Equus (play)

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1973 play by Peter Shaffer

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Original title
Written by	Peter Shaffer
Based on
Directed by
Music by
Lyrics by
Choreography
Chorus
Characters
Mute

Equus is a play by Peter Shaffer written in 1973, exploring the complex relationship between psychiatrist Martin Dysart and a troubled teenager, Alan Strang, who has a pathological fascination with horses. The play delves into themes of religion, sexuality, and the nature of normality.

Plot

The story is set in the Rokeby Psychiatric Hospital in Southern England. Martin Dysart, a middle-aged psychiatrist, is confronted with the case of Alan Strang, a seventeen-year-old boy who has blinded six horses in a stable. As Dysart investigates the reasons behind Alan's actions, he uncovers the boy's intense religious and sexual fascination with horses, which he has personified as a god-like figure named "Equus."

Through a series of flashbacks and therapy sessions, the audience learns about Alan's upbringing, his parents' conflicting religious beliefs, and his first encounter with a horse. Dysart becomes increasingly troubled by the implications of his work, questioning the morality of making Alan "normal" at the cost of his passion and individuality.

Characters

• Martin Dysart - A psychiatrist who is treating Alan.
• Alan Strang - A seventeen-year-old boy with a pathological fascination with horses.
• Frank Strang - Alan's father, who has strict, atheistic beliefs.
• Dora Strang - Alan's mother, who is deeply religious.
• Hesther Salomon - A magistrate who brings Alan's case to Dysart.
• Jill Mason - A young woman who works at the stable and becomes romantically involved with Alan.
• Harry Dalton - The owner of the stable where Alan blinded the horses.

Themes

Equus explores several major themes:

• Psychiatry - The play examines the role of psychiatry in society and the ethical dilemmas faced by mental health professionals.
• Religion - The conflict between Alan's parents' religious beliefs and how these influence his actions.
• Sexuality - Alan's sexual awakening and its connection to his worship of horses.
• Normality - The play questions what it means to be "normal" and the cost of conforming to societal expectations.

Production History

Equus premiered at the National Theatre in London on July 26, 1973, directed by John Dexter. The play was a critical and commercial success, leading to numerous productions worldwide. It was later adapted into a film in 1977, directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Richard Burton and Peter Firth.

Awards

The play has received several awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play in 1975 and the New York Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Play.

Legacy

Equus remains a significant work in modern theatre, known for its challenging themes and innovative staging. It continues to be studied and performed, reflecting its enduring impact on audiences and critics alike.

See also

• Peter Shaffer
• National Theatre
• Tony Award for Best Play
• Sidney Lumet