In this project, by using dance and theatre inside and outside, in public spaces, we wanted to create a protective “hat” for young people to express themselves as well as their concerns about climate change placing importance on the arts as tools in assisting human growth and development. We wanted them to understand the value of theatre and dance in developing a range of skills which enhance an individual's employability (such skills, for example, as problem-solving, commitment, completion, deferred gratification, group work etc). This emphasis on critical reflection should stimulate their entrepreneurial abilities, and help them realize that there are opportunities for them in today's climate of austerity,cutbacks and fear. H.A.T. was about helping them take action themselves to define their world in their own terms and contribute towards the social awareness regarding ecology and climate change issues.
Kinitiras and Crooked House (CH) both have similar questions raised around how performance- in a broad sense- might contribute to the discussion and work towards a more promising ecological future. By drawing together young people and creative practitioners from the field of dance and theatre to focus on the subject of “performing ecologies”, we tried to find the role that performance and creative practice can play in our “learning to live with/in” this “ecological crisis”. The motivation for "HERE AND THERE" were the young people themselves (Kinitiras Youth and CH Senior Youth Theatre) and our need to support them survive under this hardship of humanity, inspiring them through the performing arts to develop and take in charge of their lives, to face the fear of climate change and find the strength within them to develop and cultivate skills that will transform them into active citizens of Europe and the world.