Playback theater will bring their unique brand of improvisational performance to Ballard in October. The topic of the show will be “homelessness.” This will be an opportunity for all people (homeless or not) to share personal stories that speak to their experiences, thoughts and feelings. The intention is to facilitate understanding and connection.

Date/Time: Saturday, October 24th, 1 pm – 3 pm
Place: Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063, 2812 Market Street
$10 donation at the door
For further information, contact event organizers:
David Sokal: dsokal@msn.com, 206-322-8748 or 206-233-0156 ext. 230 Ira Woodward: ira.woodward@gmail.com, 206-243-1333

As many in the Ballard area and beyond are aware, the City of Seattle is in the process of preparing a site for the Nickelsville homeless encampment on Market Street next to the Ballard Eagleson VFW Hall. In the last month, neighbors made it clear they felt the city had not given them enough input into the decision making process. Currently, work is under way to secure another more favorable site in Ballard. However, until it is ready,

Nickelsville may still need to temporarily occupy the site on Market Street.

David Sokal is an artist who had been working with Nickelsville residents several months prior to the move to Ballard was announced. His goal was to find ways in which artists could work with residents to help them tell their personal stories. One idea was to have Playback Theater NW come to Nickelsville and get the process started.

When the issue of moving came up, one resident, Collin McCredie, who was very involved with the move, became excited about the idea of having the theater group provide a forum for more open dialogue between Nickelsville and Ballard residents. Collin wanted to ensure his new neighbors that the residents of Nickelsville intend to be a positive addition to the neighborhood.

This event is an opportunity for people who have homes to connect and share with those who don’t. We welcome all to attend. The performance will begin with a brief icebreaker. During the main performance, the actors will solicit the audience for personal stories on the theme. The director will select a volunteer to tell his or her story, and then the troupe will act out that story accompanied by music. The improvisations may include dialog, humor, dance-like motion and interaction. It is totally appropriate for all ages. After the improvisation, the audience and actors discuss the story. Usually the one and one-half hour event accommodates about five to seven stories. At the end of the show, everyone will have time to chat and get to know each other.

For more information on Playback Theater Northwest please visit:
www.playbacktheaternw.org