On this stage sit the actors, facing the audience. On stage left sits a musician, surrounded by instruments. On stage right are two chairs. The other will be taken by an audience member, who comes to it voluntarily and recounts a personal experience. The conductor asks certain questions, then when the interview is complete, turns the story over to the actors.
Music plays for the transition.
Then the actors enact the story, using mime, movement, spoken improvisation. Their aim is to capture the essence of the teller's story. After suitable acknowledgment, the teller returns to the audience, and another teller comes forward. A playback event consists of a series of stories told by audience tellers. It is a process totally spontaneous, made possible by adherence to the ritual.