From the team that brought you The Human Voice and Moth comes the radical 1909 dystopian epic that predicted the internet, The Machine Stops, will be presented at Theatre Works from 22 August 2025.
A rhapsody of sound and light brought to life by two virtuosic performers, this world premiere is a masterful new adaptation of the novella by E.M. Forster (A Room with a View, Howards End, A Passage to India).
More piercing than 1984 and Brave New World combined, The Machine Stops is the chilling tale of a futuristic information-orientated society where all of humanity survives in a subterranean world. Connected by a global instant-messaging system, they have grown fearful of first-hand experience.
Adapted and directed by Briony Dunn and starring Mary Helen Sassman and Patrick Livesey, prepare to experience a remarkable theatrical event where technology has become the ultimate controlling force.
Running for a limited season and playing as a part of the 2025 By Theatre Works programming, this powerful adaptation is not to be missed!
Director: Briony Dunn | Featuring: Mary Helen Sassman, Patrick Livesey | Lighting Design: Niklas Pajanti | Sound Design: Darrin Verhagen | Set Design: Betty Auh, Niklas Pajanti, Briony Dunn | Costume Design: Betty Auhl | Producer: Dianne Toulson
The Machine Stops
Theatre Works, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
Season: 23 – 30 August 2025 (preview: 22 August)
Information and Bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au
Image: Mary Helen Sassman – photo by The Machine