Woman in Mind
Alan Ayckbourn
A powerful and harrowing play that enters the mind of Susan, a frustrated vicar’s wife who, after a minor accident, begins to hallucinate a glamorous, ideal family. This dream family is a sharp contrast to her real, neglectful husband and sullen son. However, as Susan’s mental state deteriorates, the two worlds begin to collide, and her fantasy life turns into a terrifying nightmare. It is widely considered one of Ayckbourn’s most accomplished works, pushing the boundaries of stagecraft to depict a mental breakdown from the inside out, blending dark humor with tragic psychological depth.
Susan: A deeply unhappy housewife who retreats into a vivid, idealized fantasy world to escape the emotional coldness and boredom of her real life. Gerald: Susan’s real husband, a pedantic and emotionally distant vicar who is more interested in writing his parish history than in his wife's welfare. Bill: Susan’s imaginary husband in her fantasy life—a charming, supportive, and athletic man who represents everything her real husband is not.
First Performance: 1985, at Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough
Critically acclaimed for its bold structure and emotional power; Julia McKenzie's performance in London became legendary.
Original Actors: Julia McKenzie, Martin Jarvis