Story Club PGH Presents: Story Slam! (Bridges)

446. That’s the number of bridges in our beloved Steel City. Chances are, if you’ve been to Pittsburgh, you’ve crossed at least a couple of them (and if you live in Pittsburgh, you make it your mission to cross as few as possible). Whether it’s all about the destination, or all about the journey and what you built along the way, this August, Story Club Pittsburgh (created by the former producers of The Moth Pittsburgh) is all about connection. The theme for this month’s Story Slam is Bridges. 

Since 2022, it’s been our pleasure to host Story Club as they aim to showcase a diverse range of voices and create a space for stories that resonate across backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Each month, they select a theme and welcome volunteer and spotlight storytellers to the stage for Story Slam, a nonfiction storytelling series with a charming mix of open mic nights and live theater. Not sure how to share? Don’t worry. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there. 

How to Participate:

The Spotlight Storyteller is an opportunity within Story Club Pittsburgh to workshop your story with a coach, build your storytelling skills, and help refine and share your story for the stage. Stories are pitched through submitted written drafts, and two Spotlight Storytellers are selected each month. Learn more here or sign up for an open mic slot at the slam.

Each month, the top storyteller, as voted by viewers, will win a free t-shirt and a $25 gift card to City of Asylum Bookstore as a prize. If you are not a storyteller, you still have a chance to participate as part of a judging team.

About the Host:

Alan Olifson is an award-winning humor columnist and comedian and was the regular host of Pittsburgh’s monthly Moth StorySlams. He created the acclaimed storytelling series Wordplay at Bricolage Theater and now produces the new storytelling/talk show Speakeasy with Arcade Comedy Theater. His book, Manchild: My Life without Adult Supervision, from Six Gallery Press, is available wherever you buy books—hopefully somewhere local.

About Your Visit: 

The in-house restaurant, Cucina Alfabeto, is open for appetizers and drinks from 5 to 10 p.m. Happy Hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Please visit Open Table or call 412-435-1111 to make a reservation.