The Human Scene Phace II - Innovative learning science/performing arts

Important results from the project

We have with this project managed to inspire learning, communication and innovation in the area of sustainability, especially climate change, by connecting researchers with playwrights and other performing artists. At the end of the project we can now conclude that the response and commitment grew stronger as the project went on. The methodology for collaboration we developed has been succesful - and thanks to its simplicity it now spreads and evolves further.

Expected long term effects

A prerequisite for sustainable growth is citizens´ knowledge and commitment. By raising the level of awareness of sustainability issues among the staff of the Royal Dramatic theatre as well as part of the Riksteatern’s staff by means of cooperation with SEI (Stockholm Environment Institute) and parts of Stockholm University, the project has helped to deepen and broaden the involvement of the cultural sector, and thus a wider audience, in sustainability issues.

Approach and implementation

The methodology is based on in-depth interviews of researchers by playwirights that was transcripted and processed further, by one of the playwrights, into a script. The performance was orchestrated as a simple reading where actors portrayed the researchers. The performance culminated in a dialogue with the audience. The method is based on trust between the different stakeholders, that the researchers and playwrights become involved in the whole process, that the dramaturge and director are responsive and aware of the purpose, and that the producer takes full responsibility.