DramaCharacters: 6 male, 2 female w/ doubling Unit set The Elephant Man is based on the life of John Merrick, who lived in London during the latter part of the nineteenth century. A horribly deformed young man, victim of rare skin and bone diseases, he has become the star freak attraction in traveling side shows. Found abandoned and helpless, he is admitted to London's prestigious Whitechapel hospital. Under the care of celebrated young physician Frederick Treves, Mer | The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance, Paperback | Indigo Chapters