‘The Effect’ to be Staged by CAST PH This September
CAST PH, in partnership with Areté, is set to stage Lucy Prebble’s The Effect this September at Areté.
Originally presented as part of CAST PH’s staged reading series, Theoria Omnium, in 2025, The Effect returns as a fully staged production at the Doreen Blackbox Theater.
“We were heartened by all the positive reactions to The Effect back in 2025. To see it really resonate with so many completely took us by surprise,” says Sarah Facuri, Executive Director of CAST PH, who will once again direct the piece. “We knew then that we had to explore it as a full production. It was a special experience creating the reading, and we’re looking forward to rediscovering the work with the same cast, now on a bigger stage.”
The play follows Connie and Tristan, two volunteers in a clinical trial for a new antidepressant who develop an unexpected attraction to each other. As their feelings intensify alongside their increasing doses, they begin to question whether their connection is genuine or simply a side effect of the drug. Meanwhile, the doctors overseeing the trial grapple with their own personal histories and conflicting views on depression and its treatment.
The cast of the staged reading returns to reprise their roles, led by Sue Ramirez as Connie Hall and Brian Sy as Tristan Frey. Dean Daniel Rosen plays Dr. Toby Sealy, while Cathy Azanza-Dy plays Dr. Lorna James. Chaye Mogg serves as understudy for Connie Hall.
Joining Facuri on the artistic team are Teia Contreras (Assistant Director), Carlos Hombrebueno (Sound Designer), Jethro Nibaten (Lighting Designer), D Cortezano (Set Designer), and Myra Ho (Photographer).
Tickets are priced at ₱2,000 (Premium) and ₱1,800 (Regular) and are available via Helixpay.
The Effect will run from September 19 to 27 at the Doreen Blackbox Theater in Areté. Performances are scheduled for September 19 at 8 PM; September 20 at 3 PM and 8 PM; September 24 and 25 at 8 PM; and September 26 and 27 at 3 PM and 8 PM.
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