The Risan Project Tour: Todd Johnson Brings Environmental Advocacy to Fairbanks

By Amber McCain

In a recent KSUA chat with The Sun Star, Todd Johnson, the lead singer of Salem and a documentary filmmaker, shared excitement about bringing his unique mix of music, film, and environmental activism to Fairbanks for a special show at UAF on Wednesday, April 9. A storyteller with a mission, through his work, he uses his platform to bring awareness about the issues that mean the most to him. His latest project, The Risan Project Tour, combines film, music, and a compelling message about climate action.

“The Risan Project Tour is really about blending these elements—film, music, and environmental activism—into an experience where people can connect with these issues in a different way,” Todd said. “It’s not just about watching a film or hearing music—it’s about engaging with the work and realizing the importance of it.”

The tour is making its way across the country, allowing audiences to check out screenings of Todd’s climate change documentary, Cresta Alta. The film takes viewers on a journey to remote corners of the world—Alaska, Iceland, Chile, and Peru—showing the impact of climate change firsthand. Todd follows scientists studying glaciers and documenting the effects of climate change. It’s an up-close look at the changes happening in these fragile ecosystems and why it’s so important that we take action now.

“There’s an urgency to what these scientists are documenting,” Todd explained. “They’re in these remote places because climate change is happening now, not in some distant future. It’s happening right before our eyes. When I went out there, it was more than just the science—it was about capturing that human connection to the land and the work they’re doing.”

After each screening of Cresta Alta, Todd leads a Q&A session, encouraging a deeper understanding of climate change. “I really hope people walk away understanding that this isn’t just about the Arctic or the Andes,” Todd said. “It’s about how we’re all connected, and what we can do in our own communities to make a difference.”

Todd’s filmmaking journey began with a personal adventure to Alaska that led to his first film, Northward, a documentary capturing Todd’s move to Alaska and the formation of his band Salem while celebrating the state’s natural beauty. In Cresta Alta, Todd takes a more urgent approach, following scientists as they study glaciers and observe firsthand the rapid changes happening to these ecosystems.

“Cresta Alta was an adventure story, a research expedition, and a personal journey all in one,” Todd said. “I wanted to tell the story of these scientists and show how their research is helping us understand the very real effects of climate change. It’s all about trying to make the science more accessible, but also making it emotionally compelling, so people can understand why this is so important.”

In addition to filmmaking, Todd has long integrated environmental themes into his music. Salem has performed solar-powered concerts, including a special event for the Nantucket Land Council, where the show was powered entirely by vegetable oil to promote renewable energy. “We’ve always tried to find ways to bring that environmental message into our music,” Todd said. “Whether it’s through a solar-powered concert or a film that highlights climate change, it’s about using the platform to make people think differently about the world around them.”

The Risan Project Tour will be in Fairbanks on April 9, where Todd and his band, Salem, will perform at The Pub. The night will start with a screening of Cresta Alta at 7 pm, followed by a Q&A session. Afterward, Salem will take the stage for a live performance at 8 pm.

“I’ve always had a personal connection to Alaska—it’s where everything began for me,” Todd reflected. “And through everything I do, whether it’s music, film, or performances, I’m trying to inspire people to care about the environment and take action.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Todd’s message firsthand in Fairbanks—a night where music, film, and the future of our planet come together.