Why Storytelling?

Storytelling and listening is the foundation of so many cultures worldwide but is not often prioritized here in colonial Canada. This event invites us to witness, share stories and stretch our collective understandings.

Join us to hear from four featured storytellers and consider sharing your voice at the open mic. Whether you're sharing or listening, come celebrate the power of storytelling and community connection!

Welcome to Nova Arts Hub Storytelling Night! Share your stories of your great-grandmother, share stories of your awkward first kiss, share stories of your existence on these lands, or just wing it- all is welcome! Whether you're an experienced storyteller or trying it out for the first time, this night is about celebrating the power of voice and shared experiences.

Come as an audience member to support your fellow community members and listen to some stories. The role of the listener is equally important!

How It Works:

  • Participants (audience or storytellers) get their tickets online before the event
  • First bit of the event is reserved to mingling
  • The event will start with a welcome from Lajah (Nova Arts Hub Founder), followed by each of the pre-scheduled storytellers. Each storyteller will be reached out prior to the event and assigned an order.  Each participant will have around  10 minutes to share their story.

What to Expect:

  • Warm Welcome
  • Featured Storytellers: Be invited to listen to four featured storytellers share their lives with us.
  • Community Connection: Unstructured mingling, connecting and reflecting.
  • Open Mic: The floor opens up for the audience to respond to the stories shared and share any lessons they will be taking with them. As an audience member, please be mindful of the space you’re holding and aware of leaving space for others.

Application Process

Apply To Be a Future Storyteller

To sign up as a future storyteller, please fill out this form. Know that this does not guarantee that you will be a storyteller at the next event- your name will be added to the list of future storytellers to be contacted (more information in the link).

Apply To Be An Audience Member

Like any of Nova’s events, please buy your ticket on our website under the tab ‘Events Calendar and Registration’. Due to the sensitivity and intimacy of our events, specific details will be sent to you beforehand with information.

FAQ

Participation and Preparation

Do I need to prepare a story in advance?

No! While featured storytellers will be scheduled in advance, you have the option to share some reflections at the end spontaneously. You are also welcome to come and listen, with no expectations!

If I want to sign up as a storyteller, can I participate if I’ve never told a story before?

Absolutely! This event is for everyone—whether you're an experienced storyteller or trying it for the first time. This is a chance to practice and experiment with storytelling, so we ENCOURAGE you to sign up if this is something new that you would want to try. The focus is on sharing, listening, and community connection.

Logistics and Accessibility

Do I need to register in advance?
Yes, all audience members should get their tickets online before the event.

Is the venue accessible?
Nova Arts Hub aims to be as accessible as possible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please reach out in advance so we can accommodate you. We consider accessibility from the lens of physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental needs. Information on each of these areas are included in our welcome booklet (send out after buying a ticket) Please reach out if you want to read this booklet before buying a ticket.

The space is wheelchair accessible, gender neutral multi stall and private bathroom, and on major bus routes.

What is the event schedule?

  • Arrive & mingle
  • Welcome from Lajah (Nova Arts Hub Founder)
  • Four featured storytellers share their stories
  • Closing reflections & continued mingling

Emotional and Mental Well-Being

What if a story is emotionally heavy?
Storytelling can bring up strong emotions. We encourage respect, care, and mindfulness in both sharing and listening. If you need a break, you’re welcome to step out and rejoin when ready. We do have a small room for folks to go to if they need a private minute. We also encourage you to reach out to us after the event if you need support.

As a storyteller, can I set boundaries around my story?
Yes! If you prefer not to receive feedback or comments after sharing, you can state that beforehand.

Collapsible row