The Korean Cultural Center in Poland, in partnership with STUDIO Theater in Warsaw, will present an innovative theatrical production titled "AlphaGo_Lee Sedol: Theory of Sacrifice," drawing inspiration from the historic 2016 match between artificial intelligence system AlphaGo and world Go champion Lee Sedol. The premiere is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Grand Stage of STUDIO Theater, located within Warsaw's Palace of Culture and Science.
The performance uniquely combines audience participation with advanced digital technology to examine the intricate relationship between humans and artificial intelligence in our modern technological age. By blending interactive elements with cutting-edge digital tools, the production invites viewers to become active participants in the creative process, challenging traditional notions of theatrical engagement.
The play recreates the pivotal moment in Seoul during 2016, when Korean Go master Lee Sedol faced off against AlphaGo, the artificial intelligence program developed by Google DeepMind, at the newly opened Four Seasons Hotel. Carrying the symbolic burden of representing all of humanity in this unprecedented contest, Lee Sedol suffered three consecutive defeats in what became known as the "Match of the Century." Following his losses, Lee delivered a remarkably candid and vulnerable statement during a press conference: "I feel I've disappointed so many people this time. Please forgive my helplessness. I've never felt such great pressure and burden. I was simply too weak to overcome it."
This historic match, orchestrated by Google DeepMind in London, captured global attention and became a defining moment that many interpreted as symbolizing humanity's defeat in its first major encounter with advanced artificial intelligence. The theatrical adaptation transforms this competition into a ritualistic experience, encouraging audience members to directly participate in the unfolding narrative and creative process.
The production goes beyond mere entertainment to raise critical questions about the social and environmental costs associated with rapid technological advancement. Through its innovative use of interactive digital tools, the play redefines what it means to participate in a theatrical performance while exploring themes of sacrifice, progress, and the evolving dynamic between human intelligence and artificial systems.
Directed by Natalia Korczakowska, the production features an international cast including Cynthia Cin Yee Cheung, Daniel Dobosz, Ji Yoon Kang, Marcin Pempuś, Cat Kim, Wiktoria Kruszczyńska, Hiroaki Murakami, Jiwon Oh, Maja Pankiewicz, Halina Rasiakówna, and Sugyeong Won. The performance will take place at the Józef Szajna Grand Stage within STUDIO Theater, situated on the second floor of the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw, with full elevator and wheelchair accessibility provided.
Tickets for "AlphaGo_Lee Sedol: Theory of Sacrifice" are available through the STUDIO Theater website, offering audiences in Warsaw an opportunity to engage with this thought-provoking exploration of humanity's relationship with artificial intelligence through an innovative theatrical lens.
