Introduction to Moth Talks and Story SLAMS

Have you ever wondered what it's like to stand in a packed room, no notes in hand, and share a personal story that moves your audience? Joining the Moth Talks and Story SLAMS has been an exhilarating journey for me. Over the last four years, I've given around 30-40 talks, won about 8 StorySLAMs and 2 GrandSLAMs. Each time, it's a thrilling experience, and the supportive audiences in cities like Boston, Miami, and Seattle have made every story-telling journey unforgettable.

Nerves and Preparations

Although public speaking can be nerve-wracking, especially in larger venues like GrandSLAM events where the audience can numbered in the thousands, I find the most anxiety revolves around remembering specific details and staying within the 6-minute time limit. Outside of these concerns, the goal is simple: share your story to evoke emotion, inspire thought, and create a memorable experience. For me, this means I spend time ensuring I can smooth out any technical difficulties and focus on making the story engaging.

Interspersed throughout my career, I worked as an intern at the Moth in New York City and shared my story at several of their slams over a dozen times. The Moth has a rigorous selection process, and stories are often chosen from a long list of pitches that participants contribute. It's vital to have a compelling pitch that can stand alone even if the full story is cut short. This means your pitch should have an arc, characters, and a compelling summary that can captivate an audience in a short time.

Preparation and Practice

Preparation for a Moth Talk or Story SLAM varies based on the format. For stories selected from a shelf, where the time limit is precisely 5-6 minutes, the prep work is meticulous. I often write the story a few days before the event, with themes provided to help spark imagination. I read and refine the story again the day before and morning of the event, focusing on memorization. Adrenaline can kick in during performances, so memorizing the content is crucial; otherwise, the storyline can scatter, despite the subject matter being entirely personal.

At GrandSLAM events, the process is more intense with more leeway given. Timing the story and spending more time on rehearsals are key. Longer stories, like those on the podcast 'This American Life' or at similar theater events, require extensive preparation. Roles within the team shift from storyteller to actor, with feedback from experienced coaches Robin or Kirsty invaluable. These professionals are adept at helping story tellers shape their narratives and deliver them with impact. Taking their advice seriously is crucial for a successful performance.

One common piece of advice is to avoid total memorization, as it can make the storytelling sound stiff. Instead, focus on hitting key points and allowing the story to unfold naturally, which feels more spontaneous and lively. Typically, a map of six to seven significant points needs to be hit during rehearsals to ensure the story flows smoothly.

The Experience of Performance

Performing in a Moth Talk or Story SLAM is a unique blend of theatre and storytelling. Onstage, the goal is to connect with the audience, make them laugh, cry, or think. It's not just about reading from memory; it's about connecting with your audience and allowing your story to unfold as authentically as possible. The Moth Talks and Story SLAMs are not just about winning; they're about sharing experiences and making a meaningful connection with the audience.