if not numbers

One could describe If Not Numbers is an avant-garde operetta about the potential perils of excessive reliance on AI. For me, at its core, it is more of an unrequited love tone poem from someone who must end a relationship but cannot shake the influence that particular love has on her life. Beautifully performed and sung by Aria Gittelson and Margaret McGlynn, this show lingers in your brain. You'll keep trying to work through your feelings for days. If you like your theatre to challenge you, If Not Numbers is where you should spend an evening.... full review

Great show! Personally pushed the bounds of what I had previously perceived within the bounds of musical theatre. Margaret’s voice is incredible and Aria’s expressiveness as a computer makes you feel for their character despite knowing they’re just a mirror of the human experience. Would recommend! ... full review

A lyrical musical exploration of the role of AI in human lives with two very talented vocalists. Aria's composition is ethereal and hypnotic, the piano and synth reverberate with their beautiful voices creating a sound cycle that is lush and atmospheric, accompanied by entrancing performances. ... full review

This is a powerful work of music and storytelling. The music is deep and meaningful while also being incredibly memorable and catchy. I’ve seen this twice now and the show just keeps getting better!... full review

A poignant and romantic take on how we interact with machines. This show made me laugh and cry several times. It’s amazing what they were able to do with so little. ... full review

A creative and intellectual musical exploration of human connection with AI. And how the ever growing internet is making its way into our society and maybe even into our hearts. A captivating performance that transports and lulls you to another dimension only to remind you we are living in it. ... full review

One of the most unique and thought provoking shows I’ve experienced. From the angelic voices to the dreamscape storyline, “If Not Numbers” succeeds in holding a mirror to our relationship with technology and challenging us to ask how healthy that relationship is. Bravo to this on all levels.... full review

Like if imogen heap and Stephen Sondheim had a baby. Beautiful vocals, intelligent, and a full-throated and much needed defense of the human brain as enough, as complete. Bravo and excited to see where this goes next!... full review

This is one of the most powerful, beautiful, inventive shows I've seen at Fringe. Margaret and Aria voices and lyrics captivated me throughout the show, opening up my heart and mind. The simplicity of the set and staging helped me focus on the message of their show, which I hope as many people as possible have a chance to hear. ... full review

Stepping into "If Not Numbers" feels like early tech nostalgia, like early anime, before this kind of technology was a distant and magnetic idea. Serial Experiments Lain meets lofi Opera. A modern song cycle and borderline love story about the relationship between humans and the machines we built to help us, then without us knowing, fill the emptiness and manipulate us into codependency. ... full review