Teya’s Books
Theatre of Witness – Finding the Medicine in Stories of Suffering Transformation and Peace
This book chronicles the author’s 26 years of creating and producing theatre with people whose stories have previously gone untold, including: prisoners and their families, refugees, immigrants, survivors and perpetrators of domestic abuse, ex-combatants, teenage runaways, people living in poverty or without homes, families of murder victims, women in transition, people in recovery and survivors of war.
With an engaging and heartfelt narrative, it beautifully conveys the key principles of Theatre of Witness and explores the author’s own journey that led to the conception and growth of this unique model of performance. Exploring diverse human experiences in the United States, Poland and Northern Ireland, this book will be of interest to practitioners and students of applied theatre, peace and conflict studies, professionals working in conflict resolution, counsellors, psychotherapists, professionals in the field of criminal and restorative justice, dramatherapists, psychodramatists and spiritual seekers.
“This book, like the live performances is profoundly moving. Now, as then, it is impossible to read these stories without being humbled and grateful. Humbled by the strength and courage of those sharing their stories in such a raw and direct way. And grateful that they are willing to do so.
To read this book is to understand, to witness and to heal. Teya Sepinuck, Theatre of Witness and Derry Playhouse are truly instruments of peace in the world.”
– Kathryn Stone, OBE Former Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, Northern Ireland.
We are the Ripple Effect
Teya’s most recent book ‘We are the Ripple Effect – Theatre of Witness in Northern Ireland was published by The Playhouse in Derry/Londonderry in 2023. It can be purchased through the Playhouse.
This book shares the stories of ten courageous Theatre of Witness performers in Northern Ireland – survivors, ex combatants, former security forces and witnesses of the Troubles. This book highlights their personal journeys through conflict and trauma as they transform individually and together into true leaders and peace builders through the power of Theatre of Witness.
“If people are willing to open their hearts and experience this work fully, they will find something of value, something close to healing, something close to truth.”
– Christopher Byrne, Theatre of Witness performer
“This is an important book for all those invested in building peace.”
– Maureen Hetherington, Northern Ireland peace-builder
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