The Mechanical Bride – boy meets girl meets computer

Television sets, computer screens, tangled cords and bundles of wires adorned the stage.  Technology is ubiquitous - at least it was in the small theatre where The Mechanical Bride was playing.

Actors Graham Newmarch and Ming Hudson represented He and She, the everyman and everywoman, in an exploration of interpersonal relationships in a digital universe.  The message, however, came across as old and worn.  This show failed to present a new angle on the idea that the technology connecting us – computers, cell phones and all else that beeps and rings and buzzes – inherently keeps us apart.

Two strengths of the piece were the creative and engaging set design, and the fun physical performances.  I enjoyed the earnest enthusiasm of both actors, who managed to show exactly how awkward and charming we can be in our pursuit of love and companionship.  The story and its message, however, were dwarfed by the technology itself.  I was much more impressed with how they did what they did (such intricate timing of video! what precise coordination of sound and light!) than why.  It was an ambitious show, but I was left feeling that The Mechanical Bride was missing the connection that would have pulled it all together.

The Mechanical Bride was produced by GasHeart Theatre, Vancouver BC.

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