University of Warwick researchers have shared their knowledge in the development of a new play showing at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry this week.

Like There's No Tomorrow has been conceived, written and performed by The Belgrade’s Young Company, and commissioned by the National Theatre Connections programme. Academics from the University of Warwick spent time with the cast and writers of the new production to help feed in and break down scientific facts about climate change and environmental issues. Warwick academics will also join in a panel discussion after the performance on Friday (13 March).

Dr Erin Dilger, a researcher in tropical disease at Warwick’s School of Life Sciences said: “We were thrilled to be invited to input into this production. We had an evening of discussion with the Belgrade’s Young Company group as they were developing their ideas for the play. We touched on many topics from the effect of climate, on health and environment to how society could actually mitigate climate effects. The discussion was lively and interesting and we are looking forward to seeing the finished result.”

Oluwasemilore Kaji-Hausa, who plays Maru, said: “It is a story of one young person’s decision to speak up about a belief they have, tackling the climate crisis from the perspective of one of the most vulnerable members of our society, someone directly affected by the crisis.

“As well as developing my performance skills in what is my first time performing in a theatre, this process has opened up the opportunity to discuss ideas and data surrounding climate change, and the arguments purported by climate deniers and activists.”

The panel discussion after the performance on Friday (13 March), will feature academic researchers from Warwick’s Department of Life Sciences, Politics and International Studies and Warwick Medical School as well as members of the cast, local activists and Councillor Jayne Innes, answering questions from the audience which arise from the performance.

For the live panel session, the audience will be encouraged to submit their queries to the academics and cast members via an app as the performance takes place. Audience members will be given instructions on how to post their questions on the night.

James Brown, public engagement project officer at the University of Warwick, said: “This is a very exciting and relevant event which allows an audience to interact with performers and researchers over the topics covered in the performance, and maybe take home some ideas about how they can change their own behaviour to help the environment.

“As Coventry prepares to take centre stage as the UK City of Culture in 2021, the city and its two universities are already making new partnerships and producing events which show how our research is able to contribute to the city’s economic, environmental, social and health and wellbeing targets through cultural activity.”

Like There’s No Tomorrow shows at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry until Saturday 14 March. Tickets are available to book now by calling the box office on 024 7655 3055 or visiting www.belgrade.co.uk where prices are cheaper. Tickets are free for young people aged under 26.

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12 March 2020

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Image credit: Robert Day