There's something powerful that happens when two seemingly different worlds come together with a shared purpose. At KKNK 2026 in Oudtshoorn, Spark in the Dark and One More Time did exactly that, bringing theatre and sustainability into one space, and in doing so, creating an activation that was as impactful as it was inspiring.
Set against the backdrop of Vonkprop, Spark in the Dark's dynamic creative hub, the collaboration introduced a new layer to the festival experience. While audiences came to discover bold performances from emerging South African talent, they were also invited to engage with sustainability in a tangible, accessible way.
At the heart of the activation were the vape donation stations - simple in concept, but powerful in execution. Positioned across the venue, these stations encouraged festivalgoers to responsibly dispose of their single-use vapes, sparking conversation around waste, consumption, and environmental responsibility. What could easily be overlooked as everyday waste was instead framed as an opportunity for awareness and change.
Complementing this was the charging activation station, where attendees could access power banks to keep their devices running throughout the festival. More than just a convenience, this touchpoint became a moment of interaction - drawing people in, creating engagement, and reinforcing the idea that sustainable solutions can seamlessly integrate into everyday experiences.
What made this collaboration particularly meaningful was how naturally the two industries aligned. Theatre, at its core, is about storytelling, emotion, and connection. Sustainability, in many ways, is about the same - reimagining systems, shifting perspectives, and inspiring action. Together, Spark in the Dark and One More Time demonstrated that when these forces combine, they can amplify each other in unexpected and powerful ways.
The response from festival-goers was overwhelmingly positive. Curiosity turned into conversation, and conversation into awareness. People didn’t just attend performances - they became part of a broader narrative about innovation, responsibility, and the future of creative industries.
This activation wasn’t just about what happened during the event - it was about what it represents moving forward. It showed that sustainability doesn’t have to exist on the fringes of culture; it can be embedded within it. It can enhance experiences, add depth to storytelling, and create new ways for audiences to engage.
As the curtains close on KKNK 2026, one thing is clear: this collaboration set a precedent. By bridging the gap between theatre and sustainability, Spark in the Dark and One More Time have opened the door for future initiatives that are not only creative but also consciously designed.
Because the future of performance isn’t just about what happens on stage - it’s about the impact we leave behind.