Aerial show to tackle plastic pollution in waterways

Published: 20 August 2021
Reporter: Steve Orme

Highly Sprung’s CastAway Credit: Andrew Moore

Physical theatre company Highly Sprung and Coventry City of Culture Trust are to present the première of CastAway, an outdoor performance that tackles plastic pollution in waterways.

CastAway “examines the realities and complexities of the climate crisis and looks forward to a more positive, sustainable future for the city”. The show is said to bring a new approach to aerial theatre, featuring a fully gyroscopic aerial rig which elevates performers over nine metres up into the air.

Highly Sprung, based at the newly opened Daimler Powerhouse, has been working in Coventry for more than 20 years. CastAway features an all-female cast and tells the story of two characters, the Disposables, who are polluting the city’s canals. Their actions awaken the Keeper of the Waterways who rises up to challenge them and guide them to a more compassionate way of behaving. The piece is set to a soundtrack by composer Tom Haines.

Sarah Worth, director of CastAway, said, “we can’t wait to show the world this incredible new performance that’s been in development over the past two years. We’re passionate believers in the role theatre can play in starting conversations on difficult topics such as the climate crisis and pollution.

“The prevalence of plastics and disposables in our canals and waterways can easily feel overwhelming, but with CastAway we aim to leave audiences feeling hopeful, inspiring real action and change.”

CastAway features as part of Coventry UK City of Culture 2021. It will be free to watch at Coventry Canal Basin on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 August at 12:30 and 4:30PM.

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