Preview: Catfished by The Flux Media

This May, The Flux media presents Catfished, a contemporary Mandarin theatre production that explores the impact of technology on relationships in today’s digital age. Written and produced by Dennis Toh, co-produced by Mandy Tan, and directed by Yeo Lyle, Catfished follows the lives of three women who turn to social media to satisfy their yearning to be loved and find themselves trapped by the allure of catfishing.

Catfished is a modern tragicomedy that delves deep into the complexities of love, identity, and detachment in the city. The characters are caught between reality and virtuality as they navigate the world of online dating and social media. As they search for connection in the digital realm, they begin to question which version of themselves is their true self and which one is the self they aspire to be, asking the audience to reflect on the complex relationship between our online personas and our true selves.

The protagonists of Catfished, Bee Ling, Audrey and Celia, are played by Jasmine Xie, Veracia Xiyu, and Joy Yak respectively. Bee Ling, a career-minded woman, who was recently scammed on Tinder, attempts to find love again through speed dating, while Audrey, who is married, spends too much time on Facebook instead of connecting with her husband. Lastly, there’s Celia, who, after ending a long love affair, uses catfishing to hide her insecurities.

Says Jasmine Xie: “Playing Bee Ling has been a thrilling and eye-opening experience for me. The character’s pursuit of love through technology raises some fascinating questions about the impact of the digital age on our personal relationships. I can’t wait for audiences to see this play.”

Adds Veracia Xiyu: “Audrey is a character that I think many people will relate to, including myself. We live in a world where technology has made it easier to connect with others, but at the same time, it can also be a source of distraction and disconnection. Audrey’s story highlights the tendency that many of us today face in balancing our online and offline lives, and the consequences that can come with neglecting those who matter to us.”

Says Joy Yak: “Celia is such a complex and fascinating character. Her journey of self-discovery and growth is something that I think many people will find interesting. I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to play her and to be a part of this incredible production”.

The other cast members include Dennis Toh as Bee Ling’s love interest, Benjamin Koh as Audrey’s husband, and Nicklaus Chia as one of Celia’s younger suitors. Says Dennis Toh: “As an actor and playwright, I’m always interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships. With Catfished, I wanted to delve into the impact of technology on our personal lives and how it has added a new dimension to how we see ourselves. The idea of catfishing intrigued me as a dramatic device, as it allowed me to explore the themes of identity, deception, and the consequences of our actions. I hope that this play will spark conversations and reflections on the ways in which technology has transformed the way we connect with each other in the digital age.”

Catfished plays from 25th to 28th May 2023 at Gateway Theatre Black Box. Tickets available from Peatix