PLUG iN to TRUE STORY THEATER: "Who am I? And how did I find out" Sharing stories of identity

Join us for a month of programs and events focusing on race and identity supporting the 2021 Arlington Reads Together book pick, Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria by Beverly Daniel Tatum.

In this collaborative workshop with True Story Theater, you will get to explore your core identities, connect to others who are both similar and different from you, and make new discoveries. In small groups, we’ll look at the identities we were born with, the identities we choose, and those placed on us by the world–identities such as race, religion, gender identity, societal role, and much more.  When do your identities give you a sense of belonging–and when do they create a feeling of uncomfortable “otherness?”  When have you broken through preconceptions or judgments placed on yourself and others? Why do we take time to look at our own identities in pursuit of greater racial and social justice?

Between the small group sessions, True Story Theater will invite volunteer audience members to share their experiences and feelings.  On the spot, the performers will respectfully and creatively embody the emotional essence of what is shared, using movement, music, and drama. Throughout, whether you take a risk to share or prefer to simply watch and listen, chances are you will be moved (maybe even to laughter and tears), and leave with a greater appreciation for yourself and a greater understanding of others in the wider community.  Read more about True Story Theater and Playback Theatre.