Equus

Play

Writers: Peter Shaffer

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
2
Tony Award®
Best Play 1975
First Produced
1973
Genres
Drama
Settings
Multiple Settings
Time & Place
present: rokeby psychiatric hospital, southern england
Cast Size
medium
Licensor
Ideal for
College/University, Ensemble Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Male
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes adult, mature adult, late teen, young adult characters

Synopsis

Dr. Martin Dysart, a dissatisfied and disaffected psychiatrist, is faced with a unique case when a young man, Alan Strang, is brought to him for treatment. Alan, a passionate and obsessive horse lover, has blinded six horses, to the horror and surprise of his family. In his efforts to coax Alan out of his shell and treat him, Dr. Dysart begins to unravel the complex psychological puzzle of Alan’s obsessions. Underneath Alan’s complacent manner, Dr. Dysart discovers a fervent, passionate, almost religious power that has both the power to destroy Alan, and perhaps, to save the doctor himself. English playwright Sir Peter Shaffer’s international hit is a dazzling, complex, and thrilling look at passion, sex, religion, and sanity.

Lead Characters


Equus guide sections