Episode 113
The Joy of Theater, with Caleb Cabiness
March 30th, 2025
58 mins 6 secs
About this Episode
Daniel Hilty and Kevin Taylor welcome Caleb Cabiness, an actor and theater practitioner, to discuss the joy of theater and its significance in human flourishing. They explore Caleb's journey in theater, the vibrant theater scene in the Twin Cities, and delve into the lives of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, highlighting the connections between theater, play, and creativity. They delve into the nature of acting, exploring the concept of hypocrisy in performance and the philosophical implications of play. They discuss the creation of a musical inspired by Bob Ross, highlighting themes of positivity and personal growth. The dialogue shifts to the friendship between C.S. Lewis and Tolkien, examining their differing views on faith and evangelism. The intersection of theater and spirituality is explored, emphasizing storytelling as a means of expressing faith. Finally, the conversation wraps up with a shared passion for board games, showcasing the joy of cooperative play.
Takeaways
The Twin Cities have a supportive theater community.
Theater allows for a unique connection with live audiences.
C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien had a significant friendship.
The joy of theater is in the collaborative experience.
Theater can be a source of joy and fulfillment.
Caleb's experiences in church plays shaped his acting career.
The concept of play is integral to the theater experience. St. Augustine viewed acting as a form of hypocrisy.
The term 'hypocrite' originates from the Latin word for actor.
The magic circle of play creates a temporary reality.
Theater can serve as a lens for interpreting life.
Bob Ross's teachings inspire positivity and creativity.
C.S. Lewis and Tolkien had a complex friendship.
Faith and theater intersect through storytelling.
Acting can be a form of worship and expression of faith.
Board games foster community and shared experiences.
Cooperative games emphasize teamwork and strategy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Joy of Theater
06:13 Caleb Cabaniss: A Journey in Theater
10:30 Theater Scene in the Twin Cities
11:38 Exploring C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien
22:21 The Connection of Theater and Play
29:22 The Nature of Acting and Hypocrisy
31:47 The Magic Circle: Play and Reality
32:38 Creating 'The Joy of Painting' Musical
38:18 Exploring C.S. Lewis and Tolkien's Friendship
42:31 The Intersection of Theater and Faith
48:08 Board Games: A Shared Passion