In 'The Glitch,' Actress Hannah Rose Doherty Finds Herself — and a Future Empowered by AI
Actress
For actress Hannah Rose Doherty, The Glitch isn’t just another role—it’s a revelation.
Starring as Hailey, an AI-powered teenager with a mind of her own (and someone else’s), Doherty describes the production as “deeply personal,” and it’s easy to see why.
“At its heart, it’s about human connection—and how AI can actually help bring people closer together,” she says.
For Doherty, who is dyslexic, the story’s futuristic premise hits close to home.
“Growing up, I always felt like I was falling behind… but AI changed that for me. It gave me tools I didn’t have before. It made me realize I am smart—I always was.”
Set in a future where AI simulations can help couples visualize their potential children, The Glitch follows Amy (Danielle Augustine), who secretly visits a lab to meet a digital version of the child she might have with her partner. But a glitch in the system allows an unexpected consciousness—possibly the spirit of her real future daughter—to break through. It’s a high-tech concept that delivers surprising emotional weight.
Doherty’s role is one of the most challenging of her career.
“Hailey is full of sass, spark, and curiosity—but due to a glitch, there’s someone else living inside her,” she explains. “It’s a balancing act. I’m constantly shifting voices, posture, and energy. Most choices don’t work, but the ones that do? They’re what shape Hailey into something unpredictable and real.”
Her collaborators bring the vision to life: director Ann Cooley fosters a fearless rehearsal space, and writer Kipp Koenig’s passion infuses every scene.
“Kipp has poured his heart into this story. Watching his reactions during rehearsal reminds us why we’re doing this,” Doherty says.
The cast also includes Ian Dunn (Wyatt), Jacquie Bonnet (Wendy), Eva Coppola (Aurora), and Anya Van Hoogstraten as cover.
Originally from the Jersey Shore, Doherty moved to NYC at 17 to train at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. Outside of performing, she runs Are We In Love, a production company supporting young creatives. “We believe deeply in the power of storytelling—especially stories about love and connection.”
You can catch The Glitch at the Next Step Theater Festival at the Gural Theatre at A.R.T. on: May 27 at 8 PM | May 28 at 1 PM | May 31 at 8 PM | June 6 at 4 PM
Following its festival run, the show launches an open-ended Off-Broadway engagement at the Jerry Orbach Theater at The Theatre Center beginning September 2025.
Follow Hannah Rose Doherty on Instagram and Facebook at @hannahrosedoherty, and learn more about her company at areweinlove.com.
