DOZENS of artists, dancers and performers took to the streets of Glasgow today to perform a surprise musical challenging BP’s sponsorship of the Scottish Ballet. 

The action, organised by theatre group BP or Not BP? as well as New York’s Reverend Billy and the Stop Shopping Choir, saw activists gather outside the Theatre Royal in the city centre. 

The performers are calling on the Scottish Ballet to stop promoting BP, which is notorious for lobbying governments to slow down climate action.

BP presents itself as a “sustainability partner,” with the oil giant reportedly helping to evaluate Scottish Ballet’s carbon footprint and develop sustainable policies. 

Shilpa of the Stop Shopping Choir said: “We need arts institutions to be committed to telling real stories, connecting with real people to create a better world, not greenwashing for fossil fuel corporations.”

The Scottish Ballet is one of the few performing arts companies that still partners with fossil fuel firms. 

The Edinburgh International Festival, Royal Shakespeare Company, Southbank Centre and National Theatre have all ended their sponsorship deals.

Francesca of BP or not BP?, said: “By choosing to dance with the devil in this way, the Scottish Ballet is seriously out of step with the rest of the UK arts and culture sector. 

“It’s time for the arts to stop providing cover for the companies most responsible for the climate emergency. It’s time to give BP its swansong.” 

Scottish Ballet told the Star they recognised the importance of the demand and would be reviewing all partnerships to ensure they’re fully aligned with a carbon neutral goal.