Hasland Theatre Company stages The Effect by Lucy Prebble

A modern play exploring the relationship between volunteers on an anti-depressant drugs trial and the relationships and issues of the doctors in charge has been chosen by Hasland Theatre Company to launch its 69th season.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Sep 2015, 14:15 BST
Nicky Beards and Heather Davies in rehearsal for The Effect to be presented by Hasland Theatre CompanyNicky Beards and Heather Davies in rehearsal for The Effect to be presented by Hasland Theatre Company
Nicky Beards and Heather Davies in rehearsal for The Effect to be presented by Hasland Theatre Company

The Effect will be staged for eight performances at The Playhouse on Storforth Lane, Hasland, from September 18 to 26.

Penned by award-winning playwright Lucy Prebble, the play was professionally staged at The Crucible, Sheffield, earlier this year.

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Stuart Rooker, an experienced actor and first-time director at Hasland Theatre Company, said: “The themes of The Effect are complex, challenging the audience’s perceptions of depression and medication. Prebble has created four well-drawn characters and their relationships give rise to an intelligent dialogue that has really given us something to get our teeth into during rehearsals.

‘It will be a visual and audible treat thanks to our wonderful backstage team who have created some stunning back projections and sound effects which enhance what’s happening on stage. This, coupled with four incredibly strong performances from our experienced actors - Nicky Beards, Heather Davies, Steve Cowley and David Brooks.

“The Effect has been an absolute pleasure to work on. We have made a piece of drama that is a real collaborative effort. Everyone involved has poured an incredible amount of time, effort and talent into eight performances that aim to entertain and provoke at the same time. It is a brave piece put on by a forward-thinking company.”

Publicity officer Nicky Beards added: “The HTC 2015-16 season will continue after The Effect with a varied selection of plays including a musical version of Animal Farm, Peter Whelan’s The Bright & Bold Design, Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit and Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth. We have made a conscious effort to keep ticket prices down this year and they remain at a very competitive £7.50. There really is something for everyone this coming season. And, as ever, there is always space for new audience members as well as people who wish to get involved in terms of acting, front of house and backstage. “

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The Effect runs for eight performances from 18th to 26th September at the Playhouse on Storforth Lane. Tickets are now on sale. To buy tickets online, visit www.haslandtheatrecompany.co.uk (booking fee applies) or telephone the Box Office on 01246 272271.

Tickets are now on sale; to book online, visit www.haslandtheatrecompany.co.uk (booking fee applies) or telephone the box office on 01246 272271.