
Laugh In the Face of Extinction
A collective of and for performance and activism as a regenerative practice and form of protest, rooted in climate justice, peace and human rights.
Together, the LIFE collective are exploring the use of performance, including improv, theatre, and clowning, to promote transformative change in the world.
Their thematic focuses are around climate justice, social issues, war, and capitalism.
LIFE are not a campaign, so their approach is to focus on amplifying awareness and provoking thought on issues that others are working on, following the conscience of the collective. They signpost their audience towards how to help or find out more, but they don't aim to learn “messaging” - their performance is about trusting their hearts and their authentic responses.
LIFE aim to create a playful space for their performers (Play-Tivists?) so that they can creatively explore their fears and hopes and everything in between. This means that whatever “success” their performance has, their play in itself is regenerative and leaves them more grounded than before - they believe burnout stems from a tunnel vision focus on effectiveness and efficiency - capitalism!
LIFE’s performances are public, and therefore are situated in a society which is consumerist, imperialist, and violent. By intentionally performing there, they make it apparent that everything else in society is performative, too. “All the world's a stage…”
Although they understand that society as a whole is often oppressive, they believe individuals in society are largely helpful, joyful, and kind, and are usually doing their best, so they never laugh at others. LIFE allows themselves to be laughed at so that in the laughter, they all have the chance to relish in a shared humanity. Although they don't laugh at others, they may engineer situations in which the characters predominant in the upkeep of an exploitative society (like police, enablers of violence, and consumers) can be revealed. After all, LIFE are all part of the performance called Society.
This crossover between play, satire, and clowning is the one they parade around - it always changes, and they aren't looking to box themselves in!
LIFE welcome everyone - those with no performance or activist experience will always get a warm welcome.
Their workshops are free.