Are we losing the truth, one soundbite at a time? A bold new play in Malta is set to put the media under the microscope, offering a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges facing journalism today. This isn't just another theatre production; it's a deep dive into the world of 'live journalism,' where real-life news processes are dramatically explored on stage. The play, titled Press Mute, promises to be a thought-provoking experience, tackling the complex relationships between news, artificial intelligence, algorithms, and the rise of podcasters. But here's where it gets controversial...
Featuring a stellar cast of recognizable Maltese actors, including Michela Farrugia, Davide Tucci, and Philip Leone Ganado, alongside journalist Mark Laurence Zammit and media personality Trudy Kerr, Press Mute is commissioned by Udjenza and written and directed by Times of Malta editor-in-chief Herman Grech. The stage is set at Spazju Kreattiv, where the play will unfold, primarily within the confines of a struggling newsroom.
Audiences are invited to rethink their relationship with news, actively participating in the storytelling process. The play masterfully combines live action, multimedia, and audience interaction to ask a crucial question: When outrage becomes entertainment, who controls the narrative? This urgent satire tackles misinformation and media fatigue head-on, with no one – not even the truth – immune to its effects.
Grech emphasizes the play's mission to expose the dangers of clickbait and AI through satire and dark humor. He believes that theatre has the unique power to tell stories that go beyond the headlines. "I feel extremely strongly about the way Big Tech uses its unfair leverage to manipulate the truth, make money and leave viewers wondering what is true and false in an increasingly chaotic media landscape,” Grech stated. He hopes that the audience will leave the theatre pondering how their own actions impact the survival of facts.
The production comes at a time of global media instability, with AI content, YouTube channels, influencers, and podcasters increasingly dominating the media landscape.
Consider this: In the US, the influence of online personalities was evident when Donald Trump's return to office was supported by online personalities, with Fortune magazine reporting that over 7,400 influencers sought press credentials. Closer to home, podcasters and social media personalities are playing a more active role in the daily news cycle.
Meanwhile, trust in the mainstream media is declining worldwide, with right-wing and populist political parties capitalizing on this shift.
Mark Laurence Zammit, a journalist at Times of Malta, who plays a news editor in the production, offers a unique perspective. He notes that the play showcases "the unglamorous part of the job; the frustrations of working for months to uncover a story, but then also the excitement of the job.” He believes it will help people understand and empathize with journalists.
Even before its premiere, Press Mute has sparked controversy. Valletta Cultural Agency chairman Jason Micallef alleged that Times of Malta received state funding for the production. However, Udjenza clarified that it was the beneficiary of the funds, with the play's theme chosen to address modern issues. Udjenza's fifth season aims to explore diverse themes, including homelessness, HIV, and trans issues, highlighting the desire to connect with real stories.
Attard, the play's commissioner, described Grech as the “best choice to look at this” and noted the growing popularity of live journalism, especially in countries like Denmark. He addressed Micallef's post directly, stating that it was “spot on regarding what the play is all about – stifling the press and changing the narrative.”
The production, a part of Udjenza’s five-year anniversary, is produced in collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv with the support of Arts Council Malta.
Press Mute opens on February 20, with six performances until the closing night on March 1.
What do you think? Does this play accurately reflect the current state of the media? Are you concerned about the influence of AI and social media on the truth? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
