Conducting a Playback Theatre Performance – From Planning to Practice

August 2025 | 4 Wednesdays: 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM BRT | Online via Zoom
(10am EDT | 4pm CEST | 7:30pm IST | 10pm SGT – click here for your own time zone)
10 hours in class + 1-hour individual mentoring session
$170 USD or €150 – Scholarships available

Registration form: https://forms.gle/W84hDNHeySnKt7V28

What makes a Playback Theatre performance truly serve and delight an audience? Much of the answer lies in how it’s planned and prepared. This course is a deep dive into the art of crafting a show — from the first idea to the final bow.

Led by Sheila Donio, this training is for new and experienced conductors, company leaders, and artistic directors who want to refine their practice and reflect on the arc of a performance. Over four sessions, we’ll explore every stage of the process:

  • Planning for specific audiences and themes;
  • Preparing actors and musicians;
  • Crafting openings, introductions, and closings;
  • Planning the conductor questions and the forms for the show;
  • Social mapping;
  • A PRACTICE LAB to develop a real performance with peer feedback;

PLUS: a personal 1:1 mentoring session with Sheila.

*Limited to 15 participants.

Some Playback Theatre experience required.

Bring an actual performance plan to gain fresh insights, and leave with a clear roadmap for your next show.
Join us to turn thoughtful planning into powerful performance.

About the facilitator:

Sheila Donio is a seasoned Playback Theatre actress, director, and accredited trainer (APTT) with over 20 years of experience in Brazil and abroad. Founder of SDW – An International School of Playback Theatre and the company Cria Playback. She has led trainings and performances across the globe. Sheila brings deep expertise in building ensembles, conducting performances, and using Playback Theatre as a tool for connection and transformation.

Enroll Now