A connection between artist and audience through the collaboration of ideas and talents can be experienced at Working Group Theater’s Was the Word at 7 p.m. Nov. 18.

Martin Andrews said each monthly Was the Word brings together community members and local performers to share their words and experiences on stage to benefit local nonprofits and community-service groups.

“It allows everyone access to the theater,” Andrews said.

Admission to Was the Word is pay what one can.

Was the Word is part of the Working Group Theater’s The Broken Chord, a full-length play to be presented by Hancher on April 12-14, 2013 — a performance examining the effects of Alzheimer’s disease on caregivers and communities.

The evening will comprise readings from poets and storytellers such as Megan Gogerty, Sean Lewis, Zora Hust, Micah Ariel James, and Kate Krohn. It will include the music of Mutiny in the Parlor. The evening will benefit Elder Services.

The event is part of the Intimate at the Englert Series, presented by Hands Jewelers, with additional support from Little Village.

— by Audrey Dwyer