What's Your Story SLAM : Thankful for the Mess

Prepare for an exciting night of stories and friendly competition at What’s Your Story Slam! This is where everyday people step up to the mic to share their personal, five- to six-minute tales, competing to win the audience’s votes.

What to Expect:

• Storytelling Competition: Each storyteller will have a few minutes to wow you with their story. You’ll hear everything from heartfelt moments to hilarious anecdotes.
• Audience Voting: As part of the audience, you’ll vote for your top three favourite stories of the night. The storyteller with the most votes takes home the win!
• Fun, Welcoming Vibe: Whether you’re here to compete, support a friend, or enjoy a night out, our Story Slam community is warm, inclusive, and energetic.

Come for the stories, stay for the connections. Grab a drink, sit back, and cheer on the night’s storytellers. We can’t wait to see you there!

This Month's Theme: THANKFUL FOR THE MESS

Share your story of finding beauty in life’s chaos. Tell us about a time things went sideways, a plan unraveled, or a mishap turned into an unexpected blessing.

That moment when everything fell apart, but somehow, something good emerged. Recall the laughter, the surprises, the lessons hidden in the mess. Tell us a story that celebrates the silver linings and the magic that only comes from things going wrong.

Other Prompts:
Tell us about...
…a time a disaster turned into a blessing

…a mistake that led to something wonderful

…a chaotic moment that made you laugh

How it Works

What’s Your Story Slam is a curated storytelling competition that brings together passionate storytellers, each coached by our creative director, Anna Ong. Every participant pitches their story idea to Anna at least a month before the show, allowing time to craft a compelling, engaging narrative.

On the night, each storyteller takes the stage with a polished, unforgettable 5-6 minute tale, ready to wow the audience and compete for the top spot. It’s a unique, immersive storytelling experience designed to leave a lasting impression.

Doors Open 7:45 PM

Stories Start 8:00 PM

Rating: Advisory

Want to TELL a story? Here’s what to know!

FIRST – Submit Your Story

Apply here: [Storytellers Wanted]

Tips for Live Storytelling

• It’s Your Story
  Make sure you’re one of the main characters and were part of the events as they unfolded. No journalism—this is personal storytelling.
• Told, Not Read
  What’s Your Story Slam is all about connection, so no notes or scripts on stage. Know your story by “heart” so you can engage directly with the audience.
• Stakes Matter
  Why does this story matter to you? What's at risk? Make us care and root for you! If there are no stakes, consider choosing a different story.

How to Bring Your Story to Life

• Start with Action
  Hook us with a bold opening line!
  No: “I thought about signing up for a marathon…”
  Yes: “I’m freezing in Shinjuku, surrounded by spandex, waiting for my first marathon to start…”
• Know Your Story, Have Fun!
  Memorise your bullet points, then let loose. Tell it like you’re at a dinner party with friends.

What to Avoid

• No Meandering Endings
  Know your last line before you start. Bring your audience along for the ride—don’t leave them lost!
• No Sales or Motivational Speeches
  This isn’t a pitch or a seminar. We want real, relatable stories, not life lessons.
• No Stand-Up Routines
  Funny is great, but tell funny stories—no punchline-driven routines.
• No Poetry or Essays
  Save written reflections for the page. Stories need action, stakes, and heart.
• No Rants
  Stories need resolution, not unresolved frustration. Share stories you’ve processed and moved through.
• NO Key Takeaways
  Let the audience find their own meaning. Avoid summarising or “teaching” at the end.