Broken Nose Theatre AFTER THE BLAST Review

It’s been a long day at work, and Oliver is lying on the couch. Lights are fairly dim, and Oliver is wrapping himself up in a blanket. Arthur, the Companion robot, is pacing around the couch, waiting for his moment. Anna calls from the other room to see if Oliver is ready for her exciting news. After a tired but clear yes, she walks blindfolded into the room. Arthur calls out commands – “A little to the left,” “A little to the right,” or “That’s the couch.” Anna listens and allows Arthur to navigate her through the living room and into the kitchen, where a whole new list of commands begins. “That’s the kettle” or “If it feels heavy, there is water inside.” Slowly, Arthur’s commands help Anna make and pour a hot cup of tea – blindfolded throughout. Audience members clap and add small cheers to the soundscape of the room.

Anna runs into the living room, whips off the blind fold, and we are met with pure joy. Oliver may still be half asleep on the couch, but she and Arthur dance around celebrating their new accomplishment. This robot has successfully helped her navigate the space completely blindfolded, which brings his training to a whole new level.

As Anna and Arthur celebrate around the living room, you may just find yourself applauding and cheering alongside them. Arthur as a puppet charmed this evening’s audience, and with every verbal and physical response, it was clear to this writer that they were leaning in fully for that journey.

Broken Nose Theatre presents After the Blast

Written by Zoe Kazan and directed by JD Caudill, After the Blast takes place in a futuristic society that has made its way underground following a global disaster. Partners Anna (Kim Boler) and Oliver (Ruben Carrazana) are ready to start a family; however, Anna’s struggles with mental health prevent the government from granting them Fertility. When Oliver brings home Arthur – a new companion robot, everything starts to change. As we see Anna come alive training the robot to be the perfect helper and companion to its next owner, Kazan invites us to consider the hope of the future.

Considering the moment in which we currently live surrounded by a pandemic, you might just find that Kazan’s story is not only thought-provoking, but also incredibly timely. When all feels bleak, how do we find the courage to keep moving forward?

Charming Puppet Design

It is impossible—at least for this writer!-- to talk about After the Blast without noting Jabberwocky Marionettes’ work on Arthur, as well as the seamless collaboration of Arielle Leverett as the puppeteer. When Arthur is first brought on stage, you may not know what to expect. Oliver presents the robot sitting on the couch, and while the puppet is cute, you may not think more of it.

When Anna first powers up the robot, literal gasps could be heard in this evening’s audience. Layered into the robot are lights that change color depending on the given function. Leverett slowly brings the puppet to life in such a way that you might both appreciate her character-driven work, as well as forget she is even present as the robot takes over – a balance that allows this puppet to become a full character.

Emotional Relationship Unfolds

Much of the humor and joy within the story stems from Anna and Arthur’s relationship. While Anna is hesitant to bond with the robot at the beginning, we watch Arthur slowly grow on her, providing a companion in Anna’s lonely world.

When Anna and Oliver decide to apply again for Fertility with the government, Arthur helps Anna prepare for the interview. He questions her on why she wants a child and if she feels ready for that next step. Anna begins by sitting at a desk with Arthur resting far on the other side of the room. Every time Anna gets an answer right, we see Arthur inch closer, excited for her next response. Sometimes this might result in jumping in place, and other moments Leverett moves the robot about the room – jumping on desks and perching on the backs of chairs. Not only does Arthur offer Anna encouraging positivity, but we also see the two poke fun at one another. Arthur teases Anna when she answers sarcastically, but also persuades her to add more honesty when necessary to push the answers over the top. The puppet showcases full depth, creating a character with whom you too might just find yourself falling in love.