Six Innovative Sustainability Initiatives Transforming Theatre

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Photo by Kevin Schmid via Unsplash

In the world of theatre, where the audience hushes in anticipation and imagination takes flight under the glow of stage lights, a quieter revolution is underway—one that echoes our responsibility to the planet we call home. As climate change casts a long shadow over our collective future, the theatre community is stepping up to the challenge, by redefining age-old practices and pioneering innovative sustainability initiatives to minimise the ecological footprint.

Across all stages, from Broadway to local community theatres, there’s a refreshing surge of innovative sustainability initiatives transforming how we create and consume theatre. It’s not just about the magic on stage anymore; it’s about the impact we leave behind. These sustainability initiatives go beyond reducing carbon footprints; they spark a fresh wave of eco-conscious creativity through storytelling and performances to attract the attention of younger audiences. Whether it’s repurposing materials or adopting renewable energy, the theatre industry is leading the charge in a green revolution, proving that sustainability and creativity can coexist harmoniously.

In this article, we’ve explored six global sustainability initiatives revolutionizing theatre, steering it towards a greener and socially responsible future. From inventive set design to zero-waste pioneers to community-engaged sustainability, these projects are infusing the theatre landscape with responsibility and purpose, highlighting the transformative power of art to inspire meaningful change.

The Greenhouse Theatre

The Greenhouse Theatre, led by Artistic Director Oli Savage, is the UK’s pioneering zero-waste theatre company, with a mission to “Make brilliant shows. Make theatre social. Make sustainability easy.” This theatre has created multi-award-winning, deeply human shows through sustainable practices, for the young and curious who are looking for affordable and unique personal entertainment experiences.

Situated in London, The Greenhouse Theatre operates on a zero-waste principle, using second-hand materials and prioritizing responsible disposal in all aspects of production, from sets to costumes and marketing materials. It also prioritizes energy efficiency, relying on natural light and carbon-neutral electricity, aiming to generate its own power by 2024. By the year 2030, Savage envisions garnering international praise and recognition, with ambitions to establish permanent venues and foster a network of sustainable businesses. Through innovative sustainability initiatives spanning diverse art forms, The Greenhouse Theatre pioneers sustainable creativity, with a mission to catalyze global discourse on climate change.

Broadway Green Alliance (BGA)

The Broadway Green Alliance (BGA) is a leading force in the theatre community, dedicated to promoting sustainable practices on and off Broadway. Established in 2008 in partnership with the Natural Resources Defense Council, BGA works closely with The Broadway League and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and is a founding member of the International Green Theatre Alliance.

BGA advocates for climate-positive actions and equitable sustainability, aligning with the belief in “no climate justice without racial justice.” Their major wins include converting Broadway marquee lights to energy-efficient LEDs and CFLs, which saved over 800 tons of carbon yearly. They’ve also facilitated the switch to rechargeable batteries and energy-efficient washers and promoted the use of green products in touring theatres, offsetting more than 10,000 tons of carbon through The Touring Green Program. Beyond Broadway, BGA organizes textile recycling drives, diverting 19,000 pounds of waste since 2016. It also employs 1,200+ volunteers nationwide, offering educational programs like the Greener Reopening Toolkit.

STAGES

STAGES, short for Sustainable Theatre Alliance for a Green Environmental Shift, is a groundbreaking European project aiming to revolutionize the cultural sector’s approach to sustainability through theatre. From 2022 to 2025, 14 influential theatres, including a leading European network, an Asian partner, and academic organizations, have teamed up with renowned director Katie Mitchell and choreographer Jérôme Bel, with a shared goal to tackle the climate crisis head-on.

Coordinated by the Théâtre de Liège and supported by the EU, STAGES takes a unique approach. Instead of traditional travel, it showcases new performances about the climate crisis across Europe and as far as Taiwan without physical travel of people or items. This innovative model not only reduces carbon emissions but also sets a precedent for sustainable theatre practices. STAGES goes beyond performances, integrating insights from ‘Doughnut Economics’ to assess and improve infrastructure sustainably. By bringing together artists, scientists, and audiences, the project sparks collaboration and explores creative solutions with a focus on environmental consciousness.

Gift Horse Theatre 

Gift Horse Theatre, established in 2018 by Signe Lury, Elishka Lane, Doris de Vries, Mae Leahy, and Ciara Berkeley, is a Dublin-based theatre company with an all-women core team. Renowned for its eco-friendly approach, the company operates with a zero-waste, sustainability ethos. Gift Horse values collaboration, curiosity, and innovative storytelling, drawing inspiration from literary texts and cultural figures to revitalize stories of the past and present.

Their productions often take place outdoors, fostering a deep connection with the natural environment. Supported by various organizations including Culture Ireland, Dublin City Council, the OPW, Trinity College Dublin Trust, and the Trinity Visual & Performing Arts Fund, they are currently developing a play about Surrealist artist Leonora Carrington. Gift Horse champions eco-theatre as the future of the industry and is committed to leading the movement towards environmentally responsible practices.

Julie’s Bicycle

Julie’s Bicycle, a leading nonprofit organization, pioneers sustainability in the arts by addressing the climate crisis through cultural action. Established in 2007 by the music industry, it now partners with over 2000 global arts and culture organizations. By blending cultural expertise with environmental advocacy, Julie’s Bicycle provides tailored resources and certification programs to empower theatres and arts groups towards sustainability. They advocate for net-zero carbon goals, inspire public engagement, and champion environmental justice, through robust data.

Through sustainability initiatives like Creative Green certification and the Creative Climate Accelerator, they equip organizations worldwide, such as Theatre Bristol and Norwich Theatre, to reduce their ecological footprint. Engaging over 250 cultural leaders across 26 countries, Julie’s Bicycle leads sustainability efforts, with a focus on good stewardship and collective strength to transform theatres globally.

Sydney Opera House

In the heart of Sydney Harbor, the Sydney Opera House is both an architectural marvel and a global leader in sustainability. Its visionary design by Jørn Utzon embodies sustainability principles, earning it a prestigious 6-star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. Powered entirely by renewable electricity, the Opera House has significantly reduced emissions by 26% and energy use by 9%, achieving carbon-neutral status since 2018. Moreover, it diverts over 90% of event and construction waste from landfills, offsetting 17,500 tonnes of CO2.

The Opera House has also reduced water usage by 20% through responsible water management practices. Architectural innovations, like the seawater-cooling system, highlight its commitment to sustainable design. Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, it aims to eliminate single-use plastic packaging and supports collaborative projects such as modular artificial reefs to promote marine biodiversity. Through investments in renewable energy projects and partnerships like the Power Purchase Agreement with Flow Power, the Opera House leads by example in fostering a sustainable future.

As curtains fall and audiences depart, the impact of sustainability initiatives in the theatre reverberates far beyond the final bow. From zero-waste pioneers to energy-efficient innovations, these efforts prove that sustainability and creativity go hand in hand in the pursuit of a better world. As theatres continue to lead by example, embracing sustainability as a core value, they inspire communities worldwide to tread lightly on the planet while leaving a lasting impression on hearts and minds.

Words by Khushboo Malhotra


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