Jogjakarta Playback Theater Workshop

GHCC-UKDW, Kaliurang .July 3-9, 2002

Besides the possibilities of lingual approaches in the field of reconciliation and peace building are chances to reach the target groups with the instrument of art. A very successful one is the instrument of theater. Theater is rooted in every culture and known by every person of every age, status and education. The origins of theater lie both in sacred ritual and in the telling of stories – stories used often to establish tribal myths and traditions. These origins suggest that theater has always been about more than entertainment. The Greek concept of Catharsis – the purification of the psyche of the audience – speaks to the power of theater to transform.

The Playback Theater concept is a worthy step in the evolution of transformative theatrical forms. In very simple yet potent ways the performances generated, right before our eyes, by Playback actors enable us to reflect on the essential nature of our personal and collective experiences. More often than not this reflection transforms (one is tempted to say, heals) attitudes, attachments, conclusions, about our past. It is a powerful alchemy where the dross of ordinary every-day experience is revealed in a new light. This revelation can enable us to see that in our own little personal life stories there are universal themes as large and enduring as even the most epic tales.

Perhaps the most elementary difference between the playback and the ordinary theatre is that in a playback performance, the audience is the playwright. Playback theatre is a spontaneous and truly interactive form of theatre. First, assisted by the conductor, the members of the audience tell stories or incidents from their own lives. Then the actors and musicians play the story back to the storyteller and the audience by the means of improvisation. At its best, playback theatre is an art of sensation. It is for being heard. It is true unity between human beings. It really delivers the spell of the stories. In a playback performance, there is room for both joy and sorrow, romance and reality, everyday life and celebration. Playback theatre combines elements from storytelling, traditional theatre and psychodrama.

If you are interested to know more about Playback Theater, how to play, how to conduct a show, how to found a group you yourself, you should not miss our workshop.

The workshop will be conducted by Jean Lunny and Ruth Mischnick. Jean Lunny from Europe has a theater group herself and plays and conducts shows since more than five years. Ruth Mischnick uses the concept of Playback Theater since many years in the field of reconciliation.The workshop will take place in Yogyakarta. The main language used will be English, but because Playback Theater is a concept mainly beyond words, any language is welcome. A translator will be provided also.

Provided as part of the Rp 500.000 registration fee. This is a self-funding workshop. Space is limited. Bank transfer information:
BNI 46 Kantor Kas UKDW
acc.no. 228-007-165.013.901
an. PSPP-UKDW
ket: Playback Theatre wk. Regr
Please fax a copy of the transfer slip to 0274-513235 Attention Yuni

If you are interested, register now.

Perubahan terakhir 16 April 2002 oleh Yun!