Review: Pyper

UBC Theatre’s sci-fi play Pyper, by Susanna Fournier and directed by Leora Morris, explores AI and social media. Performances are from March 11-28 at UBC’s Frederic Wood Theatre.

In a world of rapid digital obsolescence, ten cyborg-AI teenagers fear they’ll be “retired” before they graduate, so they race to build a time capsule to prove they once existed. The story explores youth identity, the overlap of humanity and technology, and the search for meaning in a digitally dependent world.

The atmosphere of the play was calm and focused. The cast spent most of the performance gathered closely together, wondering what to place in the capsule. As they ponder, they share stories that explore themes such as empathy, the fear of growing up, social issues, and the rapid rise of AI.

The minimalist set design by Sonia Nosrati evoked a strong sense of loneliness and isolation. It featured a large, three-tiered, curved wooden riser at the centre of the stage and ten differently coloured hanging microphones that the actors could grab and move around. Numerous colourful balloons were scattered across the set, which I found particularly inventive.

As noted in the program, Sonia explained that the balloons represented fragility and impermanence, reflecting the fleeting nature of our lives as they are shaped by technology.

I was amazed by Fiona Silvis’s performance as 03. Her vocal delivery was rich with emotion, and she brought confidence and discernment to the scene where she shared her story. It was a captivating, mesmerizing performance. 

The outfits, designed by costume designer Naina Sharma, were reminiscent of ’90s pop and preppy fashion, featuring bold colour-blocking techniques. The outfit styles and colour choices complemented each cast member’s personality. 

The concept behind Pyper is especially significant today, as the play explores timely, relevant issues that deserve greater awareness. Thought-provoking and informative, Pyper is sure to leave audiences both curious and better informed.

Rating: 4.5/5

Date watched: March 13th, 2026

Location: Frederic Wood Theatre (Vancouver, BC)