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Lucy Prebble's The Effect Takes the Stage in Its American Debut

David Cromer directs the new play at the Barrow Street Theatre.

Editorial Staff

Off-Broadway

March 18, 2016

Susannah Flood, George Demas, Kati Brazda, and Carter Hudson in a scene from Lucy Prebble's The Effect directed by David Cromer at the Barrow Street Theatre. — Susannah Flood, George Demas, Kati Brazda, and Carter Hudson in a scene from Lucy Prebble's *The Effect*, directed by David Cromer, at the Barrow Street Theatre.
(© Matthew Murphy)

Lucy Prebble's The Effect is currently in performances at the Barrow Street Theatre. Directed by David Cromer, the production opens March 20.

Carter Hudson and Susannah Flood in a scene from Lucy Prebble's The Effect. — Carter Hudson and Susannah Flood in a scene from Lucy Prebble's *The Effect*.
(© Matthew Murphy)

The Effect premiered at London's National Theatre in 2012 in a coproduction with Headlong, and won the Critics' Circle Award for Best New Play. The cast of Barrow Street's North American premiere includes Kati Brazda, Susannah Flood, Carter Hudson, Steve Key, and George Demas.

Carter Hudson and Susannah Flood take the stage in The Effect at the Barrow Street Theatre. — Carter Hudson and Susannah Flood take the stage in *The Effect* at the Barrow Street Theatre.
(© Matthew Murphy)

The story follows Connie, a psychology student, and Tristan, a charming drifter, both of whom sign up for a clinical trial for a new antidepressant super-drug. Sealed off from the outside world, the attraction between Connie and Tristan turns into deeper feelings as their doses get stronger. As the trial's overseeing physician and her superior contend with the illicit relationship of their charges, they become increasingly conflicted about the ethical implications of their work. It's soon clear that neither is objective about the complex issues that surround them.

Kati Brazda and Steve Key star in David Cromer's production of The Effect. — Kati Brazda and Steve Key star in David Cromer's production of *The Effect*.
(© Matthew Murphy)

The creative team for The Effect includes scenic design by Marsha Ginsberg, costume design by Sarah Laux, lighting design by Tyler Micoleau, sound design by Erik T. Lawson, original composition by Daniel Kluger, projection design by Maya Ciarrocchi, and fight direction by J. David Brimmer.