Andrew Stein's A.I.-themed play Disruption officially opens its world premiere at London's Park Theatre July 13 after beginning previews July 7. The run will continue through August 5. Nathaniel Curtis (It's a Sin) leads the cast as Ben, with Hersh Ellis directing.
The work follows a Silicon Valley developer with a big idea: an algorithm more complex and powerful than the human brain that could lead the human race to better decision making than otherwise naturally possible. The play received a reading at NYC's Open Jar Studios earlier this year, also with Ellis at the helm.
Joining Curtis in the cast are Oliver Alvin-Wilson as Nick, Sasha Desouza-Willock as Raven, Rosanna Hyland as Mia, Debbie Korley as Suzie, Nick Read as Paul, Kevin Shen as Barry, and Mika Simmons as Jill.
“When I started working on Disruption, the idea that our phones were listening to us and algorithms were mapping our every click was pretty new," shared Stein in an earlier statement. "A.I. seemed far down the road, but there was something about these 'random' coincidences and the way people in tech were so obsessed with the idea of 'disruption' that sparked my interest and drew me in. I have been extremely fortunate to develop this play with Jack and Hersh, whose brilliance and generosity never cease to amaze me. To have this premiere in London at The Park is nothing short of surreal. It is truly a dream come true for me, and I couldn't be happier or more grateful for this incredible opportunity.”
The production features movement direction by Leanne Pinder, set and costume design by Zoë Hurtwitz, lighting design by Robbie Butler, sound design by Asaf Zohar, and video design by Daniel Denton. Casting is by Harry Blumenau.
The world premiere is presented by Jack DePalma, Todd and Nancy Allan, Rick Feldman, Joanne F. Guerrerio, Max Needle, Bert Rosenblatt, and Robert Frier/Andy Tobias, in association with Park Theatre.
Visit ParkTheatre.co.uk.