It is the era of the introduction of electric light into houses and Dr Givings is a keen supporter of the new physical effect called electricity. He treats women, and the occasional man, who suffer from a condition he calls 'hysteria' in his home operating theatre - or 'in the next room' - for those squeamish of the term operating theatre.
Dr Givings' treatment involves electric vibratory massage and in an era where propriety called for married couples to observe a formal almost remote relationship the effects of this massage on his patients are at first strange and then surprisingly addictive. After all this was an era before familiarity with notions of the female orgasm.
All the while Mrs Givings, who is suffering through her inability to provide milk for her new born child, is increasingly curious about the treatment underway 'in the next room'; the effects of which she can hear only too well by the strange sounds her husband's patients make.
You can guess from this that the play's characters are embarking on a revelatory trip. 'In The Next Room or the Vibratory Play' contains plenty of humour provided that you are not offended by numerous discreet simulations of masturbation by vibrator and the pleasurable effects thereof. The feint of heart should also note that bare male arses and the occasional woman's breast are also on display. The packed audience at the performance last night certainly was not put off and conveyed it's enjoyment with resounding applause at the play's conclusion. A slightly soft but picturesque ending confirms an overall and universal message about communication and connection between individuals.
The cast of seven perform strongly.
A local theatre company here in Boston performed this in the Autumn. I was really bummed to miss it. People raved about it.
ReplyDeleteBosGuy - I was pleasantly surprised that I found the play so enjoyable.
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