THE EFFECT by Couch Theatre

“Heart Matter”

Reviewer: Gloria Ho
Performance: 13 September 2015, 3pm

Love is nothing more than a series of chemical reactions. We have all heard this proposition before. Cleverly using this as a premise, The Effect delves deep into the heart of matter – both literally and metaphorically.

The Effect is centered on a clinical trial where participants Tristan (Johnson Chong) and Connie (Krissy Jesudason) are guinea pigs for a new drug. Coincidentally or otherwise, as the prescribed dosage increases, they gradually fall for each other. Together with them, we are forced to question whether the feelings are genuine or just a side-effect of the drug (also coined as “Viagra of the heart”). Unavoidably, the long-standing mind-body argument and dualism enter the fray. Additionally, another heavy discussion parallels: is depression a mere chemical imbalance of the brain that can be alleviated by medication or is it a complex condition caused by external factors?

Couch Theatre makes an applaudable choice for their annual production, recognizing that the stigma of mental illness still permeates through our society today. The intended purpose of this choice, however, loses clarity with seemingly half-hearted efforts in presenting this dense play written by British playwright Lucy Prebble.

Take for example the character of Dr James (Chio Su Ping), researcher of the experiment trial. Dr James is able to go about her daily work and life normally, despite her diagnosis of depression. She reveals her inner insecurities through a notable, well-delivered monologue towards the end. Instead of capitalizing on this notion of normalcy by appearance, the production perpetuates the very stereotypical perceptions of people labelled with mental illness that Dr. James finds ludicrous.

In all, a little more careful consideration and bold choices could have, in effect, made this a much more intriguing, engaging and impactful piece.