More information
Description
One hundred years since the first introduction of Karel Čapek’s R.U.R. the humanity has been coping with both the fact that machines are more powerful in many areas and that they have acquired the ability to learn and self-improve. The evolution algorithms and genetic programming, unlimited data and super powerful computers can start an autonomous machine development, which can get out of control. A world optimized by algorithms is thus created.
This project will produce a stage play called Robo Pop, which will deal with the problems of a world, where machines can decide for themselves, where artificial intelligence gains control over human decisions, where artificial intelligence defines a new optimized world and a new man for this world. God created the man, the man created an artificial intelligence, the artificial intelligence becomes a god.
The depersonalized world of algorithms, which essentially leads to the unification and suppression of diversity, will represent an artistic parallel to our society and its trend, where the majority emphasizes efficiency and versatility at the expense of diversity, originality and uniqueness. The play will be staged twenty times in six selected churches. We will choose churches that are no longer used for their original purpose. We will make the experience of modern theatrical production and the spirit of the place, genius loci, presented in new context accessible and open to all. We assume that the repeated project performances will be visited by three thousand spectators.
The goal of this project is creating a unique theatrical play in nontraditional quarters combining motion and dance theater, pantomime, and new media including custom-developed masks for digital pantomime and face mapping. This project will enliven forgotten historic landmarks. The performers will gain new experience by working with new technologies. This project will also increase the wide public’s awareness of the contemporary motion art.
Summary of project results
The project contributed to enhancing the availability of innovative contemporary art in the regions, highlighting the potential of churches for cultural activities and the use of cultural heritage for living art. It opened new perspectives on the relationship between artificial intelligence and humans while also striving to engage audiences who do not typically attend theaters. The biggest challenge was Covid, which necessitated changes in the artistic cast.
As part of the project, the performance Deus Ex Machina was created. From the vision, through the script to its actual staging and stage processing. The premiere and 13 reruns of the performance were performed in four locations. For the purpose of implementing the project, 3 workshops were organized in which 13 project actors were trained. The project had proper publicity according to the publicity plan, and an audience development strategy was developed and implemented as part of the publicity. The project was managed by the project manager from the original idea, through the submission of the application, the implementation of the project to its termination. All project activities were connected to each other and supported the successful implementation of the project.
The premiere and 13 reruns of the Deus Ex Machina production were successfully realized. A total of 13 cultural actors were trained—2 in managerial skills and 11 in technical professions. An audience development strategy was developed and implemented. The project presented the public with an original theater performance in a novel setting, attracting viewers who do not typically attend theaters. It also enabled the project''s actors to expand their skills in production and in working with new technologies.
By presenting the performance, the project strengthened social and economic development in the field of culture. The project focused on the presentation of contemporary art at cultural monuments. Through the realization of workshops, the purchase of technology and the extension of experience, the project developed the capacities of cultural actors. By presenting the production, the project expanded the offer on the contemporary art scene with a interdisciplinary performance on the topic of AI.