We are not the only game in town, and are thrilled to be a part of the thriving Chicago storytelling community. There are an awe-inspiring number of great opportunities to hear (and even tell) stories in the city right now – you’d be crazy to miss out on them. Click on names to be taken to related website.
THIS MUCH IS TRUE Our original show, which takes place at The Hopleaf in Andersonville on the second Tuesday of every month. Want more info? Check out the site (Hint: You are currently on the site). FREE.
STORY LAB CHICAGO Let the experiment begin. Our newest show goes down every 3rd Wednesday at The Black Rock Pub in North Center, when newbie storytellers get their chance to shine. Grab a beer and a $5 burger and join us by the fireplace in the intimate back room of this classic neighborhood pub. Hosted by Scott Whitehair. FREE.
GROWN FOLKS STORIES A guaranteed good time, taking place the third Thursday of every month at The Silver Room in Wicker Park. Any audience member is welcome to throw his name into the bucket and, when selected, gets the mic for 5 minutes to tell any story she wishes. No notes allowed, no subject matter taboo, and no way you won’t enjoy yourself here. Cara Brigandi hosts. FREE.
STORY CLUB Host Dana Norris presides over this stellar story series every first Thursday of the month at Uncommon Ground in Wrigleyville. Before the featured readers take the stage, an open mic kicks the night off in style (get there early to sign up – spots are limited). Not only a great way to hear some stories, but also the perfect place to share that story you have been dying to tell. FREE.
ESSAY FIESTA At the Book Cellar in Lincoln Square every 3rd Monday, our friends Keith Ecker and Alyson Lyon bring together a cross-section of Chicago’s art and writing communities for a night of first-person, non-fiction essays. Also, a raffle is held to raise money for The Howard Brown Health Center. Listening to stories while helping to support a great charity? Win and win. FREE.
STORIES AT THE STORE (no website available) Did you only think of Lincoln Park’s The Store as a frequently rollicking 4 AM bar? Think again, as host Jen Bosworth welcomes an outstanding lineup of readers on the last Wednesday of every month. FREE.
RUI: READING UNDER THE INFLUENCE This popular series is now in its sixth year of taking over the space at Sheffield’s one Wednesday a month for an evening of readings, trivia, and shots of booze. Did we mention there are prizes for the trivia? This is a unique night out and lots of fun. TICKETS – $3
THE MOTH The Chicago Moth Slam just crowned a Grand Slam champion for 2010, and carries into the new year it’s tradition of selling out Martyr’s in North Center on the last Tuesday of every month. Ten names are drawn from a bucket (anyone can sign up). Five minute stories are told. One winner is crowned by the audience. Each month features a new theme and is hosted by Brian Babylon. Get there early – this is the most popular story show in the city, and will sell out. TICKETS – $7 AT THE DOOR
SECOND STORY The most prolific story company in Chicago, Second Story host events featuring wine, music, and stories at a wide variety of venues around the city, including their own yearly festival at Webster’s Wine Bar. TICKET COST VARIES.
WINDY CITY STORY SLAM An early contender on the story scene, WCSS has hosted monthly slams and even its own yearly championship. Although their schedule has become erratic over the last year or so, they are still putting on the occasional show. Check their site for up-to-date info. Hosted by Bill Hillman. TICKET COST VARIES.
HERE’S THE STORY This newcomer to the Chicago story community features a potluck dinner, open story-swap, and five featured storytellers each month in the space at Stage 773. Come check it out on the first Wednesday of the month. FREE.
We are aware that there exist some series we either overlooked or that have been launched since this list was created. Know of a story event you think should be added here? Let us hear about it – thismuchistruechicago@gmail.com