the confessor (2007)
design of a robotic character, development of puppeteering software, and live performance for a first-of-a-kind human-robot theater play including two human and one robot performer.
the robotic desk lamp had the title role in Rony Kubat's short play "The Confessor", premiering on May 9, 2007 with additional shows on May 10, and 11. the play starred Jonas Kubilius and Laurel Ruhlen, and was directed by Kate Snodgrass.
the robot was controlled through a novel actor point-of-view hybrid control system structured around scenes, beats, and actions. the software enabled the robot to react in time and, through the use of an embedded camera, to make eye-contact with the actors during rehearsal and performance. This system is the first step in an ongoing effort towards a fully autonomous robotic actor.
also: highlight clip acting lessons for artificlal intelligence, abstract written for the 50th anniversary summit of artificial intelligence.