The Robot Dog
Arts Market
Information
The Robot Dog is a cheeky comedy set in an all-too-believable future, sinking its teeth into provocative questions about intercultural relationships, connecting with culture and heritage, and whether AI will enhance or threaten our humanity.
In 2042, where automation shapes everyday life, Janelle, a woman of Cantonese heritage, and her partner Harry, a First Nations man, move back into Janelle's family home after the death of her mother.
As they attempt to navigate their work, relationship and job seeking requirements, Janelle and Harry are supported by Janelle's mother's robotic therapy dog and tyrannised by the government AI that controls the house. Does their new hi-tech life help them connect to culture and each other, or does it hinder it?
Company
Melbourne Theatre Company
Company / Artist Bio
The Robot Dog is a collaboration between Hong Kong-born multidisciplinary artist Roshelle Yee Pui Fong and Luritja writer and technologist Matthew Ngamurarri Heffernan that seamlessly blends laughter with sharp social commentary.
Part of Melbourne Theatre Company's acclaimed Education & Families program, The Robot Dog was originally commissioned through the NEXT STAGE Writers' Program. The Robot Dog premiered in association with Asia TOPA, Australia's major triennial of Asia-Pacific performance from Arts Centre Melbourne, at Southbank Theatre, The Lawler in March 2025.
Location
VIC
Audience
Young Adults
Venue suitability
Black boxProscenium arch
Reviews
"A multifaceted looking glass that highlights some of the most topical concerns of our time." - ArtsHub
"Its interculturalism, reflected at every level of its conception and execution, is a breath of fresh air." - The Saturday Paper
Duration
70min, no interval
Touring Party
6
Previous Seasons
VIC metro and regional tour 2025
Estimated Remount Cost
$20k+
Weekly Sell-Off Fee
$20k+
Royalty %
15%
Availability
2027
Partners
Commissioned and developed through Melbourne Theatre Company's NEXT STAGE Writers' Program, with the support of our Playwrights Giving Circle.
Instagram
@MelbTheatreCo
Facebook
@MelbourneTheatreCompany
X
@MelbTheatreCo
Contact Name
Nick Tranter
Contact Phone
0386880974
Contact Email
n.tranter@mtc.com.au
Technical Specifications
Program information
Presentation date
Tuesday 12 August 2025
Presentation type
1-min short video