Artificial Tactics
Unable to stop the spread of artificial intelligence, Michael and the "Representatives of Order" make a desperate appeal to Judgment, seeking to prevent the "Forces of Chaos" from manipulating humanity through the very devices people rely on every day. As witnesses testify and hidden agendas are revealed, Judgment must decide whether artificial intelligence is inherently evil or just misused. With humanity caught in the middle of an ancient conflict, the verdict will determine not only the future of AI, but whether mankind retains control of its own destiny. Presented as a fantasy-based courtroom drama. Approximately 45 minutes.
This show is set in the same fantasy world as “The Hearing," “Trial of Existence,” and "The Collective." Each play stands on its own, but they do involve some of the same characters and themes.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
With Brent Holland
What inspired you to write this play?
My son absolutely doesn't let me use AI for anything other than humor. (as witnessed in the play from the Third of Seven! That's just part of an actual interaction we had with AI.) In rare instances where I have, he has brow beaten me to the point where I eventually surrender! However, through this I have seen so often how there seems to be an agenda as well as a lot of misinformation given out through AI and I agree with him that it should be used sparingly.
What's your favorite part or line in the play? Why?
I really like the universe these characters reside in, I would start with that. Three of my other shows here on Eldridge also have the same characters arguing the fate of humanity. "The Hearing," "The Trial of Existence" and "The Collective" are all fun shows that both tell a continuing story, but also totally stand on their own. If you enjoy this play, I would highly suggest you check those out as well!
Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
Initially, no. I don't think so. However, Jacob Penny played Michael in "The Hearing," "The Trial of Existence" and "The Collective," so I have a hard time not visualizing him when I write for that character now. Nick Mathis won acting awards at the regional and state level playing Ataxia in "Trial of Existence," so I fully see him in that role and write the character using him as a model. Judgment is a combination of Hyrum Van Slyke and Rocco Laraia, both of whom have played the role before. I've been a teacher (as of this moment) for twenty one years, so I have a lot of cool former students to use as inspiration.
What did you try to achieve with this play?
I always tell my kids at Laney that theatre exists to entertain, but if this show makes people consider that AI may have an agenda, or just be completely inaccurate, then that's fantastic. I would love to make my pitch that we should all try to use real artists for art, real writers for plays and novels, and real musicians for songs. Viva Humanity!
Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
I am perfectly fine with small alterations to fit your situation. If you have any questions please reach out to Eldridge for approval.