A Haven of Peace, a Piece of Heaven
The Bield at Blackruthven
Retreat and Conference Centre
Finding Home: Stories of journeys taken, interrupted or longed for
Saturday 11th July 2026
10am to 5:30pm
£90
Finding ‘home’ – stories of journeys taken and interrupted. Through the embodied art form of Playback Theatre, we will explore places our life journey has taken us and where we have found ‘home’, perhaps in unlikely places. Opportunity to share stories, to learn about Playback, helping more voices be heard, and see an informal performance.
A ‘Storied’ retreat . . .
What does home mean to you?
Is it a place, a memory, a feeling, a moment in time, or perhaps a collection of stories?
Our lives are shaped by journeys — planned and unplanned, chosen, interrupted and those we still long for. Sometimes we discover home in the most unexpected places.
This is an experiential workshop. We will explore our stories of journeying, belonging, loss, and discovery through various art forms, primarily. . .
Playback Theatre
We will explore our stories through the embodied art form of Playback Theatre –
an improvisational form created through an interactive collaboration between tellers, performers and audience, in which personal stories are shared, then immediately recreated and given artistic shape and meaning.
It is a powerful way to listen deeply, honour lived experience, create connection
and be inspired.
What to Expect
· Exploration of personal journeys and places of belonging
· Opportunities to share stories or simply listen… and perhaps gain insight.
· Learn basics of Playback Theatre
· Gentle and creative Playback exercises
· Space to perform or witness a Playback performance
· A supportive and welcoming environment where many voices can be heard
· A wonderful Bield lunch.
No previous theatre or performance experience necessary. All are welcome.
Who Is It For?
· Anyone curious about story, creativity, and community
· People interested in Playback Theatre
· Those reflecting on journeys, transitions, or belonging
· Those wanting a retreat with meaning – to be, share if you wish, and listen.
· Performers, facilitators, storytellers and listeners alike. No pressure to perform.
Facilitator:
Andrew Gray
Steve Nash
Andy Yau
Karen McClain Kiefer (Bield Staff)
Our Facilitators are internationally renowned facilitators and UK Playback practitioners
Together, we are Mosaic Playback, living in the UK and representing 5 different cultures.
Andrew Gray is a professional facilitator, Playback Theatre trainer, and a highly skilled educator who assists clients to develop and transform their abilities, imagination and self-belief. through experientially based, thought-provoking workshops.
Steve Nash is a professional musician and an internationally recognised professional in Playback Theatre: he is an international trainer, musician, and practitioner with extensive experience conducting workshops and performances.
Andy Yau is a visiting tutor and director at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, associate lecturer at Performers College, guest facilitator at Manchester Metropolitan University and Tai Chi instructor. He has been a member of True Heart Theatre since 2010 and is currently co-director for Two Islands Playback CIC.
Karen McClain Kiefer, a member of the Bield Pastoral Team, is an Advanced Playback Theatre practitioner, Listening Hour Guide, pilgrim, and installation artist. She provides spiritual accompaniment, retreat facilitation, prayer and imaginative contemplation.