Over the last 8+ years, we have provided the space for OVER 600 people from every walk of life and experience level to share their true personal stories with packed houses of attentive listeners. Each show is an unpredictable mix of the hilarious and the heartbreaking featuring memorable tales from your friends, neighbors, and fellow Chicagoans.
Come hear what people are saying, then get involved. |
Third Wednesday of Every Month
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro 3905 N Lincoln Avenue 7:30 PM FREE! (Doors at 6:00. Please arrive early if you are dining.) New Voices Telling New Stories
Join us for an intimate evening of storytelling in the cozy back room of one of Chicago's best pubs. Each month, an entirely different lineup of up-and-coming storytellers will share their stories. Hosted by Scott Whitehair.
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Our next performance is on
Wednesday, February 19th,
Featuring ...
Brooke Claussen
New to the storytelling circuit, Brooke is a lifelong writer who prefers to tell funny stories, even when they are sad or tragic. Born in the outer burbs, she escaped to Chicago as soon as possible. Since then, she has moved away from the city three times, each time thinking it was permanent. Yet, here she is once again, back in the mothership.
Cassie Lee
Cassie hails from Chicago, but a little bit of wanderlust and a lot of “finding herself” have taken her to many places with many jobs. She lived in Washington DC for much of her adult life but her love of Chicago, her family and deep-dish pizza brought her back. Fortuitously, she made her way out of DC in advance of the current administration making its way in. She is recovering from a career in corporate America and is happily employed in healthcare.
Diana Kaiser
Diana Kaiser has spent most of her time telling stories from behind the scenes. She received her bachelor's in Theatre Design and Technology from Ball State University in 2010, and her MFA in Lighting Design in 2013. After several years of freelance design and technician work, Diana hung up her c-wrench and gobos for other opportunities. She is now exploring other ways to stay creatively involved and is looking forward to her first time at Story Lab. You may have seen her share a story at Sidetrack's Outspoken! or perform in Pride Films and Plays all female production of 12 Angry Men.
Maria Kostas
Maria has continually transformed spiritually throughout her life, having worked as a carnie, bartender, teacher, business owner, corporate trainer, meditation teacher and clairvoyant. She changed habits of over saturation to moderation, self criticism to self love, and traveled more than one dark night of the soul. She believes that story telling can spark joy and personal power ; offering amusement and education for individuals, communities, and society. Collecting stories from reviewing her experiences, and having more of them, you can expect to hear more from her in and around Chicago.
Elias Matsakis
Elias is a healthcare attorney. Husband to Joanne for 47 years, they have three married children and five grandchildren. Born in St. Louis and a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, he moved to Glenview in 1974 after graduating Harvard Law School. He enjoys tennis, golf, Texas Hold’em tournaments and watching Perry Mason reruns. He recently left Holland & Knight to form his own boutique law practice. As a young attorney he sued President Ford and Henry Kissinger over their decision to provide military aid Turkey following its invasion of Cyprus. He served on the Glenbrook High School Board and continues to be involved in numerous organizations providing scholarships to students with academic potential and limited means. He was inspired to tell his story after listening to his daughter in law, Monica tell hers.
Kalah Mazac
Kalah Mazac was raised in Idaho, educated in Seattle, and defined in Chicago. She is a nanny by day and a sketch comedy writer and producer by night. Her favorite plans for life include becoming a published children's author, riding in a hot air balloon, and cooking through an entire cookbook.
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Drink and Dine
Mrs. Murphy & Sons generously offers a $10 burger and beer special on show nights. No better way to enjoy stories than with a full stomach and a cold one in your hand. |
Tell YOUR Story
Story Lab Chicago is open to anyone wanting to share his or her story, regardless of experience or background. Click here for more details on getting started. |
Take a Class
Do you feel like you need a little more guidance and experience before taking the stage? Click here for more details. |