TRUTH or DARE
Tell us about the time you played a game of truth or dare. Tales told at slumber parties, sleepovers, drinking games, evenings in. Tell us about the time you spoke your truth or dared to do something different. Follow your heart, the road less travelled, stood up for your beliefs, challenged authority. We want to hear your tales of courage and foolishness, or lies and honesty.
What is "What's Your Story Slam?"
What's Your Story Slam is a curated live storytelling competition. It is a hybrid between a showcase and an open mic story slam.
All stories must be true and lived by the storytellers. All storytellers must pitch their stories and go through coaching with creative director Anna Ong.
Storytellers have five minutes each to tell a story based on the show’s theme.
Who takes part in What's Your Story Slam?
What's Your Story Slam features people like YOU entertaining the audience with the unpredictable, hilarious, and poignant turns that their lives have taken.
If you have a story to tell or want to take part in the show, please pitch your stories to Anna Ong by 25 April 2021.
TIPS ON LIVE STORYTELLING
First, it must be your story to tell. Were you there? Are you one of the main characters? Your involvement in the events as they unfold is essential. No journalism!
Heads Up!
What's Your Story Slam stories are told, not read. We love how each storyteller connects with the audience when there's no papers or notepads between them. Please know your stories by “heart” by being very familiar with it.
What’s at Stake?
Stakes are essential in live storytelling. What’s in it for you? Are you going to win or lose? Why is what happens in this story important to you? We want to root for you! Make us care! If you can’t answer this, then think of a different story.
WHAT TO DO:
Bring in the Action!
A striking first line grabs our attention and reels us in.
No: “So I was thinking about signing up for my first marathon. But then I watched a little documentary on Netflix about running, made a snack, took a nap and my mom called and vented about my dad then I did a little laundry and then I thought about it again and decided I’m going to sign up for the marathon tomorrow.
Yes: “I am freezing, wrapped under a trash bag in the heart of Shinjuku. I bounce as I wait for the marathon to start. Two thousand runners surround me - there's spandex everywhere!
Know your story and have fun!
Make an outline, memorize your bullet points and play with the details. Enjoy yourself. Imagine you are telling the story at a dinner party amongst close friends.
WHAT NOT TO DO:
Avoid meandering endings
They kill a story. You should know your last line from the start. Bring the audience with you as you contemplate on what goes on in the story. As a storyteller, you’re the tour guide. You’re the one who knows where this going. Keep your audience with you. Don't lose them!
No sales or motivational speeches
We love how motivational speakers use stories to make a point, but this isn't a Tony Robbins special, and we are not looking for the next evangelist. This isn't the place for your startup pitch.
No stand-up routines, please
SERIOUSLY. NO. STAND-UP. Funny people need to tell funny STORIES.
No poetry or essays
We love your sweet words, musings and sonnets, and they look great...on paper. Unless you can make them gripping and set up stakes, they won't work.
No rants
Take your anger issue with your therapist/best friend/bartender. Tell stories you’ve already had some form of resolution with.
No key takeaways
NO KEY TAKEAWAYS. Leave your audience to come up with their own takeaways from your story.
