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Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy

Date: Mon, Oct 19, 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 park in the Campus Drive Lot across the street.

When
Oct 19
Mon, Oct 19, 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 participants. Rather than watching a traditional stage play, attendees gather to share perspectives, listen to differing viewpoints, and explore collective community concerns in a structured, supportive environment. This event is open to all generations, making it a thoughtful outing for parents and high school students who want to practice constructive civic dialogue. The program takes place on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 7 PM to 9 PM at the von der Heyden Studio Theater inside the Rubenstein Arts Center. Admission is free, but you must register online in advance to secure your spot. Paid visitor parking is available in the nearby Campus Drive Lot. If you are looking to step outside your usual routine and help your older kids develop strong communication skills, this gathering offers a structured way to engage with your Durham neighbors. It is a quiet, reflective start to the week that focuses on connection and mutual respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to attend this event?
No, the event is completely free to the public, but you must RSVP online in advance to secure your seat.
What age group is this program best for?
While all ages are welcome, the mature format of guided dialogue and deep listening is best suited for adults and teenagers.
Where should I park at the Rubenstein Arts Center?
Visitors can use the paid hourly parking spaces located in the Campus Drive Lot directly across the street from the arts center.

Last updated

FREE

Oct 19

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy runs Mon, Oct 19, 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.

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What to Bring

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

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