Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Theater

This chapter examines the blend of traditional and experimental theater approaches through the metaphor of food. It highlights the value of embracing diverse creative methodologies, showcasing how various theatrical styles can coexist harmoniously.

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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.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.

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Stanford Profile: Michael Rau

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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