Aqua-Drama
24m / 3-Channel Video / 2022 / In collaboration with Ifor Duncan

Aqua-Drama is a three-channel video installation. It follows labourers and scientists as they build model oceans to simulate future climate scenarios, while an opera singer recounts the history of imperialist naval spectacles known as Aqua-Dramas.

Although contemporary climate simulations and Aqua-Dramas serve/d very different purposes, the methods used in simulation facilities mirror the colonial theatrical practices of nineteenth-century Britain. Aqua-Dramas flooded London theatres with water drawn from nearby rivers to stage patriotic stories of British naval power and overseas imperialism, while the British simulation facility featured in the film draws water from the River Thames to model the effects of climate change around the world.
Director, Cinematography and Editing | Ree Bradley
Collaboration and Development  | Ifor Duncan
Opera Singer | Steve

Ocean Modelling Facility | HRWallingford

Special Thanks
| Staff at HRWallingford