I Watched Someone Die on TikTok by Charlotte Otton offers a funny and insightful exploration of our relationship with social media.
It is a one woman show, starring and written by Otton that hilariously tells the story of the internet while making us all think, what do we do when you watch someone die on TikTok?
Directed by Maddie Diggins, the show strikes a delicate balance between humor and discomfort, cleverly making the audience laugh while simultaneously prompting reflection on their own digital consumption habits. The show is a series of comedic skits, analysing the internet and its impact on us as individuals and on society as a whole. Supported by lighting design by Annika Bertinat, many scenes make clever and fitting use of technology, with seamless integration of these elements that enhance the overall narrative.
Otton delivers a strong and comedic performance. Whether it is belting satirical original tunes (composed by Solomon Frank) or monologuing the history of the internet (dramaturgy by Harriet Gillies), her theatre training is on full display. She draws from her own personal experiences with internet culture and this created vital moments of connection with the audience. When she shows the all-familiar scroll that fluctuates between trivial and disturbing content, the uncomfortable recognition in theatre is palpable. Otton has a distinct charm and charisma that has the audience hooked on her every word and song.
While the production shows tremendous promise, it does suffer from occasional pacing issues. Scene transitions sometimes feel abrupt, truly replicating the TikTok experience. However, this frequent interruption in the flow detracts from the overall cohesion of the show.
The show’s greatest strength is also a weakness. It brilliantly poses the question of how digital media desensitises us, but ends up shying away from offering any meaningful resolution. The ending leaves the audience hanging a little – perhaps intentionally mirroring the unsatisfying nature of endless scrolling – but nonetheless, it does creates a sense that something is missing from the theatrical experience.
I Watched Someone Die on TikTok is still a thought-provoking and very relatable show. It holds a mirror to our shared digital habits with both humour and weight. It may not provide all the answers, but it certainly asks the right questions, including, what do you do if you watch someone die on TikTok?
