A SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. TITLE

Machine Learning

Full-Length Play, Drama  /  1w, 3m, 1boy(s)

Francisco Mendoza

When computer scientist Jorge dreams up a nursing app to manage his estranged alcoholic father’s liver cancer in his stead, he must reckon with his responsibilities as a son and as a creator.

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Machine Learning

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  • Cast Size
    Cast Size
    1w, 3m, 1boy(s)
  • Duration
    Duration
    105 Minutes
  • SubGenre
    Subgenre
    Science Fiction
  • Audience
    Target Audience
    Adult
Accolades
Accolades
  • Finalist: 2024 Elliot Norton Awards, Outstanding New Script
    Winner! 2023 Princess Grace Awards, Special Projects Grant
    Winner! 2022 Princess Grace Awards, Playwriting Fellowship

Details

Summary
When his estranged, alcoholic father is diagnosed with liver cancer, computer scientist Jorge dreams up a nursing app to manage the disease in his stead. As the machine’s capabilities grow, however, the possibility of leaving it in charge of the treatment becomes more real, forcing Jorge to reckon with his responsibilities as a son and as a creator. Dealing with issues of immigration, legacy and life dreams, Machine Learning explores what it means to be children – and what it means to be parents.
History
Machine Learning premiered at Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts on January 25, 2024. Directed by Gabriel Vega Weissman, the production featured Sugandha Gopal, Armando Rivera, Xavier Rosario, Jorge Alberto Rubio and Matthew Zahnzinger.
Keywords
Performing Groups

JORGE – 22-28, raised in the US.
YOUNGER JORGE – 7-11, born in Colombia, moved to the US at 10.
GABRIEL – 40s-60s, born and raised in Colombia, moved to the US at 45.
ARNOLD – A machine, born in Jorge’s mind.
ANITA – 40s, born and raised in India, moved to the US at 18. Also plays DOCTOR, TEACHER, LEENA.

  • Time Period Contemporary, New Millennium/21st Century
  • Setting Various places in Jorge’s present and past.
  • Features Contemporary Costumes/Street Clothes
  • Duration 105 Minutes
  • Cautions
    • Alcohol
    • Strong Language
    • Mild Adult Themes

Media

“A rare script that focuses, equally, on emotional depth and scientific wonder.” – The Arts Fuse

“Though the characters are encompassed by calculations and functionality, not for one moment does [the show] ever feel robotic. If anything, Machine Learning brings out the ties that bind between a father and son in all of its illuminating calculations.” – The Sleepless Critic

“Rarely does a script emerge that focuses, equally, on emotional depth and scientific wonder. And, on top of that, it also takes a crack at forecasting our future. Playwright Francisco Mendoza’s thought-provoking Machine Learning manages to strike that difficult balance.” – The Arts Fuse

“What’s interesting about the bilingual show is that it doesn’t attempt to present definitive answers to the imminent questions about technology’s use in health care. However, through the lens of a father and son struggling to connect, it does present a balanced case — not too heavily laden with tech speak so that it’s unapproachable — that shows how leaning too much on tech alone could help or hurt.” – WBUR

Videos

  • Machine Learning at Central Square Theater youtube thumbnail

    Machine Learning at Central Square Theater

  • The Lark Interview with Playwright Francisco Mendoza youtube thumbnail

    The Lark Interview with Playwright Francisco Mendoza

Licensing & Materials

  • Minimum Fee: £55 per performance plus VAT when applicable.

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Authors

Author

Francisco Mendoza

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