THE THEME WAS GENERATIONS

Generations StorySlam season 10 opener held at Garfield’s 502 this past Friday was everything we hoped for! The spot was filled with new and returning faces, Garfield’s staff were servin’ up delicious food and our volunteers were happy to assist. Our MC’s David Lee and Nelson Lopez kicked us off with humor, excitement and anticipation. Here’s a recap of the night!

STORY SNIPPETS

New Teller, Mark Weinberg shared a touching story about the striking resemblance between his father at death and his daughter at birth. It was a beautiful story about the cycle of life and his determination to be as great as them. It was a wonderful tribute to our theme ‘Generations.’

Later, we heard Monica Thomas tell a lighthearted and funny story about some mysterious snails named Milagro(Miracle) and Miércoles(Wednesday). It was a tale of two snails who produced generations of other snails. More importantly, Monica expressed her happiness of coming home to them at the end of a long hard day of teaching.

Teller, Elizabeth Brown shared her powerful story of survival, hope and bravery. As a survivor of generational child sexual molestation at the age of 7 years old, it was evident Elizabeth was a source of hope and encouragement for others to break the silence and cycle.

In addition to stories, we also heard some great take away quotes: “Pay your rent on earth” “Legacy is not about money, it’s about peace” “Resurrecting theatre within.”  One hilarious quote came from our final Teller, Tahirih Hanson.  Tihirih had an a-ha moment as a young child, when she realized she came from generational humor. “So I take it we’re not going to Target anymore” (You had to be there).

And The Winner Is…

Lastly, a lot of community bonding occurred and a great time was had by all. The crowning winner of Season 10’s first StorySlam went to Elizabeth Brown who said “I am not my tragedy, I am my triumph.” Way to go Elizabeth!

Special shouts to all Generations Tellers: Mark Weinberg, Jill Potkay, Monica Thomas, Elizabeth Brown, Shawn Christopher Williams, De’ Shawn Ewing, Pat Small, Barbara Leigh and Tahirih Hanson.

More shouts to: Welcoming remarks from Deshea Agee, Executive Director of the Historic King Drive BID  8. Season 10 sponsors & funders  Northwestern Mutual WUWM 89.7 FM – Milwaukee’s NPRMilwaukee Turners at Turner Hall Wisconsin Arts Board Transfer Pizzeria Café Colectivo Coffee LuLu Cafe & Bar We Energies Gorman & Company Brico Fund and CAMPAC!

What’s Next

Be like our ‘Generations’ Tellers and come tell a true, personal story on October 9th at Sugar Maple. Please join us for a pre StorySlam discussion 5:15pm-6:15pm, hosted by On The Table. Then stay for our first non-competitive StorySlam ‘Misunderstood.’ 

All Our Best,

Ex Fabula Crew!