Dead Air is a charged mix of standup and theatrical storytelling from newcomer Afrun Rose, who has created an engaging and very relevant take on grief and ai. This one-person play is an excellent piece of writing, that appears to be autobiographical in nature. With the vision of future technology enhancing the ability to speak with the dead, the writing draws up the question; are we watching fantasy or fact?
The performance is a great opportunity for Rose to really connect with her audience, and she certainly makes the most of her hour of compelling narrative and laughs. As the story gathers momentum, we learn more and more about the human she has lost, and exactly what he means to her. This story is about loss and acceptance, and makes a truly relevant comment on “who is using who” in the technology vs humans aspect of ai technology.
This excellent piece of work mocks the system we all are part of. For anyone who has ever been put on hold for customer service, this is a treat. Don’t expect high-tech lighting or sounds effects, as this play ironically relies on real-life engagement to take us through the futuristic storyline. Rose uses none of the technology that the story refers to. You will see simple effects, and complex thought processes.
Rose truly makes the most of her audience interaction to make a dark social comment, which at one point manages to draw tears from the audience. This play really does make you think and wonder is this really happening, or is it just an imaginative take on where technology could go for those who need solace. You’ll have plenty of laughs and darkly comic moments as you follow Rose through her story. With very good comic timing, and nicely paced delivery, Rose will take you on on an amusing and dark ride into the unexpected.
Dead Air, 11.40, Pleasance Courtyard, until August 24
