BAT Theatre opens its production of “Rossum’s Universal Robots” (R.U.R.) on Friday, Feb. 13, bringing a century old satire about artificial intelligence to south King County audiences.
Written in 1920 by Karel Čapek, R.U.R. explores a future in which robots free humans to pursue “things such as perfecting themselves rather than toiling long days just for bread.” The play is widely regarded as a cautionary tale about technology and humanity.
In promotional materials, BAT Theatre describes the production as a sharp witted and provocative work with “eerie relevance to today’s AI boom.”
“AI is on the rise. Written in 1920, this brilliant satire examines what could happen when robots free humans to pursue “…things such as perfecting themselves rather than toiling long days just for bread. With sharp wit, provocative ideas, and eerie relevance to today’s AI boom, Čapek’s prescient masterpiece is a cautionary tale for all.”
Opening Night Post-Play Talkback
Opening night on Feb. 13 will feature a free post-play talkback with Onur Bakiner, director of the Technology Ethics Initiative at Seattle University, according to BAT Theatre. Tickets are required for the performance.
The theater is also offering discounted admission throughout opening weekend – all tickets are just $10 on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, Feb. 14, and $7 on Sunday, Feb. 15, as part of the theater’s $7 Sunday promotion.
All student tickets are always $5. Additionally, if ticket prices are a barrier, please email info@BATtheatre.org. These deals are sponsored in part by 4Culture through the Public Free Access project.
Performance Schedule/Location
Performances are on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as Sunday afternoon, and continue through Sunday, Mar. 8, 2026.
- Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m. (NOTE: there will be no performances on Friday, Feb. 20 and Friday, Feb. 27).
- Sunday performances start at 2 p.m.
- Show run time is approximately two hours with an intermission.
Burien Actors Theatre performances are at the Theater at Kennedy Catholic High School, 140 S. 140th St., Burien, WA 98168 (map below).
There is plenty of free on-site parking—follow the signs into the parking lot and around the buildings to the entrance, which is in back.
