This March 2026, Barefoot Theatre Collaborative brings to Manila the Asian premiere of anthropology, a psychological thriller by Lauren Gunderson, one of America’s most-produced contemporary playwrights. Known for staging ambitious, emotionally resonant works, the company once again challenges audiences with a story that confronts grief through the unsettling possibilities of artificial intelligence.

A Psychological Thriller Where Technology Meets Loss

Written by Lauren Gunderson, one of America’s most-produced contemporary playwrights, anthropology is a gripping psychological thriller that merges the sharp edge of sci-fi with the deep ache of family grief. It tells the story of Merril, an expert AI programmer who, unable to accept the disappearance and death of her sister Angie, uses her skills to bring her back as Artificial Intelligence. What begins as a coping mechanism quickly spirals into a complex web of obsession, blurring the dangerous line between a comforting memory and a digital ghost.

This production explores the intersection of high-tech ethics and the timeless vulnerability of the human heart. It asks the audience: In a world where we can curate our reality, what does it truly mean to let go?

This show is a must-watch for fans of psychological suspense and modern tech-noir stories, as well as anyone who has ever wished for just one more conversation with someone they’ve lost.

Powerhouse All-Female Cast Anchors the Production

This upcoming staging features a powerhouse all-female cast: Jenny Jamora as the AI programmer Merril, Maronne Cruz as her sister Angie, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante as Raquel, Merril’s ex-girlfriend and the voice of reason, and Jackie Lou Blanco as Brin, Merril and Angie’s estranged mother.

Their performances collectively ground the production’s speculative premise in emotional truth.

Immersive Creative Team Brings a Digital World to Life

At the helm of the production is Caisa Borromeo as the Director. Bringing the immersive, screen-mediated world to life is a top-tier creative team including D Cortezano for Technical Direction and Lighting Design, Sarah Facuri for Production Design, Arvy Dimaculangan for Sound Design, CueCraft and Steven Tansiongco for Video Design.

Performance Schedule and Ticket Details

anthropology runs for three weeks only, with strictly 15 performances from March 13 to 29, 2026, at the Doreen Black Box, Areté, Quezon City.

An Early Bird Promo runs from January 19 to February 19, offering 15% off all tickets:

Standard: Php 1,900 (Regular: Php 2,200)

Premium: Php 2,200 (Regular: Php 2,500)

Tickets for #anthropologyMNL are now available at bit.ly/anthropologytickets.

This production of anthropology is licensed by Harmonia Holdings, Ltd. under special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Ltd.