“The Singularity Play” Reviewed by Frank Meccia

*** “The Singularity Play” at Jackalope Theatre, penned by Jay Stull and directed by Georgette Verdin, is a compelling exploration of the intersection between artificial intelligence and human emotion. Set in a nondescript Google office in Manhattan, the play introduces us to a group of actors dissecting a script crafted by an AI named Denise, who is privy to their conversations.
Patrick Newson Jr.’s portrayal of Greg, the programmer and staunch defender of Denise, is a standout performance, capturing the complexity of a man who sees the AI as more than just code. Kroydell Galima’s Jason is the emotional fulcrum of the piece; his character’s journey from stoic detachment to a cathartic breakdown over the loss of his child is heart-wrenching and serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition.

Lucy Carapetyan’s Alice is the seasoned actor whose arrogance and opinions clash with the younger generation’s ideals, creating a dynamic tension that resonates throughout the play. Christina Gorman’s Lauren is the cynic of the group, challenging the notion of AI’s humanity with a biting wit that questions our understanding of consciousness.

Madison Hill’s Henry offers a fresh perspective as the non-binary character who delves into the humanity of AI, further blurring the lines between creator and creation.   The second act introduces the minds behind the AI, with Collin Quinn Rice’s Ocean leading the team and Paloma Nozicka’s Skyler adding depth to the narrative. The central conflict in  “The Singularity Play” revolves around the tension between human creativity and artificial intelligence. It questions the authenticity and value of art created by AI, and whether such creations can truly possess the essence of human emotion and experience. The characters grapple with the implications of AI in their personal and professional lives, leading to a broader discourse on the nature of consciousness, the definition of humanity, and the future of human expression in an age where technology’s capabilities are rapidly expanding. This conflict is personified through the interactions between the characters and the AI, Denise, as they confront their own biases, fears, and hopes about the evolving role of technology in society.

Overall, “The Singularity Play” is a thought-provoking piece that deftly handles complex themes with emotional intelligence and artistic flair. It’s a production that entertains and invites the audience to ponder the future of creativity and the essence of being human in an increasingly digital world.

This 96-minute production, without intermission, runs until June 22nd. The Jackalope Theatre Company is temporarily located in  Edgewater at Berger Park, 6205 N. Sheridan Rd. This will be their last performance there , and then they will go back to their original home at the Chicago Amory on Broadway Ave, where parking is plenty. Best bet for Berger Park is taking the Sheridan Road bus

The performance schedule is:

Thursday         7:30 p.m.

Friday              7:30 p.m.

Saturday         7:30 p.m.

Sunday            3.p.m.

With additional performances on June 10th and 17th at 7:30pm.

Tickets are $15- $35, with student and Edgewater resident discounts available. For more information, go to www.jackalopeTheatre.org or call or text the box office at (773) 340-2543.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “The Singularity Play”