
Surviving AI
A Variety Show About Our Future with Technology
Hosted by comedian Shane Mauss & author / professor Athena Aktipis
Surviving AI is a variety show that blends humor with thoughtful exploration of how humans relate to artificial intelligence and how we might build a more cooperative technological future. The evening begins with a stand-up comedy set, moves into a salon-style conversation with experts on AI and cooperation, and culminates in a live improvisational “battle” between a human artist and an AI, responding to each other in real time. Throughout the show, an LED screen displays dynamic visuals generated through human–AI collaboration, created live by AI artist Michael Strauss, inviting the audience to reflect on creativity, agency, and collaboration in an age of intelligent machines.
Los Angeles, CA
January 31, 2026
4:00-6:00pm
Private show
Special Guests Joscha Bach, Rob Brooks, Baba Brinkman.
Phoenix, AZ
April 19, 2026
Valley Bar
Free Event Sponsored by Viva Phoenix
Special Guests Baba Brinkman, Harmon Leon, Thao Ha
Tempe, AZ
September 23, 2026
Marston Exploration Theater
Special Guests Paul Scherer, Kai Bickel. Live visuals by Michael Strauss, live music by John Kennedy, Bill Vernieu, and Beth Galiger.
Surviving AI Trailer
Partners
Surviving AI is produced by The Cooperative Futures Institute, Zombified Media, and AI Commons.
connect@cooperativefutures.org










