People, Places & Things

Written by Duncan Macmillan
Awards:

  • Critics' Circle Theatre Award for Best New Play (2015)

Synopsis
People, Places & Things is a raw and unflinching portrayal of addiction and recovery, following Emma, an actress whose chaotic life spirals out of control due to substance abuse. After a public meltdown during a performance, she checks into rehab, where she must confront her deepest fears, traumas, and truths. With its visceral storytelling and immersive staging, the play offers a searing look at the struggles of addiction and the search for redemption.

Themes and Analysis

  • Addiction and Recovery: The play vividly portrays the cyclical nature of addiction and the arduous process of rebuilding a life in recovery.

  • Identity and Deception: Emma’s profession as an actress underscores themes of performance and authenticity—both in her career and in how she navigates her relationships.

  • Mental Health: Macmillan explores the intersection of addiction, trauma, and mental health, shedding light on the stigma and challenges faced by those in recovery.

  • The Power of Community: Emma’s journey highlights the importance of support systems, whether in rehab or through personal connections.

Key Moments

  • Emma’s Meltdown on Stage: The play begins with Emma’s dramatic breakdown during a performance, immediately immersing the audience in her chaotic world.

  • Group Therapy Scenes: The rehab group sessions are portrayed with unflinching honesty, showcasing the diverse struggles of the patients and their shared humanity.

  • Emma’s Relapse: A pivotal moment that reveals the challenges of recovery and the fragility of progress.

  • The Final Monologue: Emma reflects on her journey with brutal honesty, leaving the audience with a poignant sense of hope and realism.

Critical Reception
People, Places & Things received widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative, innovative staging, and Denise Gough’s electrifying performance as Emma. Critics praised Duncan Macmillan’s unflinching writing and his ability to tackle addiction with nuance and empathy.

The Guardian called it “a spellbinding, deeply human piece of theatre,” while The Telegraph described it as “a visceral masterpiece.”

Why It Resonates Today
With its honest depiction of addiction and mental health, People, Places & Things remains profoundly relevant. The play’s exploration of stigma, resilience, and self-discovery continues to resonate with audiences, offering a powerful message about the strength required to confront one’s demons.

Fun Facts

  • Denise Gough’s performance as Emma won her the Olivier Award for Best Actress in 2016.

  • The play’s innovative staging, which included a rotating set and hallucinatory projections, was designed to immerse audiences in Emma’s experience.

  • People, Places & Things premiered at the National Theatre in London before transferring to the West End and later to Broadway.