The Nether, by Jennifer Haley, presents a thought-provoking exploration of the ethical, psychological, and moral implications of virtual reality and, by extension, the challenges and ramifications of contemporary digital life. Set in a near-future world where immersive virtual environments (the Nether) allow people to fully engage in dark, curated experiences, the play raises questions about identity, personal responsibility, free will, and the consequences of these digital spaces. Through the character-driven investigation of "The Hideaway," a bespoke and private virtual world, the play delves into the blurred lines between the real and the virtual, pushing us to reconsider how we engage with technology.
At the core of The Nether presents a challenging ethical question: in a virtual world, what is real if no physical bodies are involved? The characters defend their private world (The Hideaway) as a safe space where no one is truly harmed, echoing utilitarian arguments that separate virtual actions from real-world consequences. However, this stance is complicated by discussions around avatar embodiment and the psychological effects of inhabiting a digital persona and, more specifically, the form of the avatars being presented. The production will interrogate these questions through Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) paradigms that challenge traditional boundaries between participant and interface, questioning what it means to exist within a mediated, immersive space. By exploring the play through mixed-reality performance, we open up a space for the university community and global audiences to wrestle with the ethical complexities of digital life. Through this immersive project, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of both the transformative possibilities and the moral dilemmas posed by emerging digital technologies, all while providing students with hands-on experience at the cutting edge of theatre and VR.
This production is directed by UWaterloo Interdisciplinary Post-doctoral scholar Zachary McKendrick, designed by guest artists Owen Brierley (virtual scenographer) & Adam Campbell (sound), and UWaterloo favourites: Paul Cegys (lighting and video) & Jay Havens (costumes, set, and props). When a young detective uncovers a disturbing brand of entertainment, she triggers an interrogation into the darkest corners of the imagination. The Nether is both a serpentine crime drama and haunting sci-fi thriller that explores the consequences of living out our private dreams.
Running Time: 90 minutes. No intermission.
There will be a panel discussion of different topics following each performance.
Recommended for ages 16+. Contains intense adult themes.
Ticket Prices:
- General Public = $15
- Students & Seniors = $10
- High school = $5
There will be a panel discussion of different topics following each performance:
Symposium Schedule
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (Opening)
Silversides Theatre Artist Talk w/ author Jennifer Haley
Facilitator: Zachary McKendrick (Interview)
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Digital Governance – Power, Ethics, and Cultural Responsibility
Facilitator: Paula de Villavicencio (Moderated)
Friday, March 27, 2026
Digital Scholarship – Foundations, Futures, and Frictions
Facilitator: Zachary McKendrick (Roudtable), Paula de Villavicencio present as post-doc
Saturday, March 28, 2026 (Closing)
Digital Creativity - Process, Practice, and Performance
Facilitator(s): Brooke Barnes & Dramaturgy Team (Talkback)