History
Playback Theatre was founded in 1975 by Jonathan Fox and Jo Salas in New Paltz, NY. Influenced by Moreno's psychodrama and the power of traditional forms of storytelling, Jonathan and the initial troupe who helped shape the form took Playback to schools, prisons, centers for the elderly, and conferences, in an effort to encourage individuals from all walks of society to let their story be heard.
Where Used
Playback Theatre is used in business, educational, therapeutic, social change, and arts settings. In addition to public performances, Playback Theatre has been offered:
- In schools to address violence, bullying, and other issues;
- To foster personal empowerment (e.g. inviting battered women to tell their stories);
- In disaster relief (e.g. in fire-devastated communities in the northwest);
- At business or nonprofit conferences to assist team-building, diversity-work, or employee appreciation;
- For conflict resolution and reconciliation (training actors in conflicted countries to perform in neighborhood settings, rebuilding a climate of civil discourse).
A Global Network
Playback companies now exist on five continents and in over 50 countries. The International Playback Theatre Network was founded in 1990 to support Playback activity throughout the world. See the International Playback Theatre Network for links to some of the companies and for articles on playback.
A Powerful Cultural Tool for Change
Playback is a powerful, creative form that allows different voices to be heard and respected. Around the world, Playback has reached disenfranchised people, and used to build understanding where conflict had driven people apart. A few examples:
- Southern India: Groups of Dalit people have used playback to assert their rights.
- Western Australia: Playback has helped landowners and Aboriginal people find common ground.
- Burundi: Hutu and Tutsi actors work together in a playback troupe in a country healing civil war.
- Germany: Jews and Gentiles speak of their lives in contemporary Germany.
- USA: After the 9/11 attacks, playback troupes have invited Muslims to share their experiences.
To Learn Playback
- Attend classes at the School of Playback Theatre held during the summer at Vassar College.
- Read about Playback Theatre in books obtained through Tusitala Publishers.
Partner with Playback
- Bring a playback company to your organization for a special performance, event, or workshop.
- Contribute funds to the development of playback as a unique cultural tool for promoting peace and understanding.