When you think of Shakespeare, cutting-edge technology isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, in keeping up with the needs of schools and  students, Shakespeare-in-the-Schools has created a new touring production that combines high-tech audiovisual elements with traditional acting for the science standards-infused performance Darwin and the Kid.

A high school student, the Kid, finds himself struggling with his science studies and adapting to a new environment after moving to a new town. A visit from the virtual Charles Darwin helps him discover not only the personal history of the scientist and how species survive and thrive through adaptation, but also how engaging science can be.

Designed in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University’s Entertainment Technology Center, Darwin and the Kid features several flat screen monitors and a laptop as the media to present not only the Darwin character, but also graphics, scientific diagrams, vocabulary, and imagery, which help to educate while they entertain.

Additionally, the production makes creative use of sound as another tool to engage middle and high school audiences in science, even integrating a Darwin rap created by local hip-hop artists DJ BusCrates and Free. 

Actor Bjorn Ahlstedt, in this role as the Kid, interacts with the on-screen Rick Kemp, in his “virtual” performance as Charles Darwin.

“I think technology is a great way to reach out or touch down with today's youth,“ says Bjorn Ahlstedt. “A lot of time, possibly too much, is given to television and film programming and we all, especially the youth, have become used to viewing things on a screen. This play is fun because of how it incorporates the live theatre with the television viewing.”

Darwin and the Kid was written by Attilio Favorini and directed by Sam Turich.

For more information or to schedule this performance, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it @ 412.362.6982.