AI Reimagines Molière: The Birth of "The Astrologer, or False Omens"

"The Astrologer, or False Omens" is a new play crafted by an artificial intelligence program designed to emulate the style and themes of the renowned 17th-century French playwright Molière. The narrative centers on a tyrannical father who, misled by a fraudulent astrologer, promises his daughter in marriage. However, the daughter and her clever servant ultimately expose the deception through comedic antics. This project is a collaboration between the French AI collective Obvious and the Théâtre Molière Sorbonne, a theater company dedicated to historical reconstructions of Molière's works.

New York Times

The development of the play has been ongoing for two years, driven by a desire for "scientific curiosity," according to Mickaël Bouffard, the director of the Théâtre Molière Sorbonne. An excerpt of the play will be performed on January 14, 2026, at the Centquatre arts center in Paris, with a full staging scheduled for May at the Royal Opera of Versailles. This initiative is part of the digital arts festival Némo.

New York Times

The project is spearheaded by Pierre-Marie Chauvin, a sociologist and vice president of Sorbonne University, who has emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in the application of AI. The collective Obvious, known for its algorithmically generated visual art, has previously made headlines when one of its paintings sold for $432,500 at Christie’s in 2018. The collaboration with the Théâtre Molière Sorbonne marks a significant expansion of Obvious's artistic endeavors into the realm of theater.

New York Times

Mickaël Bouffard expressed that the aim of the project is to simulate Molière’s creative process as accurately as possible. Pierre-Marie Chauvin noted that this collaboration reflects a long-term vision for AI's role in preserving and enhancing cultural heritage.

New York Times

While the project has garnered interest, there are concerns regarding the implications of AI in creative fields. Critics argue that relying on artificial intelligence to recreate the works of historical figures may undermine the authenticity of artistic expression. The debate continues on whether AI can truly capture the nuances of human creativity.

New York Times

Following the initial performance of "The Astrologer, or False Omens," further discussions on the role of AI in the arts are anticipated, particularly regarding its impact on traditional forms of storytelling and the preservation of cultural heritage.

New York Times

• “We’re trying to simulate Molière’s creative process, step by step.” — Mickaël Bouffard, Director, Théâtre Molière Sorbonne

New York Times

• “a long-view approach to A.I., and a real interest in cultural heritage.” — Pierre-Marie Chauvin, Vice President, Sorbonne University

New York Times