The Nether

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 interrogated these questions through Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) paradigms that challenged traditional boundaries between participant and interface, questioning what it meant to exist within a mediated, immersive space. By exploring the play through mixed-reality performance, we opened up a space for the university community and global audiences to wrestle with the ethical complexities of digital life. Through this immersive project, we hoped 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.

Directed by UWaterloo Interdisciplinary Post-doctoral scholar Zachary McKendrick, designed by guest artists Owen Brierley (virtual scenographer), and Adam Campbell (sound), and UWaterloo favourites - Paul Cegys (lighting and video) and 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.

The Theatre and Performance program wishes to thank the following individuals and organizations who have generously donated their time and/or skills, or who have gone above and beyond for the betterment of our production. 

• Andy Houston

• Arts Student Union

• Ashley Ryan

• Craig S. Kaplan

• Danika Sigvaldson

• Daniel Vogel

• Dept. of Creative Industries (KSA), Kingston University London

• Dr. Paula Nuñez de Villavicencio

• Faculty of Arts

• Professor Cosmin Munteanu & The Technology for Aging Gracefully (TAG) Lab

• Sarah Howard

• Sean Kimpinski (Central Stores)

• Shana MacDonald

• Shriya Kulkarni

• Society of Fine Arts

• Stavros Stavroulias

• SV PRO

• Sweet Dreams Teashop

• The Grad House

• The Provost's Office

• Tommy Tran

• UW Student Theatre Club