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.

Coming Up…

Queer Futures Now: An Alien Play

Written by Allison Kenny + Danielle Simone from the real-life stories of LGBTQ+ young people throughout New Mexico, Queer Future Now follows four youths on their journey to safety and shows the path to LGBTQIA+ paradise is closer than we think.

Coming Saturday April 5 in Farmington, NM and May 2-3 in Albuquerque.

“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:

“I have been waiting for Playback Theater to come to New Mexico- and these two inspired and committed artists seem to be the perfect ones to get us going!”

“We are so lucky to have a Playback theater company in town!”