The Effect: A Play by Sheepdog Theatre

Love and science collide in Lucy Prebble’s acclaimed play, The Effect, by Sheepdog Theatre.

What to expect

Set in the confines of a clinical trial for a new antidepressant, two volunteers, Tristan and Connie, find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected and powerful ways. As their connection deepens, the couple is left to wonder: are their feelings genuine, or just side effects of the drug?

This gripping tale raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of love and the ethics of experimentation, blurring the lines between chemistry and true emotion. With sharp dialogue and poignant moments, The Effect explores the tangled web of mental health, identity, and the pharmaceutical industry’s impact on how we perceive ourselves and those we love.

The play invites audiences to dive into a world where the boundaries of the heart and mind are tested, and nothing is quite what it seems. Will Tristan and Connie’s love survive the trial, or is it destined to fade away? Find out as The Effect challenges everything you thought you knew about love and reality.

The play will be in English with Japanese subtitles.

Schedule

There will be a performance every day from November 7 to 17, except for November 11 and 12.

All except November 17 will have evening performances starting at 7 p.m.

Matinee performances starting at 1 p.m. take place on November 9, 10, and 17.

Tickets

Advance tickets cost ¥4,800 for adults and ¥3,800 for students. Get tickets here. On-the-day tickets cost ¥5,000 (excluding VAT).

How to get there

The play will be performed at Studio Actre, a five-minute walk from the South Exit of Nakano Station.