Date of Award

2026

Type

Thesis

Major

Theatre - Performance Track

Degree Type

Bachelor of Fine Arts Theatre Performance

Department

Theatre Department

First Advisor

Prof. David Turner

Second Advisor

Prof. Tim McGraw

Third Advisor

Dr. Cindy S. Ticknor

Abstract

What do you think of when you type a question into a search engine, and the “AI Overview” pops up without your having to request it? What may happen if theatre students and theatre industry professionals have that same ability to type in a prompt into an AI generator, and it has the ability to produce an output of a theatrical design concept with that same level of ease. Is this even possible with the programs that we have now, or could it be anticipated that this could be possible in the future. Would this be a benefit or would this be a hindrance to the modern theatre industry? These are all the questions that theatre creatives are asking in today’s time with the surge of AI in society. Currently, this conversation seems to be very polarizing, and many individuals have personal biases that they are unwilling to look outside of to address this. his approach can cause a stifling effect on the progression of the theatre industry due to a lack of effective and productive conversations taking place. In an effort to assist this dialogue, this qualitative study consisted of a series of interviews with a group of the university’s theatre students and professors who have a wide range of technical and design experience. The interviews were comprised of a series of questions in an attempt to minimize the inherent bias that seems to accompany the conversation surrounding AI developments and its involvement in theatre. The research findings have been compiled to provide a well-rounded assessment of where the industry currently stands, and whether or not there is an effective way to move forward. As it stands, AI in the theatre space can be useful for routine tasks, but it cannot replace the creativity and collaboration that theatre runs on. As we look to the future, it should be used on a case-by-case basis while continuing to study and assess it’s impact on the field. There is also hope that ethical concerns can be addressed through policies, guidelines and legislation that can then allow for a more ethical use of AI to occur.

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