Healing York Playback Workshop and Playday

The workshop is a "play day" exploring our stories while learning and using the improvisational forms of Playback Theatre. In Playback, participants tell their own stories and watch them played back on the spot by an ensemble of actors. In this workshop you will have many chances to tell, to act, to watch and to accompany with music. You will have a chance to build community connections, learn listening skills, have fun and much more.

Beginning at 10 AM, we will start with physical warm ups and interactive games that get our whole body moving as we learn Playback "short forms" to articulate feelings and simple ideas. At lunch, we'll share a meal and stories around our table, leading to the playing of full stories in "long form" in the afternoon. Our focus in Healing York Playback will continue to address race and ethnicity and more generally, experiences of being in the margins and mainstream of our society. We expect all kinds of stories to come out of this process -- heavy and light, struggling and hopeful. It depends on what you bring and share.

This workshop is for all in the greater York area -- and beyond -- who are curious about neighbors' diverse stories and learn an intriguing form of improvisational theatre. We encourage people to join from all ages, ethnic backgrounds, genders, abilities and sexual orientations. Workshop participants from the greater York area may have the option to join the Healing York Playback ensemble as actors or musicians in future performances and workshops.

Leadership is provided by Sheila Donio (Brazil) and Chris Fitz (US). Sheila has played in Sao Paulo Playback Theatre and directed the professional Brasilis Playback Theatre company. Chris is founder and director of Healing York Playback and former director of the Jubilee Troupe, now residing in Marietta, PA.*

* Due to logistical difficulties, Sheila will not be able to join this workshop.  We apologize for any disappointments this causes!

Your registration includes lunch, snacks, props and the day's leadership. You bring an open mind, your whole self and comfortable loose-fitting clothes. Registration is now available online for a sliding scale fee of $10 - $30 (pay what you can). Register online through PayPal or send a check payable to "Yorktowne Dance Theatre" to 134 W. Market Street, Marietta, PA 17547. For questions, call Chris Fitz at (717) 318-7315.

Register by Friday, May 2 to guarantee space in the workshop. Registrations are now being accepted until Friday, May 9 at 9 PM!

Driving to William Penn Performing Arts Institute, take South George Street to Princess Street and turn west (toward the Post Office and McDonalds). Parking available after crossing Beaver Street on either side of Princess Street. Entrance on west side of Beaver Street across from St. Patrick's Church.

This event is supported in part by a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.