NEXT EVENT:
SALEM STORY SERIES
Presents:
Is there a memory that plagues you? A sense of being watched by your boss at work? A literal haunting, ectoplasm and all? Tell your story!
Salem Story Series is a monthly storytelling event that invites the community of Salem, MA, to gather together to hear—and tell—true life stories.
All are welcome, especially the “amateurs”; some of the best stories shared on stage come from people who’ve never spoken into a microphone.
Whether you become a regular teller or attend only one event, thank you. Your presence ensures our programming will continue well into the future.
WHAT HAPPENS AT A SHOW?
Audience members are the storytellers.
When you arrive, you’ll be encouraged to put your name in the hat. It’s not required! Every storyteller needs a good audience who’s there to listen.
The MC sets up the show by drawing names.
After the introduction and the opening preamble, the first few names will be drawn, and that will become the first half of the show.
A brief intermission marks the halfway point.
At this time, people are usually so impressed by the bravery of their peers that they, too, put their names in the hat. We hope you do, too!
The MC draws names for the second half of the night.
After that, it should look and feel just like the first half!
“Very welcoming and respectful atmosphere. Great storytellers and I feel like I learned a lot even before I got on stage. Will definitely be back.”
— Amanda
“Incredible storytelling, great moderation, a wonderful evening, with great food and great company.”
— William
STORYTELLER GUIDELINES
Each storyteller gets 5 minutes to share their stories.
The MC will help keep time for you, so don’t worry about that part.
No notes on stage!
A reading is not the same as telling a story. We’re looking for your whole self to be on stage, not on the page.
Every story must be true and about YOUR life.
The goal for this show is authenticity. We’ll be able to tell if it isn’t!
Themes are always shared in advance.
Prospective storytellers will have an opportunity to prepare in advance. Every event will also have a few featured storytellers. To be considered for one of these slots, email your pitch to hello@salemstoryseries.org.
HEAR FROM OUR STORYTELLERS
“I got a lot out of my contribution last month. The scariest part for me was walking up to the stage and accepting the microphone. It got a lot easier the moment I started talking.”
– Ryan, “New Beginnings” storyeller
“I had such a great moment after telling my story. I gave a toast at my son’s wedding, and my husband asked me how I got so good at public speaking. Before I could answer, he said, “Oh yea — you’re a storyteller now!””
– Betsey, “New Beginnings” storyteller
“My experience on stage at the Salem Story Series felt both warm and welcoming. I was able to present a raw story to a supportive audience, without fear of judgment over perfection or otherwise.”
Johnny, “New Beginnings” storyteller
Have questions?
We have answers!
NEWS AND OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcing October’s theme: “Haunted,” and a review of September’s show
That’s right! I’m leaning in to the Salem energy and bringing “Haunted” to Gulu-Gulu Cafe & Bar on October 27th at 7p. A little about my vision for the theme In case it’s helpful and inspiring, I’m thinking about the theme this way: Ghost stories? Yep. Feeling haunted by a boss at work? Creepy, and…
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SHOW TONIGHT: “Stranded,” an evening of storytelling at Gulu-Gulu Cafe & Bar
The weather is perfect for a cozy night of storytelling, which is what we’re bringing to you this evening at 7p at Gulu-Gulu Cafe & Bar! For those of you who have never been to a storytelling show like this one, here’s how it’ll go: We will also always have a featured storyteller, whose job…
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Post-Show Recap: What did I learn? What am I changing? What am I excited for?
With the next show right around the corner (9 days, 7 hours, and 50 minutes from the time I started writing this post), I’m feeling reflective about how the last one went. That led to a new format idea for these posts, which I think will help my flow so these posts feel a little…
Keep readingEvent Countdown
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“Haunted”
at Gulu-Gulu Cafe & Bar
Latest Posts
- Announcing October’s theme: “Haunted,” and a review of September’s show
- SHOW TONIGHT: “Stranded,” an evening of storytelling at Gulu-Gulu Cafe & Bar
- Post-Show Recap: What did I learn? What am I changing? What am I excited for?
- Announcing September’s Theme, Reflections On the First Show, and a Little Gushiness
- One Week to Go(!) and Prep for the First Show
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