The festival aims to empower individuals and communities impacted by the climate crisis, by asking them to consider a simple question – What Shall We Build Here? This titular provocation invites audiences to imagine ways of living together that are just and sustainable for people and planet. In addition to artistic commissions, What Shall We Build Here will host an international symposium with the ACT network, exploring the intersections between contemporary performance, democratic participation and climate justice. By shifting the focus from the globally shared threat to hyperlocal issues, the festival aims to build better understanding, unlikely alliances, solidarity and community empowerment through culture.
The centrepiece of What Shall We Build Here is The People’s Palace of Possibility, a temporary outdoor pavilion from Sheffield-based theatre and interactive arts company The Bare Project, which will take up residence in Mallon Gardens for the duration. This participatory installation creates a collaborative space for utopian scheming and rageful dreaming. Nomadic and always growing, The Palace is added to and animated by people wherever it goes. It has many rooms: a radio station, a pantry, a library, and an escape hatch. The kitchen, which is at the heart of the Palace, will host performances and workshops throughout the festival, including weaving with Sheila Ghelani, sculpture with Becky Lyon, and audio artworks from Land Body Ecologies and Farmerama. It will also host two Palace Feasts, on Wednesday 28 July and Saturday 1 June. During these shared meals, The Bare Project will uncover the mysterious origins of The Palace, and toast to possible unbuilt futures.
Full accessibility information for all What Shall We Build Here events and venues can be found here. People requiring additional access adjustments to book or attend festival events can email access@artsadmin.co.uk or call 020 7247 5102.