Climate Connections New surrealist play explores climate justice themes
Oct 30, 2025
Dive into the haunting world of 'Sulfur Bottom,' a surreal play that explores a family's struggle with life near a toxic waste site. Over four generations, they grapple with the dilemma of staying or fleeing amidst the pollution. The play cleverly employs talking animals and surreal elements to shine a light on environmental injustice. It also fosters community engagement through post-show discussions and donations for environmental advocacy, making it a unique blend of art and activism.
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Play Reveals Multigenerational Environmental Harm
- Sulfur Bottom uses fiction to reveal real environmental injustice affecting some communities more than others.
- The play spans four generations to show long-term health and social impacts of living near toxic waste.
Beached Whale Enters The Living Room
- Playwright Rishi Varma includes surreal elements like a beached whale in a family's living room to shift perspective.
- The surreal moments invite audiences to reconsider environmental themes through imaginative scenes.
Pair Performances With Community Action
- Sulphur Bottom pairs performances with post-show talks to connect art to real community issues.
- They collect donations for We Act for Environmental Justice to support concrete climate and clean-air work.