This class meets on the following Wednesdays 5pm-7pm: September 9 September 16 September 23 September 30 October 7 October 14 October 21 October 28 (Possible Makeup November 4)
We all have stories to tell. Sometimes they're hiding below the surface, and sometimes they're ready to burst out of us. In this class, we'll delve into true, live, personal storytelling. You'll mine for stories in your own life using games and prompts. We'll discuss story structure and practice tools to make a story feel more alive as you tell it. The goal is to leave the class with a fully developed 5-minute story. While not required, students will get a lot more out of this class if they sign up prepared to do some homework between classes. Registration fee includes one private story coaching session with Mireille. The final class session (Oct 28th) will be an optional showcase for students to share their story with friends and family.
Prerequisite: None!
“Taking a step towards less improvised performance, Mireille’s storytelling class explores a more individual and personal approach to stagecraft. With a focus on structure, impact, and exploring the story behind the story, this class is a must for anyone looking to take their storytelling, whether it be scripted, unscripted or in real life, to the next level." - Digging Into Stories student
Mireille Bejjani, a community organizer focused on environmental justice issues, loves weaving storytelling into her work. She took several storytelling classes on Zoom during the pandemic and was immediately hooked on digging deeper into telling personal stories. She has participated in four Valley Voices shows through New England Public Media (NEPM); shared a story at “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America,” and performed at "Stories from the Stage" at WGBH. Her teaching is deeply informed by the work of Michelle Darby.mb-headshot2.jpeg8.89 KB Curious about that extra $3 on your weekly class? Happier Valley Comedy rents land that was stolen from Indigenous people, including the Pocumtuc and Nipmuc tribes. A land acknowledgement is not appropriate or adequate to address this injustice that continues to harm people today. Therefore, we have instituted an ongoing process of contributing to the preservation of the lands and cultures of Northeastern Indigenous Peoples. All class fees contain an additional $3 to benefit The Nolumbeka Project, a local nonprofit whose mission is dedicated to these goals. Click here to learn more about The Nolumbeka Project, including their upcoming events. Click here to learn more about our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Students must be 18+ years. (In actual years, not maturity.)
Please note that once you make your purchase, your spot in the class is non-refundable unless we have 48 hours notice and we can get someone to fill your spot.
Our classes may involve physical activity and we could be on our feet for at least an hour; however, we're able to accommodate for all physical abilities. Please email us to let us know how we can best fit your needs or if you have any questions about accommodations.
Do you need help affording your next class or workshop? Check out The Fun Fund and email Scott ahead of time if you'd like to make a request!
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS The Happier Valley Comedy School admits students of any race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religious affiliation, age, ability, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religious affiliation, age, ability, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs.
