New Play by Alphabetti Theatre Explores the Temptations of Social Media in a Faustian Tale
In a contemporary twist on an old-fashioned story, Alphabetti Theatre’s latest play delves into the alluring yet perilous world of social media. Titled Flip!, this captivating production by Racheal Ofori takes audiences on a journey through the trials and tribulations faced by two friends as they navigate the eternal temptations of fame and fortune.
The play revolves around Carleen and Crystal, two black women in their mid-20s who are bursting with energy but feel trapped in their current circumstances. They harness their social media savviness by hosting a video on the platform WePipe, where they express their opinions on various topics. However, behind the scenes, they grapple with a crucial question: How can they elevate their online presence?
As Carleen and Crystal progress through their online engagements, they encounter confrontations and cancellations along the way, but they also see their number of followers steadily rise. It is at this point that they catch the attention of Flip!, a new platform offering immense wealth in exchange for unrestricted access to users’ digital identities. The catch? Their data will be used to generate income-generating content through artificial intelligence. It’s a modern-day Faustian pact.
Ofori’s script is filled with vibrant satire and a flurry of imaginative ideas, which at times places considerable demand on the two performers. Surtitle screens provide crucial assistance, indicating the voices being represented amidst multiple possibilities. Nevertheless, the stellar performances of Leah St Luce and Jadesola Odunjo, under the direction of Emily Aboud and with movement direction by Aline David, ensure a joyous and engaging experience for the audience.
Alphabetti Theatre has long been dedicated to producing and hosting a wide range of performances, with the goal of engaging diverse audiences in Newcastle and beyond. Their pay-what-you-feel policy has been instrumental in making theater accessible to all. And judging by the enthusiastic crowd that gathered on a recent Wednesday night, their efforts have undeniably been successful.
This timely exploration of the perils and allure of social media shines a light on the challenges faced by today’s young generation. By blending an old-fashioned narrative with a contemporary context, Flip! prompts audiences to reflect on the impact of technology and the choices we make in the pursuit of online fame. As social media continues to shape our lives, this thought-provoking play offers a cautionary tale wrapped in captivating storytelling.
For those eager to experience the thought-provoking allure of Flip!, Alphabetti Theatre is the place to be. With its commitment to engaging new and diverse audiences, this small studio theater in Newcastle has established itself as a thriving cultural hub. Under the visionary leadership of Ali Pritchard, who recently stepped down as the artistic director after a decade of accomplishments, Alphabetti Theatre has left an indelible mark on the theater scene.
As the curtain rises on Flip!, audiences are beckoned into a world where social media’s temptations intertwine with age-old tales of ambition and desire. Carleen and Crystal’s tumultuous journey serves as a cautionary reminder that even in the age of filters and likes, the pursuit of personal validation can come at a high cost. So let the dazzling performances and thought-provoking themes of Flip! transport you into a realm where the allure of social media meets the timeless struggle for identity and purpose.
