A groundbreaking style of entertainment is coming to Coledale.
Playback Theatre is a unique concept that sees stories told by the audience immediately turned into a performance. It’s like Theatresports, only different!
Gerry Orkin from Wollongong Playback Theatre says the show at Coledale Community Hall on April 9 will focus on the theme ‘From Small Things’.
Gerry has been participating in Playback Theatre for 35 years and was co-director of the Canberra group for 12 years.
“We encourage the audience to tell us stories centred on this theme,” says Gerry. “Sometimes just a glance or a discussion can be the start of something amazing. It can be funny, profound, emotional or thought-provoking.
“The whole audience hears the person tell the story, then the actors play it back straight away. It’s a real skill to instantly interpret and adapt to the story. The actors are not directed, and have to play off each other to depict the essence of the story they’ve just heard.
The Playback Theatre concept has been running 40 years, however it’s relatively new to the Wollongong area. Already it has attracted some of our area’s most accomplished actors and musicians.
“The concept is unique,” says Gerry. “The audience and actors all walk into the theatre with no idea of what’s going to happen. It appeals to people who like the idea of art as therapy. It can affect change, and it connects people. Playback Theatre has also been adopted for corporate training purposes and we have run workshops for local organisations, including Wollongong Council.”
Gerry says the performance is based on the centuries-old tradition of telling stories as a community, and embracing truth and authenticity.
“It’s a heartwarming process,” he says.
The show includes four actors, a facilitator, and a musician.
The performance will be held at Coledale Community Hall at 7pm on April 9. Tickets are $15.
If you’re interested in learning more about Playback Theatre, or taking part, an introductory Workshop is being held at Coledale Community Hall on Saturday March 19 from 10am-4pm.
“This workshop is for people looking to develop more spontaneity and playfulness in their lives,” says Gerry. “It also helps explore the power of individual and community stories.”
If you’d like to know more, please call Gerry on 0405 772 883.
