A National Exploration: "Being American: A Live Storytelling Event"

Storytelling is an art form we don't always stop to recognize — yet it has the power to connect, inspire and build community. Transom Story Lab is working to nurture that art right in Brattleboro. As part of the Retreat Farm's America at 250 series, Transom Story Lab will present "Being American: A Live Storytelling Event," on March 11, featuring local people telling stories about their experiences. "This is about having members of the Brattleboro community telling their own stories about what it means to be American," said Sophie Crane, executive director of Transom Story Lab. The event will be hosted by historian and author Jill Lepore. Storytellers will each take the stage to share five-minute, first-person stories exploring identity, belonging, responsibility and hope through everyday experiences. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. If a storyteller runs long, a violin will gently "play them off" the stage. In the days leading up to the event, selected participants will take part in an intensive storytelling workshop from March 7 through 9. Many of them having no experience telling stories in a stage setting. "They haven't done this before, and it's a big, brave thing they're doing," Crane said. The three-day workshop will provide coaching in the art of personal storytelling — helping participants shape their experiences with heart, humanity and vulnerability. Transom Story Lab is a nonprofit organization nationally recognized for training journalists and community members in first-person storytelling for radio, podcasts and live audiences. For more than 25 years, Transom has helped people transform lived experience into thoughtful, human stories that foster empathy and connection. Long considered a leading force in narrative audio, Transom has helped create a home for storytellers who take creative risks and push beyond traditional norms. Transom's sister organization, Atlantic Public Media, produces The Moth Radio Hour. Meg Bowles, director of The Moth Radio Hour, and Vicki Merrick, a producer of the program, will join Crane in coaching local storytellers during the workshop. Organizers emphasize that professional writing or performing experience is not required. They are especially eager to hear from people whose voices and experiences are not often represented on stage. Selected storytellers will receive supportive coaching before sharing their true stories in a welcoming, community-centered event. Transom is seeking eight to 10 storytellers, and there is still time to apply. Applications are available online at transom.slideroom.com/#/login/program/87899. Tickets for the event are $10 for adults, and children attend free. Tickets can be purchased online at retreatfarm.org. The event is supported in part by Brooks Memorial Library, Down Right Productions and the generosity of Retreat Farm donors. Retreat Farm is located at 45 Farmhouse Square in Brattleboro. For more information, visit retreatfarm.org or call 802-490-2270.