DAMASCUS, PA —“Conference for Those Still Living,” tells the story of a group of people who are invited to a climate change conference organized by their mutual friend Benjamin Drake, a world-famous ornithologist. The guests include an international mix of artists, scientists, and activists. 

The play runs from August 15 through August 18  at 6:30 p.m. at the new Agri-Cultural Center on Willow Wisp Organic Farm,  located at 38 Hickory Ln.  Each performance concludes with farm-fresh food.

Throughout the play, the audience learns how each character relates to climate change. First professionally when the actor-presenters share their research and work with the audience, then more personally and emotionally, as the characters and their stories take shape. Finally, despite the character's distinct views, varying backgrounds, and wildly different approaches to mitigating the effects of climate change it is also the one thing that deeply connects them. The cast of characters- who at times elicit both laughter and a knot in your stomach-  ultimately connect on stage and to the audience through the collective struggle of the climate crisis. 

Dream on the Farm is the primary performance project of the Farm Arts collective group. This is the fifth edition of Dream on the Farm, the mid-point of a decade-long performance cycle focused on climate change. Directed by artistic director Tannis Kowalchuk, the collective is creating one new climate change play annually from 2020-2030.

“We aim to offer our community an artful message that will hopefully inspire action and ideas for bettering our community,” a Farm Arts spokesperson said.

This year’s play is collaboratively created and performed by the Farm Arts Collective ensemble. It is directed by artistic director Tannis Kowalchuk; music and lyrics are composed by Doug Rogers. 

The performance ensemble includes company manager Jess Beveridge and members Pam Arnold, Melissa Bell, Rebekah Creshkoff, Ginny Hack, Annie Hat, Lexee McEntee, John Roth, Yurika Sase, Debra Thomas and Hudson Williams-Eynon. Technical production and lighting design is by Kai Brothers; the production technician is Phoenix Murns; set pieces are designed by Kit Sailer and Erin K. Orr. Cooking is by Alicia Grega and Helen Baldus; and poster design is by Karen Hudson.

Learn more and purchase tickets at www.farmartscollective.org.