Theatre, A.I. and 'ludic technologies'

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We propose a research network to investigate three related yet distinct fields of: contemporary theatre, artificial intelligence and ludic technologies. The main focus of the network will be to investigate these fields from the perspective of humanist discourses and artistic practice. We feel that this perspective has often been omitted in the current discussions and academic discourses on A.I. and thus it would be a timely consideration. We also feel that in our current post-digital age, there is scope, novelty and timeliness in an interdisciplinary research approach to these three fields, in particular when considering how contemporary artistic practices can question our relationship with newly emerging technologies. The focus and the originality of this network lies in the exploration of the way that these three disciplines intertwine and an exploration of A.I. through humanist and artistic practice perspectives. With the ever-increasing investments and developments in this area there is a strong case for an investigation of its cultural impact. Through this focus there is a potential to enable the development of a coherent theoretical framework through which the bringing together of theatre, A.I. and ludic technologies can be conceptualised. We also feel that many geographical areas such as mid-Wales have been underrepresented in the discussions surrounding A.I. in favour of a more globalised domain. Hence the network will enable the activation of more local discourses on these topics. The network will bring together academics from the field of A.I. research, computer studies, game studies, arts and humanities, theatre and performance artists/practitioners with the aim of exploring the above research agenda. This will be achieved through three events (three symposia/workshops) running over the course of two years. Each symposium will consist of small conference-like proceedings where participants will share research papers and discuss their findings. Each proceeding will be followed by a workshop event led by an invited artist/practitioner/designer.