The Last 48
Created and Developed through ArtLaunch Theatre Company (2017-18)
★★★★
2018 WINNIPEG FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL
CBC News Manitoba
Photos by Melissa Hansen
"While it might sound more like Orwell's 1984 than NBC's Parks and Recreation, this production makes comedy gold out of it's pseudo-dystopic premise... Come for the high-concept premise, stay for the crack comedic timing." (CBC News Manitoba)
SYNOPSIS
Five young associates are forced into competing for spots at a top advertising agency by a mysterious robotic surveillance system. When the workers begin to realize that their pairing together is anything but random, the company’s system of ethics is questioned as the employees struggle to complete their tasks. ArtLaunch Theatre Company’s “The Last 48” fuses NBC’s “The Office” with Orwell’s “1984” in this bold and raunchy workplace satire.
DEVELOPMENT HISTORY
The Last 48 was co-created and developed by Camille Intson and Raffie Rosenberg of ArtLaunch Theatre Company.
PRODUCTIONS
The Last 48 premiered at the Rachel Browne Theatre on July 18th, 2018, running until July 29th as a part of the 2018 Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival. The production was co-created by Raffie Rosenberg and Camille Intson, written and sound designed by Intson, co-directed by Raffie Rosenberg and Simon Miron with stage management and sound operation by Daphne Finlayson, and lighting by Tori Popp, featuring Wes Rambo, Pamela Roz, Jack Maier, Emily Meadows, and Chris Sousa.
"The workplace sitcom gets a high-concept spin in The Last 48 — a hilarious new comedy from Winnipeg's ArtLaunch Theatre Company.
At an advertising agency that's been taken over by a robotic voice that sees and hears all, five co-workers race to save their jobs and create a perfect commercial pitch.
While it might sound more like Orwell's 1984 than NBC's Parks and Recreation, this production makes comedy gold out of it's pseudo-dystopic premise. The jokes fly fast and nearly all land, as do a handful of perfectly executed music cues. And don't even get me started on the unexpected sexual tension between two characters in particular. Swoon.
These co-workers are no doubt funnier and more foul mouthed than your own — and the actors do a commendable job with a tight, and very funny, script. Come for the high-concept premise, stay for the crack comedic timing."
- Andrew Friesen, CBC News Manitoba
★★★★
"As the sell-out(s) of this production would indicate, this is not one to miss."
"Funny show with a talented and charming cast. I was engaged the entire time!"
"Oh, and just a heads up, The Last 48 happens to be the best Fringe play I've ever seen."
"I loved it so much I'm going back tomorrow!"
"The acting and directing is crisp, the timing is perfect, and the passion riveting. The play is funny, witty, and dirty with surprising sub-plots and an ending that makes you question your moral fabric. In other words, the perfectly written and produced theatre experience."
"Enjoyed The Last 48 — Stellar cast that reminded us of Person of Interest meets The Office. Funny and very thought provoking! #BigBrotherIsWatching"
"Fabulous show! Absolutely hilarious! Will certainly be back again."
"We're so happy to support local talent and love the concept for ArtLaunch. Thought-provoking in the digital age. Can't wait to see more!"