If we’re judging on ambition alone, then Hot in Here has it all. Bicycle power? Yep. Springy trampolines that the audience can jump on? Yep. Even an energy-generating dancefloor? You bet. This is sustainable theatre and boy, does it feel exciting.
Made by the Gate and Pigfoot, the UK’s first rigorously sustainable theatre company, and directed by Hetty Hodgson, it shows the disproportionate effects of the climate crisis for marginalised communities, those living in poverty and people from the global south. Liverpudlian Hannah (Jade Franks) is frustrated when no one seems to care that their city could be underwater in 30 years. Siah’s (Tatenda Matsvai) grandad in Zimbabwe is struggling to survive with no easy access to clean water. And Jamie (Leanne Henlon) learns her recent miscarriage could be due to increased air pollution in her area. Fuelled by pent-up anger, the three decide, separately, that enough is enough. It is time to take to the streets to protest.
When just a handful of billionaire-run companies are responsible for the vast majority of global emissions, Hot in Here asks: how is it fair? Using real-life headlines and footage of testimonies from campaigners across the globe, as activism the play is irresistible.
Rather than focusing on the benefits of individual veganism or the banning of plastic straws, it refreshingly places blame for the climate crisis on big corporations. But it is the smaller-scale, human stories that are the most haunting. Jamie’s cries following the loss of her baby linger chillingly long after Henlon has let them out.
Yet there is a sense of frenzy to it all. We jump erratically from pre-recorded interviews to dance segments, then back to the narrative. Reformed from a 2022 version of the play and devised again with the current cast, this show is raw, current and fresh. But it feels jumpy, under-rehearsed and one step away from being the final product.
This is, however, theatre with purpose, its mission crucial to the vision created on stage. It fires you up and leaves you outraged, making you want to fight back, too.
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