Foothill Theatre addresses AI in play that introduced ‘Robots’

‘Robots’ on stage

Foothill Theatre Arts is tackling the topic of AI with the West Coast premiere of “Rossum’s Universal Robots,” running through Nov. 23 at the Lohman Theatre at Foothill College.

Originally written in 1920 by Czech playwright Karel Čapek, the comedic play introduced the term “robot,” taken from the Czech word “robata,” meaning servitude. This adaptation by Bo List addresses one of today’s most pressing questions: What can happen if AI goes rogue?

The Lohman Theatre lobby opens one hour before each performance for preshow activities appropriate for ages 8 and up. These activities, presented by Foothill College’s Robotics Club, Engineering Club, AI Club and the Emerging Technologies Institute include the chance to play chess with a robotic arm, watch a student-built self-driving go-kart in action, and engage with an AI avatar.

For tickets, visit https://foothill.edu/theatre/RUR.html.

Pajama days

Action Day Schools is holding its fifth annual pajama drive in partnership with West Valley Dance Company, which has studios at the private school’s Mountain View campus as well as other Action Day locations.

Pajamas collected during the drive are given to clients of LiveMoves, a nonprofit that provides interim housing, customized supportive services and access to resources for individuals experiencing homelessness in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

Action Day is collecting new, unused pajamas at its Mountain View campus, located at 333 Eunice Ave., from Nov. 17-Dec. 5. Requested sizes are 3T and up for children and small and up for adults.

Over the years, Action Day Schools has collected over 5,000 pajamas for LifeMoves clients. Action Day Schools President Cathy Jelic says she wanted to ensure everyone coming into one of LifeMoves’ 26 interim housing communities had something clean and warm to sleep in.