A Momentary Lapse of Insanity

The play is a modernization of an event that took place in the 1970s involving an heiress called Patti Hearst. Hearst Communications is a well known media company that has been at the forefront of publishing in the US from its foundation. The abduction of Patti Hearst received international attention when it took place and still resonates now.

An actress is kidnapped and forced to join a militant communist group under threat of violence. The play discusses the psychological response of Stockholm syndrome and also explores themes including fame, poverty and race.