Climate-neutral play "BamBamBambi"

As part of the “Fond Zero” initiative, the German Federal Cultural Foundation aims to guide arts and culture projects toward greater climate neutrality. Fraunhofer UMSICHT advised and supported Theater Oberhausen in the climate-neutral production of the play “BamBamBambi,” which also addresses sustainability within the play itself. The goal was to design a climate-neutral play, with the measures developed providing impetus for more sustainable production in the future as well. Working closely with all departments of the theater, UMSICHT created a roadmap and identified areas of action where CO₂-emissions could be reduced. In addition, the researchers raised awareness and sensitivity to the topic of sustainability at the theater.

Fraunhofer UMSICHT conducted a total of four workshops focused on the various phases of a theater production, such as concept development, rehearsals, performance, and follow-up. All departments involved in the theater were included – from the artistic teams to the workshop, stage technology, makeup and costume departments, as well as public relations, audience services and the box office.

The results of Fraunhofer UMSICHT’s consulting and scientific support serve as a model for how sustainable production can be implemented in the cultural sector. This approach helps to further establish sustainability in cultural projects and also raises awareness of climate neutrality.

The research institute designed the participatory workshops so that as many theater employees as possible could get involved, fostering exchange and identifying shared opportunities for achieving climate neutrality. Through methods such as “world café,” “brainstorming,” and “brainwriting” as well as through personal interviews, ideas were developed and refined across all trades.

Further potential for savings can be achieved, for example, through the use of recycled materials, increased use of LEDs in stage lighting, sustainable material selection, modular set designs or mobility challenges for visitors.