Story Club PGH Presents: Story Slam! (Under Pressure)

This September, Story Club Pittsburgh (created by the former producers of The Moth Pittsburgh) returns to explore the theme immortalized by the late David Bowie and Freddie Mercury. If you’ve ever felt the weight of something pushing down on you, then you’ve got a story to tell this month: the theme is Under Pressure.

Since 2022, it’s been our pleasure to partner with Story Club for their monthly nonfiction storytelling series, Story Slam. Together, we aim to showcase a diverse range of voices and create a space for stories that resonate across backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Each month, we welcome open mic and spotlight storytellers to the stage to share six-minute tales that tackle a pre-selected theme.  

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 with a limited menu and full bar service from 5 to 10 p.m. Seating in the restaurant and bar is available on a first-come, first-served basis.