Odes to Ooze: Performing the Science of Ecosystems

Odes to Ooze: Performing the Science of Ecosystems

Directed by Luverne Seifert and Sonja Kuftinec

October 18, 2025

Two performance times

2:30 - 3:30 PM - followed by a post-show conversation

5:00 - 6:00 PM - followed by a reception

Each performance will last approximately 1 hour.

Preshow

Before each performance, there will be a pre-show. Preshow will be set up in the main entrance in Lindeman. Please arrive 30-15 minutes prior to your show time to enjoy the pre-show.

About the Performance

Odes to Ooze: Performing the Science of Ecosystems draws on a four-year arc of science-theater collaborations with Professors Luverne Seifert and Sonja Kuftinec to dramatize research at UMN’s Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve. Since the 1930s the Reserve has hosted an array of long-term research projects in a site known for its ecological diversity. We will bring four of these projects–each associated with one Aristotelian element of Earth, Fire, Air, and Water–to theatrical life at Cedar Creek.

Through our collaboration we explore the following questions: 1) What can fungus tell us about how plants “communicate” and share resources? 2) How does fire sustain as well as destroy forests? 3) What might lichen have to “say” about air quality? 4) What's the value of swamps, rot, and ooze?

Student performers representing historical Cedar Creek scientists Ray and Eleanor Lindeman and the Three Sisters (Corn, Beans, Squash) will guide audiences through this outdoor puppet-infused journey. Audiences will encounter current and long-term ecological research and Traditional Ecological Knowledge through music, dance, puppetry, and storytelling.

Join us in a site-specific puppet-infused spectacle at Cedar Creek to encounter this research with a dramatic flair!

Age restrictions

All ages are welcome, but program is geared toward ages 14 and older. Parent or Gardian must be present for ages 17 or younger.

Other opportunities to view this performance

This performance will also occur on the Minneapolis campus of the University of Minnesota on October 17 at 5:00 PM. Visit the UMN Department of Theathre Arts and Dance's website for more information and to reserve tickets.

Organizer and Sponsers

Performance is produced by the Department of Theater Arts & Dance at the University of Minnesota. Science content and support provided by Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve in the College of Biological Sciences.

This Artist-in-Residence program is generously funded by a collaborative grant from the University of Minnesota’s Research and Innovation Office.