Performance and Ecology
Even though looming ecological crisis likely will be the primary drama of the 21st century, ecology and the environment are underrepresented subjects in professional theater and low visibility in the fields of theatre and performance studies as well. This project, organized by Wendy Arons of the School of Drama, aims to call attention to the power of performance and theater to raise awareness about ecological issues, stimulate activism, build coalitions, and generally move and inspire spectators to action. Project activities include: panels and talks on the practice and history of environmental theatre; staged readings or lightly-mounted performances of winning plays from the Eco-drama festival to be held at the University of Oregon in spring 2009, as well as other works; development of courses on the history of environmental theater; and the publication of an edited collection of essays on performance and ecology.