High Desert Playback makes theater for social change in New Mexico and beyond.
Our multiracial, queer + trans-centered ensemble uses the art of playback theatre to mobilize and amplify social issues through community outreach, engagement, dialogue, and celebration.
Vote For Us
Show your support for Albuquerque’s only all-LGBTQ+ theatre company by voting for us in Albuquerque The Magazine's Best of the City 2025. Voting ends August 1st.
Cast your vote for "High Desert Playback" for BEST THEATER TROUPE.
Cast your vote for "Danielle Simone" for BEST LOCAL ACTOR.
The voting process is simple and fun! Cast your vote by August 1st.
“If y'all can do one thing, it's bring a damn good vibe.”
- Nathan Saavedra, Programs Manager, Equality New Mexico (EQNM)
Clients + Partners
What is “Playback Theatre?”
According to the International Playback Theatre Network, playback theatre is…
“…an interactive form of improvisational theatre in which audience members tell stories from their lives and watch them enacted on the spot. Created in 1975, Playback Theatre is now used in over 70 countries around the world to help build bridges across differences and to honor the human condition. In addition to public performances, in person and online, Playback Theatre is used with all ages and in a wide variety of contexts–education, health, social services, businesses, and community organizations. Its applications include social dialogue, peace building, conflict resolution, organizational change management, team building, celebrations, and much more.”
Why work with High Desert Playback?
The purpose of High Desert Playback is to use the art of playback theatre to mobilize and amplify the incredible racial and social justice work that already exists in the community.
We partner with your non-profit, community organization, local government, and social impact business to facilitate:
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Real change requires that folks in the community truly understand and make personal connections with the issues that impact their lives. Theater based on real life stories is a highly engaging and meaningful way to raise awareness and ignite action.
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Playback theatre is an amazing way to bring folks together to identify and address the challenges, opportunities, and issues that affect their lives. This type of community engagement is key to creating strong, connected, inclusive, and resilient communities.
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Witnessing each others’ stories in a structured and loving way builds our empathy muscles and strengthens trust among folks. Playback theatre provides the perfect foundation for any community working to deepen their connections, address challenges, and work towards healing.
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At its core, playback theatre is a celebration! A playback show is an opportunity for folks to come together, share their stories, learn about each other, and forge a sense of belonging.
“One of the most impactful theatre experiences of my life. This expanded my idea of how art can be used to heal hearts and change minds.”