Machinal
by Sophie Treadwell

Name: Machinal
Brand: Sophie Treadwell
SKU: 9781848427556
Rating: 3.83 (2518 reviews)

Highlights

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Large Cast

American Historical Mystery

What readers are saying

Readers appreciate Machinal for its powerful themes of alienation, feminist perspectives, and expressionist style. Many find the play's portrayal of a woman's struggle against societal pressures to be both moving and relevant, resonating with contemporary issues. While some experienced difficulties with the play's abstract nature, most express a desire to see it performed live for a deeper understanding.

Powerful feminist themesEmotionally impactful storytellingStrong expressionist elementsAbstract style may deter someBetter experienced live

Synopsis

The city.

A woman is restless.

A woman is suffocating.

A woman is silenced.

The woman revolts.

A visceral expressionist masterpiece, Sophie Treadwell's play Machinal was first seen on Broadway in 1928, London in 1930, and was later revived in the 1990s.

This edition was published alongside the 2018 production at the Almeida Theatre, London, directed by Natalie Abrahami.

'gripping... doesn't loosen its hold on the senses until its shattering climax' - Independent

'stingingly fresh and provocative' - Time Out New York

'[a work of] rare and disturbing beauty' - New York Times