Hot Date Dot Com

Before Facebook, MySpace or Twitter existed there was an expansion pack called HotDate for computer game The Sims. Though the primary (OK, maybe the only) correlation between modern social networking and software-supported dating is a computer, no one was ever catfished while playing HotDate. Lia Romeo's new play Connected explores another kind of strategic life-simulation game: how social media interactions alter sex, relationships and everyday life for frequent users. The actors in Connected have "real" Facebook profiles for each of their characters, in order to provide additional back story and character development. Audience members are invited to friend these profiles before the curtain rises, so that they arrive at the show having some familiarity with these strangers' lives. HotCity Theatre presents Connected at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and at 7 p.m. Sunday (February 8 through 23) at the Kranzberg Arts Center (501 North Grand Boulevard; 314-289-4063 or www.hotcitytheatre.org). There are 3 p.m. matinees on Saturday, February 16 and 23. Tickets are$20 to $25, but free for students.
Thursdays-Sundays. Starts: Feb. 8. Continues through Feb. 23, 2013