Environmentalism, stories and science : exploring applied theatre processes for sustainability education

The RiDE themed edition on Environmentalism and the response by Forgasz draw attention to some of the issues and dilemmas that arise when considering how to work with Applied Theatre practices to explore human/environment relationships, climate change and sustainability issues. This article shares initial findings from a pilot program that has involved undergraduate students participating in a study abroad program with a particular focus on sustainability education. Some of the dilemmas faced include balancing the provision of ‘scientific’ and environmental learnings within site-specific experiences and those that aim to provide a sense of connection to and empathy for the environment. Other issues for consideration include the purpose of using fictional frames when the real-life frame is already quite powerful. This article will share a model and learnings from a pilot program that drew on applied theatre practices to develop a sustainability education program for tertiary students. It has provided some possibilities for further development and investigation and ongoing consideration of the role of applied theatre processes for environmental awareness and sustainability.