Life Story Practice for Arts Practitioners and creative Facilitators

(5-Day, In-Person Training)

Over five days this experiential training provides an in depth exploration of the creative and ethical process of working alongside people and their lived experiences across different art forms and settings.

Facilitated by Re-Live co-founders Karin Diamond (Artistic Director) and Alison O’Connor, and co-authors of the book Creating Life Story Theatre, the training delves deep into the principles, techniques, and adaptations of life story work, equipping participants with the practical skills to integrate a life story approach into their artistic and facilitation practice.

Date: Monday 13th – Friday 17th October 2025  (10.00 AM – 4.30 PM, Mon-Thurs), (10.00 AM – 3.00 PM, Friday)

Venue: Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, Cardiff (fully accessible space with ground floor facilities).

Cost: £500 Early Bird (until 20th July 2025) | £650 thereafter

Participants arrange their own lunch and accommodation.

Small Group – Express Your Interest

As this is a small training group (only 10 places available), we want to ensure it’s the right fit for each participant. Additionally, participants will be invited to reflect on their own life story and share aspects of their experiences within the group. If you’re interested, please contact Re-Live’s Artistic Director, Karin, to express your interest and share how you see life story work connecting with your arts practice or facilitation work.

Email: karin@re-live.org.uk

What You’ll Experience:

  • Participate in an experiential life story group, gaining first-hand insight into the process.

  • Practice core facilitation techniques, including deep listening, co-creation, and group dynamics.

  • Explore adaptations of life story work through case studies across art forms such as theatre, comics, and songwriting.

  • Examine ethical considerations, including consent, confidentiality, and the responsibilities of working with personal stories.

  • Develop your own project ideas, considering your own art form, project structure, safeguarding, and practical implementation.

What Previous Participants Have Said:

"A transformative five days. I wasn’t just learning life story techniques - I was experiencing the depth, trust, and impact of the work firsthand. I now feel ready to integrate this into my creative practice in a meaningful way."

"The balance between practical exercises, theory, and self-reflection was perfect”

"This was an incredibly immersive experience - beautiful, emotional, and deeply insightful. It made me reflect on how we listen, how we hold space, and the responsibility that comes with working alongside people and their stories."

"The training helped me slow down and truly understand the courage it takes to share a life story. I left feeling more prepared and with a greater sense of purpose in my work."

"This course shifted my perspective - not just on storytelling, but on human connection. I now see how life story work can create bridges between people, build understanding, and give space for voices that need to be heard."