Juneteenth Memphis Matters

Playback Memphis presents a special Juneteenth Memphis Matters performance, a celebration and commemoration of the liberation of enslaved Black people in America, and a celebration of the African Diaspora. This very special show will consist of an all-Black performance Ensemble, as well as a Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC)-only audience.

Playback is spontaneous theatre based on stories told by the audience. At a Memphis Matters performance, audience members share reflections, moments, or true stories – everything from how their day has gone to an event that changed their life. That simple act of sharing is powerful on its own, but what happens next can be transformative: our talented Ensemble performs that story back for the audience. By playing it back, the richness of the story can unfold, affirming it is valued and deserves to be heard.

Through words, movement, and music, the teller, Ensemble, and audience share connection and dialogue through theatre that unites art and social change. Join us in celebrating and valuing the experiences and people of our city to unlock healing, transformation, and joy in Memphis — one story at a time.

Tickets support the work of Playback Memphis, and regular tickets are $20. If you would like to "pay it forward," $40 tickets are also available and cover the cost of tickets for members of our Community Matter partner organizations to attend the performance highlighting their work.

Money should not be a barrier for participation. If you have concerns about ticket costs or have questions regarding your ability to attend, please reach out to Adriane Hall at [email protected] so we can make sure you are part of our story.

We anticipate a sold-out performance and encourage you to purchase your tickets online in advance. A limited number of seats will be available to purchase on the night of the show but we cannot guarantee seating for all walk-up guests.

Participate how you feel most comfortable. Feel free to share a story, or simply sit back and watch the magic unfold. We welcome and value you as a teller or witness.

Performances take place at TheatreSouth, located inside First Congregational Church at 1000 S. Cooper St. The entrance to the theatre is located on the south side of the church, to the right of the wooden ramp. Please park in the lot at Cooper Street and Walker Avenue. Look for signs to guide your way!

ASL interpreters will be signing at this event.

Memphis Matters is supported by the Tennessee Arts Commission, ArtsMemphis, InDev Supported Living, and Huey's Restaurants.

When you choose a "Pay It Forward" ticket to Memphis Matters, you help Playback bring our storytelling tools to nonprofit organizations committed to strengthening community well-being and centering the voices, stories, and wisdom of marginalized peoples.

Each year, our Community Matters Partnership Program awards six local institutions a scholarship for a tailored performance or workshop. Led by members of our ensemble, Playback's listening practices and story sharing help these nonprofits increase connectivity, meaning making, and trust within their communities.

Community Matters partners also receive complimentary tickets to a Memphis Matters show highlighting their work. At this performance, we are honored to recognize I am My Sister's Keeper, a nonprofit dedicated supporting to single mothers, providing them with financial literacy and a safe space to network with like minds.

Your "Pay It Forward" ticket to Memphis Matters helps members of our Community Matters organizations attend the performances where their work is highlighted and supports the scholarships that make the transformative work of Community Matters possible.

Host or Publisher Playback Memphis