The immersive, thought-provoking performance began in silence, broken only by the sound of a baby’s heartbeat. As the stage lights rose, a mother entered, placing her newborn, Icarus, in a glowing bassinet. The exhibit projected how Icarus might look at key milestones in his life—at ages 10, 25, and 60—juxtaposed with the escalating climate challenges he could face, from extreme weather and displacement to food and water insecurity.

“The response from attendees was overwhelming and emotional,” said Yoca Arditi-Rocha, Executive Director of The CLEO Institute. “The exhibit is a reminder that the choices we make today will echo tomorrow. Like Icarus, we are flying too close to the sun, not heeding the warnings that risk our planet and future generations. This is more than just performance art—it’s a call for bold, immediate action to the world. Later is too late!”.

The shows concluded with a powerful message of hope and a call to action. Guests were invited to scan QR codes to sign a petition urging world leaders to commit to bold, meaningful climate action at the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP30) in Brazil next year and keep fossil fuel lobbyists out of the process.

“This is just the beginning,” said Thais Lopez Vogel, founder & trustee of VoLo Foundation. “By integrating data, art and storytelling, we can inspire communities worldwide. Our Present, Icarus’ Future is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in addressing the climate crisis.”