Dismantling Systems of Oppression through Art & Empathy
Oakland Freedom Theater is a first-of-it’s kind ensemble of actors, musicians and expert facilitators utilizing art and empathy to dismantle systems of oppression. Centering POC and LGBTQIA+ performers, our company uses playback theater, improvisation and diversity/equity/inclusion frameworks to facilitate listening, resistance and change. We work with corporations, non-profits, and government organizations to create experiences that are healing, restorative and activating for diverse audiences.
"I've never seen anything like that in my life. It was magical."
VANICE DUNN
Director of Equity, Provoc
"I have to admit, I kind of hate theater...but that blew me away."
"Film directors spend years figuring out how to get people to feel something. You guys did it in under a minute of planning. I felt more watching this show than anything I’ve ever experienced before.”
"If every leadership team across the country had 20 minutes of playback during a SINGLE staff meeting, it would change the entire culture."
STACY PARSON
Executive Coach and Leadership Development Practitioner
"The container was so held. You were listening, present. You identified with people’s stories. It mattered to people...the perfect thing for leadership trainings."
"I can see how much trust you had in each other AND how much each of your identities mattered. You KNEW what people were talking about. You identified with their stories. You REALLY showed you were listening and present. It mattered to people. It was so healing. "