Screenshot from the artist impression of the musical. The book Only Planet by climate scientist Tim van Hattum is the inspiration for a musical of the same name that will tour across the country next autumn. Like Van Hattum’s book, the musical shows that the future of the Earth does not have to be bleak and hopeless. A liveable world is possible, provided we change our behaviour. Resource spoke with Tim van Hattum.
A musical, how do you pull that off?
‘Theatre producer Peet Nieuwenhuijsen called me last year. He was working on a theatre production about sustainability, had read my book and was convinced: this has to be the story. We need to outline the urgency, but above all show what kind of world we want to move towards and what routes there are to get there.’
No more gloom and doom?
‘No. Realistic, but solution-oriented and hopeful. The question was whether they could call the play Only Planet. The publisher of my book agreed. The idea was that it would be a travelling company; theatre that comes to you.’
What is the plot of the musical?
‘The play does not depict my book, but is inspired by its message. Most solutions to the climate problem are already available. My book shows what kind of world we can create together and how we can get there. That is also reflected in the musical. In addition to the musical, there is a permanent exhibition called Eye on Earth about the seven routes to a sustainable future, as described in my book. There is also a restaurant and a space that can be rented for events. An educational programme is being developed in which WUR may play a role.’
The producer talks about a 360-degree theatre experience. What is that?
‘The theatre consists of a stage surrounded by the audience, like in a circus. The roof consists of a dome on which, just like at the Museon, you can project all kinds of things. I don’t know exactly what it will look like yet, but I think it will be fantastic.’
That all sounds rather expensive.
‘Yes. At first, I also had my doubts about the feasibility. But a very professional team has been put together, consisting of people who have earned their spurs in the theatre world. A lot of funding has already been secured and the lights are green. It’s definitely going ahead. The premiere will be next September. Several cities have already signed up. There’s a lot of interest.’
And all because someone read my book
Tim van Hattum, Climate Programme Manager
Is there a role for you?
‘No, I can’t sing at all. But we are going to do something in the theatre prior to the premiere. I will play a role in that. Over the past year, I have been training in storytelling. I believe that researchers should do much more to make their often complex knowledge more accessible to the general public. I have tried to do that with my book (also available in English since this month). Theatre makers are masters at telling stories. It’s fantastic that I get to work with them. And all because someone read my book. It’s really cool. I feel very honoured.’
Translated with DeepL
