ABOUT RILKE AND THE ONE MILLION WORDS PROJECT
Rilke – One Million Words connects an actor in the present with a poet from the past. It tells the story of a writer who, for nearly a year, struggles to create poetry and can only express himself through letters. An actor uses these letters to navigate his own challenges in a country where even his name feels foreign, shaking the foundations of his identity.
Together, the poet and the actor explore themes of love, the creative process, and a sense of not belonging, highlighting the importance of being grounded in the present moment, topics that resonate deeply in today’s world.
Mission
In a world where we’re constantly wired and connected, our mission is to bring inspiration, joy, and entertainment through live performance, fostering empathy and understanding through shared experiences. Inspired by past audiences, we feel called to continue this journey on stage.
Our activities extend beyond the stage. After select performances, we host talkbacks with writers, artists, and audience members, creating space for reflection and dialogue. We also offer workshops for students and young artists, exploring creativity, resilience, and artistic identity. The goal is not only to present art, but to build conversations and invite community into the creative process.
Why Now?
In our fast-paced society, the pressure to constantly perform and produce can lead to burnout and disconnection. Author Byung-Chul Han, on his book The Burnout Society, argues that this relentless drive for efficiency not only exhausts individuals but also erodes meaningful connections with ourselves and others. In contrast, shows such as Rilke, in the theater, provide a vital space for contemplation and genuine human connection. In a world consumed by speed, this production offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and rediscover joy in the present moment.
Also, as we grapple with wars, violence, and the devastating impact of human suffering, Rilke’s words serve as an antidote to the chaos. His ability to articulate the depths of human emotion provides a much-needed refuge amid the horrors of modern life.
Our show can act as a spiritual counterbalance, working towards illuminating the human experience and reminding us of our shared vulnerabilities, even as we navigate a landscape that feels increasingly divided.
Potential for Adult and Young Adult Audiences
After one of our table readings, a friend shared that she wished her teenage kids could experience Rilke. That’s one of our goals. Once we “hit the road,” this show has the potential to reach high school and college students, inspiring a new generation to embrace the beauty of the present moment and foster deeper connections with themselves and others.
ONE MILLION WORDS
To support this project, just scan these qr codes
or support by Fundraising
You can support the project easily and securely through Fractured Atlas Fundraising, choosing whatever works best for you.
The platform lets you make a one-time contribution or set up monthly support, perfect if you want to stay connected and help the project grow over time.
By contributing, you join a community of people who believe in the arts and keep this work inspired, sustainable, and moving forward. Every contribution — whether it’s once or every month — truly makes a difference.
Thanks for being part of this journey! ✨
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PIX: mullerivo1@gmail.com