Conference for Those Still Living at Farm Arts Collective Agri-Cultural Center

“Conference for Those Still Living” tells the story of a group of people summoned by their mutual friend, a world-famous ornithologist, who has organized a weekend retreat on Willow Wisp Organic Farm. The subject of the retreat: Climate Change. His guests are an international group of artists, scientists, philosophers, meteorologists, chefs, farmers, and anarchists—a mixed lot with varying opinions and stories. When the ornithologist does not show up at his own conference, a mystery ensues to his whereabouts. As the attendees carry on with the conference in his mysterious absence, the anxiety and concern for their missing friend is a wrenching parallel for the anxiety they feel about climate change and their own lives. The gripping mystery comes to a conclusion, and the friends depart, changed forever. Like all DREAM ON THE FARM shows, we will conclude with a shared farm meal with our audience to offer space and nourishment in order to continue the conversation inspired by the evening’s performance. "Conference for Those Still Living" is #5 of Farm Arts Collective’s immersive DREAM ON THE FARM decalogue of Climate Change plays. Directed by Tannis Kowalchuk and written and performed by the Farm Arts Collective Ensemble.