[subtext]

[subtext] is about what we do and don’t say. The characters are in a high context culture, where difficult or stressful topics are communicated only as subtext. Each is played by two players: one speaking openly, and one saying the things that are conveyed by implication, tone, and body language.

Long Description

Robin is bringing their new partner Eliza home to meet their father and step-parent for the first time [sure wish we hadn’t had a fight on the way over]. They’re head over heels for the new partner [if only they were sure Eliza felt the same] and enthusiastic to have the chance to introduce her to their parents over the holidays [because holidays aren’t stressful enough already!].

Alex is so excited to welcome his beloved child and their new partner into his home [sure hope Eliza is more committed to the relationship than she seems to be]. His spouse Taylor is always happy to see their step-child [if only they can figure out what that relationship actually looks like].

[subtext] is a LARP about what we do and don’t say. The setting is a family dinner in a high context culture, where the difficult things are not said out loud and stressful topics are communicated only as subtext.

In this LARP, however, we make the subtext into text. Each character will be played by two players: one saying only the things that are said out loud, and one [saying all the things that are normally only conveyed by implication, tone, and body language]. Each character understands some characters’ subtexts better than others. Perhaps they will learn more as they get to know each other?

The LARP will begin with a workshop, practicing the Text and [subtext] player interactions and mechanics and sorting out dynamics within relationship pairs.