Join the Journey: Discover, Share, Inspire

Immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling and become part of a vibrant cultural movement reshaping how we connect through words.

A Platform for Everyone

Stories with Friends is more than just an event; it's a celebration of diverse voices and experiences. Organized by the Lafayette Society of the Performing Arts (LSPA), this monthly gathering invites participants from all walks of life to engage in the timeless tradition of oral storytelling. Whether you're a beginner eager to test your skills or an experienced narrator looking to refine your technique, this platform welcomes everyone without exception.

The event’s inclusive nature extends beyond its audience. With no restrictions on age or experience level, attendees are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives to the table. Family-friendly guidelines ensure that even younger members of the community can participate actively, creating an atmosphere where creativity knows no bounds. By eliminating barriers such as cost—entrance is free—Stories with Friends ensures accessibility for all who wish to join.

Fostering Growth Through Practice

One of the most compelling aspects of Stories with Friends is its emphasis on practice and improvement. Each participant is allotted 12 minutes to captivate listeners with their tale, providing ample time to develop characters, build suspense, and leave a lasting impression. This structured format not only challenges speakers to condense their stories effectively but also allows them to receive immediate feedback from peers and spectators alike.

Kirsta O’Connor, Sales and Marketing Manager for LSPA, emphasizes the importance of timing when securing one of the limited slots available. "It’s an open mic, so it’s first come, first served,” she explains. Early arrival is key to guaranteeing participation, as demand often exceeds availability due to the event's growing popularity. For those unable to secure a spot, observing others provides valuable insights into effective storytelling techniques, further enriching the learning experience.

Building Momentum Over Time

This beloved tradition has deep roots within the community, nearly paralleling the lifespan of the Azalea Storytelling Festival, which boasts 29 years as Georgia's longest-running festival dedicated to the craft. Under the guidance of LSPA Storytelling Director Kirsten Dunn since 2023, Stories with Friends transitioned from quarterly to mostly monthly occurrences, solidifying its presence in the local calendar.

Dunn highlights the strategic decision to increase frequency: “We did it nine out of 12 months, trying to keep it consistent to build up the audience, and give the community an opportunity to be more active and present in storytelling.” This commitment to consistency has paid dividends, drawing larger crowds and encouraging repeat visits from enthusiastic participants. Even during months when alternative events like Stories in the Gardens take precedence, the underlying mission of promoting storytelling remains unwavering.

Celebrating Diversity in Narratives

The beauty of Stories with Friends lies in its ability to showcase a wide array of themes and styles. Attendees might encounter tales ranging from personal anecdotes to historical accounts, each delivered with authenticity and passion. Dunn notes that these stories must adhere to family-friendly standards, ensuring suitability for children who frequently attend alongside adults. Such inclusivity fosters an environment where every voice matters, regardless of background or expertise.

Beyond the stories themselves, the communal aspect of the event plays a crucial role in its success. Participants gather not merely to tell but also to listen, forming bonds over shared moments of laughter, reflection, and discovery. Dunn encourages all interested parties to attend, whether they plan to speak or simply observe. “We encourage anybody to come, even if you just want to come and support the art of storytelling and just come through and watch,” she affirms.

Creating Lasting Memories

Logistical considerations play a significant role in enhancing the overall experience. Refreshments occasionally accompany the event, depending on the venue. For instance, collaborations with establishments like Copper Carrot Bakery have provided delightful snacks during past gatherings held at Truitt Vanderbilt Club. However, given the current location at Pretty Good Books, organizers aim to minimize food and drink interference around precious literary collections.

Each session unfolds over two hours, featuring eight designated slots filled via a first-come, first-served basis. Participants aiming to secure a position should arrive promptly at two o'clock, prepared to deliver their best work within the allocated 12-minute timeframe. Scheduled for Sunday, April 27, from 2 to 4 p.m., this month's Stories with Friends promises another memorable chapter in the ongoing saga of community storytelling.