Review: Anthropology
Picture (L to R): Vivien Whittle, Caroline Sparrow, Rose Traynor-Boyland and Sherri Smith (Image credit: Creative Futures Photography).
How does a tech-prodigy guardian deal with the aching loss of their younger stepsister? In Lauren Gunderson’s Anthropology, Merril (Caroline Sparrow) creates an A.I. chatbot that draws on the digital footprints which are all that remain of her sister, Angie (Rose Traynor-Boyland). As the digital ‘Angie’ becomes more demanding, Merril’s ex-partner, Raquel (Vivien Whittle), and mother, Brin (Sherri Smith), are summoned to share memories and information. Merril’s search to find out what happened to Angie reveals family secrets, and ‘the stories we upload to survive.’
Nicky Whichelow (Producer, Director & co-stage design) has assembled a strong team of cast and creatives who are together to be congratulated on bringing this relatively new work to Brisbane audiences. Whichelow’s direction is on-point, teasing out the story and key messages, and the Australian premiere preview came across as a ‘mid-run’ success—which is no mean feat for a show that requires the careful incorporation of tech and video design.
Anthropology Is sensitively lit (Geoff Squires, Lighting Design), and the production benefits from great sound design (Zoe Power). However, it is the tech and video projection work that creates the most impact. The VOX Productions/PIP Theatre co-production of Anthropology is almost worth seeing just for Freddy Komp’s set design and fantastic integration of the video projections. Make sure you arrive early to soak up the building tension, and watch the Acknowledgement of Country which is also included in the ‘coding.’ The work at the computer desk, the screens and projections are integral to the set and to the show—with a highlight being the representations of ‘Angie’ and her interactions with the on-stage cast.
Caroline Sparrow gives a standout performance as Merril. The conversations between Sparrow and Traynor-Boyland‘s digital ‘Angie’ are at times frustrating, poignant and funny—thanks to the excellent work on screen by Traynor-Boyland, and to Sparrow’s on-stage reactions to her A.I. bot. However, when reflecting on the show, I found Sparrow’s scenes with Whittle to be the most memorable. Whittle portrays Raquel as a funny, caring, and strong partner—and as an excellent counterpoint to the grieving and focused Merril. The sofa scene between the lovers is a sensitive and almost joyful moment in the show, which I am sure benefits from the input of both Whichelow and of Heidi Gledhill (Intimacy Director).
Picture: Anthropology (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Anthropology (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Anthropology (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Anthropology (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Gunderson’s 2023 play is a thought-provoking thriller, and investigation of humanity, that reassures audiences that human heart is sufficiently messy to be difficult to replace with mere tech. This production runs for over 100 minutes without an interval, which I think was the right decision as I found the first half to be stronger than the closing third. I have found this in other plays, where the desire to provide the audience with all the answers results in a lot of shouting and a rush to closure. Some emotions are dishes best served cold, and at a slightly lower volume.
There is so much to unpick in this show: from questions about ‘what is real’ (the lovely lines about most people existing as ‘text and online now,’ and ‘what is real enough?’) and the nature of truth, through to debates about what are the safe and acceptable ways in which to grieve. All of which means that I strongly recommend this production to anyone looking for an entertaining night out—from theatregoers, through to philosophers and lovers of crime and/or science fiction. My post-show discussions reflected on how we might all wish to be able to ‘reset’ or ‘re-program’ relatives and close friends—but how we should love them for what they are, as the ‘comfort’ setting may mask hidden truths and realities. Go along and see what you think… I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Picture: Anthropology (Credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Audience information: Anthropology, PIP Theatre, 20 Park Road, Milton QLD 4064 (22 April-2 May 2026, 7:00pm [6:30pm on Wednesdays]). Adult Themes, coarse/strong language, references to death, addiction, grief, suicide—and alludes to assault. 18+ suggested. 105+ minutes (no interval). Tickets $26-46, plus $3.30 booking fee.
Additional credits: Helen Strube (Dramaturg), and Hazel Evans (Stage Manager).
Produced by VOX Productions, as a Co-Production with PIP Theatre. By arrangement with Origin Theatricals on behalf of Dramatists Play Service, New York Inc.
The reviewer attended the 22nd April 2026 preview (6:30pm).