Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Revived 'Adding Machine' Highlights Worker Struggles in Automation

3/19/2026

24 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Actors’ Gang revived Elmer Rice, the playwright of The Adding Machine, highlighting workers' struggles in an era of automation.
Mr. Zero, an accountant, loses his job to technology, leading to tragic consequences.
Pierre Adeli, the actor, delivers a strong performance as Mr. Zero.
Critics note that the expressionistic elements sometimes alienate the audience.
Pacing issues hinder the revival's impact.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Actors’ Gang revived Elmer Rice, the playwright of The Adding Machine, highlighting workers' struggles in an era of automation.
Mr. Zero, an accountant, loses his job to technology, leading to tragic consequences.
Pierre Adeli, the actor, delivers a strong performance as Mr. Zero.
Critics note that the expressionistic elements sometimes alienate the audience.
Pacing issues hinder the revival's impact.