EVERYONE HAS A STORY
The tradition of oral storytelling has existed long before written works. Something deep and significant is conveyed through the relating of a well-crafted, well-told first person story. Many times these stories have served as a way to preserve history and explore and impact our emotions as individuals and communities. Storytelling is a powerful means of entertainment, education and cultural preservation. Coyote Tales hopes to perpetuate the art of storytelling while entertaining the listener with a unique and intimate experience.
Coyote Tales are live, open-mic style storytelling events with amateur and experienced storytellers. Each event has a theme, on which stories are to be based. Potential storytellers may address that theme in any way they choose. Prior to the event, storytellers craft their true, on-theme story, practice the telling (5 minutes or less), and work on eliminating excess detail to nail the perfect ending. When the doors open, potential storytellers put their name in the hat in hopes of being chosen to share their story. If chosen, the storyteller takes the stage to delight the audience. Stories must be true, told live, within the given time frame (5 minutes). They must be told without notes, props, or accompaniment.
Coyote Tales is our take on “The Moth” live storytelling events. The original Moth events were inspired by porch storytelling parties attended by author, George Dawes Green. The concept has spawned worldwide live oral storytelling performances, a PRX radio program and a book. This is our take on these ideas. For more information on The Moth, please check out their website @ https://www.themoth.org
LIVE EVENT INFORMATION
If you are interested in getting on stage, we recommend that you contact us in advance. It helps us plan the show when we know how many tellers want to get on stage. Storytelling coaches are available to help you craft your perfect tale if you would like to work with one. If you would like would to get on stage the evening of the show, please arrive by 6:30 and find Victoria . Out of respect for our storytellers, late comers for indoor events will not be admitted until intermission.
Tickets are available through this website and at the door the evening of the event. We encourage you to purchase your tickets early. Previous events have sold out. If you have a story to tell, but can not purchase a ticket, please contact Victoria and we will make certain that you are admitted. Please do not let the cost of tickets prevent you from attending. Volunteer opportunities are available in exchange for admission.
PLEASE REMEMBER, YOUR STORY MUST BE YOUR STORY
Were you there? Are you the main character? Your involvement in the events as they unfold is essential. We are after true, first person narrative stories told within the given time frame.
LIVE EVENTS
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2023
CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT KAYENTA
The evening begins with a pre-show party where potential storytellers put their name in the hat with the hope of being chosen to share their tale on stage. Petite Feast will be providing upscale finger food and beverages for the party. Admission to the pre-party is included in ticket price and all ticket holders are welcome!
Pre-party starts at 6:30. Stories start at 7:30.
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS:
BUSTED
Prepare a 5 minute story about getting caught doing something you probably should not have done. Has your participation in a nefarious act been witnessed by others? Perhaps you have been caught red-handed or with your hand in the cookie jar – the evidence there for all to see. Please tell us your story of getting into trouble or of getting off the hook!
100% of your ticket price benefits local non-profits
Please no standup routines or rants.
everyone has a story
SATURDAY, MAY 2023
EVENT LOCATION TBD
The evening begins with a pre-show party where potential storytellers put their name in the hat with the hope of being chosen to share their tale on stage. Petite Feast will be providing upscale finger food and beverages for the party. Admission to the pre-party is included in ticket price and all ticket holders are welcome!
Pre-party starts at 6:30. Stories start at 7:30.
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS:
WILD
Prepare a 5 minute story about the untamed, the unknown or the feral. Tell us of your adventures exploring new landscapes or of setting out on uncharted waters. Have you ever behaved in a headstrong or rebellious way? Maybe you were involved in an epic battle to tame the beast – were you victorious? Has your sprit ever been broken or your courage calmed? Maybe the wild child within finally made an appearance….
Please no standup routines or rants.
THIS EVENT IS FREE!
everyone has a story
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! JOIN US FOR COYOTE TALES LIVE STORYTELLING UNDER THE STARS AT IVINS CITY HERITAGE DAYS FESTIVAL AT IVINS CITY PARK
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS:
MILESTONES
Prepare a 5 minute story about life’s transitions. Tell us about overcoming obstacles, a new job, a new love or a new lease on life. Tell us how life’s changes have shaken up your world and how you coped with it.
everyone has a story
THIS EVENT IS FREE!
Tips for Storytelling Greatness
Follow these Simple Guidelines
Get started telling your tale!
A Strong Start
Have a clear, engaging and attention grabbing opening. You want to snare the audience’s attention. You want to bring them along with you when you share your tale.
A Clear Path
The best stories have a natural arc. A clear beginning, - the action or conflict, - a resolution or closure - and finally, describe how the experience affected or changed you, the teller.
Own It
Use your own voice and language. This is your story.
Focus
Too much detail can cloud the narrative. You want enough detail to make it real, but not so much that it is overwhelming.
Know It
Practice your story but don’t memorize it! Practice enough so that you are comfortable. Know your major points but have fun with the details.
Need Some Help?
For help developing your story, we’ve lined up a few storytelling pros to assist you.
Douglas Caputo
Actor, Teacher, Director
John Harrison
Utah Storytellers Guild; President, Dixie Tellers
Phone: 970-778-5281