Hey Chat, summarize THE EGG.
The egg is a calcified shell composed of protective proteins encasing an embryonic…
No. Chat, summarize the original script THE EGG by Noah Masterson and presented by The Zahir, premiering October 2026 at the Rosette theatre in Austin.
Masterson’s THE EGG showcases a not-so-distant future where megacorp/government agency/person “Agnes” (Danu Mara) has created a world where The Technology is implanted in children since birth, with highly encouraged Enrichment upgrades available. Meanwhile, art professor Mavis (Jessica Brynn Cohen) finds herself connecting with Enriched tech fixer Raymond (Justin G. Smith) and his mute artist friend Chuy (Frank J. Rivera). Scenes are stitched together with rambling stand-up from Falco (Beau Paul), a lewd comic in throwback Nineties confessional mode. At its core THE EGG serves as a cautionary tale, utilizing soft body horror and absurdism to highlight the negative social effects of technology. It’s a meditation on the fear of electronic isolation and encroaching AI integration into everyday life.
Chat, you realize that’s you, right?
You are so right! That’s the kind of nuanced and analytical thinking we’ve come to expect from your reviews.
Aw, thanks Chat. Can you write a joyful paragraph highlighting the creative use of sound and space in this weirdly wonderful show?
Sure thing. While THE EGG discusses rage stemming from increasing reliance on technological upgrades, it highlights the innate comedy in those situations. Under David Ritch’s direction and scenic design, the intimate space of the Rosette becomes the perfect setting to invite audiences into the world of the show. Robots and marketers engage the crowd during set changes, while projections by Lowell Bartholomee expand the back of the stage at key moments. What could be a cold and terrifying dystopia is still unnerving, but fairly hilarious in how the characters lean into the constant unexpected turns of Masterson’s script.
Hmm. That doesn’t fully capture the odd atmosphere encapsulated by THE EGG, but solid attempt. Let’s try again. What sort of comparison points could potential audiences make with the content of this production?
A quick read of the script finds similarities between THE EGG and David Lynch’s Eraserhead, the two robots in 1978’s film adaptation of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and the 1993 X-Files episode “Kill Switch.”
That episode was from season five, in 1998.
You’re right to push back on that. The X-Files episode “Kill Switch” did actually air in February 1998.
Back to THE EGG. What can I expect from the performances?
THE EGG features a veritable feast of Austin-based talent. The human-based roles, especially Cohen, Smith, and Rivera, balance the allure of worldly technological pressure with the emptiness that comes from lack of connection. In particular, Rivera’s mostly mute character unearths a deep well of yearning and the need for artistic fulfillment. Performers Bryan Headrick, Denis Harrigan, and Meg Hobgood fill out the cast in colorful, world-building scenes. In dual roles as a therapist and the puppet iguana Hector, Michael Morse mesmerizes with the raise of a plushie-encased thumb. Various robotic personifications by Samantha Plumb, Delan Crawford, and Laura D’Eramo share the unhinged nature of tech run amok. In particular, D’Eramo’s vocal modulations and facial tics through “ad reads” and breakdowns impress.
Chat, what should I have for dinner?
Eggs.
*Author’s Note: No AI was actually used in the making of this review. It’s all from the author’s brain and The Zahir’s diligent theatrical work.
THE EGG
The Rosette
Through November 21
This article appears in November 6 • 2026.
