The National Theater and Concert Hall (NTCH) has been making efforts to promote sustainability through its operations and productions. Over the past decade, the NTCH has been replacing its equipment to save energy and has embraced the concept of “inclusive theatre.” In 2022, the NTCH joined the Sustainable Theatre Alliance for a Green Environmental Shift, becoming the only Asian venue among the 14 international theatres invited. This alliance introduced the Theatre Green Book and presented the first experimental play, A Play for the Living in a Time of Extinction, which explored international co-productions through a zero-travel, self-powered, low-energy consumption program. This production aimed to discuss sustainability through theater production and sparked reflections on the concept of “theatre sustainability.”
Wu Sih-Fong, a Taishin Arts Awards nominator, questioned the role of theater in reversing global injustice and promoting sustainability. He raised concerns about the impact of productions on the environment and criticized the Western-Asian domination in theater narratives. These reflections prompt us to consider the boundaries of theater sustainability and the potential for developing an “Anthropocene Theatre Aesthetics.”
Looking back at recent performing arts productions in Taiwan, we see a range of approaches to addressing sustainability. The Taipei Arts Festival staged performances that explored the relationship between humans and the environment, while the Tainan Municipal Cultural Center revisited historical landscapes to raise awareness about environmental changes. These productions challenged audiences to think critically about sustainability and their impact on the world.
The discussion around sustainability in theater goes beyond simply reducing waste and energy consumption. It involves rethinking our relationship with the environment and how we can work together to address the challenges of the Anthropocene era. By exploring new forms of artistic expression and promoting dialogue between artists and audiences, theaters can play a vital role in advancing sustainability and environmental consciousness. As we navigate this era of extinction, it is essential to continue exploring the intersection of art, culture, and environmental ecology to create a more sustainable future for all.