Lee was a drama student preparing for his Higher School Certificate when he first read the timeless play, which has undergone a recent revival in popularity after Harry Potter's Daniel Radcliffe starred nude in the lead role in London and on Broadway in 2007 and 2008.

"I've read it a few times since and it's become my favourite play because it poses so many questions," Lee said.

"Part of the reason Stooged Theatre wanted to produce the play was because so many people had heard so many things about it, that it was about a man being in love with a horse, but it's more than just a play with nudity in it.

"It's thought provoking, with a beautiful script, poignant dialogue and masterfully drawn characters," he said.

Penned by Peter Shaffer in 1973, Equus won the Tony Award for Best Play when it arrived on Broadway in 1975 starring Anthony Hopkins and Peter Firth.

In Newcastle, Callan Purcell will play 17-year-old stablehand Alan Strang, who has blinded horses and has his tortured psyche explored by Timothy Blundell as psychiatrist Martin Dysart.

"It explores the idea of having a love and a passion for something and what determines a normal and sane human being, what has driven Alan to do such destructive things," Lee said.

"I hope the audience finds the play quite striking, eerie and unsettling but very thought provoking.

"I hope they appreciate the absurd beauty of the play - as well how it tests the brain."

■ Equus is recommended for audiences aged 16 and over.

It will be performed at the Civic Playhouse, Newcastle from Wednesday, March 4, to Saturday, March 14.

All tickets are $25 for the 8pm opening night performances.

Tickets on other nights start at $35 for adults, $30 for concession and $25 for anyone under 30.