An early iteration of a future project, To Be a Machine (Version 1.0) is an adaptation of the Wellcome prize-winning book by Mark O’Connell: an exploration of Transhumanism, a movement whose aim is to use technology to fundamentally change the human condition, to improve our bodies and minds to the point where we become something other, and better, than the animals we are.

In the midst of a global pandemic, where our bodies have become biohazards, transhumanists offer a way into a disease-free digital age. We follow Mark from cryonic storage facilities to basement biohacking labs as he meets the prophets of our techno-future. We use the theatre to hold a wake for the very idea of congregating together in a room, and a meditation on humanity’s attempt to solve the modest problem of death. 

This adaptation was presented as a live-audience-upload-experience, as part of Dublin Theatre Festival. 

To Be a Machine (Version 1.0) premiered on 1st October 2020, streamed live from Project Arts Centre as part of Dublin Theatre Festival.

For all touring information, and information on future versions, please contact info@deadcentre.org

“We may be in for the deadening gloom of a winter of virtual productions but this exciting online show transcends dehumanising platforms and proves that, when it works, it works masterfully.”
★★★★
Sunday Times

“Theatrical innovators Dead Centre take virtual life as both the form and subject… It does, improbably, offer some sense of communion.”
★★★★
Sunday Business Post

“The show to make you mourn live theatre while also getting excited about the potential for using digital technology with inventiveness, style and intelligence.”
★★★★
The Stage