Theatre fans in Manchester have ignited a debate about the use of artificial intelligence in stage productions after questioning whether backdrops in the musical Something Rotten at the Opera House were AI-generated. The show, running until July 19, stars comedian Jason Manford alongside Richard Fleeshman and Marisha Wallace, and has received rave reviews—including being hailed as an ‘utter triumph of musical theatre’ by the Manchester Evening News.
Audience Members Raise Concerns Online
In a viral Instagram post, theatre reviewer @reviewing.the.situations claimed they felt ‘second-hand embarrassment’ for the performers, who were ‘giving such incredible performances’ while performing in front of backdrops that appeared to be AI-created. The reviewer noted several ‘slightly suspicious’ props and posters in the first act, but singled out two large posters of Shakespeare and the character Nick Bottom as the ‘first egregious use of generative AI,’ describing them as ‘AWFUL and really cheap.’ The final number’s backdrop was highlighted as the most suspicious.
The post sparked responses from other theatre fans and content creators, including popular blog Theatre & Tonic. Writer Rosie stated that AI appeared to have been used and that the closing part of the show felt ‘lazily created,’ leaving a ‘sour taste.’
Calls for Transparency
Theatre & Tonic founder Emmie Newitt told the Manchester Evening News: “Our writer is a huge Something Rotten fan, she’s followed it everywhere and it was a very big deal for her when it was announced it was coming to the UK. She was really excited to see the show in Manchester, but when she came back from seeing it, she just said she felt there were some elements of AI in the show—like the curtain that comes down at the end, which she said just gave AI vibes.”
Newitt emphasised that the discussion has sparked a wider debate about AI’s role in theatre. “Theatre is an art form,” she said. “And AI is a detriment to theatre and what it’s about. This is not the only show that has been accused of using AI—there are many productions right now where people are questioning things and it’s part of a wider discussion that needs to be had. If production is going to use AI, then do it but they need to say it with their chest. Be transparent with audiences, put a disclaimer up about the use and then let people decide if they want to support that work or not. Many people have told me they would not go to see a show if they found out it was using AI.”
No Official Confirmation Yet
Despite multiple requests from the Manchester Evening News, the Opera House has not responded to confirm whether AI was used in the production. This lack of transparency has fueled further debate among theatre-goers, with many calling for clear disclosure of AI use in future productions. The controversy highlights growing sensitivity around AI in the arts, as audiences increasingly scrutinise the authenticity and craftsmanship behind stage design.
