BY LAURA GRUHLKE | The Statesman With a small cast of three, UMD’s next play will tell the story of four different Watsons.
“The (Curious Case of) Watson Intelligence” follows the story of four Watsons: Thomas Watson (assistant to Alexander Graham Bell), Dr. Watson (from Sherlock Holmes), Watson computer (who competed in Jeopardy!) and then main character Josh Watson.
“It shows the four Watsons and how they are the same person,” cast member Chelsea Campbell said.
All of these Watsons have been sidekicks and are very similar in some ways, but yet very different. This play takes the journey and opportunity to show each of their stories and how they come together.
“It all blends together as these characters learn to connect with people in a way,” cast member Wes Anderson said, “In the end it’s a play about human connections.”
This story really touches on the idea of human connections and how technology fits into that.
“It validates how hard it is to be a human being, and to actually connect with someone else,” Director Jenna Soleo-Shanks said.
A main theme that this play focuses on that can really relate to younger demographics is the use of technology. Anderson says that this is one of the most important themes that this play covers.
Watson Intelligence has different storylines and ideas, so you will need to make sure you pay attention. “If you don’t pay attention you're going to miss something,” Anderson said.
Since there is so much going on that Campbell said, “It challenges your way of thinking.”
The cast and crew of “The (Curious Case of) Watson Intelligence” really hope you take something away from coming and seeing their play. Campbell says that you know these characters and will be able to relate to them as the play goes on.
“Come for the hype and stay for what it really is,” Anderson said.
“The (Curious Case of) Watson Intelligence” will be in the Dudley Experimental Theatre the weekend of November 19 and then again from December 1 through the 5.
On Tuesday, December 1 tickets will be buy one get one free. That means that student tickets will only be $3 each. After the show on December 1 there will be panel of Computer Science and IT Professors having a talk back to discuss some of the themes of the show.