Disaster preparedness project receives UKRI funding

Image: The Neapolitan volcanoes Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei. Vesuvius on the horizon shows the mountain shape expected of volcanoes. Much larger, but less obvious, is Campi Flegrei, which is a giant depression and covers the rest of the photo, including beneath the sea in the Gulf of Pozzuoli. Credit: Christopher Kilburn.

ESCAPE project brings together a team of volcanologists, theatre practitioners and social scientists, to employ participatory theatre to help scientists who are monitoring the behaviour of Campi Flegrei, an active volcano in a suburban area near Naples, Italy, which last erupted in 1538. Led by Professor Christopher Kilburn (UCL Earth Sciences) and receiving over £575,000 in funding, the core team includes experts from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Portsmouth.

“Professor Kilburn explained: “Eruptions with the greatest impact on society have occurred from volcanoes that have been silent for centuries. When they become restless again, forecasting their behaviour involves scientific uncertainty, because we cannot see directly what is happening underground. We end up with a range of outcomes to choose from under time-limited conditions, and opinions often differ.

“We believe that participatory theatre will help to resolve conflicting opinions by revealing the emotional and cognitive factors that drive disagreement. If we’re right, our project will demonstrate the value of combining expertise from the arts and sciences to improve our approach to managing natural hazards.”

The UKRI cross research council responsive mode (CRCRM) pilot scheme is supporting new and creative interdisciplinary ideas emerging from the research community.

Links:

• UKRI news story
• Professor Christopher Kilburn’s academic profile