Psychological thriller play ‘anthropology’ by award-winning American playwright Lauren Gunderson will make its Asian premiere in the Philippines this March.
It tells the story of Merril, a programmer who turns to artificial intelligence (AI) to deal with the disappearance and death of her sister, Angie.
Set to be staged by Barefoot Theatre Collaborative as their 2026 season opener, the Philippine production of ‘anthropology’ features an all-female cast and a female director.
Jenny Jamora will play Merril, while Marrone Cruz will take on the role of Angie.
Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante will join them as Raquel and veteran Filipina actress Jackie Lou Blanco as Brin.
It will be directed by renowned theater actress Caisa Borromeo.
Trailer offers first look at characters
Barefoot dropped the trailer for ‘anthropology’ on their social media platforms on January 19, offering a glimpse into the characters and how they would influence the story.
After flashing what seemed to be a collection of Merril’s and Angie’s memories together, Jamora’s voice can then be heard saying a part of the play’s blurb:
“I have nothing but rage and sorrow. And so yes, I built you because this is what I do.”
Merril, Raquel and Brin are then shown from the point of view of a “robot” reacting to what they are seeing.
The trailer ends with Angie asking, “I’m ready. Are you?”
The show will only have a three-weekend run from March 13 to 29 at the Doreen Black Box, Arete in Quezon City.
Tickets are now on sale via the link available on Barefoot’s Instagram page.
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About the play
‘anthropology’ asks the question: “If AI could comfort your grief, would you use it?” — an inquiry extremely relevant in a time when many people seek AI to recreate and reanimate cherished or forgotten memories.
In the plot summary provided by Barefoot, the play “follows Merril, a brilliant AI programmer who recreates her missing sister as artificial intelligence in an attempt to survive unbearable loss.”
“What begins as solace quickly unravels into obsession, raising painful questions about memory, values, and the act of letting go.”
Furthermore, the play “explores love after loss in a world where technology can resurrect voices—but not without consequences.”
“The Most Produced Playwright in America”
Gunderson’s play premiered in 2023 at the Hampstead Theatre in London under the direction of Anna Ledwich.
‘anthropology’ was also published as a book by Bloomsbury in the same year.
Hailed as “The Most Produced Playwright in America” by American Theatre Magazine, Gunderson is known for plays revolving around empowering stories of women.
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