The Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance at Wayne State University made numerous conscious efforts to highlight the underlying climate themes in The SpongeBob Musical through its production at the Hilberry Gateway in Spring 2026. From the outset, the entire team, including College Green Captains Sunny Ryan and Madi Burt, recognized the importance of centering sustainability. From actors using reusable water bottles and earth-friendly makeup to set designers collecting cans and bottles to repurpose the set, every aspect of this piece was intentional and driven toward greening the department.

75% of the costumes showcased in this production were made from secondhand, vintage, and reused fabrics. This is a major feat in a department that must work under strict timelines, often requiring the purchase of new pieces for each production. To further the department’s goal of conservancy, the scenic designers crafted an entirely recycled set, using pieces from previous shows (e.g., scrap wood, chairs, and ladders) and landfill‑bound materials (e.g., bottles, cans, and tires).

Beyond the nautical nonsense on stage, the production partnered with a variety of eco-conscious organizations, including The Greening of Detroit, for a tree-planting event in Detroit's Clark Park, where the company planted 23 trees. The production also hosted a Family Day in the lobby between their Saturday shows, featuring climate- and community-focused organizations, such as Michigan's Climate Action Network and YMCA-Detroit, to uplift Bikini Bottom patrons and share information and action items.