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Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy

Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2026

Time: 7 PM - 9 PM

Venue: Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater, Durham

Price: Free

Category: Community

Duke University's Laboratory for Social Choreography invites you to participate in its latest venture, Theater. Spend an evening in meaningful conversation with strangers. Listen, speak, disagree, remain silent, and encounter others without judgment or fear. Discover what the collective body is thinking and dreaming about. Experience what deep democracy can feel like when you find yourself embedded in an ecology of concerns with no predetermined roles or outcomes. Bring friends. People of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds are welcome. ‘A glimpse of democratic thought stripped of theater’ To RSVP - please follow this linkhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd1PijBjgGltXtfwDRuJcV3ZhJ26Vs7ue-hPPvCv36jeTNeaQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=108919475168373824097 This event is supported by Belonging? a contribution by the Arts and Humanities departments of Trinity College to We the People: A Duke and Durham Initiative. Belonging? is funded by Trinity College and Duke Arts. Theater was developed by the Laboratory for Social Choreography, under the direction of Prof. Michael Kliën, at the Kenan Institute for Ethics.

Community · Durham

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy

Register early online and arrive fifteen minutes early to find campus parking.

When
Oct 12
Mon, Oct 12, 2026
7 PM - 9 PM
Ages
Check ages with the venue
Price
Free
durhamfreefamily friendly

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy is an interactive community forum hosted by Duke University's Laboratory for Social Choreography that encourages open dialogue among strangers. Participants gather to share perspectives, listen to different viewpoints, and explore collective community ideas in a supportive environment without pressure or expectations. This free event takes place at the Rubenstein Arts Center in Durham on Monday, October 12, from 7 PM to 9 PM. While the program welcomes all ages, the reflective nature of the discussion is best suited for parents, college students, and teenagers who enjoy civic engagement. You will need to register online in advance to secure your spot, and parking is available in the campus lots near the arts center. It is a thoughtful way to start your week, offering a rare opportunity to step away from screens and connect face-to-face with your local community. If you are looking to help your older kids practice empathy and civic dialogue, this gathering provides a structured, welcoming space to do just that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to attend this community event?
No, the event is completely free to the public, but you must RSVP online in advance to secure your spot.
What age group is this discussion best suited for?
While all ages are welcome, the format involves deep conversation and quiet reflection, making it most appropriate for adults and teenagers.
Where is the event located and where should I park?
The event is held at the von der Heyden Studio Theater inside the Rubenstein Arts Center in Durham. Parking is available in the nearby Duke University campus lots.

Last updated

FREE

Oct 12

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy runs Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 7 PM - 9 PM. It repeats daily.

Getting There

Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater is at 2020 Campus Drive, Durham, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater

What to Bring

Nothing but the kids — this one's free, with no tickets to buy.

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