Got a story?
Send us your idea!
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE: Stories of Those Who Surprise Us
Nov 13 – Langley
Nov 15 - Vancouver
HOW IT WORKS
Everyone has a story. And if you are reading this, you likely have a story about someone who was not quite what you expected. Perhaps it is a person whose outward appearance led you to rely on stereotypes. It might be that mouthy kid you thought had no respect for anyone. Or it could be the person you now love who was definitely NOT your type. Whoever it is, the discovery you made had lasting impact – it shaped you in some way. We invite you to share that story with Dark Glass Theatre and our audience.
If you’re willing to tell your story as part of TRESPASS Storytelling, here are some guidelines to get you started. Limitation frees creativity so try to see these notes as liberating, not confining!
STORYTELLER GUIDELINES
1. The story must be true and personal
This is about a specific time that you encountered, an experience that changed you in some way, an occasion when you felt intensely human.
2. The story must be short – 8 minutes or less
It’s a story of a moment in time, but you can take several moments telling it!
3. Ensure your story has a narrative arc – a beginning, middle, and end
All good stories begin in a specific place and take us on a journey. Start at the point of innocence, with a hook. “I was driving down the highway in late November in the torrential rain when I heard a terrible sound…” Let us wonder what happens next - we want to experience the struggle of the unfolding events along with you. Be sure to include how you feel at specific moments; your emotional connection is the key to a personal and meaningful story. Finish with a button – a final comment that lets us know you’re done.
4. Ideally, the story should be told, not read. Storytelling is an oral tradition. Writing can help clarify your thoughts, which is great, but your focus is action. Practice and revise out loud. Discover your way to the most colourful expressions and phrasing. If you need to have notes to feel safe telling your story, no problem! But rehearsing will help you find comfort and confidence.
5. Have fun and be brave
The audience wants to hear your story – they are on your side, so be as courageous as you’re able. Take a chance on being funny, being vulnerable, being you. This is your story and no one else can tell it like you do. Interpret the theme as broadly as you need to. If an idea jumped into your head, it’s probably the right one.
I’M IN! WHAT DO I DO NOW?
You can send us a synopsis of your idea or a draft of a full story. Either way, please include the hook – the opening sentence that catches our interest and makes us want to know more. We can't wait to hear from you!
If your story is selected, we will give you all the help you need to shape your story and get it (and you!) ready for the stage.