Rollover: A Collaboration of Science and Theatre

Play Synopsis:

As hurricane winds howl and floodwaters rise, siblings Leena and Bill—an Earth science professor and a deputy fire chief—work to safeguard their home and their elderly mother. But this is no ordinary storm. In the aftermath of destruction, the family must confront the deeper implications of living on a fragile coastline increasingly threatened by climate change and rising seas. This six-character, multi-generational story brings to life the emotional, scientific, and social challenges facing barrier island communities as they face the reality of relocation, adaptation, and loss.

Join us for a compelling evening where science meets art in Rollover, a one-act play written by Laura Jean Moore, Professor of Coastal Geomorphology at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This thought-provoking production immerses audiences in a fictional barrier island community grappling with the impact of a devastating hurricane.

Why It Matters:
Rollover is more than a fictional story—it is grounded in scientific understanding of coastal dynamics and the lived experiences of those in storm-prone areas. Through its intimate exploration of human decision-making, the play raises critical questions about community resilience and what it means to call a place “home.”

Talkback Session:
Following the performance, stay for a dynamic talkback session featuring expert scientists specializing in coastal erosion and barrier island dynamics. Panelists will discuss the real-world science behind the play’s events, how coastal communities can adapt to a changing climate, and what is at stake for future generations.

Whether you are drawn to drama, science, or both, this event promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our world—and the tough decisions coastal communities face today.

Content Advisory: This production contains some strong language and explores themes of property destruction and loss of life resulting from hurricanes.

Host or Publisher W&M Theatre & Performance, W&M Batten School, and VIMS