Climate Week NYC: Catalyst Coffee. A New Play By Food Tank.

Catalyst Coffee, a new play written by Bernard Pollack and presented by Food Tank for Climate Week NYC (Official). Named by The Arts Fuse as “one of the best new shows of 2024,” Catalyst Coffee pulls you behind the counter and into the high-stakes world of a barista union campaign.

This immersive theatrical workshop reading—directed by Lakisha May—blends sharp drama with bold questions about power, solidarity, and survival. The cast includes Stacey Sargeant as Monique, Kalyne Coleman as Ashley, Keshav Molidar as Michael, Erin Neufer as Ella Lax, Alex Morf as Craig Becker, and Brooks Brantly as the Janitor and the readings movement consultant.

Special musical performance featuring Clair Rachel Howell, a Broadway and touring artist currently performing in Wicked on both Broadway and the National Tour, accompanied by Noah Turner, a New York–based music director and accompanist known for his work on Jersey Boys, The Sound of Music, and Joy the Musical. Come for the show. Stay for the food, the drinks, and an evening of conflict and inspiration you'll never forget. Written by Bernard Pollack with dramaturgy by Elena Morris. Come for the show. Stay for the food, the drinks, and an evening of conflict and inspiration you'll never forget.

This exclusive workshop reading is part of Climate Week NYC and takes place at WNYC-NPR’s The Greene Space on Tuesday, September 23rd at 7:00 PM.

The evening includes curated bites from celebrity chefs, craft cocktails, and unique moments for audience engagement as the play continues to evolve.

Catalyst Coffee builds on the success of Food Tank’s previous show WeCameToDance, which sold out a 26-performance run at the 2021 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and was broadcast live on the BBC and Good Morning Britain.

Special musical performance featuring Clair Rachel Howell, a Broadway and touring artist currently performing in Wicked on both Broadway and the National Tour, accompanied by Noah Turner, a New York–based music director and Broadway accompanist known for his work on Jersey Boys, The Sound of Music, and Joy the Musical.

This event is by invitation-only. If you would like to request to be considered for an invitation, please email Bernard at Bernard@FoodTank.com.

Food Tank is the world’s fastest growing global non-profit community working towards positive transformation in how we produce and consume food. As one of the food and agriculture movement’s most dynamic conveners, we educate and collaborate with local partners to amplify on-the-ground solutions.

Checkout Food Tank's full lineup of events during Climate Week NYC from Sunday, Sept 21-Friday, Sept 26 by clicking HERE.