The Malak Gabr Theatre, American University in Cairo, and Falaki Theatre, Tahrir Square, Cairo, Egypt, 2023

A sustainably made, research-driven performance project reimagining how and why theatre is made in the 21st century. The Earth Turns challenges conventional, resource-intensive theatrical practices by integrating sustainability into both form and content.

Key Innovations and Accomplishments:

• Developed a touring model of ultra-low-energy performance, reducing power usage from 30,000 watts to under 300 watts per show

• Designed and built custom permanent magnet generators powered by stationary bikes, producing electricity live onstage in real-time—each bike generating 150 watts, powering all LED lights, projections, sound, and effects

• Integrated real-time power meters as scenographic and dramaturgical elements to make the energy labor visible to the audience

• Created a performance system that is simultaneously ecologically sustainable, visually compelling, and narratively effective

• Pioneered a new model of production that is sustainable from rehearsal through touring, emphasizing circular economies, minimal carbon footprint, and deep audience engagement