Written and performed by Steph Darcey and directed by Olivia Gibbs-Fairley, Prototype is a one-woman show that satirises both technology and politics.
It returns to the Old Red Lion as part of Camden Fringe after closing out FreshFest earlier in the year. It blends character comedy with a close observation of the state of our political democracy
There are at least six clearly defined characters, all played by Darcey, in the story of AMEXA, a robot almost indistinguishable from a human fuelled by artificial intelligence and a basic power charge.
When we first meet AMEXA we see what she can do, with phrases, movement, and basic functions. The plan is to parachute her into Parliament via a by-election, and then eventually – well, let’s see!
Darcey covers a wide field in a show that starts deceptively light. Political tropes both real and imagined, fake news, a user manual and a snarky voice-bot, and a slice of sexual harassment.
The audience isn’t forgotten, as Darcey addresses us directly and sits amongst us for some scenes. It’s a great use of the space available at the tiny Red Lion Theatre from an engaging performer.
If you are interested in British politics you will appreciate the “Dancing Queen’ and toolmaker references, and enjoy the way AMEXA aka Sally James fits so seamlessly into what we expect from am MP, down to the fake empathy and forced laughter.
The boss, the techie, the boorish and handsy male MP, the efficient newsreader, and the interviewer are all handled well, with the switch between them easy to follow with just a change of voice or gait.
One audience member was roped in to play ‘opposite’ AMEXA in the chamber. Elsewhere, there is dancing, attempts to drink (for human socialisation), and even an impromptu fashion show.
If the show progresses further, it may be fun to see more flashy tech and some development of ideas like remote control of the robot across different places.
As it stands, Prototype captures concerns about AI, climate, or commercial exploitation without ever labouring the point.
https://camdenfringe.com/events/prototype/ (closing show 18 Aug, Museum of Comedy)
****.5
You can read my interview with Steph here.