True Story Theater

Uses improvisational theater to build empathy and understanding across differences through true life stories

Primary audience
General Public
Work area
Arts & Culture
Topic
Theater & Storytelling
Website Contact

About Organization

True Story Theater is a nonprofit theater company that offers 50-75 improvisational performances and workshops annually in the greater Boston area and online. Based in Arlington, MA, the organization was founded in 2001 and uses Playback Theatre methodology to help people share their stories. The company serves diverse audiences including hospitals, universities, corporations, religious communities, cancer survivors, activists, and business leaders.

What They Focus On

Empathy Building

Creating respectful spaces where people develop deeper understanding across personal, cultural, and social differences through storytelling

Community Connection

Bringing together diverse groups from hospitals, universities, and corporations to share experiences and find common humanity

Improvisational Arts

Using Playback Theatre methodology to transform personal narratives into spontaneous musical and theatrical performances

How They Work

Learn more
  • 01

    Story Sharing

    Volunteers from the audience are guided to share meaningful moments from their lives

  • 02

    Active Listening

    Trained actors use deep listening techniques to understand the heart of each story

  • 03

    Improvised Performance

    Actors portray the story through spontaneous music, movement, and dialogue on the spot

  • 04

    Connection Building

    Audiences laugh, cry, and bond through shared insights and renewed common humanity

Programs and Initiatives

Services and programs offered by True Story Theater

Public Performances

Monthly improvisational shows where audience members share personal stories that actors portray through music, movement, and dialogue

Online Shows

Virtual improvisational theater performances that bring people together through shared stories across digital platforms

Playback Theatre Workshops

Training sessions teaching deep listening and improvisational storytelling techniques to diverse groups throughout the Boston area

Team & Leadership

Meet the people behind True Story Theater.

Team information not available.

Milestones

2001

Organization Founded

2001

True Story Theater established in Arlington, Massachusetts to practice Playback Theatre

2010s

Expanded Reach

2010s

Grew to offering 50-75 performances annually across diverse community sectors

2020

Virtual Programming

2020

Launched online performances to maintain connection during pandemic and beyond

Contact

Get in touch with True Story Theater

Email

[email protected]

Phone

781-962-6363
Visit Website
Arlington, MA