TalkStory Decorah

TalkStory Decorah

True stories told by you! ArtHaus hosts this intimate evening of personal stories told in seven minutes or less, with no script or notes, inspired by the theme of the evening. Everybody loves a good story -- come to tell yours, or just sit back and listen! Recommended for adults, age 16 and up. Questions? Contact your host, Kyra Bellrichard: kyra.bellrichard@gmail.com or call ArtHaus (563.382.5440).

Next TalkStory:

• Friday, March 2, 8pm, $5/$3 students. Theme of the Evening: Blarney. Featured Storyteller: John Dingley

For helpful tips on telling a story well, see below.

Storytelling Tips

1. Make it Meaningful

   Tell a story that means something to you. When telling a meaningful story your energy will naturally come through.

2. Beginning, Middle, and End

   Start and end confidently by deciding the first and last sentence of your story ahead of time.

   • The Beginning

     Draw in listeners by beginning with:
     1. a description of time, place, and persons
     2. a question
     3. a reflection or realization
     4. a provocative statement
     5. establishing suspense ("One dark and stormy night, as I lay in bed listening to the wind rattling the shutters...)

   • The Middle

     Move the story along with:
     1. events
     2. important details (keep in mind that too little detail will make the story an unattractive skeleton; too much may make it cumbersome)
     3. atmosphere (take us there with words related to the 5 senses)

   • The End

     Make your ending satisfying to your audience. A one-sentence summary can signal the finish of your story. For example, "And that is how I came in first," will let everyone know that your story is done. Steer clear of meandering endings. They kill a story! Your last line should be in your head before you start.

3. Practice out loud.

   Pay attention to the rhythm and modulation of your voice, changing them as the story requires.

4. Posture.

   Stand or sit comfortably. Look out to your audience rather than at the ground. Make eye contact, or if that makes you nervous, look for the spaces between faces.

5. Project.

   Be sure listeners can clearly hear your story.

6. Beware of Storytelling Pitfalls

   ...such as beginning with an apology or an overly long introduction; getting sidetracked; fidgeting; talking down to your audience or ending without a resolution.

There are many storytelling tips available in books and on the Internet.

We encourage you to explore and let us know if you find other tips to add this list!