On 13 January 2009 RSA Arts & Ecology teamed up with the Young Vic and People’s Palace Projects to present a lively encounter programmed to coincide with Amazonia, the theatre’s latest extraordinary production inspired by the life and legacy of world-famous environmental activist, Chico Mendes, who was assassinated because of his political views in December 1988. The event explored deforestation, the role that the arts play in environmental activism today and asked how the arts can help shift society’s attitudes in the face of unprecedented climate change.

The evening features Elenira Mendes, President of the Instituto Chico Mendes and daughter of Mendes. The panellists include: award-winning composer, Jonathan Dove; Greenpeace’s senior climate advisor, Charlie Kronick and iconic fashion designer and activist, Dame Vivienne Westwood.

The debate is mediated by the director of Amazônia and Artistic Director of People’s Palace Projects, Paul Heritage and introduced by Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the RSA.

Speakers:

• Matthew Taylor
• Paul Heritage
• Jonathan Dove
• Charlie Kronick
• Vivienne Westwood

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