Tips to Try
Listening to professional storytellers
This is “Conference Month”, and many will be coming to Bloomington/Normal Illinois to attend the annual Christian Storytelling Conference. For many of us, this is a highlight of the year. New people come and tell us that the conference is “ministry changing.” They develop skills and gain new ideas that will impact their lives and ministries for years to come.
But there is one advantage that many overlook. The conference is a great opportunity to observe professional storytellers tell stories. Each one of them is different and he/she has developed different styles. But if you carefully watch them perform, you will pick up something you can use.
Now don’t get me wrong. You have heard me say many times that you need to tell stories “like you” and not like someone else. That is still true. But if you listen and watch carefully, you will pick up ideas and find that they “are you.” You just didn’t know it.
Many think that the two storytelling concerts at our conference are just a time for the professionals to “show off their stuff.” You may think the concerts are only for entertainment and have nothing to do with why you came to the conference. You say, “This is just for fun.”
But take a closer look. What is the real reason we have storytelling concerts at our conference? They give you a unique opportunity to watch professional storytellers perform. Sometimes you won’t enjoy how they are telling their story. Believe me. Sometimes professional storytellers make great mistakes in technique. That comes with the profession.
But most of the time you will enjoy how they are telling their story. Don’t just sit there and enjoy. Ask yourself, “What did they just do that made me experience the story in a good way.” There is something about professional storytellers that you need to know. When we do things right, we do them in a big way – for all to see. When we do things wrong, we do them in a big way – for all to see.
That is what makes coming to a conference like this so valuable. You really get to know your instructors and learn from them – things that are good, and things you need to avoid. During the workshop times, you will sit in classes conducted by professional storytellers and experienced BibleTellers. But don’t miss the two storytelling concerts – Saturday at lunch, and Saturday evening.
Come. Learn from the workshops, but also watch how each storyteller presents his/her story. Clearly identify the things you don’t like, and discard them. Embrace what you do like – but make it your own.
Don’t forget to check out our ‘Story of the Month’ as well
Check out the past five months of stories and tips
