Over the last 13+ years, we have provided the space for OVER 850 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. |
3rd Thursday of Every Month Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro 3905 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago 7:30 PM (Doors at 7:00) FREE 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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September 19th Cast
Kathy Brown
Kathy Brown is a Transformation and Leadership Catalyst. I started my professional career in dance, and I thought dance was my first love until I realized that energy is what brought me into the world of dance. I acquired a unique and valuable perspective using my abilities to see, hear, and feel energy. I also, learned to harness my gift of Energy through experiences of being the 3rd oldest of 10 kids. This allowed me to delve deep into the complexities of relationships. Using a holistic approach, I inspire individuals to play a proactive role in unleashing the wisdom of the Mind, Body, & Spirit through fun, passion, and energy. I continue to present as a Keynote Speaker on Relationships, Leadership, Dance & Spirit Energy. Author of: Ignite Your Life -the ‘Power of 5’ Series; Ebb & Flow of Life -reflections; A Different Perspective - a passionate journey. I was honored to be featured on the front page of the ‘Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Chicago’s 100 Most Influential Woman in Chicago, Best Dance Instructor by Chicago Magazine. I also have been featured on TV & Radio, including CBS, NBC, ABC, Nightly News & more.
Jennelle Dronkers
Jennelle is a Chicago-based woman from all over. Growing up in a military family, she’s had the privilege of calling many places home, including California (twice), Hawaii, Japan (twice), Florida, and the UK. Her travels have taught her that the heart of any place is its people and the stories they create together. Since 2012, she has fallen madly in love with Chicago and her community here - she's pretty sure Chicago may be "the one." In her professional life, Jennelle is dedicated to nonprofit international education, where she does what she can to make everyone who leaves their country for this one feel welcome and at home.
David Edler
David Edler, a recovering thespian and corporate survivor, now graces the stage with tales from his colorful life. In his 20s, he reveled in off-loop theaters, where he painted emotions and characters with the fervor of a caffeinated Picasso. But behold! The corporate overlords beckoned, and David donned his metaphorical tie (and occasionally a literal one) to conquer the vision care industry. Then, a TIA in 2022—a cosmic nudge, if you will—prompted him to un-become everything that wasn't really him. He shed pounds, old beliefs, and benevolent overlords alike. Last month, he pedaled through Colorado's Copper Triangle (for the second time, mind you), and now he's lacing up for his inaugural marathon in Chicago. David resides near Lake County Forest Preserve with his wife Abby and their black lab, who occasionally critiques his trumpet solos. Their children (Marc and Marisa) living and working in the area, cheer him on from the sidelines.
Luke Leisman
Luke Leisman is an astronomer, writer, and entrepreneur, trying to figure out his life while also looking for light in the universe around us. A native Michigander, he got his PhD in upstate New York and then taught for several years in northwest Indiana before landing in Chicago in 2021. He writes regularly about the night sky and our lives on substack, and can occasionally be spotted sailing or playing fiddle. He is thankful for events like Story Lab which make our planet a little braver, more dignified, better place
Caitlin Marz
Caitlin Marz is a bookseller, a dancer, and a late-in-life theater kid. As a dance artist she has shown work through AUNTS, Bushwick Open Studios, Danspace Project, Links Hall, and Roulette Intermedium. More recently, she has been embracing the beauty of being an adult beginner by studying acting, improv, and storytelling at all the places you’d expect. She grew up in the exurbs of Chicago where she first learned the power of a good story while being regaled by her inimitable Great Aunt Merce.
Judy Mortellaro
Judy spent many years as a RN practicing throughout the country. Once retired, she began to realize that it was time to take care of herself and have more fun. Of course, having a granddaughter reminded her of the fun and creativity left behind in childhood. Now, she has found storytelling to be a way to share a lifetime of journeys and in so doing to remember the moments of childlike wonder that brought her to this last stage in life.
Scott Whitehair (Host)
Scott Whitehair is a storyteller, teacher, and producer living in Chicago, IL. He is the producer of This Much Is True, Chicago's longest running monthly personal narrative series, creator of Story Lab Chicago, which has put 850+ new storytellers on stage since 2011, and director of Do Not Submit, a grassroots network of open mics across the city bringing people together to connect with each other. Scott tells anywhere someone will listen, including The National Storytelling Festival Exchange Place, Steppenwolf Theater, the historic Green Mill, and on NPR, the Risk podcast, and Siruis XM. He is a frequent guest instructor at the city's top universities, and his personal narrative class has been selling out every month since 2012. Scott is in demand as a coach and trainer, spending his days helping individuals, companies, and non-profits develop their voices as storytellers. In 2014, he was the featured instructor at Hong Kong Story Worthy Week, headlined by David Sedaris, and in 2015 taught an intensive at All Hallows College in Dublin.
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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. |