A powerful new performance inspired by climate activism and political change. Blending movement, music, real stories, and moments of audience connection, it invites us to reflect on the choices we make—and what it means to stand together today.
Alongside passages of movement visually representing bodies holding ground, taking stands and holding space is Nicolette Macleod’s evocative soundscape. Embedded in this are first-hand accounts from people across the UK who have been involved in direct action, amplifying the voices of those often silenced for their actions. Through audience interaction, ‘Where we choose to stand’ challenges audiences to reflect on where they stand, asking how we position ourselves in moments of crisis. This urgent work highlights individual voices caught within a crowd, creating a timely exploration of personal and collective responses to the climate crisis.
Beginning with a lone performer, the show gradually asks for more actions and engagement from members of the audience – from holding a phone whilst it plays the story of an activist to occupying the performance space – ultimately asking people to consider how they choose to engage with where we are. These invitations are offered with the possibility for each audience member to accept as they see fit and much development time has been allocated for the wording and physical actions around these. Additionally, the audience has something proposed to them as a group, rather than highlighting any particular individual to allow space for opting in, or out. This is a work though in which people are part of its journey, shaping the performance space and giving rise to conversations post-show.
Additionally, ‘Where We Choose to Stand’ has been developed with environmental sustainability as a core consideration within the work’s development periods and planned touring. Sustainability Collaborator Katy Dye has supported reducing the team’s carbon footprint whilst taking into consideration individual access needs. It is anticipated that public transport will be the main means to travel, whilst recognising that this may also mean specific conversations around lifts from nearby stations/bus stops.
With movement, music, diverse voices and community engagement and reflection, ‘Where We Choose to Stand’ is very much about bringing people together to reflect on where we are today.
