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In our recent production of Shadows, the piece Phone Addiction struck a nerve with audiences. It’s a chillingly relatable commentary on how deeply intertwined our lives have become with our devices. With statistics showing the average smartphone user taps, clicks, or swipes their phone 2,617 times a day, the subject was one we knew would resonate.
The piece, choreographed, filmed, and edited by Hip Hop Pop Director Jenny Bater-Sinclair, is inspired by street dance styles but delves into a choreographically theatrical realm. The narrative was brought to life by Rebecca Chapman, playing the Protagonist, and Drew Hampson as her love interest. Alongside them, Mikaela Ball and Matt Mooney portrayed their "shadows"—symbolic manifestations of their addiction, always in control, always lurking.
A Scene Too Close to Home
The choreography told the story of a couple whose lives were consumed by their phones. Despite being physically together, they were emotionally and mentally disconnected, with their interactions mediated through their devices. This dynamic was heightened by striking statistics shared during the track, including:
87% of users check their devices within an hour of going to sleep or waking up.
On average, we spend 5 years and 4 months of our lives on social media.
These numbers aren't just sobering—they’re reflective of the world we live in, where convenience and connectivity often come at the cost of genuine human connection.
The Power of Movement and Music
The piece was set to Believer by Imagine Dragons, a choice that brought an emotional intensity to the performance. Mikaela and Matt's portrayal of the shadows added a haunting layer to the performance. They loomed close, manipulated the couple’s actions, and reinforced the idea that addiction isn’t just a choice—it’s a force.
The Filming Process
The filming of Phone Addiction was an extension of the piece's message. Jenny crafted the visual narrative to emphasise the draw of the device, echoing the numbing cycle of constant phone use. Close-ups of hands gripping devices, scenes of the couple sitting side by side yet worlds apart, and dim lighting created a sense of disconnection and dependence.
Why It Matters
What makes Phone Addiction so impactful is how relatable it is. Nearly 69% of users check their devices within five minutes of waking up, and 71% of smartphone owners sleep with their devices nearby. These are habits so ingrained they often go unnoticed—until we see them reflected back at us through art.
This piece also serves as a mirror to modern relationships. How often do we sit with loved ones, scrolling through feeds instead of being present? How many moments have been lost to the allure of the screen? By dramatising these questions through dance, we hoped to spark reflection and conversation.
Final Thoughts
Phone Addiction was not just a performance—it was a wake-up call. It reminded us of the value of genuine connection and the power of the arts to shine a light on the challenges of modern life. Through Rebecca, Drew, Mikaela, and Matt's brilliant performances and Jen's vision, we created a piece that feels both urgent and timeless.
As you put your phone down (or maybe not?) after reading this, take a moment to reflect. How often does your device pull you away from what truly matters? And what can you do to regain control?
Let Phone Addiction be your reminder to look up, reach out, and reconnect.
Information Sources:
Thank you to Abbie Mae Chapman for the BTS Photos
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