Synopsis

Freud’s study in London during the late 1930s

Sigmund Freud finds himself in a bewildering and tumultuous encounter in his London study. The play begins with Freud asleep, only to be awoken by a mysterious visitor, Jessica, who intrudes on his solitude, threatening to harm herself if not let in. Freud reluctantly allows her entry, and she reveals a deep knowledge of his work and a personal connection to one of his patients, Rebecca S. The ensuing dialogue between Freud and Jessica explores Freud’s theories and the profound impact they had on his patients, blending historical fact with surreal, farcical elements. As Freud navigates this unsettling interaction, he also deals with visits from Yahuda, his physician, and the eccentric artist Salvador Dalí, leading to a series of absurd and poignant confrontations.

The play explores themes of mental illness, identity, and legacy with a mix of dark humour and farce. The tone is both serious and comedic, encapsulating the absurdities of the human psyche and the complexities of Freud’s theories. The style is marked by quick, witty dialogue and surreal situations, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Theatre of the Absurd. The narrative is non-linear, intertwining past events with present interactions, and features a small ensemble cast. The play is episodic, shifting between intense dramatic moments and lighter, farcical scenes, underscoring the psychological and emotional turmoil of the characters.