Playback Memphis: Soon to become EveryStory

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Virginia Murphy, Founder and Director of Advancement with Playback Memphis, which is soon to become EveryStory, who discusses the nonprofit organization's history and approach to training and employing professional artists and facilitators to use the unique art form of Playback Theatre, a listening and story sharing practice, with people in a variety of settings. The organization's community-focused performances are designed to catalyze community well-being, social healing, and flourishing culture. Virginia and her team have developed a training methodology to support community healing through storytelling, and as their organization continues to evolve, they are rebranding to become "EveryStory." The organization's new mission focuses on using storytelling as a tool for understanding and connection, with upcoming performances and partnerships in Memphis, along with various training opportunities and community engagement initiatives.

Playback Theater's Community Impact

Virginia Murphy, Founder and Director of Advancement with Playback Memphis, talks about the organization's 18-year history as a Playback Theatre company. Virginia explains that Playback Memphis is unique in its ability to train and employ artists and facilitators to provide their services, with a team of 14 ensemble members who have diverse backgrounds. She describes the audience experience at a Playback Memphis performance, which includes sharing personal stories and creating unique, community-focused narratives. The conversation then shifts to a discussion about Playback Memphis' upcoming rebranding to EveryStory.

Transformative Playback Theatre Journey

During the pandemic, Virginia and her team re-examined and recognized the value of their Playback Theatre techniques in supporting community healing and emotional growth, which has led them to develop their unique training methodology. In 2024, they embarked on a purposeful transformation journey to better distinguish their work from other Playback Theatre companies and align their identity with their core mission. The result was the creation of "EveryStory," a name that more closely reflects their innovative approach and community-focused purpose.

EveryStory: Storytelling for Connection

Virginia discusses the mission of EveryStory, emphasizing its focus on using storytelling as a tool for understanding and connection. She highlights upcoming performances in Memphis and partnerships with organizations like Gestalt Community Schools to support youth through art programs. Virginia also mentions training opportunities, such as "Listening for a Change," and encourages community involvement through sponsorships and attendance at events. She provides details on how to stay connected through various social media platforms and websites, noting the upcoming rebranding to EveryStory.

Visit https://playbackmemphis.org to learn more and connect with Playback Memphis. The new site for EveryStory, www.EveryStory.org, will be launching soon.