how connection developsThe origins and anniversary stories
The Moth’s anniversary episode returns to its beginnings. Founder George Dawes Green recalls storytelling on Bullard’s porch in Georgia and the evenings he later organized in New York. Bullard’s own appearance brings the broadcast back to someone whose friendship and stories helped inspire the organization.
The Moth’s twenty-fifth-anniversary episode moves backward through its history, presenting one story from each five-year period. Host Catherine Burns introduces accounts of identity, immigration, creative work, family rejection, and trust.
Purity Kagwiria recalls the names she was required to adopt and her eventual decision about what to call herself. Nestor Gomez describes learning English with his brother while recognizing what their family still shared in Spanish. Tony Hendra remembers finding his role in This Is Spinal Tap by listening and responding to the other performers.
Jeffery Rudell tells of his parents’ rejection after he came out, including the years he spent hoping their response would change. Wanda Bullard’s story follows her father’s unexpected decision to trust a prisoner to return with money for his fine.
Preparing and telling a story
The Moth’s Tell Your Story page explains how to enter a StorySLAM and prepare a story for a live audience. Participants choose an event theme, shape a true personal story around it, and put their names into a draw when they arrive.
Ten storytellers are selected during the evening. Each story has a five-minute limit and is scored by audience judging teams. The criteria include staying within time, addressing the theme, and including conflict and resolution. Winners from ten SLAMs later compete in a GrandSLAM.
The storytelling guidance emphasizes stakes. The teller needs to understand what could be gained or lost and why the experience mattered. An opening can begin with action or provide the context listeners need.
Preparation means knowing the story’s main beats without memorizing every sentence. Notes and scripts are not used onstage. The Moth recommends practicing until the teller has enough familiarity to enjoy the performance.
The page distinguishes a personal story from a standup routine, essay, or rant. It also asks storytellers to use their own voices and treat others with civility and respect.
Sources
The Moth. (n.d.). Celebrating The Moth’s 25th anniversary. The Moth Radio Hour.