DecadesOut Inc

Science is the study of the physical world and society, and humanity has always been inextricably tied to the dictates of science. From the discovery of fire that freed us to roam the world to the current understanding of the laws of physics and chemistry that regulate our universe and our bodies: from the development of the technologies behind medicine, communications, exploration, and warfare to the eventual reformation of our world and ourselves, mankind and science have and will exist together as the best of friends and most bitter adversaries.

As the age of science has become a steady framework for humanity's development, there needs to be an outlet dedicated to artists as they engage in the growing dialogue between science and society. DecadesOut exists to meet that need.

Established in 2009, DecadesOut develops and produces works of fiction and non-fiction in the disciplines of theatre, film, video, literature, and the visual arts. International in scope, we work with artists from diverse backgrounds to most fully appreciate global viewpoints. 

The work of DecadesOut looks toward the future and through history to not only find where the power of science acts in accord with the spirit of humankind, but also where lessons can be learned to avoid the great potential for harm that science possesses when its power is uncontrollable or misused. It also examines the role that scientists, engineers, explorers and educators have and will play as the human ambassadors to science in the understanding of this fundamental relationship.

Some current projects include: 

• Head for Highland, a feature documentary which explores how an amazing group of artists tackle the ever-growing problem of climate change. It follows the NACL ensemble (North American Cultural Laboratory) and its outdoor performance of The Weather Project.
• The SPARK Project. This aims to facilitate and share creative communication between scientists and artists. The SPARK website will support conversations between pairs of artists and scientists and accompany their work, culminating in a presentation and exhibition.
• The continuation of the Launch Pad Development Series of New Theatre. The goal is to give theatre artists (including writers and directors) a place to explore a piece's themes, ideas, and theatrical structures in order to help it reach the next level which could include a workshop or an initial production. Some plays have gone on to be fully realized in mainstage and festival productions.

We are proud of our partnerships with and thankful for the support of the Climate and Urban Systems Project (CUSP), the Puffin Foundation, the Dramatists Guild Fund and the New York Restoration Project, as well as the collaborations with the Netherland-America Foundation (NAF), the Gowanus Canal Conservancy and the New York Hall of Science.