Identity is a complex topic under the best of circumstances. We are often defined by the invisible scripts we learned so long ago we forget we’re even reciting lines. The Severance Theory casts you in the role of someone contending with DID. Dissociative Identity Disorder, commonly known as multiple personality disorder. 

DID is tricky to portray through narrative. Especially so in the context of immersive theater. The creative minds behind the show, Lyndsie Scoggin & Danielle Levesque of CoAct Productions have created an experience that inspires appreciation for complexity, and insites curiosity about the mysteries of identity.

In this episode, we discuss the why and how behind the creation of an immersive experience, where the single guest is uncovering both parts of their past and parts of themselves. 

Make it immersive: 

Game of Thrones [2:15]
Beetlejuice [3:27]

Selected Links:

Severance Theory
CoAct Productions
-Instagram
-Facebook

DID- Dissociative Identity Disorder
OSDD- Other specified dissociative disorder
The power of a fluid identity
“I contain multitudes”

Show Notes:

• Itroductions [1:40]
• Fictional world: Lyndsie Scoggin [2:15]
• Fictional world: Danielle Levesque  [3:27]
• What is the severance theory? [4:32]
• Why Dissociative Identity Disorder [5:15]
• In their shoes [7:34]
• The fluidity of identity [9:56]
• The Why, takeaway [12:25]
• Audience members coming to part 2 [15:07]
• How did CoAct come to be? [16:42]
• Make it immersive segment [18:53]
• The value of play [28:02]
• Unexpected from the audience [32:06]
• Severance theory- Next part [35:05]
• Wary guests [36:13]
• Making guests comfortable [39:20]
• Where to say hi [41:28]