Introduction
Kill Climate Deniers is a thought-provoking play by David Finnigan that addresses one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change. A group of eco-terrorists hold 1700 Australian politicians and journalists hostage in Parliament House until a solution to combat climate change is implemented. Mixing dark humor with sharp political commentary, Finnigan pushes his characters to their limits, forcing audiences to question their own beliefs and the complexities of activism in a world where indifference often prevails.
Plot
The play begins under the night sky, where Australian Environment Minister Gwen Malkin gazes at the stars with her daughter Cellabrina. Meanwhile, elsewhere, Catch, the leader of an extremist eco-terrorist group, plots a daring attack against the Australian Government.
Malkin faces a challenging radio interview with host Jalan Ones, reminiscent of Alan Jones. She discusses the controversial Goonyarra Station Project, aiming to shield the Earth with a vast milky roof, but the interview ends in failure. Later, Malkin and her press advisor, Georgina Bekken, prepare for an exclusive Fleetwood Mac concert at Parliament House, unaware that Catch and her group have infiltrated the venue with a 3D printer to craft weapons.
During the concert, chaos erupts as eco-terrorists storm the building, and Catch takes the stage with a rifle, threatening mass casualties unless Australia commits to 100% renewable energy immediately. Meanwhile, Malkin and Bekken confront terrorists in the bathrooms, resorting to drastic measures and documenting their actions on social media.
As tensions escalate, Catch escalates her demands to the Prime Minister, resulting in violence that claims lives, including journalist Beverly Ile and CEO Remely Clark. Malkin and Bekken maneuver through the press gallery with unexpected support from Murdoch Press, receiving a drone delivery that bolsters Malkin’s social media presence. Armed and determined, Malkin confronts Catch, leading to a climactic showdown atop Parliament House.
Years later, Malkin reflects with Cellabrina, now Prime Minister for three decades, on the success of the Goonyarra Station Project in curbing natural disasters. However, the sky’s stars remain obscured, a poignant reminder of the project’s unintended consequences.
Throughout the play, playwright David Finnigan’s interruptions critique “Kill Climate Deniers,” incorporating feedback and criticism from figures like Brendan Smyth and Andrew Bolt, exploring the contentious idea of gaining notoriety through criticism, or as it’s termed, ‘being Bolted’.
Core themes
1. Confrontation between Activism and Governance
At the heart of the play is a striking confrontation between the demands of eco-activism and the often sluggish responses from political institutions. The character of Environment Minister Gwen Malkin symbolizes the challenges faced by politicians in combatting climate change, encumbered by bureaucracy and the duplicity of political allegiances. The interruption by “eco-terrorists” serves as a metaphor for the frustration and urgency felt by many activists who believe that traditional methods are insufficient to address the climate crisis. This raises questions about the effectiveness of current democratic processes and whether they are capable of addressing the profound challenges presented by climate change.
2. Satire and Irony
Finnigan employs satire to critique both the political elite and environmental activists, using humor as a tool to illuminate the absurdities present in both realms. The choice to set a climate crisis confrontation during a Fleetwood Mac concert—a setting typically associated with entertainment and escapism—juxtaposes serious environmental issues against social indifference and distractions. Through this irony, the play effectively showcases how moments of cultural significance can be overtaken by urgent calls for action.
3. Radical Solutions vs. Conventional Approaches
A pivotal inquiry in the play revolves around what methods are necessary to “stop climate change dead in its tracks.” The text posits contrasting solutions, ranging from scientific advancements and recycling initiatives to unconventional and radical tactics encompassing techno-anarchy and revolutionary fervor. This theme not only highlights the stark dichotomy between peaceful environmental advocacy and more aggressive, confrontational approaches but also provokes introspection regarding the ethical implications of different forms of activism. At what point does desperation justify drastic measures?
4. Collective Responsibility and Global Citizenship
Finnigan’s work transcends Australian borders, speaking to a global audience grappling with similar climate challenges. The phrase “People of the internet, people of the world” invokes a sense of collective responsibility, urging individuals to consider their roles as global citizens in the fight against climate change. The eco-terrorists’ actions serve as a call to arms, suggesting that achieving meaningful change requires a united front, transcending local and national interests. This theme resonates with the ongoing dialogues about sustainability, individual agency, and the necessity for collaboration across boundaries to tackle global issues.
5. The Role of Youth and Future Generations
With eco-terrorists representing a younger generation disillusioned by the inaction of their predecessors, the play also taps into a critical narrative about the role of youth in environmental activism. This theme reflects the ongoing global climate youth movement, with figures like Greta Thunberg leading the charge for immediate action. The portrayal of determined youth as harbingers of change highlights generational conflicts and emphasizes the urgency with which the younger demographic perceives climate change, demanding that older generations take responsibility for their legacy.
About the author
David Finnigan is an accomplished Australian playwright, writer, and performer, known for his innovative and thought-provoking works that often explore themes of climate change, social justice, and the intersection of art and science. His plays have been produced both nationally and internationally, garnering critical acclaim for their unique blend of storytelling and activism. Finnigan’s work frequently engages with contemporary issues, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own roles in a rapidly changing world. In addition to his theater work, he is also involved in various collaborative projects and initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue around environmental challenges. Finnigan’s contributions to the arts continue to inspire and provoke conversation in the realms of both theater and activism.
What people liked about the play
- Strong Character Development: Many readers highlighted the depth and complexity of the characters, praising their relatable struggles and growth throughout the play.
- Engaging Plot: The intricate and well-paced plot kept audiences hooked, with unexpected twists that added to the overall suspense and excitement.
- Emotional Resonance: Readers connected deeply with the themes and emotions portrayed in the play, finding powerful moments that evoked a range of feelings from joy to sorrow.
- Clever Dialogue: The sharp and witty dialogue was often noted as a standout feature, adding humor and depth to the interactions between characters.
- Visual and Staging Elements: Many appreciated the creative staging and visual aspects of the production, which enhanced the storytelling and created a memorable atmosphere.
- Timely Themes: Readers resonated with the contemporary themes addressed in the play, such as identity, social issues, and human relationships, finding them relevant and thought-provoking.
- Strong Performances: The actors’ compelling performances were frequently mentioned, with many praising their ability to bring the characters to life authentically and dynamically.
Play details
Price: $15.95
Publisher : Oberon Books (August 5, 2019)
Language : English
Paperback : 160 pages
ISBN-10 : 1786828022
ISBN-13 : 978-1786828026
Item Weight : 9 ounces
Dimensions : 5.83 x 0.35 x 8.27 inches
