DAMASCUS, PA — Farm Arts Collective presents a mind-bending evening of neuro-science and performance with researchers from the Waters Lab at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai NYC and performers from the Farm Arts Collective community. 

The presentations will focus on neuroscience, mental health, and innovative research in a remarkable evening of call and response between the disciplines of science and art.

The performance kicks off the Farm Arts Collective 2024 season in its NEW Agri-Cultural Center on Willow Wisp Organic Farm.

Science Cabaret will be presented in a cabaret setting, hosted by Tannis Kowalchuk, Artistic Director of Farm Arts Collective, and Dr. Allison Waters, neuroscientist, and Director of The Waters Lab at Mt. Sinai. Kowalchuk and Waters have collaborated on two previous works for the stage (STRUCK and Out of Mind).

In Science Cabaret, four neuroscientists will each present their most cutting-edge research in neurotechnology and mental health treatment. Presentations will take the form of a “flash talk” in the style of science communication popularized by TED.

The presenting scientists include Allison Waters on developing brain implants to treat depression; Sanjana Murthy on the role of embodiment and disembodiment in the antidepressant effect of ketamine trips; Jake Dahill-Fukel on ultrasonic waves to interrupt ruminative thinking in depression; Ted Panov (neurosurgeon) on meditation and experiences in surgery implanting devices in peoples’ brains for treatment of epilepsy.

Each scientist will be paired with a performer who will use the scientists’ research as inspiration for the creation of a new performance piece.  Following each of the scientists’ talk, the artists will present their creative response.

Presenting artists include Erin Dudley (movement artist), Jonathan Charles Fox (storyteller/actor), Kazzrie Jaxen (composer/jazz improviser), Manon Manavit (inter-disciplinary artist) Doug Rogers (composer/actor), Will Sellenraad (jazz guitarist/improviser).

The performance experience will also include farm fresh food, refreshments, and a reception with the artists and scientists following the presentations to continue the community conversation about mental health, treatments, and collective support.