Unconditional Theatre
Unconditional Theatre explores contemporary issues and events through the actual words, stories, and participation of those involved. By conducting interviews, sharing stories, and facilitating dialogue, they involve communities directly in dramatic work that builds understanding and seeks to inspire social change. Their current performances, Swing State Stories and Voices of Activism: Crawford, trace the journeys of surprising activists who stepped out of their comfort zones to get involved. Past projects include Women on Death Row, The Flag Project: A Response to 9-11, and Groping for Justice: The Bob Packwood Story. Unconditional Theatre can be found online at www.untheatre.org.
Voices of Activism: Crawford Members of Unconditional Theatre traveled to Crawford, Texas, to interview people on all sides of the recent anti-war protests. Many believe that the vigil near George W. Bush's ranch reinvigorated the anti-war movement. This performance shares the remarkable, inspirational stories of the "regular people" who filled the camp and helped make it all possible. It includes the voices of Camp Casey founders, soldiers who turned against the war, first-time activists, religious progressives, and counter-protesters from the "other side of the road". Unconditional Theatre believes their stories can inspire people to take action in stopping the war. And the insights of those on the other side can prepare us to engage in constructive dialogue across the ideological divide.
Swing State Stories In the emotional aftermath of the 2004 presidential election, Unconditional Theatre hosted an "Election Story Swap," where democratic swing state travelers were invited to reminisce, to eulogize, and to honor one another's personal election stories. One of the most compelling came from a traveler to Reno, NV who knocked on the door of a Bush supporter, was invited in for coffee, and kept up personal correspondence for months in an effort to sway her vote. Unconditional Theatre collected these stories from newly active progressives who shared what worked, what didn't, and what kept them going. They have a lot to teach about talking honestly and convincingly to people with differing political views.
Performance Details Unconditional Theatre can provide a full program, including dramatic reading and discussion, or they can perform just a segment as part of a larger event. Their presentation includes opportunities for audiences to participate, by offering feedback and sharing stories of their own. The company can also facilitate workshops which give participants practice in speaking to others with whom they disagree politically. In addition, they can cast members of your group to read roles in the play, which is a fun way to get involved and to attract additional audiences to the event.
Topics covered
Stories of Activism
Anti-Military Recruitment
Door-to-Door Canvassing
Reaching Across the Political Divide
If you would like to plan an event with Unconditional Theater, please email untheatre [at] earthlink [dot] net or call (510) 883-1877.