Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Keith Bain
Published on 2024-02-27 06:00:34
Expelled, the play by Rosalind Butler, is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of the dangers of social media and our obsession with online interactions. Through the story of a family caught in the grips of technology’s influence, the play highlights the ways in which we willingly sacrifice our privacy and identity for the illusion of connection and validation that social media offers.
The play follows Rich, a stressed-out property developer, his frantic wife Lou, and their son Alex, as they navigate the consequences of Alex’s viral video scandal. As the family grapples with the fallout of the video, it becomes clear that their reliance on social media has not only eroded their relationships with each other but has also exposed them to the harsh judgment and scrutiny of the online world.
Rich and Lou, portrayed with remarkable depth and humor by Antony Coleman and Charmaine Weir-Smith, are consumed by their online lives, constantly seeking validation and distraction from the real-world problems they face. Their son Alex, played with innocence and charm by Nicolas Hattingh, is a typical teenager who makes a foolish mistake that spirals out of control in the unforgiving realm of social media.
Through the characters of Rich, Lou, and Alex, Butler deftly exposes the ways in which social media has transformed us into voyeuristic, judgmental beings, unable to resist the allure of virtual connection at the expense of genuine human connection. The play challenges us to confront the moral dilemmas posed by our online actions, and the consequences of our digital missteps.
Butler’s script is rich with detail and nuance, exploring not only the pitfalls of social media addiction but also the darker aspects of online behavior, such as cyberbullying, online gaming, and the ease with which explicit content can be accessed and shared. The play does not shy away from the uncomfortable truths about our online lives, forcing the audience to confront the real-world implications of our virtual actions.
At its core, Expelled is a cautionary tale about the high price we pay for our digital obsessions. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need to strike a balance between our online and offline lives, and to remember that behind every screen is a real person with real feelings and consequences. The play challenges us to consider the impact of our online behaviors on ourselves and others, and to question the true value of our virtual connections.
In a world where social media has become a dominant force in our lives, Expelled offers a sobering reflection on the dangers of unchecked technology and the importance of preserving our humanity in the face of digital intrusion. By prompting us to reconsider our online habits and motivations, Butler’s play serves as a vital reminder of the need to engage with the real world, rather than becoming lost in the virtual one.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
