Here are some specific things that Suncoast Storytellers can do to accomplish the desired end result, based on our mission statement:

Event Formats to Increase Attendance and Participation:

• Themed Open Mic Nights: Create open mic nights with themes that spark community conversations. Examples include “Local Legends,” “Unsung Heroes,” or “Overcoming Challenges.” This allows storytellers to share personal narratives that resonate with specific community members.
• Story Slams: Host story slams with a time limit and a judging panel. This high-energy format encourages participation and friendly competition, attracting a younger audience.
• Intergenerational Storytelling Events: Organize events where experienced storytellers are paired with younger community members to share stories and bridge the generational gap.
• Story Walks: Partner with local parks or historical sites to create “story walks” where families follow a path and encounter snippets of a story at each stop. This encourages physical activity and community exploration while engaging with storytelling.

Engaging the Audience:

• Workshops: Offer workshops before or after events on topics like public speaking, storytelling techniques, or even crafting personal narratives. This equips audience members with the skills to participate in future events.
• Q&A Sessions: Facilitate Q&A sessions after performances to encourage dialogue between storytellers and the audience. This allows for deeper exploration of the themes presented and fosters a sense of connection.
• Community Feedback: Gather feedback through surveys or discussions at events. This helps tailor future events to better suit the community’s interests and encourage repeat attendance.

Promoting Active Community Participation

• Volunteer Opportunities: Offer volunteer opportunities at events, such as setting up, running sound, or helping with audience engagement. This allows community members to feel involved and invested in the storytelling experience.
• Storytelling in Action: Partner with local organizations to have storytellers participate in community events like charity fundraisers or neighborhood clean-ups. This showcases the power of storytelling in inspiring action.
• Social Media Engagement: Use social media to share snippets of stories, host online storytelling challenges, and promote upcoming events. This keeps the community connected and fosters anticipation for live events.

By implementing these strategies, Suncoast Storytellers can create a welcoming and engaging environment that attracts a wider audience, fosters dialogue, and ultimately encourages active participation within the community.