Theatre as Witness: Exploring Climate Change Through Performance

Abstract

The skit focuses on the role of humans in dealing with climate change. It highlights how man, directly or indirectly, contributes to environmental destruction. The narrative unfolds with the circulation of a TikTok-originated rumor about a forced evacuation, initially dismissed by the villagers. Chaos ensues at dawn when a bulldozer and a large gang of youths arrive, compelling the community to leave under threat of violence. Displaced, the villagers settle near the forest in protest displacement and the environmental degradation caused by plans to clear trees for the construction of a heavy chemical industry. This sparks media attention. Ironically, the evacuation is masterminded by a wealthy local businessman, publicly known for advocating for environmental preservation internationally. Tensions escalate as the gang violently blocks access to the fenced forest during the protests until the local chief and the police intervene. A pivotal moment arises when a Gen-Z activist boldly comes out to present viral video evidence of the chief accepting a bribe from the businessman. The skit concludes with a powerful speech on climate change and a poignant poem, highlighting the implications of environmental and human rights.