Our Urban Tellers show last week showcased what Portland Story Theater is all about–authentic storytelling. When storytellers open up and share the stories closest to their hearts, it can be a deeply moving experience, and last Saturday was no exception.
Michelle Reynolds shares a story of reconnecting with her father after decades of distance. Photo Credit: Mike Bodine
As the tellers shared personal experiences from their own lives, their true emotions shone through, causing many of us in the audience to be profoundly moved. Many of the tellers spoke of their family relationships, revealing how the intensity of familial bonds influenced their lives–for better or worse.
Jeremy Lucas shares a story about a difficult choice. Photo Credit: Mike Bodine
Though a few of the stories were about the heartache that family members can inflict on one another, all spoke of personal growth and compassion. Ultimately, they reinforced the idea that we often have the opportunity to get to know ourselves better through our interactions with others.
Sabina Haque shares the struggle to feel close with her very far away family. Photo Credit: Mike Bodine
All of the Urban Tellers shows have themes that emerge organically, and this group’s stories were all about belonging. Everyone wants to belong somewhere. Most of us long to know ourselves and many want connection to something bigger. These stories explored our desire to belong, to a family, to a community, or to a country.
On Saturday, February 14th, it’s live storytelling and the theme is sexy, spicy romantic love with our Kiss and Tell show. Hope to see you there!
All photos: Mike Bodine