LeCAKE Ceremony blends theatre and interactive gameplay, unfolding across four distinct scenes, each with its own purpose:
- Scene #1: Opening – “Passage Moment”. The ceremony begins with a transitional moment designed to centre participants. This phase gently guides them into the space and helps establish focus, setting the tone for the experience.
- Scene #2: The Ceremonial Table. At the heart of the ceremony is the ceremonial table, a place of connection and a powerful symbol of the collective goal: embracing a systemic approach to ecology and sustainability. A card game is introduced, and participants receive symbolic “pieces of cake” as they are encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas, fostering collaboration and dialogue.
- Scene #3: Creative Expression Through Theatre. Participants move to a smaller stage where they are invited to transform their acquired knowledge into creative and emotional expressions, bringing a theatrical and imaginative dimension to the ceremony.
- Scene #4: Closing – Collective Energy Expression. The ceremony concludes with a moment of shared energy, channelling the collective spirit and emotions of the group, leaving participants inspired and unified.
Below, you will find a detailed step-by-step description of the ceremony:
The sequence requires a Master of Ceremonies, referred to as the “Shaman” by the designers, to add an element of fun and humour to the storyline. The Shaman is encouraged to wear a distinctive costume to lend an air of solemnity and playfulness to the moment. As the driving force of the ceremony, the Shaman must be well-versed in the script and comfortable taking on a leadership role.
For younger participants, a Guide (such as a teacher or facilitator) accompanies them to ensure the smooth progression of the sequence and provide support as needed.
1a. The script
Scene #1. The opening
1a. Gathering Outside
The group (maximum 12 participants + guide) gathers outside the ceremony room. Inside, the Shaman stands by the window, gazing at the park, drawing inspiration from nature.
1b. The Shaman’s Welcome
The Guide addresses the Shaman: *“We are ready, Master.”* . Slowly, the Shaman approaches the entrance and greets the group with a solemn nod: “The LeCake Ceremony is about to begin.”
The Shaman explains: “As we enter the ceremony room, it is essential for everyone to cleanse their hands.”
1c. Preparing for Entry
The Shaman hands the Guide a water bowl and demonstrates how to hold it at the entrance. The Shaman asks the participants to form two lines—one to the left, the other to the right of the corridor. He takes a water carafe in one hand and a towel in the other.
1d. Entering the Room
Participants enter one by one, alternating between the left and right lines. The Shaman pours water over each participant’s hands as they hold them above the bowl. He offers the towel to dry their hands and then invites them to sit around the table at any spot they choose. Once everyone is seated, the Guide takes a seat at one end of the table, with the Shaman at the opposite end near the window.
Scene #2. The LeCAKE Ceremony
2a. Introducing the Ceremony
The Shaman explains: “The LeCake Ceremony is more than just a ritual—it’s a game. Together, we will explore a topic connected to climate change. I will guide you step by step.”
2b. Choosing the Cake
The Shaman announces: “The first step is to select the Cake we will share—a symbol of friendship and celebration. You must now vote between water, air, environment, and waste. Each topic corresponds to a unique cake. Think carefully about your choice. When I count down from three, speak your answer aloud. 3… 2… 1… Zero!”
The participants say their choice. From that messy moment, the Shaman acknowledges the chosen topic and retrieves the corresponding cake. “You have chosen [topic]. Excellent.”
2c. Sharing the Cake
The Shaman distributes slices of cake along with a card to each participant. “Take a piece, but do not eat yet—let’s wait until everyone has their slice.” Once all participants have their cake, he says: “Let’s take the first bite together. Savor the joy and happiness this cake brings—it will give us strength for what comes next.” “Now, let us read the cards. Some words may seem mysterious, but remember, the world itself is often a mystery. Simply feel what the words convey.”
2d. A Moment of Freedom
Without explanation, the Shaman begins drawing on paper. The Guide joins in by drawing on the tablecloth. The participants are free to do as they wish for two minutes. For the first time in the ceremony, the participants have a space for initiative (!). It’s really ok that they feel a bit surprised and possibly questioning. Shaman and Guide are encouraged not to answer (just smile gently) so the participants may discuss together, possibly talk about their cards or start drawing. The content of this moment depends on the audience, its age, its self-confidence. If needed, the Guide may encourage them to discuss what is on their cards, what they learned, and how they feel about it.
Scene #3. The theatre
3a. Silent Movement
The Shaman announces: “Now, we enter the second chapter of the ceremony. The Shaman divides the group into two—those seated on the left and those on the right. “We will now engage in a silent, choral movement. Please respect the silence.” He demonstrates how to stand, quietly saying “shhhhhh” while placing his chair back in position. When the Shaman rings the bell, the group on the right stands, replaces their chairs, and forms a line on the right side of the carpet. After the bell rings again, the left group follows, forming a line on the left side.
3b. Mime Training
With both groups facing each other, the Shaman announces: “This is a mime moment. Soon, you will mime the topic on your card, but first, we’ll practise.”
Individual Practice: The Shaman calls out an object (*e.g., “The Eiffel Tower”*) and asks participants to mime it after the bell rings. Afterwards: “Good. Relax.”
Group Practice: The Shaman assigns a theme (*e.g., “Forest Life”*) for each group to mime together. Participants have 10 seconds to prepare, signalled by one bell to start and another to freeze. “Bravo! Now, let’s move to the highlight of the ceremony.”
3c. Creating the Group Image
The Shaman says, “Recall the card you received earlier. When I ring the bell, you have one minute to work together as two groups to create a collective image inspired by your cards. I will turn my back to be surprised.” After one minute, the Shaman asks: “Are you ready?” He rings the bell, turns around, and captures the scene with a photo (or the Guide does).
Scene #4. Closing the Ceremony
4a. The circle of clapping
The Shaman invites everyone into a circle: “Congratulations on your creativity. Remember, collaboration and group effort are the keys to changing the world.” He leads the group in a celebratory clapping ritual—starting slow, ensuring everyone is synchronised, then gradually building speed until a cheer erupts.
4b. Farewell
The Shaman concludes: “Thank you for your incredible participation. Together, we’ve created something memorable. Until next time!”
1b. LeCAKE Ceremony set
Here is a basic description of the necessary space to run LeCAKE Ceremony. Below, you can also find pictures of the installation made to test the Ceremony for the first time in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, in October 2024.
In order to reduce at the maximum the carbon footprint of the Ceremony, all the necessary elements selected bu the design team is standard, or reuse from previous projects (table, chairs, wall decoration carpets, furnitures, costumes, etc.).
The only specific elements needed are :
- Cakes
- A deck of cards printed specifically
