What is Wintertelling?
Wintertelling is an annual performance by members of the Bloomington Storytellers Guild featuring a variety of tales chosen by storytellers to entertain adults and teens. You may hear anything from folklore and fable to local legend and personal narrative. It is currently sponsored by the Monroe County Public Library.
The practice of sharing stories is a traditional way in many cultures to pass a pleasant evening in the cold, dark nights of late Winter. The members of the BSG have long enjoyed participating in this tradition. The Wintertelling stories entertain, enlighten and enhearten. Save your spooky stories for the Festival of Ghost Stories
If you are a first-time teller you will be expected to tell your entire story. Stories shared in Guild events are told -- not read, so be prepared to perform your tale on stage without a script (although you may use notes at audition)
If you have questions or want suggestions for selecting a story, please contact the coordinator BEFORE auditions.
Stories should be no more than 10 minutes in length, so that more tellers may participate in the performance. We will be strict about length! Don’t guess the length, time yourself telling it more than once. 7-10 minutes is perfect, more than 10 is less perfect, more than 12 is out of the question.
If you are a regular performer with the Guild, you can indicate the content and style of your story in a shortened version at auditions.
This event is
advertised as appropriate for adults and teens. Content should not
skewer too young, nor should it be inappropriate for family entertainment.
Traditional (folklore), personal narrative, and original work is acceptable.
Copyrighted work is performed only with permission. Choose a tale rich with
story that will hold a casual listener. If you have questions about whether
your story is appropriate or not, please contact the coordinator prior to auditions.
This event features a limited number of performers. Final performer selection is determined by the BSG Event Coordinator. You will be notified via phone or email within three days of the Audition if your story will be part of the event.
For the program you need to supply:
How
you want your name to appear
Title
of your story
Origin
of story – personal narrative, original story (it’s fiction but you wrote it),
folktale (give country of origin), urban legend, etc. The more information, the better for
placement of the story in the program and development of a printed program.
