The future of live performance

Michael Rau is a professor, theater director, and tech innovator in one. He says that today’s technologies – AI, gaming, interactive storytelling, and even email – are reshaping what performers can do on stage and how audiences experience those performances. The best of the stage has always been about reflecting life, and technology is part of how we live today. It belongs on the stage, as Rau tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

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Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Michael Rau

Connect With Us:

• Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
• Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
• Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest Michael Rau, a professor of theatre and performance studies at Stanford University.

(00:03:16) Why Theater Needs Technology

How AI and digital media are reshaping live performance.

(00:05:15) AI & Emerging Theater Tech

AI scripts, machine learning, AR, and interactive storytelling.

(00:07:28) Theater as Food

How both classic and experimental theatre styles can coexist.

(00:10:13) The Relationship Between Theater & Gaming

Theatrical storytelling and its deep connection to gaming.

(00:14:40) The Debate on Liveness

Whether live actors are necessary to theatre performances.

(00:20:2) Temping: A Play Without Actors

Rau’s theatrical piece where the audience becomes the protagonist.

(00:25:38) AI’s Role in Theater

AI-generated visuals and scripts reshape storytelling and performance.

(00:30:44) AI-Driven Improv

AI-driven improv requires new skills, blending structure with spontaneity.

(00:33:44) Should Audiences Know AI Is Involved?

How transparency increases audience engagement and appreciation

(00:35:30) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

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