Exploring AI/ML and Computer Vision for Theatre

Project

We are trying to adapt a science fiction short story into a play and feel that use of AI/ML and Computer Vision would add to the performance, not as a gimmick but an experiment with using technology and tools that are relevant to the narrative. 

• Computer Vision
  We are interested in understanding and working with Machine Learning in the context of experimental performances and audiences. While it is common for openCV and blob tracking to face and collaborate with the performer - what does it mean for us to flip the camera on the audience. 
• AI/ML
  There are a few aspects of AI/ML that we are keen to explore.
  • basics of text generation for scripting
  • chatbots/voice assistants as participants of the performance
  • and finally, understand data biases - how we can use them or not 

It's essential for the interested applicant to think critically and challenge us in taking the performative aspects to the next level. You will be a collaborator and must be an independent thinker. 

Who should connect with us?

You are interested in AI, Machine Learning and Computer Vision. You are interested in creative coding or have worked with Processing/p5.js/openFrameworks/puredata etc. You have an interest in the arts (dance/theatre/art/graphic design/etc.). If you are just learning about these technologies yourself, you can still apply provided you have a passion and commitment towards working in a team on intersectional work. Failures are acceptable - the process that is as important to us as the outcome. 

See these links to understand the kind of direction we are interested in taking:

1. https://ml5js.org/
2. https://ml4a.github.io/demos/
3. https://openframeworks.cc/gallery/
4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3D0JEA1Jdc
5. https://www.decontextualize.com/
6. https://process.studio/works/aimoji-ai-generated-emoji/

Timeline

June and July 2019.

Who are we?

We are designers and theatre-makers interested in technology. While we can't code ourselves we understand technology terminologies and will be able to converse with you on the technical aspects to a certain extent. We are also hyper-aware of the limitations of these experiments as ML is resource intensive work so we are quite happy to try small practical experiments. 

You can learn more about us and get a sense of our experience on the links below:

Agat: http://dobedobedo.be/

Ambika: http://ajaibghar.com/