By Claire Lyon, Laura Salvie & Victoria Howard
When one thinks of environmental activism in North Texas, the following thought usually isn't about theater, but the innovative non-profit, Watering Hole Collective, is wanting you to connect the two in ways never thought possible. The North Texas-based, socially conscious arts organization’s new play, I Am An Island, delves deep into the emotional impact and realities of climate change. Partnering with the Dallas Sierra Club, Environment Texas, and Audubon Dallas' Cedar Ridge Preserve, this collaboration aims to amplify the conversation around environmental sustainability and the urgent need for climate action.
Drawing inspiration from playwrights like Sarah Ruhl and Samuel Beckett, playwright Julia Lederer combines elements of surrealism with dark comedy to create a narrative that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. This quirky comedy conundrum takes place on an island slowly sinking into the sea. The play follows our protagonist, May (played by Mikaela Baker), as she tries to convince others of this impending catastrophe, but no one will listen. Her struggles are explored through allegorical humor prompting audiences to reflect on the urgent issues of our changing climate. This production, directed by North-Texas newcomer Angela Gulner, will create a space where audiences can confront the often overwhelming realities of climate change through the lens of theater.
Wanting audiences to start conversations, get excited, and become engaged beyond the play itself, Watering Hole Collective will host “Talkbacks” (panel discussions featuring experts from the Dallas Sierra Club, Environment Texas, Cedar Ridge Preserve, and other local activists) after each show that will highlight local insights on the environmental issues addressed in the play. Audience members will have the opportunity to engage directly with these experts, ask questions, and learn more about how they can contribute to environmental conservation efforts in their community.
“Our organization believes in the power of storytelling to ignite meaningful dialogue,” says Claire Lyon, Executive Director of The Watering Hole Collective. “With I Am An Island, we invite audiences to experience that power firsthand. We hope to address the anxieties and fears surrounding climate change while empowering our audience to take tangible steps toward making a difference.”
Performances will be September 19-22 in Dallas, Texas at the Wyly Studio Theatre as part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s prestigious Elevator Project 2024-2025 season, and tickets can be purchased here.