We need mirrors. Visions of the future as a potential criticism in the theatralical realisations of science fiction literature

Abstract

This article presents and analyzes the potential criticism contained in science fiction’s dystopian visions of the future as a possible and alternative form of expression for the new political theatre. On the basis of two examples of polish productions in recent years, realizing the narrative of Philip K. Dick and Stanisław Lem –The Three stigmata of Palmer Eldritch, dir. Jan Klata and Planeta Lem, dir. Paweł Szkotak – we can see how in theatre this non-canonical literary material can be a critical comment on the present through thestrategy of surprise, the change of perspective and aparticular kind of “distancing effect” which show aworld governed by some unknown logic. Science fiction shows us the possible development of our world, a vision always based on the author’s historical experience.It can therefore be for the audience both awarning as well as an interesting stimulus to rethink their social condition.