Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to tell someone about it.
Telling is less about the imagined worlds portrayed by theater and clearly rooted in real life. That real life is the pain experienced by adult survivors of child sex abuse. In this production aptly titled Telling, seven survivors will relate their real life experiences of sexual abuse and its aftermath. As noted by their press release, this production is not just about the pain, but a complex retelling of their experience. “Their true stories are woven together to create a tapestry of pain, secrecy, and ultimately, hope.”
Not only is the production weaving multiple aspects of a sex abuse survivor’s experience but the mode of storytelling incorporates multiple theater techniques. A combination of dance, poetry, visuals and music. Even humor is a tool put to good use.
Interestingly this production tells the stories of adults from the Pacific Northwest. Surely a fact that will make this production resonate more. Understanding that these survivors could be our friends, neighbors or colleagues should allow for added insight and empathy on our part. As their press release emphasizes, “Telling strives to help everyone in the community step into their own light of awareness and hope.” Even if you have never experienced abuse yourself, experiencing these survivor’s stories firsthand can only enhance your understanding for the better.
Importantly this production aims to provide support and hope for other sex abuse survivors in the community. Telling intends to send a strong message of hope and healing. This support won’t just be from the experience and connection gleaned as the survivors relate their story but in other practical ways. Proceeds from the production will be used to help other survivors.
Telling will be running for three days only. Written by: Margie Boulé. Directed by: Jamie M. Rea.
Performed by: Elise Bradley, Das Chapin, Cristi Dillon, Digene Farrar, Carolee Horning, Gabriel Mikalson, Gordon Romei.
TELLING: Adult Survivors of Child Sex Abuse Step Into the Light at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, 104 17th Avenue S, Seattle (corner 17th Ave S and E Yesler Way), WA 98122. Mar 31, Apr 1-2. Tickets at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2822668 $20-$25.