One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

By Dale Wasserman
Based on the novel by Ken Kesey

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

By Dale Wasserman
Based on the novel by Ken Kesey

Overview

This stage adaptation of Ken Kesey's celebrated novel explores the brutality of life in a mental institution with humor, candor and unforgettable characters.

After being convicted of a petty crime, a charming, rebellious rogue named McMurphy contrives to serve his short sentence in an airy mental institution rather than in a prison. This, he soon learns, was a mistake. He immediately clashes with the authoritarian head nurse, a fierce martinet named Nurse Ratched. Despite Ratched's strict reign, MacMurphy quickly takes over the yard, leading others out of introversion, staging a revolt so that they can see the World Series on television, and arranging a rollicking midnight party with liquor and women. But MacMurphy's brash insubordination has its consequences; Ratched ultimately triumphs by subjecting MacMurphy to a frontal lobotomy.

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Cautions

  • Caution Strong Language Strong Language
  • Caution Mild Adult Mild Adult Themes

Details

  • Genre: Adaptation (Literature)
  • Time Period: Contemporary, 1960s
  • Cast Attributes: Strong Role for Leading Man (Star Vehicle)
  • Target Audience: Adult, Teen (Age 14-18)

Authors

Author

Ken Kesey

Dale Wasserman

Dale Wasserman (1914-2008) wrote for theater, television and film for more than 50 years and is best known for the musical Man of La Mancha, a multiple Tony Award winner.

He also wrote the stage play One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, based on Ken Kesey’s novel, which has won s ...

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