
The University of New Mexico
NEWS RELEASE
Media Contact: Laurie Mellas, 277-5915
April 12, 2006
‘Connection Series' explores sustainability through performance, discussion
Community leaders invited to brainstorm solutions
The University of New Mexico's Sustainability Studies Program, Theatre and Dance and ARTS Lab kick will present "Commons Sense: An Artistic Exploration of Sustainability," Sunday, April 23, with an afternoon performance of Urinetown, the Musical followed by a community "talk back" at UNM's Rodey Theatre.
The event will be produced in association with the ARTS Lab's new "Connections Series."
Directed by Kathleen Clawson, Urinetown is a Tony award-winning, comedic musical about corrupt city officials who devise a scheme to solve a 20-year drought: people must use public restrooms and pay for the privilege. The heart of the discussion or “talk back” to follow will be about how the community can successfully share air, water and land in an attempt to avoid philosopher Garrett Hardin's "Tragedy of the Commons,” which predicts that communities everywhere are headed for disaster.
Local dignitaries have been invited to join a post-performance “talk back” to discuss how government, business and the artistic community can work together, said UNM Sustainability Studies Director Bruce Milne.
The musical performance begins at 2 p.m. followed by discussion at 4 p.m. and a reception at 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 general, $15 faculty/seniors, and $10 for staff and students. Tickets and more information are available at the UNM Ticket office at 925-5858, 1-800-905-3315 or online at www.unmtickets.com.
The University of New Mexico is the state's largest university, serving more than 32,000 students. UNM is home to the state's only schools of law, medicine, pharmacy and architecture and operates New Mexico's only academic health center. UNM is noted for comprehensive undergraduate programs and research that benefits the state and the nation.
www.unm.edu