Memphis Matters

On June 10, 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.

With Playback theatre, there is no script. Playback theatre thrives on spontaneous stories. At a Memphis Matters show, an audience member – a teller – will share a reflection, moment, or story – perhaps lighthearted or funny, perhaps moving or difficult. Then, our Ensemble plays that story back, reenacting the teller’s story with care, creativity, and compassion. This sharing and witnessing of stories affirms that each teller’s story deserves to be told, is valued, is accepted.

Through the words, movement, and music of a Memphis Matters show, the tellers, 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 Jalisa McGaha at [email protected] so we can make sure you are part of our story.

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!

Memphis Matters is supported by the Tennessee Arts Commission, ArtsMemphis, FedEx, 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.

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.

Our June Community Partner is Knowledge Quest. Since 1998, Knowledge Quest has been committed to serving youth and families in South Memphis. Access to key opportunities and resources have a clear impact on educational achievement and career prospects. Children in communities like South Memphis typically see 1/20th of the average investment that American middle class children experience when it comes to educational and extracurricular opportunities.

Host or Publisher Playback Memphis