The Story Exchange February 26th Submissions
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This three-part “Moth-Hour” style series invites members of our community to explore and share personal narratives around themes central to our collective experience. Each event will center on a guiding question, encouraging deep reflection, dialogue, and connection.
Event details: Thursday, February 26th, 2026, 7:00 p.m., Kimball Theater in Williamsburg
Story Theme:
Love has a way of showing up everywhere we are — in the friendships that feel like family, in the bonds we’re born into, and in the spark of romance. This three-part series explores the many ways love shapes our lives, reminding us that love is not just one story, but many.
Romantic Love
Prompt: Share a moment when vulnerability deepened your connection with someone. Description: Romance often asks us to risk honesty. Recall a moment when opening up — with your heart, your fears, or your truth — transformed a relationship, bringing you closer in unexpected ways.
Story Submission Criteria:
Theme Alignment: The story should reflect the theme of The Story Exchange: 757 Together, focusing on community, connection, diversity, or overcoming challenges. The Theme for each event may change, so ensure the story aligns with the current topic.
- Personal Experience: The story must be based on the teller.'s personal experience. It should be authentic, with the teller being the central figure of the narrative.
- Originality: The story must be original and not previously published or presented in other major storytelling forums (unless otherwise specified by the event organizers).
- Emotional Impact: The story should evoke an emotional response, whether it’s humor, inspiration, empathy, or reflection. The teller must be able to convey the personal significance of their experience.
- Time Limit: Stories should be between 5 to 7 minutes long when spoken. Written submissions should be a maximum of 1,500 words.
- Clarity and structure: The story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should demonstrate a journey or transformation that the teller experienced, with a resolution or takeaway.
- Respect and Sensitivity: Stories should be respectful of diverse audiences. Sensitive topics (e.g., trauma, violence) should be handled with care, ensuring the teller is mindful of the impact on listeners.
- No props or Notes: Storytellers should deliver their story without the use of props or notes, allowing for a more natural and engaging performance.
- Consent to Record: By submitting their story, storytellers agree to have their performance recorded and potentially shared across social media, the Emerging Leaders website, and other promotional platforms.
- Submit an audio/video recording AND/OR text of the story for consideration. Include a brief bio (100-150 words) and explain how your story aligns with the theme
- By completing and submitting an application, you agree to the above guidelines and are available February 26th to perform your story onstage.
SUBMISSION CUTOFF IS February 13th, Storytellers will be notified by February 17th.