Kaspar 2028

The Residenztheater in Munich is working together with stage director and programmer Manuel Flurin Hendry to develop an AI system for the theatre, based on Peter Handke’s play “Kaspar” (1968). In cooperation with their project partner, the Film University of Babelsberg, they plan to integrate generative AI into the theatrical process as an image-generating and acting colleague. The AI system Kaspar.ai (K.ai) will participate as a digital acting partner in the rehearsal process and the performances. The Kaspar.ai (K.ai) application is modular, adaptable and designed in such a way that other theatres or artists can use it to develop their own formats. The main character in Handke’s text, inspired by Kaspar Hauser, is confronted with eloquent doppelgängers, against whom he fights for individuality – and ultimately fails. The new production of “Kaspar” at the Residenztheater in Munich reflects on AI-based cloning of human bodies, texts and voices, and their impact on the arts. The premiere will take place in May 2028 at the Residenztheater in Munich.