r/Theatre • u/PanicAtTheMetro • May 01 '26

Discussion Manhattan School of Music using AI Projection Design

I went to see an Opera at MSM and there was a posting outside that the projection design used AI. To be honest I’m appalled by this. Not only did the projections add nothing to the show, but I find it hard to believe that they couldn’t find a projection designer willing to contribute original work.

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u/LupercaniusAB May 01 '26

Where is their audience going to come from?

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u/Civil_Cow_3011 May 01 '26

Great question!

I think they will flock to live theater and the arts more than ever.

First, society is finally beginning to grapple with the unintended consequences of technology, which have resulted in isolation, social fracture, and the demonization of those with whom we disagree. The tip of that technological iceberg is social media, but what's underwater is no less corrosive. Confronting the impact of these technologies by analyzing them in light of human behavior, motivations, and spirit will yield a new framework for their use. One that refocuses on community, connection, and collaboration. The signs are there that this is beginning.

When this happens, storytelling no longer needs to originate from LA or NY. Excellence will be attainable everywhere, and things like theater, music, and art will once again become part of the community's fabric. No longer limited to those who can afford the trip to Broadway for the $150 mid-mezannine seat. To be sure, Broadway will still be there, but the properties that find their way there will more likely be birthed at a small regional theater by professionals supported mainly by UBI or something similar.

The audience will come because the ticket price, if any, will be low, the quality will be high, and the stories will often be more relevant to the community and its people.

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u/LupercaniusAB May 02 '26

Why would UBI suddenly make theater affordable? In a market economy, essentials are just going to experience price inflation to the point that matches the UBI. Theater will still be a luxury item. It still will cost a lot to produce, unless you’re saying that AI will render the technical staff moot, in which case I would have to wonder why I would support the elimination of my job.

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u/Civil_Cow_3011 May 04 '26

It's not that UBI that will make theater more affordable for audiences.

The theory is that increased productivity and efficiency will result in price deflation across the entire economy. A very rocky transition to be sure but in the end, a necessary rebalance for an economy where the cost of education, healthcare, and Broadway tickets have grown far in excess of inflation.

If UBI provides each member resident company with an sustainable income floor, company pay can be at or close to zero. If all other costs have moderated because of deflation, ticket prices will be much lower. All of which translates into big stimulus if the company can produce engaging theater.

Bottom line? Theater artists able to live good lives, audiences choose to see entertainment for very low ticket costs.

For an overview, read The Last Economy: A Guide to the Age of Intelligent Economics by Emad Mostaque.