How will it be?

The European Playback Theatre Gathering is structured in a ‘Congress’ format of 4 intensive days, mornings and afternoons.

A variety of activities will be developed such as: working groups, round tables, experiential workshops, theoretical and/or project presentations and public performances, among others. These activities will be facilitated by people from different backgrounds and different trajectories, experiences and perspectives or approaches, thus favouring an enriching environment. The whole event is framed within the ethical principles of the Manifesto of the Iberian Association of Playback Theatre (AITP), ensuring a safe, inclusive and respectful space for all participants.

Where will it be?

This year, the European Meeting will be held in Spain, in the historic city of Salamanca and will be held at the Palacio de Congresos.

What is Playback Theatre?

It is a form of Improvisational Theatre. It was created by Jo Salas and Jonathan Fox in 1975 (New York). People in the audience share personal stories in the first person. An acting team, on stage, listens attentively to the shared story and performs an artistic representation accompanied by live music. They use their voices, movement and objects such as fabrics, ropes, ribbons… The duration of a performance is usually one to two hours and can be performed for small groups or for large groups of up to more than 100 people.

What applications does it have?

Playback Theatre is an artistic and theatrical form in its own right, as well as a versatile tool in multiple contexts: therapeutic, educational, community; and for the promotion of social justice. It is used to foster empathy, conflict resolution, improve personal and social well-being, strengthen social cohesion and raise awareness of human rights. Its adaptability makes it a valuable resource for diverse areas of life.

Playback Theatre Performance

At the European Meeting, there will be an opening performance on Thursday by the Iberian Playback Theatre Company. On Friday and Saturday, there will be public performances presented by mixed companies. To form these companies, there will be a MATCH game.

Do you want to play?

Live the experience and discover its transformative power

The name ‘Playback’ means ‘reproduction’ or ‘giving back’ and reflects the essence of this theatre: giving back the shared story through a theatrical and musical performance improvised on the spot. First-time attendees experience different reactions ranging from surprise to disbelief due to the magic and atmosphere that is generated. The acting team train for many hours, months, years to improve their technique.

However, these people started one day. They took that first step.

Do you dare to try it?