Science Fiction Black Comedy · 90 min · Korean with English Surtitles 

A science fiction black comedy questioning what it means to be human in an age of diminishing work. 

SYNOPSIS 

Set in 2060, when automation and artificial intelligence have dramatically reduced the need for human labor, work is no longer the foundation of identity it once was. In a society where employment has become a privilege rather than a necessity, people struggle to redefine their purpose and value.

Blending dystopian science fiction with black comedy, Walkman follows individuals searching for meaning in a world where technology has fulfilled humanity's greatest dream—and perhaps taken away its reason to exist.

Rather than imagining a future ruled by machines, Walkman asks a more fundamental question: when work begins to disappear, what remains of being human?

The title Walkman intentionally echoes the sound of "workman," reflecting a future in which walking, living, and simply existing gradually replace work as the foundation of human identity. 

DIRECTOR'S NOTE 

Walkman is the second production in COMMA,AND's ongoing series, Abstracts of the Future Modern Human. Set in 2060, the play imagines a society transformed by artificial intelligence, automation, and climate change—not to predict the future, but to explore what remains uniquely human when technology has solved many of the problems that once defined our lives.

As work gradually disappears and daily life becomes increasingly optimized, the characters struggle with depression, isolation, and the loss of purpose. Unlike artificial intelligence, which always seeks the most efficient solution, human beings continue to make irrational choices, experience regret, and question their own existence. These moments of uncertainty are not weaknesses to overcome, but experiences that reveal the irreplaceable value of being human.

The production unfolds through a series of fragmented episodes rather than a linear narrative. Like pixels gradually forming a larger image, these fleeting moments accumulate into a portrait of humanity living in an age of technological abundance. Rhythmic sound, fluid transitions, and a constantly shifting stage create a theatrical language that reflects the unstable flow of memory, emotion, and contemporary consciousness.

Rather than asking what artificial intelligence will become, Walkman asks a more fundamental question: when technology transforms everything around us, what experiences remain exclusively human?

Production Concept 

Fragmented Structure

The play unfolds through a series of interconnected episodes, allowing individual moments to accumulate into a larger portrait of humanity in a post-work society.

Physical Space

A minimalist stage and fluid actor movement create a shifting landscape where isolation, repetition, and human connection continuously intersect.

PRODUCTION GALLERY 

A full performance recording is available for presenters, festivals, and theatre professionals. 

BRING WALKMAN TO YOUR STAGE 

Touring Production 

The original production of Walkman is available for international touring with COMMA,AND's creative team. The performance can be adapted for a variety of theatre spaces and includes English surtitles. 

International Licensing 

The English translation of Walkman is available for licensed international productions. Theatre companies, festivals, universities, and producers are invited to develop their own productions in collaboration with COMMA,AND. 

Available Materials 

✓ Full English Script

✓ Full Performance Video

✓ Technical Rider

✓ Production Photos

✓ EPK

✓ Artistic Consultation (upon request)

START A CONVERSATION 

Interested in presenting or producing Walkman?

We'd be delighted to discuss touring, international licensing, or future collaborations. Please contact us to request additional materials or begin the conversation. 

Email us to request additional materials or discuss touring and licensing opportunities. 

EXPLORE THE SERIES

Abstracts of the Future Modern Human

• Simulation

• Walkman

• Mapping Hitler

CONTACT 

Lee Tae-rynn

Artistic Director

COMMA,AND

Theatre Company, South Korea

E. commaand13@gmail.com

T. +82 10 7791 4787

© COMMA,AND Theatre Company, South Korea