On Oct. 26, 2024, the Becton Theater Program performed “The A.I. Play” by Don Zolidis. The play followed high school student, Eleanor, as she faced consequences of using an A.I. chat-bot to write her English paper, which led her to be placed in a special genius school. In a turn of events, the new school ended up being a prison for students who misuse A.I.! Eleanor eventually led a prison break, and the students returned to their organic lives without A.I..
This will be the first time in Becton history that the BRHS Theater Program puts on three shows in one year rather than its usual two. “The A.I. Play” has also been one of the few productions at Becton that was not a musical. “This show was really different from last year’s production of ‘Seussical the Musical.’ It was a great opportunity for students who aren’t interested in music to take the stage,” Assistant Director, Ms. Olivia Wilson, mentioned.
Assistant Stage Manager, junior Savannah Sarden, agreed– finding that the play was a new and great experience for the students because dance moves and song lyrics are sometimes a hassle to learn. Namely, senior Abigail Large appreciated the opportunity to perform in the play, marking its first production on the East Coast. “It’s such an out-of-the-box play, it doesn’t even compare to other shows Becton has put on,” Large commented.
While the future of the Becton Theater Department does consist of two musicals, students still believed the play was a great way to start the school year, and teach an important lesson on the potential consequences of A.I..
Senior Julie Estrada starred as Eleanor, the lead. While enjoying the audience’s laughter at the comedic moments on stage, she believes that this play was very influential to the students in the crowd. “I think seeing more comedic consequences of using A.I. to write essays, students will think twice before doing so again,” Estrada earnestly spoke.
The creator, Zolidis, carefully studied the dialect and behavior of 21st-century teenagers, aiming to make an impact on students who rely on A.I. to complete their schoolwork. Multiple cast and crew members can agree, students will most likely put their own effort into authetically completing their own work after seeing the play.
Becton students can look forward to the upcoming winter show, Annie Jr. “This one-act version of everyone’s favorite story about little orphan Annie is a great way for students to get their feet wet before our full-length spring musical,” shared Ms. Wilson. Although rehearsals are already underway for Annie Jr., auditions for the spring musical, Footloose—a lively, relatable story—will open soon. Stay tuned for exciting performances ahead!
