Protesters Disrupt Sigourney Weaver’s Play with Confetti Cannon
During a performance of “The Tempest” at the Theatre Royal in London’s West End, two members of the environmental activist group Just Stop Oil caused a commotion by interrupting the show starring actress Sigourney Weaver. The protesters climbed on stage carrying a sign that read, “Over 1.5 degrees is a global shipwreck,” and fired off a confetti cannon, bringing the performance to a halt.
Amid boos from the audience, stagehands escorted Weaver off stage as they dealt with the disruptive protesters. The activists, identified as Hayley Walsh and Richard Weir, were advocating for the UK government to phase out fossil fuel burning by 2030, citing the recent global temperature rise exceeding the 1.5-degree limit.
Walsh, a mother of three, expressed her concerns about the future for her children, stating, “1.5 degrees is a global shipwreck we can’t ignore.” Meanwhile, Weir, a mechanical engineer, emphasized the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels to prevent further damage to the environment.
The protesters’ actions drew attention to the pressing issue of climate change and the need for immediate action to combat its effects. Despite the disruption, no arrests were made by the Metropolitan police who responded to the incident at the theatre.
In “The Tempest,” Weaver takes on the role of Prospero, a character traditionally portrayed by a man, showcasing a fresh interpretation of the Shakespearean classic. The play will continue its run until February 1, captivating audiences with its innovative staging and powerful performances.
Overall, the incident at the Theatre Royal serves as a reminder of the growing activism around environmental issues and the importance of raising awareness about climate change through various means, even if it means disrupting a theatrical performance.
