Which District is that Again?

Which District is that again?

I remember getting off stage at The Moth monthly storytelling show 3-4 years ago. Back when it was at the Howard theater. I wasn’t in contention for wining that day, but felt pretty good about how I did for my very first time. As I was getting ready to leave, a person came to me and said “Have you heard of Story District? You should go to one of their workshops.” I’m not sure if they saw someone with potential, or someone that needed a lot of work. Either way, I never got around to it. Some time, I find it difficult to make long term commitments. There are only 3 things that I can honestly say that I have been totally committed to for 15 years or more; my wife, my career, and my afro. Story District has exhibited that same level of commitment to storytelling in the DC area. One way they show that commitment is by helping people in their storytelling workshops.

Story District has been around for about 20 years. Initially named Speakeasy, it’s a non-profit storytelling organization looking to help people tell their best story. An army of board members and volunteers have helped in all aspects of what the organization does. Story District started with storytelling shows, then added coaching to help people get ready for shows. After meeting the demand for coaching, full workshops were offered. Interestingly, most people who attend a workshop by Story District don’t find them by being on the stage. They find out about the workshops.

What can you expect to get from a workshop? Story District’s focused is on Personal narrative storytelling; you telling a story from your life that uncovers meaning. To make that happen, the teachers help students in ways such as identifying story elements, telling the difference between story and just a ramble, and where to find stories in their life. They do this using 3 versions of workshops. The Storytelling Boot Camp is a 1 day workshop meant to tell you what you need to know and sending you on your way. The Storytelling 101 class last for a few weeks as teacher goes one sept further by helping you craft a particular story along the way. The third is just for the Armed Services Arts Program (ASAP) that does what the Storytelling 101 class, just for Military members and dependents.

How do you know if a Story District workshop is for you? Simply put, be ready to commit to them the same way they are going to commit to you. Whether the 1 day workshop, or the 5 week workshop, be present in class and fully engaged. In return, you get great teachers with years of expertise with Story District. You get a curriculum that is regularly reviewed. You’ll get personalized help. When it’s all said and done, you’ll be able to deliver the story you want, at the place you want, the way you want. And the icing on the cake, you’ll be a part of a storytelling community 20 years in the making. 

In 2019, Story District has an array of workshops and shows that gives personal narrative storytelling center stage. Go to a show and be inspired. Go to a workshop and learn to inspire others. Make a commitment to tell your best story.

Check out the upcoming workshops and shows just around the corner

Worst Case Scenario: Jobs

Tues, 26 Mar at 7:30 pm

https://storydistrict.org/events/item/worst-job

Fake It ‘Til You Make It: Stories about Traying to be Something You’re Not

Tues 9 Apr at 7:30 pm

https://storydistrict.org/events/item/fake-it-til-you-make-it

Workshops

Storytelling Boot Camp

Sun, 24 Mar at 0930

https://storydistrict.org/events/item/boot-camp-march-24-2019

Storytelling 101 5 Weeks with Final Performance

Mondays 7:00 pm starting 1 Apr

https://storydistrict.org/events/item/storytelling-101-april-1