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About
Authentic Voices
A One-hour Readers Theatre Performance Perfect for:
Congregations; colleges and universities; businesses; grass roots organizations; corporate retreats; fraternal organizations; professional associations; and especially groups of any kind who say they don’t need it!
Without lectures on racism, homophobia, or ageism, this one-hour readers theatre performance simply tells stories that open hearts and welcome a new viewpoint of one another, especially an “other.”
With poignant life stories, humor, and music, Authentic Voices creates an atmosphere of exploration and oneness. The cast members’ stories enable the audience to experience what many have experienced as people of color, white people, and LGBTQ+, without shame or judgment. Authentic Voices honors the infinite visible and invisible intersections of ALL of the storytellers identities.
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Why do you focus on oneness?Facilitating oneness creates a powerful synergy. We are one human race and our stories drive that home. We aren’t alone in our feelings of being “othered” and having faced adversity because of our diversity. However, we celebrate our diversity, while practicing inclusivity. That oneness opens doors, and conversations.
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Is the performance family friendly?No. The performance touches on adult themes such as racism and sexuality. We suggest ages 17+ but leaves this to individuals' discretion.
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Do you do virtual performances?Authentic Voices is strictly a live experience, to protect the integrity of the full context of the real stories being shared.
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How do I book you?Click on the “Book Us” tab and either complete the Request Form or contact us.
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What do you require as far as space and equipment?The Authentic Voices performance requires a stage that can accommodate at least 7-8 chairs with room to walk around the chairs (approx. 200 sq. feet). We need a private place that fits 7-8 people to prepare an hour before the show. Depending upon the size of the venue, a sound system and one microphone may be necessary. Plan on meeting (virtually or in person) with AV representatives two times prior to performance date.
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How did you all get started and why?Reverend Dr. Georgia Prescott started Authentic Voices in 2012, when she was in her 14th year as the founding minister of the Center For Spiritual Awareness. We use the power of theater arts and vulnerability to reach people so that our audience sees themselves in us. We see readers theater as a transformative social change tool that has the potential to shift not only individual’s lives, but the way we operate in society on a larger level.
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How can I audition for Authentic Voices?Come be a part of a dynamic reader's theater group that promotes diversity and oneness through authentic storytelling. Please RSVP authenticvoicesweare1@gmail.com for a two-day audition: February 2 & 9, 2024 (5:30-7 pm at CSA - 1275 Starboard Drive West Sacramento, CA 95691) Attendance on both days is REQUIRED. No previous experience is necessary!
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Why are you doing this work?Each of us have our own “authentic” stories that have brought us together, but we all do this work because of the promise of change and action that comes from being vulnerable and “real” with you. Doing this work is part of our own process of healing and passing that to others. The premise of this work is about our authentic stories bringing us to oneness.
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What do you charge for an Authentic Voices performance?The coast of a 1-hour performance is negotiable and usually ranges from $300-$500.
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Is there a way to get a feel for what your performance is like?Yes, below you can view a “trailer” with short clips of previous shows.
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What kind of advertising do you do?We will provide you with a flyer advertising the event. We can also come to your venue and perform a 10-15 minute "commercial" of the show. Then you work your magic.
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What happens at the 90-minute post-performance workshop?We guide participants in the process of finding your own authentic voice by providing prompts for sharing and personal reflection/introspection. We provide a safe space to examine things that may have triggered you during the show, or something that is calling attention. We hope you will leave feeling prepared to take your reaction to show out into the world and share it with one another.
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Why do you purposely mix actors and roles? It seems confusing when the actor’s appearance doesn’t match the character, like a Black woman playing a white gay man.We do this to help break down your preconceptions, which are often misconceptions. We bring the variety and diversity in our world to you via the stage. When you’re not so attached to who you think the actor is, then you might actually see them.
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Will my image my person be displayed in your marketing materials?Photo/Video Disclaimer: Authentic Voices cares about you and respects your boundaries. During the course of this event, your image or voice may be captured for use in Authentic Voices publicity materials. Please advise one of the organizers if you do not wish to be photographed.
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How long is the performance?The performance is 1 hour, with an additional 30 minutes for Questions and Answers afterwards.
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Do you allow video recording of your performances?We do not allow video or audio recording in order to create a safe space for authentic, natural, and free reactions. This is our intellectual property and is sensitive in nature.
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Are the stories real or fiction?The stories are from our real experiences. They may be from past or current members of the troop. Just know that the actor who performs a piece may not be the person who experienced it. Stories are sometimes taken from our reactions to public incidents.
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Do you provide resources to learn more?Yes, we provide resources for ways you can learn and take action right away. The most important resource being you, bringing out your authentic voice.
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Is it okay to laugh during the show?Absolutely! Laughter, gasps, smiles, tears, nodding and shaking heads make the show powerful. We depend on you playing this important part in the show.
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