The Pleasure Trials

by Sarah Saltwick

When Rachel and Callie start clinical trials on their new female libido enhancement drug, willing participants come out of the woodwork looking for an internal revolution. Quickly after the first dose, the effectiveness of the medicine is undeniable, but the overwhelming pressure for its success may corrupt the experiment and everyone involved.

When Rachel and Callie start clinical trials on their new female libido enhancement drug, willing participants come out of the woodwork looking for an internal revolution. Quickly after the first dose, the effectiveness of the medicine is undeniable, but the overwhelming pressure for its success may corrupt the experiment and everyone involved.

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The Pleasure Trials

Recommended by

  • Cheryl Bear: The Pleasure Trials by Sarah Saltwick
    “

    Terrific insight into the multitude of things that block a woman from sexual satisfaction and the reasons she would be willing to be put under the experiment. Well done!

    Terrific insight into the multitude of things that block a woman from sexual satisfaction and the reasons she would be willing to be put under the experiment. Well done!

    ”
  • Unicorn Theatre: The Pleasure Trials by Sarah Saltwick
    “

    This play was a FINALIST for the 2019-2020 In-Progress New Play Reading Series at Unicorn Theatre in Kansas City, Missouri. It is our pleasure to support THE PLEASURE TRIALS.

    This play was a FINALIST for the 2019-2020 In-Progress New Play Reading Series at Unicorn Theatre in Kansas City, Missouri. It is our pleasure to support THE PLEASURE TRIALS.

    ”
  • Sheila Cowley: The Pleasure Trials by Sarah Saltwick
    “

    Provocative and profound questions about women’s sexual desire and how it’s derailed by busy lives, self-image and fear of failure. Just three characters and all great roles for women - two conflicting scientists and one woman who plays everybody else. Creative ways of showing scientific work with visuals and sound, and a look at the ethics of new drug development. The most moving part is an honest range of women’s experiences with sex, ranging from boredom to hints of desire, to guiltily trying to please their partners, fearful disappointment and glorious, transporting joy. Bold and wonderful...

    Provocative and profound questions about women’s sexual desire and how it’s derailed by busy lives, self-image and fear of failure. Just three characters and all great roles for women - two conflicting scientists and one woman who plays everybody else. Creative ways of showing scientific work with visuals and sound, and a look at the ethics of new drug development. The most moving part is an honest range of women’s experiences with sex, ranging from boredom to hints of desire, to guiltily trying to please their partners, fearful disappointment and glorious, transporting joy. Bold and wonderful.

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    ”
View all 4 recommendations

Development History

  • Reading, , 2016
  • Reading, Luna Stage, West Orange NJ, 2015
  • Workshop, The Playwrights Center, Minneapolis, 2014

Production History

  • Professional, Moxie Theater, San Diego, 2022