Across centuries and global traditions, theatre has staged imaginations - and real demonstrations - of mechanical humans and other animals. This course introduces students to a wide range of technological performers, from science-fiction drama to drone ballets, from baroque automata to virtual puppeteering. Special attention will be paid to how these figures both construct and dismantle concepts of race, gender, and the human. Hands-on sessions will introduce students to the problems such performers present in the studio. Priority will be given to students in the Drama Specialist and Major.