In 1816, at Lake Geneva, Mary Shelley tells a terrifying tale that resonates in 2240 in Jordan Harrison’s play “The Antiquities.” The play explores the evolution of technology and its impact on humanity, from Shelley’s cautionary tale of a monster to the eventual demise of the human species. Through a series of exhibits, the play showcases inventions that overtake natural intelligence and lead to humanity’s downfall.
The play is structured around a timeline that connects different moments in history, showcasing the progression from useful inventions to obsolete technology that ultimately destroys humanity. While some scenes are compelling, others feel like filler and lack depth. The characters in the play are fleeting, emphasizing the theme of mortality and the question of the value of life.
As the play progresses, it becomes a poetic exploration of humanity’s legacy and the consequences of technological advancement. The final moments of the play reveal a reliquary of human technology, highlighting the misunderstandings future beings may have about human civilization.
Directed by David Cromer, “The Antiquities” is a visually stunning production with minimal yet impactful staging and design. While the play raises thought-provoking questions about humanity’s legacy and the impact of technology, it struggles to fully engage with the individual human experience.
In the end, “The Antiquities” is a morality pageant that questions the nature of survival, desire, and hubris in the face of extinction. It is a compelling exploration of the human experience and the legacy we leave behind.
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