David Deblinger has been using theater to teach and empower community groups of all ages and backgrounds since 1988.  He is the co-founder of Labyrinth Theater Company where he created two artist empowerment programs as well as having either written, acted or directed with the likes of Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ellen Burstyn, John Patrick Shanley and many more.  He currently teaches acting to adults at HB Studio and The Stella Adler Conservatory and has created shows through personal storytelling, movement and song with older adults at HB Studio, Healing Arts Initiative(formerly HAI), Sirovich Senior Center, Dixon Place, The New Group, The Floating Hospital, Community Works, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and more.  He has acted in numerous original plays at Labyrinth, Manhattan Theater Club, Theater for a New Audience, The Vineyard, Williamstown Theater Festival, The Old Globe among others.  On television he has appeared on Blue Bloods, Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, Damages, The Sopranos and Sex in the City and more. 

My entire life work has in some way been involved with, enthralled, and fascinated by... story.  In working with older adults I am constantly hearing stories that are so unique, emotional, funny and show tremendous insight on a number of levels, especially when put into an historical context.  I also believe that listening is a gift that has the power to heal and inspire.  When folks, of any age, truly feel listened to, it often brings out a type of specificity and vulnerability that impacts both the speaker and those listening in a way that is palpable.  In a youth obsessed culture it is so important to be attentive, supportive and gain from the wisdom, insight and compassion in older adults.  I think it is a creative and healing experience for these participants to engage in acting and storytelling workshops, but I also think stories from older folks are something we will all benefit greatly from hearing.  And in engaging in storytelling is an ancient and powerful tool for building true community.