Description
Modeled after the Red Rebels Brigade climate action group, the Furies are a small street theatre group which began in 2023. They can be found walking and miming around Kingston, dressed entirely in red velvet with whiteface. While a narrator reads a script about the necessity of humans and corporations to behave very differently by transitioning to a low-carbon world with clean energy, the Furies follow along with an evocative choreography. To embody the lively spirit of Mother Earth and the hope for changing to protect nature, the Furies’ heads and necks are adorned with green, leafy garlands.
“We’re proud of finding a way for the Arts to present an alternative experience to the public aside from protests in the streets. Our slow-motion movements give our audience ample time to think quietly to themselves as we create a safe space for the contemplation of more clean energy in our lives.” -Diane Fitsell, director
Purpose
The intention of the Furies is to demand awareness about the climate crisis and the need for social change in order to prevent irreversible damage to the environment. Emphasizing that we should have been moving steadily away from dependence on fossil fuels many decades ago, the Furies’ performance illustrates the life-altering consequences of human pollution: heat emergencies, forest fires, floods, and worsening hurricanes. But the Furies don’t just tell us that the world is falling apart; they give us the potential for hope by offering strong ideas of how to turn things around for the better. Aware of the fossil fuel industry’s attempts to gaslight and distract the people from their corporate greed and inhumanity, the Furies are empowered to speak for the future of the planet and all living beings.
Collaboration
Several of the Furies are part of or connected with local climate action groups such as Little Forests Kingston, 350 Kingston, New Climate Stories, and Seniors for Climate Action Now! Kingston. The Furies’ attention-grabbing street theatre performance is about 8 minutes long, making it an appropriate addition to public demonstration by any environmental group. They are also happy to appear at club meetings, schools, or any relevant social gatherings.
Behind the Scenes
The Furies mostly consist of female seniors who are concerned about the climate crisis and future generations. Youth activists from La Salle Secondary School have also been part of the team and very much enjoyed the experience. Eager to expand their membership and impact, the Furies welcome folks of any demographic or background to join them as a Fury, narrator, or event coordinator. The Furies usually perform and practice during the day, appearing at public locations like RBC and City Hall, and at public environmental events like Earth Day at Skeleton Park. Anyone interested in learning more or joining the Furies is encouraged to reach out using the email below!
“Because of our shared interests and goals, The Furies have loads of fun together when we practice in each other’s homes; there are lots of laughs, and conversation flows freely. We keep each other’s spirits high and hopeful.” - Diane Fitsell, director
Gmail: thefuries@myyahoo.com
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