Theatrical Language Processing: Exploring AI-Augmented Improvisational Acting and Scriptwriting with LLMs

TL;DR

This paper introduces Theatrical Language Processing and Scribble.ai, an AI tool designed to enhance improvisational acting and scriptwriting by fostering creativity and spontaneity, with findings showing increased actor creativity and problem-solving but some limitations in script flexibility.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel AI-driven tool and concept, TLP, to support theatrical creativity and improvisation, demonstrating its impact through user studies.

Findings

Actors expanded creativity with AI-generated irregular scenarios.

AI unpredictability improved problem-solving in unfamiliar situations.

Excessively detailed scripts sometimes limited interpretive freedom.

Abstract

The increasing convergence of artificial intelligence has opened new avenues, including its emerging role in enhancing creativity. It is reshaping traditional creative practices such as actor improvisation, which often struggles with predictable patterns, limited interaction, and a lack of engaging stimuli. In this paper, we introduce a new concept, Theatrical Language Processing (TLP), and an AI-driven creativity support tool, Scribble$.$ai, designed to augment actors' creative expression and spontaneity through interactive practice. We conducted a user study involving tests and interviews with fourteen participants. Our findings indicate that: (1) Actors expanded their creativity when faced with AI-produced irregular scenarios; (2) The AI's unpredictability heightened their problem-solving skills, specifically in interpreting unfamiliar situations; (3) However, AI often generated excessively detailed scripts, which limited interpretive freedom and hindered subtext exploration. Based on these findings, we discuss the new potential in enhancing creative expressions in film and theater studies through an AI-driven tool.