East Is South at Hampstead Theatre

What was once the stuff of science fiction is rapidly infiltrating itself into reality. With self-driving cars and ChatGPT, one wonders what is around the corner. Can we live in harmony with Artificial Intelligence or is it a threat? Will it help or hinder humanity? These are just some of the questions posed in East Is South.

The play has been hotly anticipated. Kaya Scodelario – known to many for her breakout role in the Channel 4 show Skins – is one of the main draws as she makes her stage debut. Cliff Curtis, who has appeared in numerous Hollywood blockbusters, also treads the boards in London for the first time. Penned by Beau Willimon – creator of the hit Netflix series House of Cards – we are presented with a timely thriller of sorts; however, it’s more highbrow debate than high-stakes suspense.

A split-level set designed by Alex Eales features a clinical interrogation room in muted, monotone colours. Two doors have keypads on them, and we soon learn that the metal bar in the middle of the table is for handcuffing interrogees should the need arise. A viewing platform overlooks the space, suggesting there is nowhere to hide.

Lena (Scodelario) is first to be grilled. She is a coder assigned to Logos – an exceedingly sophisticated AI programme on the cusp of replicating human consciousness that’s highly protected; if it’s not contained it could prove a colossal threat to humanity. When a security breach occurs, the suits enter panic mode and demand answers. Lena’s colleague Sasha (Luke Treadaway) is also cross-examined. Have the two been working together or individually and just what exactly do they wish to gain from their actions?

It’s an alluring premise promising gripping drama coupled with deep questions about what our future looks like and how human life may change. The reality, though, is that this is an immensely word-heavy play that demands a lot of its audience. Transitioning from the subject of AI to whether God exists while also cramming in something of a love story is a great deal to digest in an hour and 40 minutes. The emphasis here is on the thoughts and notions of the piece rather than the people we are watching on stage. We have little to grasp onto in terms of character and subsequently fail to care about them as much as we would like.

Scodelario is convincing and Curtis impresses but the talents of interrogator Nathalie Armin and Treadaway are a little neglected. Alec Newman offers some light relief while Aaron Gill provides sturdy support but beyond the extensive dialogue, they don’t have a huge amount to work with. The ideas are intriguing and the themes pertinent, however the distinct lack of visual action renders proceedings too slow and sluggish. In some ways, this feels more suited to television. The medium of theatre and all one can do with it feels largely ignored until the climax, which takes too long to get to. For all its ambitious efforts, East Is South never quite finds its way.

Jonathan Marshall
Photos: Manuel Harlan

East Is South is at Hampstead Theatre from 7^th February until 15^th March 2025. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for East Is South at Hampstead Theatre here: