The Mercury Theatre production used calming music throughout the play – the same music used in the film, ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’. The music could be heard occasionally (and arbitrarily) through a speaker in FARQUHAR’s study. It was also used as an ironic counterpoint to the murder at the end of Act One.
The play ended with FARQUHAR and PLIMPTON both leaving the room, talking (‘Envelope, carpet…’) as they left. At the door, FARQUHAR paused and turned to STYLER.
FARQUHAR: Envelope.
As FARQUHAR closed the door, there was an echoing crash – a metal cell door – and STYLER fell to his knees. There was an instant light change. STYLER was now imprisoned in a square block of light with bars running across. FARQUHAR and PLIMPTON could be heard walking away, their footsteps echoing on a metal floor.
The ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ music welled up. STYLER curled into a foetal position, humming vaguely to the tune.
Blackout.