Sep 13 – Sep 29, 2024 | Studio | Persephone Productions
Montreal’s Persephone Productions is renowned for offering a stage to emerging artists, and with their latest offering, How to Survive in the Wild, they’ve taken on the complex world of tech start-ups in a dark, comedic exploration of success and morality.
Originally produced in French at Duceppe in 2021, the English-language adaptation, directed and translated by Rebecca Gibian, is now being presented at the Segal Centre Studio; (Sep 13 – Sep 29, 2024 ) bringing a fresh take to this poignant satire.
The Story: When Ambition Meets Ethics
At the center of this high-stakes narrative is protagonist Kevin Bérard, a tech wunderkind who has revolutionized the digital world with his app, Huldu, a platform that allows users to communicate with the dead via AI. Played by Jonathan Silver, Kevin is on a mission to share his blueprint for success, no matter the ethical cost. The audience is drawn into his ambitious world, where the seductive allure of wealth and achievement clashes with a darker truth—what happens when technology crosses boundaries it shouldn’t?
This is a story about winning at all costs, but it also questions what exactly we’re winning.
As Kevin’s tale unfolds, so do the unsettling realities behind Huldu, and the impact of its usage on the living, all conveyed through a fast-paced, razor-sharp script.
A Dynamic Ensemble Cast
The talented cast, including Oumy Dembele, Juliette Diodati, Brian Dooley, Lula Brouillette-Lucien, and Noah Labranche, breathes life into characters who feel immediately relatable yet, as the story progresses, reveal unexpected layers. We wish to help, elevate, comfort and even condemn characters as the story unfolds..the mark of great acting that makes us delve deep into the story.
Each actor brings a unique energy to their role, building a web of tension and intrigue that keeps the audience guessing about the moral compass of the tech-driven world.
The Production: A Multimedia Feast
Julian Smith’s sound design and Chris Wardell’s video and lighting work harmoniously to create an immersive experience, bringing the cutting-edge world of Kevin’s tech empire to life. From the subtle flicker of screens to the chilling moments of Huldu in action, these technical elements are as much a part of the story as the actors themselves, making the performance a full sensory journey.
Stavri Papadopoulou’s minimalist yet impactful costumes and set design complement the theme, underscoring the clash between the simplicity of human interaction and the complexity of the digital landscape.
Thought-Provoking Themes Wrapped in Humor
How to Survive in the Wild doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, including the cost of innovation and the ethical dilemmas of AI.
With its biting humor and clever dialogue, the play keeps the audience laughing while tackling heavy, timely subjects. However, be warned: this play is not for the faint of heart, with strong language and references to self-harm and suicide. It pulls no punches, ensuring the audience remains on the edge of their seats.
In Conclusion,
Persephone Productions has delivered a brilliant satire that feels intensely relevant in today’s world. How to Survive in the Wild is a thrilling, witty, and haunting look at the business world of tech start-ups and the lengths to which people will go to “win.”
Whether you’re a techie , just curious about the world and future of AI, or simply enjoy a thought-provoking narrative with a dark twist, this entertaining play will have you contemplating the darker side of ambition.
Dates: September 13 – September 29, 2024
Venue: Segal Centre, Studio
Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes, no intermission
*** Warnings: Contains strong language and references to self-harm and suicide. Also a moment when loud explosive confetti occurs .
Don’t miss your chance to see this gripping production!
Tickets are available now through the Segal Centre’s box office.