In an increasingly disconnected and artificial world, how far are we willing to go to avoid loneliness? And is it really a connection when one side is programmed to obey your every command?
Cassidy is grieving following the loss of a loved one, desperate for connection but living in a society where IRL meetings have become scarce. Fortunately for Cassidy, AI bots are almost indistinguishable from humans, and tailor-made companions are just an 0800 number away. Loneliness can be cured without ever leaving the house.
I Can Not Give Hugs explores the ethics of manufactured relationships. Can you receive connection and love from a being that has been told how to feel about you? When does intelligence become sentience, and just how far is society willing to go to avoid genuine, turbulent human interaction? The show highlights the weight of grief and the need for true human connection.
This dark dramedy is brought to you by an experienced and passionate team of actors and theatremakers:
Written by Merlia de Ridder, Chloe Roberston and Lucy Sparks
Performed by Merlia de Ridder, Molly Curnow and Clare Poulgrain
Featuring Daniel Rundle & Hamish Boyle
Directed by Tara Weston-Webb
Produced by Viola Ember and Ella Flores
Sound design by Austyn Mills
Visuals by Hannah Lindinger
Presented by Savvy Productions
Supported by The Auckland Performing Arts Centre & Indian Ink Theatre Company