HappySad Theatre Company Presents The Effect by Lucy Prebble

HappySad Theatre Company is thrilled to announce their inaugural performance of The Effect by Lucy Prebble.

The Effect is running January 16th and 17th at 7:00pm at Center Stage Theater. Directed by Robert Rodarte, this production features a cast that spans over several generations that are all coming together to tell this story.

This “clinical romance” follows Connie (Riley Rodarte) and Tristan (Robert Rodarte) as they enter into an anti-depressant clinical drug trial. The patients quickly develop feelings for one another, but it is unclear if they are real, or just an effect of the drugs. This creates complications for Dr. Lorna James (Gioia Marchese), who is overseeing the trial, and Dr. Toby Sealey (Joseph Bottoms) who created the drug. Each person is forced to face their own uncertain truths while the worlds they built crumble around them.

Founded in 2025 by Robert and Riley Rodarte, HappySad Theatre Company is dedicated to exploring the human condition through contemporary and classical plays. Robert has always wanted to start a theatre company in his hometown that allowed him to put plays up that have inspired him as an actor. Many of these plays are being done in New York, Chicago, and London, and he is so excited to bring these plays to Santa Barbara. With the rise of A.I and entertainment being easily accessible from streaming services at home, theatre will be a necessary art form to bring people together while watching real humans tell a story.

Tickets for The Effect can be purchased at Center Stage Theater in person at the box office or online by using the link below.
https://centerstagetheater.org/show-details/the-effect-by-lucy-prebble

Recommended for ages 15+.
Thematic Triggers: This production includes depictions of violence, including towards women, sexual content, references to suicide, and strong language.
Technical Triggers: This production includes flashing lights and sudden loud noises.

Location

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Date and Time

• Fri, Jan 16, 2026 - Sat, Jan 17, 2026  7pm - 7pm