In a vibrant celebration of identity and resilience, the Big Gay Storyslam is set to illuminate the stage this Saturday, offering an evening where personal narratives take the spotlight. This annual event is more than just a storytelling competition; it’s a powerful forum for the queer community and allies to express themselves freely and connect with one another.
Amber Viola, a judge for this year’s event, emphasized the importance of such spaces, stating, “It’s something that’s very needed… the space for people to be able to come out and just to be themselves.”
Spotlight on Storytellers
Last year, Charley Rude, a trans woman from Lackawanna County, attended the LGBTQ Storyslam as part of the audience. This year, she’s taking the stage as a participant.
Recalling her experience, Rude shared, “That was my first year completely out as a queer person. My partner and I were looking for things to do where I could find my peers and start to become a part of the community.” She added, “I was absolutely flabbergasted that they wanted me to participate this year.”
The theme for this year, “Don’t stop me now,” invites storytellers to share narratives of perseverance and defiance.
Mmachi Dimoriaku, who selected the performers, explained, “The stories are all about resilience through the world telling them no.” Having trained with The Moth in New York, Dimoriaku now resides in Northeast Pa., where she champions the storytelling scene.
Understanding Storyslam
Participants are given around five minutes to deliver a personal story aligned with the theme. Unlike typical comedy shows, these narratives span various genres, creating an intimate experience similar to an acoustic concert.
“Story slams are more so an intimate space, similar to an acoustic concert,” Dimoriaku added. “You’re expecting something good to fill your heart… and you don’t have to do anything but listen.”
With drag comedian Pissi Myles hosting, the evening promises entertainment between stories, while judges evaluate to crown a winner. Viola, having attended last year, noted the diversity of personalities that come through, saying, “It’s such a cool experience, because even people that you do know, you may not have heard certain aspects of their lives or coming out stories.”
Creating Safe Spaces
Growing up in Lackawanna County during the 80s and 90s, Rude had few role models or spaces to explore her identity. She reflected, “I didn’t have any spaces to go to to have examples of people living that type of life… there were no examples whatsoever of a positive role model as a trans person.”
Today, Rude is co-owner of Strange Birds, a new queer venue in Scranton that fosters community through creative events. Strange Birds will also host a Silent Disco afterparty, followed by a queer prom later in the month.
Rude emphasized the significance of such venues, stating, “Having a place where people can gather together and share their identities, who they are, how they live, and show that we just have normal lives… It’s so important.”
