An overhead projector play exploring the Canadian oil and gas industry and the environmental apocalypse.

Written, performed and co-directed by Claren, I love the smell of gasoline is an autobiographical solo show in which Claren attempts to reconcile her Alberta oil-industry roots with the current environmental emergency. The project was born of a frustration with divisive Canadian politics, rampant hypocrisy, and a lack of team spirit when facing impending doom. It unpacks some of the forces that drive global warming and Western alienation in a personal account of what it is to live in a modern, capitalist environment, be a self-serving organism, and also care about the earth and fellow creature kind.

The project is directed by William Dao and features overhead projection art designed by Claren and the team, projected live by Elyse Waugh, Jesse Wabegijig and Stephanie Zeit. It was presented in-progress at the 2022 RUTAS International Performing Arts Festival and premiered with Nightwood Theatre and Pencil Kit Productions in March 2023. For full team list and more information, see Pencil Kit Productions.