Girl in the Machine - Riverside Theatre Parramatta

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Thu 20 Jun 2019 - Sat 29 Jun 2019

The Australian premiere of Girl in the Machine for National Theatre of Parramatta is playing at the Riverside Theatre Parramatta from June 20 to June 29. Written in 2017 by Scottish playwright Stef Smith, Girl in the Machine is set in the near future and is very relatable to the audience examining issues such as work-life balance.



For fifty minutes, the play explores the loving relationship of Polly and Owen and the tensions that arise from the intrusion of technology into their lives. The subtext of the story is powerful and confronting and examines disturbing issues regarding The Brave New World, where people are citizen-chipped and human interaction is often neglected in favour of technological devices.



The action occurs inside a perspex box which acts as the lounge room of Polly and Owen. Judicious lighting and sound effects add to the drama and help set the scene and the simple costumes enhance the characterisation without detracting from the performances.



High achieving and recently promoted lawyer Polly played by Chantelle Jamieson suffers from anxiety and finds it hard to switch off until she uses a black box virtual reality relaxation device. It does not take long for her to become reliant to the point of addiction on the technology and for her husband Owen (Brandon McClelland) to regret giving it to her.



The suspense builds as their relationship is tested with both actors throwing themselves into their roles. Chantelle is totally believable as an addict suffering withdrawal and is ably supported by Brandon in the role of the devastated but caring husband.

Ultimately it comes down to one question. "Do you want to live forever? Yes or No?"

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!date 20/06/2019 -- 29/06/2019
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