Audition for SHARING THE STORY: A Performance of Oral Storytelling
SHARING THE STORY: A Performance of Oral Storytelling
Directed by Emily Hooper Lansana
Performances: February 20 at 7 PM & February 21 at 7 PM (and possibly 10 PM)
Location: Logan 501
About the Production
This evening of tales both personal and epic will showcase the work of UChicago storytellers in a cozy, casual, lounge environment. Come sit and relax, laugh and cry, and listen to storytellers each spin a tale that has been curated and workshopped under the direction of Emily Hooper Lansana.
For more than thirty years, Emily has performed and taught as a storyteller and shared her work with audiences throughout Chicago and across the country. She has been featured at the National Storytelling Festival, the National Association of Black Storytellers Festival, and at a variety of museums, colleges, and performance venues.
Participation Options
Students may participate in the Winter Quarter TAPS Pro-Show in one of two ways:
1. Enroll in Professor Emily Lansana’s storytelling course.
If you choose this option, DO NOT fill out the audition/application form.
2. Apply to participate in weekend workshops and perform a story in the show.
This option does not include course credit.
Workshops + rehearsals include:
- Workshop #1: Sunday, Jan 25 • 5–8 PM
- Workshop #2: Sunday, Feb 1 • 5–8 PM
- Workshop #3: Sunday, Feb 8 • 5–8 PM
- Rehearsals: Weekday evenings, Week 7
Audition Information
Audition Format: 10–15 minute individual audition slots
What to Prepare:
Please come prepared to share a brief 3–5 minute story. You may select from the prompts below or create your own.
Story Prompts:
- “May you learn to be proud of yourself for your smallest wins.” — Alex Elle
Tell a story about a small win. - “If the rhythm of the drum beat changes, the dance step must adapt.” — African Proverb
Tell a story about a time when you chose to make a change. - Imagine you have a superpower.
Tell a story about how you gained this power and/or how you use it.
No writing or script memorization required.
This performance centers an oral storytelling tradition; storytellers workshop and rehearse their pieces unscripted.
No prior experience required.
In-person auditions: January 13, time and location to be announced.
Sign up for an audition using the form below.