without feeling preachy or bogged down in too much science, while the characters are wonderfully written and extremely likeable, which helps them to remain compelling throughout.
Sam Edmunds lighting and direction bring Prebble’s complex script to life, allowing both the character relationships and the ideas to have their own space and progress naturally. It is well paced, with both moments of intense action fantastically executed, and quieter moments of humour or sensitivity given ample attention. The cast are all great, working well both individually and collaboratively to present this captivating production, but Agozino in particular is electric. Tristan’s comedic, laid-back personality completely believable, and the portrayal of his shifting emotional state throughout the trial is a masterclass in performance. Smith is endearing, showcasing excellent chemistry with Agozino. She ensures Connie’s conflict between her growing emotions and her rational, psychologically trained mind is captured with ease.
Pearson-Wright’s personable manner makes Toby’s lecture on the brain utterly absorbing and remarkably authentic. Although he remains firmly in character, he also peppers the scripted lecture with spontaneous remarks about the heat or audience numbers, creating the impression that we as an audience are genuine participants in the lecture rather than simply watching a scene unfold. Odeen-Isbister’s clinical professionalism allows the intensity of the script to surface. While moments of tenderness or joy between Connie and Tristan often soften the atmosphere, her portrayal of Lorna quickly ensures that the scientific coldness is still ever present, despite the occasional spark of her own emotions shining through.
A strong, well-performed show, that definitely leaves its own effect on the audience after leaving the theatre.
Runs until 11th July 2026
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