Deze auteur creëert zowel fictie als non-fictie, waarbij vaak een unieke theatrale vorm wordt verkend waarbij publieksleden persoonlijke verhalen delen die vervolgens onmiddellijk worden nagespeeld. Hun korte verhalen hebben literaire tijdschriften en bloemlezingen gesierd, en sommige werden bekroond of erkend. De prozastijl van de auteur duikt in de complexiteit van de menselijke ervaring en biedt gevoelige portretten van relaties. Hun werk onderzoekt hoe individuele verhalen collectief begrip en empathie kunnen bevorderen.
A bright young man with cerebral palsy finds his life unexpectedly connected to Princess Diana, exploring themes of resilience and the impact of public figures on personal journeys. As their paths cross, the narrative delves into the challenges he faces and the transformative effects of their relationship, highlighting the intersection of disability, hope, and royal influence.
Music therapy and Playback Theatre with troubled children
Focusing on the resilience and creativity of children facing severe emotional disturbances, the book shares the experiences of those at a treatment center in New York. Through Jo Salas's innovative drama and music program, these young survivors of neglect and violence find their voices amidst trauma. Their stories reveal a profound desire to express themselves, connect with others, and support their peers, highlighting the transformative power of art and community in healing.
Describes the origins, practice, and principles of Playback Theatre, an original form of interactive, improvisation theatre based on true stories told by audience members and enacted on the spot.
Essays on Playback Theatre by Its Founders
Interactive performance and community engagement are at the heart of Playback Theatre, which originated in 1975 in the Mid Hudson Valley of New York. This unique art form, now practiced in 70 countries, involves teams of actors and musicians who listen to audience stories and spontaneously enact them without scripts or rehearsals. By fostering dialogue and connection, Playback Theatre creates a shared experience that emphasizes the power of storytelling in diverse contexts.
Focusing on the life of Mrs. Lowe-Porter, this biographical novel brings to life the aspirations and experiences of the author's grandmother-in-law, whom she never met. Through vivid imagination and rich storytelling, Jo Salas crafts a narrative that captures the essence of her subject's journey, ultimately presenting a significant literary accomplishment that resonates with readers. The book intertwines personal history with broader themes, creating a compelling portrait of a remarkable woman.
'Dieses Buch beschreibt eine Form der Improvisation. Sie beruht auf Geschichten von mehr oder weniger alltäglichen Ereignissen, die bei einer Vorstellung erzählt werden – Träume, Erinnerungen, Phantasien, Tragödien und Farcen: Momentaufnahmen aus dem Leben wirklicher Menschen. Diese Improvisation ist leicht zugänglich und macht Spaß, sie findet in Theatern statt, aber auch außerhalb – tatsächlich funktioniert sie in jeder Umgebung. Ob von routinierten Schauspielern oder Anfängern praktiziert, das Playback-Theater würdigt die Erfahrung einzelner und die Beziehungen zwischen Menschen – durch ihre Geschichten.'Jo Salas