A dystopian truism which holds up a mirror – but to what exactly?
One voice, but is it really an individual?
The character takes us on a brief journey into the world of Social Media. Garish, stark, naked, intrusive and at times, almost threatening and at the very least intimidating, disturbing.
The character is a paradox, a juxtaposition, but at the same time, a stereotype. Complex, grotesque, naive in some ways. Complicit, consumed, fervent but also, prophetic. Deceived or deceiving? A deluded narcissist? A Convert or a Con? A Snake Oil Salesman? Or is there more? The character is darting in and out, back and forth within the narrative; taunting, tempting, questioning. Perhaps one take on the character might be, Kubrick’s ‘Alex’ meets Bolt’s ‘Common Man’ with Orwell’s ‘Big Brother’ for imagery.
It is not written or devised to be funny but if there is any, the observer will find it in the darkness; moreover, within the irony.
And there’s a lot to explore.
The piece is envisioned as being presented as if the performer is being filmed/streamed online. They might have a ring lamp/fill light, bathing their face in a stark light whilst the background and their surroundings are in darkness.
There are interesting opportunities for dress, makeup, style which are not suggested but need to be considered. It might be worth also considering opportunities for additional visuals if facilities permit. Images flashing up for a moment on a screen behind the performer, representative of the text, their thoughts, their issues.
Footnotes are included to reference some of the terms used which are (mis)quotes or intentional aberrations of the original. The piece has been laid out in a manner to suggest the flow of the phrasing. But it’s just a suggestion. The layout will assist if the piece is performed utilising several voices.
In an educational or drama class setting there are many themes to explore: identity, individuality, privacy, belonging, friendships, mental health, bullying, group mentality, relationships, intentions, risks, online safety, the list goes on. Additionally, the phrasing and the references used open up an exploration of language and the culture of it. Belief and spirituality. Values, genuineness, honesty. How we communicate, both intended and implied. (Example: drugs are viewed in relation to dependency. What about technology and social media? For some, an addiction, hidden in plain sight). And above all, how online personas leach into everyday life, blurring the boundaries of reality, of life and where/how we seek validation of ourselves and others; the consequences of our actions and equally, our omissions. That is, in itself, a huge subject.
On a different tack, there is a plethora of study/research which could be considered pre and post-performance. And not forgetting the positive aspects of social media and its use for good. A subject too large to rehearse here.
Lastly, recent developments internationally concerning age restrictions and state intervention and control in the use of social media by young people make this an evolving issue which make it pertinent for all ages.
Running time: approx. 10 minutes.
(Gender of the performer is not a consideration and neither is the age of the performer - now there's a thought)
TRIGGER WARNING: There is always the possibility that the exploration of such a subject (and performance of it) might elicit live data and lived (negative) experiences, particularly in an educational setting. There is nothing explicit or in itself problematic within the piece, but I am still sensitive to the issues surrounding social media. Please bear this in mind and make a judgement based on the individuals/group/setting. For this reason, a perusal copy will be provided on request to assist in the assessment of its appropriateness.
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