Contractions

Synopsis

A cold, modern office

Emma navigates a sinister and oppressive corporate world in Mike Bartlett’s provocative play. The narrative unfolds through a series of increasingly invasive meetings between Emma and her Manager. The Manager’s relentless questioning of Emma’s personal life, especially her romantic and sexual relationships, escalates into a chilling exploration of corporate control and surveillance.

As Emma’s privacy is systematically stripped away, the play delves into themes of corporate surveillance, personal invasion, and the dehumanizing effects of a hyper-regulated work environment. The tension builds as the Manager’s demands grow more intrusive, forcing Emma to confront the brutal reality of her dehumanizing workplace. “Contractions” is a drama infused with dark comedy and biting social commentary, structured in a linear narrative that starkly exposes the psychological and emotional toll of living under constant scrutiny.