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Theatre Works proudly presents

The Machine Stops
A play by Briony Dunn
Adapted from the novella by E.M. Forster

From the team that brought you The Human Voice and Moth comes the radical 1909 dystopian epic that predicted the internet.

A rhapsody of sound and light brought to life by two virtuosic performers, this world premiere is a masterful new adaptation of the novella by E.M. Forster (A Room with a View, Howards End, A Passage to India).

More piercing than 1984 and Brave New World combined, The Machine Stops is the chilling tale of a futuristic information-orientated society where all of humanity survives in a subterranean world. Connected by a global instant-messaging system, they have grown fearful of first-hand experience. Starring Mary Helen Sassman and Patrick Livesey, prepare to experience a remarkable theatrical event where technology has become the ultimate controlling force.

Running for a limited season and playing as a part of the 2025 By Theatre Works programming, this powerful adaptation is not to be missed!

Theatre Works is a vibrant hub for creative expression, fostering the development and presentation of innovative and daring performances. Committed to supporting the next generation of artists and engaging audiences with powerful storytelling, the organisation is a vital part of Australia’s cultural landscape. The Machine Stops is playing as a part of the By Theatre Works programming stream. Other By Theatre Works productions in 2025 include Three Sisters, The Beep Test, Storked, Love and Information, and Soldier Boy.

Praise for Briony Dunn:
★★★★ ½ “Director Briony Dunn is to be congratulated for a truly astonishing production of a play of this calibre.” – ArtsHub (Moth)
★★★★ “Director Briony Dunn makes creative choices that are sensitive and direct” – ATYP (Moth)
“Dunn carefully and meticulously crafts each moment of the work, intimately knowing exactly what is needed to elevate the writing and further immerse the performers and audience into the world.” – Australian Arts Review (Moth)
“Briony Dunn supports an ambitious story through masterful direction” – My Melbourne Arts (Moth)

Adapted from the novella by E.M. Forster
Directed by Briony Dunn
Performed by Mary Helen Sassman and Patrick Livesey
Lighting Design by Niklas Pajanti
Sound Design by Darrin Verhagen
Set Design by Betty Auh, Niklas Pajanti and Briony Dunn
Costume Design by Betty Auhl
Produced by Dianne Toulson
Publicity by Sassy Red PR

22 – 30 August 2025
Tues – Sat 7:30pm
Preview: Fri 22 August 7:30pm
Opening Night: Sat 23 August 7:30pm
Tickets: $55 Full, $48 Concession, $40 Preview and $25 Mob Tix (+bf)
Bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au/2025/the-machine-stops
Enquiries: (03) 9534 3388
Venue: Theatre Works – 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
www.theatreworks.org.au

Duration: 1 hour 20 mins no interval
Suitable for ages: 15+
Warnings: Loud noises, flashing lights, existential themes relevant to post-apocalyptic worlds, euthanasia.
Accessibility: Theatre Works is a wheelchair accessible venue. A full access guide will be available closer to the date.