RDF

RARE GIFTS

We are all different. Thank goodness for that!

Whether we consider our uniqueness a strength or weakness, it is what we bring to the world. Often, our greatest challenges are our greatest gifts and vice-versa.

In this interactive theatre experience we will reflect on the many rare gifts we and other have. From our special skills or (dis)abilities to our children, our health or the many other fascinating ingredients of life. In a safe and honouring space, we will share and explore the unique contribution and service these gifts bring to the world. Thus, together, we may be able to expand our understanding and compassion of what it means to be truly human.

Playback Theatre is a unique form of improvisational theatre that creates a “safe container” for audience members to share their thoughts, feelings and life experiences on themes of importance to them. Using movement, text, music and fabric, participants’ life experiences are “played back” in moving, imaginative, fun, and compelling ways. Individual stories are honoured and universal themes are illuminated, celebrating both our diversity and our common humanity. At a deep level, participants have an experience of, “we are in this together, we share this story together.”

When people share their stories using Playback, a profound shift occurs in their willingness to focus on commonalities rather than judgment of others, facilitating the building of trust and connection among a wide diversity of people. Playback promotes understanding and attitudes of compassion, and has been used in many challenging contexts, including bullying in schools, cross-cultural disputes, and politic and religious conflicts. Playback Theatre was created in New York , in 1975, and since that time, over 150 troupes have been created in over 30 countries around the world, encompassing many different languages and cultures.

Vancouver Playback Theatre (VPT) is composed of multi-talented professionals with skills and experience in many areas, including acting, singing, motivational speaking, training, group facilitation, counseling, organizational development and leadership. We have been performing and conducting training for a wide range of clientele for over a decade.