The Teller (Playback)
The audience member in Playback Theatre who shares a personal story from the 'teller's chair' — the central role around which the entire form organizes.
Known for
- Sits on stage next to the conductor, in a designated chair facing the audience — the position is physical and ritualized.
- The teller gives 'actor assignments' (casts other audience members' stories from ensemble) — a moment of narrative agency.
- The teller speaks first; the actors never interrupt. The entire ensemble's job is to listen completely before moving.