Can AI Make Theatre Art—or Only Average It? (ft. Peter Nigrini)

Can AI make theatre art—or only average it?

In this thoughtful conversation, Broadway projection designer Peter Nigrini joins Mitch Stark to explore one of the most pressing questions facing theatre artists today: what role should AI play in the creative process?

Rather than chasing trends or quick tools, this discussion goes deeper—into artistry, authorship, craft, and the irreplaceable role of human vision. Peter shares a nuanced, grounded perspective on AI as a tool (not a replacement), and why theatre—at its core—will always belong to people, not machines.

🎭 Topics explored in this video:

• AI as a creative tool vs. a creative shortcut
• Why “averaging” is the enemy of great art
• The difference between replacing a craftsperson and replacing an artist
• How AI can liberate theatre designers with limited resources
• Why theatre is uniquely resistant to being automated
• What designers, directors, and educators should be thinking about right now

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This conversation is essential viewing for:

• Theatre designers and directors
• Theatre educators and students
• Artists curious (or concerned) about AI
• Anyone who believes theatre is, above all, a human art form

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🎤 About Peter Nigrini

Peter Nigrini is one of Broadway’s pioneering projection designers. His work includes MJ, Ain’t Too Proud, Beetlejuice, Dear Evan Hansen, The SpongeBob Musical, A Doll’s House, Part 2, and Fela!.

Additional credits include:

• Here Lies Love (Broadway)
• Hans Zimmer Live (European Tour)
• Santa Fe Opera, BAM, Park Avenue Armory
• The Grace Jones Hurricane Tour

Peter has been nominated for three Tony Awards and is the recipient of a Drama Desk Award, Obie Award, and Lucille Lortel Award.

🎬 About Make It Sparkle

Make It Sparkle is a video series from Theatre Ave Academy, created to spark ideas, curiosity, and confidence for theatre makers of all kinds—directors, designers, teachers, performers, and students.

Each episode features candid conversations with working theatre artists about:

• Process
• Creativity
• Craft
• And what it really takes to make meaningful work onstage

🎓 Keep Learning with Theatre Ave Academy

Explore full online courses in:

• Directing
• Projection & Scenery
• Acting & Musical Theatre
• Theatre education & professional development

👉 https://theatreaveacademy.com

💬 Join the Conversation

How do you feel about AI in theatre?
Is it a tool, a threat, or something in between?

Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.