Playback is the final step in the three-tiered Playmaking process (Playmaking-Stage One, Replay and Playback). In this program, (essentially an inversion of the One-on-Ones) the kids create the plays for themselves and their adult partner. After a rehearsal period in the city, the pairs go on a rehearsal retreat over Columbus Day weekend. The plays are then produced in our Five Angels Theater.

From BREAK FREE AND RUN! by Zoe Keana Norris, age 13:

At Rise: Mr. Sylup is standing in front of his desk. Stacey is sitting two seats away from Ezparanza. Stacey whispers to the girl next to her.

STACEY
Can you pass this note to Jacob?

MR. SYLUP
(Screams) STACEY GREEN IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO TELL TO THE CLASS? Pass it up here so I can read it.

STACEY
If I wanted you to read it…I wouldn’t whisper it. Goodness. Last time I checked this was a free country.
Ezparanza laughs.

Excuuuzze me. What do you think you’re laughing at, Shorty?

EZPARANZA
‘Ta loco! I’m not short, you’re just tall.
Bell rings.

MR. SYLUP
Alright guys class is over but remember to read pages 33 to 200 from Shakespeare.
Stacey and Ezparanza stand up and go to the front of the class.

STACEY
Yo you.
Ezparanza looks at Stacey.

STACEY
Yeah you. I’m sorry I went off on you, it’s just that I’m not havin’ a good day.

EZPARANZA
Okay. Why though?

STACEY
Psh – I don’t know you like that.
Ezparanza starts walking away.
Okay. My Mom just said that my Dad and her just got divorced so I’m angry.

EZPARANZA
Oh, sorry I didn’t realize.

STACEY
It’s okay. So you not gonna say sorry for calling me tall?

EZPARANZA
No. I never take back what I say. I think before I act so there’s no worrys or regrets.
Stacey and Ezparanza laugh.

STACEY
Want to get lunch?

EZPARANZA
Sure.
Before Stacey and Ezparanza walk out Mr. Sylup stops them.

MR. SYLUP
Ezparanza your report is flawless. Keep up the good work. Also I talked to your grandmother, she seemed to be surprised about your straight As.

EZPARANZA
Uhmm…Couldn’t you pull me aside or something because you know I was like having a conversation.

MR. SYLUP
There’s nothing wrong with having straight As or doing good in school.
Mr. Sylup walks away without getting a response from Ezparanza.

STACEY
Let me find out you a goodie two shoe.

EZPARANZA
Nah it’s not even like that, I’m just tryna’ keep the Grams happy.

STACEY
Aaaww you love your Gramma.

EZPARANZA
What and that’s bad?

STACEY
No. Uhm later do you wanna go see me at track practice? After lunch?

EZPARANZA
Okay, but uhhmm, track sucks.

STACEY
Not to me. I love it, it makes me feel free, worries are gone, but my parents think I’m foolish for even liking it.

EZPARANZA
So why are you doing it?

STACEY
I do it for me, my well-being, for myself.

EZPARANZA
Son that’s deep. Well my dreams are to be a celebrity DJ and be a rapper but let’s not go through worthless dreams but I’m going to keep trying.

Here’s a slideshow showing the teams of No Strings Attached: The Independent Plays (Playback 2011).