The following are talks given at Millennium stage at the Kennedy Center this coming week:
Karakuri Doll Lecture and Demonstration
Professor Yoshikazu Suematsu speaks about and demonstrates Karakuri dolls. Developed in the 17th century, these precursors to modern robots are controlled by mechanisms inspired by the Swiss clock.
Feb. 9 at 11 a.m.
"Robots in Japanese Science Fiction"
Tim Hornyak and Fred Schodt, the author of the forthcoming Astro Boy Essays, speak about the role of robots in Japanese science fiction.
Feb. 9 at 3 p.m.
"Being a Robot Creator and the Role of Robots as Entertainers"
This lecture features the world's most well-known character-type robot creator, ROBO-Garage founder Tomotaka Takahashi and Dr. Takanori Shibata, the creator of Paro, the seal-like therapeutic robot.
Feb. 10 at 11 a.m.
"The Value of Creating Androids: The Role of Android Science and Prospects for Androids in Society"
Dr. Hiroshi Ishiguro, a leading researcher in human robots (androids) with an expertise for making them move and interact, speaks about the future role of androids in society.
Feb. 10 at 3 p.m.