Review: ‘Stories That Shaped Us’ — celebrating 35 years of the Heartsparkle Players
Originally published on The JOLT News on January 13, 2026
Stepping into Soul Cafe at New Traditions last Friday night, I immediately observed how vibrant, crowded, and joyous the atmosphere was. I would say that the Heartsparkle Players 35th anniversary celebration was sold out, but they managed to add many more seats than original capacity to accommodate the eager audience. It was a thrill indeed to have a seat for this special occasion.
The Heartsparkle Players are a local playback theatre ensemble that of course gives priority to our beloved Thurston County, but has traveled quite literally across the world for shows over the last 35 years.
To put in my own terms, Playback Theatre is a unique type of performance that gives and receives in a consistent flowing cycle, meaning that members of the audience will share a story with the actors, the director will decide what format the ensemble will act out the story, and then all the magical improv begins. I heard terms like "sculpture" and “chorus” called out by Artistic and Managing Director Debe Edden, but without the training myself, I cannot quite describe what these formats entail.
Naturally, it is very intuitive and therapeutic. There is something about it that strikes a chord with a core part of our storytelling roots in humanity, and it requires a sense of compassion, empathy,and a generosity as you surrender to yourself to listen well.
Actors and audiences alike need an open mind to fully glean everything the experience has to offer. Once you get there, boy is it worthwhile.
Captivating moments
Throughout the night, I laughed, I cried, I made new friends, and I explored deep thoughts regarding the human experience. Who can ask for anything more? This celebratory event held many experiences: we heard stories and testimonies from the last 35 years, shared what they are currently doing, some of us won giveaway prizes, and of course we all experienced some playback theatre.
One way that the Heartsparkle Players is choosing to do something during these turbulent times is by doing workshops with the communities in need of practice of what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents show up at their doors. This interactive opportunity is both life giving and lifesaving.
Edden reflected, “We cannot change what is happening in the world, but we can give a little hope and bring a little light.” That is exactly why the arts are a necessity, not an elective.
During the show itself, I watched them depict the birth story of a mother in the audience, the story of a little girl whose dog passed away (but as they say got to visit that night), and of a story of a simple moment on an embarrassing school bus ride home that had bits of relatability. The moment that stuck with me the most was a personal one where I shared my own story of when I was diagnosed with cancer during my senior year of college.
Each member of the ensemble represented different parts of my chaotic inner dialogue during that time. One repeated, “I am only 24 years old, is this really who I am now?” Another asked, “Do I share this and use my voice, or keep it to myself?” The third repeated, “I must hide this part away, keep it a secret.” Ringing true of what became my ultimate reality, a fourth voice rang triumphant, “I will use my voice, share my story, and become an advocate.”
The way I shared the story was only fairly basic, yet the Heartsparkle Players reached in and recognized parts of my inner dialogue, and brought those to life. I felt entirely seen, valued, and that my story truly mattered. That was incredibly healing for me, and my mom who sat by me with tears in her eyes. I hope you all get to experience something like this one day.
The next 35 years
As with all artistic organizations, it is very realistic that the Heartsparkle Players will be able to continue to shine for the next 35 years plus. However, just as it is in the craft itself, that requires audience participation. There are multiple ways we can rise to the occasion:
When in doubt, donations help. Contact Debe Edden to learn more: playbackhsp@gmail.com
If you are a manager or leader of an organization, consider booking Heartsparkle Players for a workshop.
Attend shows. Upcoming shows include:
Celebrating 25 Years of the Heartsparkle Players and the Thunders
Friday, March 13
6:30 p.m.
Soul Cafe at Traditions - 300 5th Ave. SW
Donation - $10-20 (no one turned away)
In collaboration with the Thurston Housing Land Trust, whose mission is to create and preserve affordable home-ownership for low and moderate income residents.
Friday, May 8
6:30 p.m.
Soul Cafe at Traditions - 300 5th Ave. SW
Donation - $10-20 (no one turned away)
https://www.thejoltnews.com/stories/review-stories-that-shaped-us-celebrating-35-years-of-the-heartsparkle-players,27786