The Shadow Whose Prey the Hunter Becomes

THÉÂTRE ENGAGÉ

If artificial intelligence invaded the world, would so-called normal human beings end up living with an intellectual handicap? This is the question posed by Back to Back Theatre’s latest production, whose neurodivergent members accompanied by a neurotypical director, are fully responsible for their creations—from ideation and writing to performance. In 2022, the company received the prestigious International Ibsen Award, which is regarded as the Nobel Prize of theatre.

Taking the form of a public assembly, the show features three activists who speak up against historical mistreatment, exploitation and abuse of all kinds—especially sexual—of which the most vulnerable are still often victims. Is this the foretold destiny of a humanity that will eventually be subjugated by highly gifted machines? How far can this so-called resilience go?

The discussion—sometimes casual, sometimes tense—questions the very notions of normality and difference, of fundamental human rights and of individual and collective responsibility. It is a living, carnal, lucid and deeply touching word, overflowing with anger and humour as well as intelligence and humanity. It does not bring answers, but rather holds up a mirror that reveals us to ourselves, weaving a strong and sensitive connection between the personal and the universal, thus creating a true encounter.