CMU School of Drama


Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Strangers on a Phone, Theatrically Speaking

The New York Times: In the lockdown days of early spring, after they’d left New York City for their house in a village upstate, Abigail Browde and Michael Silverstone — better known as the experimental theater duo 600 Highwaymen — were as eager as any other drama aficionados to dig into the bounty of archived productions that were suddenly, mercifully online. It wasn’t as much fun as expected.

1 comment:

Ella R said...

Social distancing has left us rusty when it comes to connecting with most people, especially strangers on the phone. I’ve never heard of the experimental theater duo 600 Highwaymen. First of all this interview is so freaking cute because this experimental duo is a couple and they finish each other's sentences which is mushy. Their description of feeling not needed is so relatable. And, frustration did breed inspiration and for the “A Phone Call” was born. I think digital alienation will be a huge problem that people analyze in textbooks someday. Real in person human connection is the last thing that people are doing. This project sounds super cool; two strangers being guided through a phone call through an automated voice. Realistically speaking this fulfills a couple cool elements that are so vital to theater. This experience sounds like it focuses on breaking the ice and giving people glimpses into the world of play that is another element that is important when considering human experience.