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 to know how many tellers want to get on stage. Storytelling coaches are available to help you craft your 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.
For ticketed events, tickets will be available through this website and the host venue’s website. Tickets may also be available 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 cannot 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.
Due to the ‘live’ unscripted nature of our events, some listeners may find subject matter challenging.
PLEASE REMEMBER, YOUR STORY MUST BE YOUR STORY
Were you there? Are you the main character? Your participation in the story as it happened is essential. We are after true, first person narrative stories told within the given time frame.
FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2025
LORRAINE BOCCARDO THEATER AT
CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT KAYENTA
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS:
SURRENDER
Prepare a story about giving in or jumping on the bandwagon. Tell us about a time when you buckled, crumbled or caved in. Have you ever given in to the feeling or felt all was lost? Perhaps you put up a good fight while everyone else was throwing in the towel. Tell us about waving the white flag or the battle before you raised it.
PLEASE REMEMBER, YOUR STORY MUST BE YOUR STORY
Were you there? Are you the main character? Your participation in the story as it happened is essential. We are after true, first-person narrative stories told within the given time frame.
100% of proceeds from ticketed events have been donated to local non-profits All outdoor events are FREE.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2025
JOIN US FOR THE OPENING EVENT OF THE 2025 IVINS CITY HERITAGE DAYS FESTIVAL
Please join us for this FREE event where we welcome amateur and experienced storytellers to our stage. The theme is set and we’re taking names, so get ready to throw down your IMPOSSIBLE true tale the Coyote Tales way.
The evening begins with a BYOP (bring your own picnic) pre-show party where potential storytellers put their name in the hat with the hope of being chosen to share their tale on stage. Kayenta Homes and Properties will be providing the free upscale water and beverage trough for thirsty story lovers. Pre-party starts with Stillhouse Road bluegrass music at 7:00. Stories start at sundown.
WE’RE TAKING NAMES FOR STORYTELLERS – if you have a story to tell and would like to get on stage, please contact Victoria through the Coyote Tales website.
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS:
IMPOSSIBLE
Prepare a story about defying the odds. Getting a flat but still making your flight. A hole in one, hitting the high note, or remembering your dang password! Running into a grade school friend halfway around the world, turning in your first draft, or finding a needle in a haystack. Was there a time when you thought “there’s no way,” yet you persisted? Do tell.
THIS EVENT IS FREE AND EVERYONE IS WELCOME
Copies of many of the evening’s invited storyteller’s books will be available for sale at the event and at The Book Bungalow. The Book Bungalow is an independent bookstore located in downtown St. George at the corner of 100 West and Tabernacle Street.
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