Gap: Where AI and Artistry Converge in a Revolutionary New Play

June 20, 20252 min read

The realms of artificial intelligence, social media, and high art intersect in Gap, a thought-provoking play crafted with the help of AI, premiering at the Etcetera Theatre as part of the Camden Fringe 2025 on August 19th.

This incisive drama fuses traditional theatre with real-time social media interaction, delivering a unique theatrical experience that challenges our perceptions of authenticity in the digital era.

Set within the home of a London art gallery owner, Gap explores the tumultuous relationships among three central characters:

Kirsten Blackwood (Marie Reinherr), a 39-year-old gallery owner
George Hartley (Patric Schwaab), her 21-year-old artist boyfriend
Christopher Price (Dan Iliadis), her social media influencer friend

What begins as a sophisticated drawing room drama unfolds into a gripping exploration of power, desire, and the costs of success in an increasingly artificial world.

“While some may say this is ‘a play written by AI,’ I want to emphasize that the real work of creation remains a human endeavor. The concepts, dramaturgy, editing, and refinement all required human insight and creativity. AI still needs a human touch to craft compelling theatre,” said Kirill Levman, the director.

On August 26, 1952, John Cage’s work represented a pivotal transformation in theatre toward what we now recognize as performance art. Over the years, experimental productions have frequently pushed boundaries, sometimes at the cost of traditional forms. Now, as AI technology rises, artists are re-evaluating the essence of theatre.

“Do we suddenly want to reclaim THE THEATRE? This technological shift could be an opportunity to merge classic dramatic forms with innovative possibilities. Let’s venture into this new territory—perhaps we’ll even share a laugh,” Levman adds.

In a groundbreaking move, audiences are encouraged to keep their phones on during the performance, engaging in: