“Encore really touched my heart. I went into the workshop not knowing what to expect and came out seriously as a different person. I learned everyone has something to offer.”

(high school student)   

Encore Theatre has developed many innovative ways for kids and seniors to connect; TRUTHeatre is one of these ways. Matching elders with youth in one-to-one dialogue, these workshops give both ages an opportunity to share their stories and their wisdom.

Encore presents these personal theatre workshops FREE to kids of all ages in schools, conferences and community groups. The Encore director facilitates, and 12-15 seniors join the same number of kids for 60-90 minutes of theater games and communication exercises.

Young people have an opportunity to see elders take risks and be honest; those same kids can then let down their own masks, revealing both joy and pain. The trust that develops between these generations in one hour is incredible. The workshops are very adaptable, and can be tailored to suit a variety of ages and programs.

TRUTHeatre was created because kids wanted more one-to-one interaction with Encore's troupers, and we wanted to increase the impact of our cross-generational performance. However, we have discovered that these workshops are transforming for everyone who participates. TRUTHeatre is about telling the truth, listening to others, and practicing compassion. It's a chance to connect.

“I'm usually a little shy, especially in front of student council members, but every single person in that workshop felt at ease and was honest with each other. That doesn't happen very often.”

(high school student)

“It was great seeing the kids' response at some of my sharing (surprise!), and then a softening towards me with the connection of a mutual understanding.”

(senior)

“I have never left a room feeling that many different feelings before. I wanted to cry, I laughed. There was a huge connection. For at least that hour the age gap was gone!”

(high school student)

  To sign up for a workshop or be a participant contact Encore at

(541) 342-1630 or encore.theatre@iname.com