1. Performance art multimedia performances like this one are a radically different approach to conveying the issues and concerns of global climate change compared to more traditional science or news media venues. What do you think about this performance? In what way was its messaging helpful compared to traditional approaches? In what ways might it be less helpful?
While I do think this performance was very abstract and unusual, I did enjoy it. I think the messaging was quite profound in comparison with traditional approaches because it didn't just scratch the surface. The patterns of motion and energy in conjunction with the soundtrack were enough to evoke significant emotional and mental changes to the audience throughout the performance. I think this was helpful because a lot of other educational things we see these days barely affect us, almost as if we are numb to them. But this work was different in that it actually was able to make an impact. I think this performance might be less helpful than more traditional methods of education because there wasn't a clear takeaway or any actionable items to consider. It was a nice performance to watch and feel, but what am I supposed to do once it's over to help with these issues?
2. How did you feel about this piece? Did it affect you in any way? Did it seem to affect others in the audience? What were your observations?
The piece did a really good job at evoking emotions and feelings. During certain moments early on, I could feel the energy building up uncontrollably, which resonated with me. Later on, there was a calm period in which I felt a lot more relaxed and peaceful. I could tell that the piece affected others in the audience in similar ways because of their posture and attentiveness. I enjoyed this piece a lot because of the way I was able to connect with the movements and flowing energy on a deep, emotional level, rather than just having a surface level appreciation of the work.
3. Was there anything in this performance which you felt was factually incorrect or that might otherwise impair or otherwise hinder the understanding of or response to global climate change? If so, what was it?
I did not think there was anything factually incorrect.
4. How broad an audience do you think this work would appeal to, and why?
I don't think this work would appeal to a very wide audience, just because it is such an unusual method of delivery for this kind of topic. I also don't think people usually consider a dance work to be the most ideal medium through which to educate or learn about topics like climate change and media sensationalism.
5. During the Q&A, did you hear anything from the creators or the audience that made you rethink the performance? If so, what was it?
I was shocked to find out that about 50% of their material was improvisation. I never would have thought that such a performance could be so heavily dependent on the performers' decisions in the moment. It made me think about the purpose of the whole thing, and how unexpectedness and unpreparedness was a major point of the work.