One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

Against the machine

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, originally a 1962 novel by Ken Kesey, adapted for the stage by Dale Wasserman, weaves a compelling narrative that explores the intricacies of institutional processes, the human mind, and serves as a critique of behaviorism and a tribute to individualistic principles.

Set against the backdrop of the 1960s and the civil rights movement, the story reflects the changing landscape of psychology and psychiatry in America during that era. Inspired by Kesey's experiences working the graveyard shift at a mental health facility, the narrative is infused with firsthand insights into the workings of such institutions and his voluntary participation in controversial experiments involving psychoactive drugs.

In our adaptation, we embrace a modern approach by assembling a diverse cast, focusing on how well actors embody their roles rather than adhering strictly to cultural backgrounds or gender norms. This approach results in an eclectic cast that immerses the audience in the asylum experience, providing a fresh perspective on a timeless narrative that encourages reflection on the progress made in the understanding and treatment of mental health over the past six decades.