The Story/Arts Residency Application Now Open

A narrative arts space featuring storytelling and the exploration of the human condition through multi-disciplinary, community-driven programming

In This Newsletter
The 2024 Story/Arts Residency Application Open | Details
Event Spotlights | All Arts Open Mic + The Campfireball
Class Spotlights | Fictional Memoir + Belonging in a Divided World
On the Horizon | Events & Classes

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR
THE 2024 STORY/ARTS RESIDENCY

We’re delighted to open the application to our next Story/Arts Residency, held this July. The Story/Arts Residency invites artists and art groups from historically marginalized communities to present a three-week performance featuring the core elements of storytelling through art, collaboration, and exploration of the human condition.

“As a person of color who has a strong desire to share stories, Story Parlor has shown me endless grace within the local creative community. I’m forever grateful for such a safe place for those who dare to share and those who are not afraid to listen.” - Shunyu Huang (2023 artist-in-residence)

In addition to public performances and/or workshops, artists-in-residence receive dedicated rehearsal time in the space; an artist stipend; creativity coaching sessions; marketing and promotion; and more.

Applications for the 2024 summer residency are due no later than April 1, with the residency run taking place the final three Thursday evenings of July.

"A residency is a special gift that honors the work of an artist, regardless of career stage. This is so true at the Story Parlor because of all the built-in support! From the very start, it was clear to me that they absolutely wanted to help shine the light on my work, and the support was focused and palpable. At Story Parlor you're at home." - Meta Commerse (2022 artist-in-residence)

THE STORY/ARTS RESIDENCY

HOT OFF THE PRESS

We were honored to be featured in the latest edition of AFAR magazine, with journalist Joanne O’Sullivan capturing the heart and soul of our intimate narrative art space so beautifully…

“In a setting of this size, barriers between performer and crowd are non-existent. There’s the sense that each has shown up for the other with good intentions and they’re completely present. Enchantment and inspiration ensue. On the other side of the thick, amber velvet curtains that line the windows, cars and trucks race up Haywood Road. But inside there’s a certain alchemy taking place—an artist is sharing a story, and the audience is actively part of it.”

Read the full piece here.

UPCOMING EVENTS at STORY PARLOR

(Tonight!) Thursday, February 1 | ALL ARTS OPEN MIC
Prepare a five minute original piece in whatever medium you so choose — storytelling, music, poetry, literature, comedy, dance — or simply come to enjoy and support the local arts community.

Thursday, February 8 | The Campfireball: Love Bugs
The Campfireball is an immersive storytelling show created live and in the moment out of stories from the audience. No two shows are alike, none will ever be seen again. This month’s theme — LOVE BUGS!

Saturday, February 17 | AVL Revue: "Partners"
(Tickets going fast!) Join us for an evening of music, poetry, and storytelling — with this month’s AVL Revue shining the spotlight on some the beloved recurring events at Story Parlor, all while offering a glimpse into the year ahead.

Thursday, February 22 | Jazz Hybrid Presents
Join this evening of poetry and music featuring Richard Chess, Katherine Soniat, and Adam Lion.

Friday, February 23 | RAISING BLACK: A Penny Meacham Production on Resiliency & Hope
A collection of poetry, skits, and monologues centered on resiliency presented by the Black Diamond Group Performance Ensemble — an all black acting group based in Asheville.

Saturday, March 9 | An Evening of Folk Music with Tina & Her Pony
An evening of Folk Music with the beloved Asheville band, Tina & Her Pony

Thursday, March 28 | Listen to This: Stories and More on Stage
Hosted by Tom Chalmers, Listen to This presents an evening of true-to-life stories (and more!). This month’s theme: "We All Long to Belong" — true tales of trying to integrate into a group.

FULL EVENT CALENDAR

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

The Lake Eden Writing Retreat | May 19-24, 2024
On the site of The LEAF Festival near Black Mountain, NC

Join esteemed writing teachers Nickole Brown, Allan Wolf, and James Navé for The Lake Eden Writing Retreat at the scenic Lake Eden near Black Mountain, North Carolina, on the LEAF Festival grounds and the former campus of Black Mountain College.

The Lake Eden Writing Retreat will address your entire journey as a writer. Every aspect is covered, from handling criticism constructively, building a diverse writing portfolio, networking with peers, and finding reliable research sources. You'll leave with enhanced writing skills and strategies for finding publishing avenues and adapting to different genres.

Guest speakers include Mildred Kinconco Barya, Diamond Forde, Sebastian Matthews, Kelly Hanson, Opal Keen, and Eliza Santiago.

Find out more at www.lakeedenwritingretreat.com.

UPCOMING CLASSES at STORY PARLOR

Fictional Memoir|Wednesdays, Feb. 7-March 20, from 6:15-8:45pm
(Only a few spots left!) A seven-week deep-dive into the power of personal story as a basis for strong, authentic fiction. Led by Inward & Artward Facilitator R. Lyon Bergh.

Belonging in a Divided World: Restoring Connection to Your Self and Your Life | Saturday, Feb. 24 & Sunday, Feb. 25 from 9am-5pm
This experiential two-day workshop addresses the epidemic disconnection from our true selves, from other people, and from the natural world, and gives participants tools for mending separation. Led by Inward & Artward Facilitator, Amy Arnold.

Dear Valentine: A Love Letter Writing Workshop | Sunday, Feb. 11 from 2:00-4:15pm
(Only a few spots left!) This workshop will explore the history, styles, and elements of love letters, along with the needed materials to complete a written letter of your own. Led by Inward & Artward Facilitator, Tikva Kingrea.

Misfit Improv & Acting School | Kids Improv (Ages 5-9) | Saturdays, March 16 – May 4 from 10-11am
A blend of engaging theater games and skill-building activities that nurture young imaginations, where kids will have a chance to explore body movement, vocal exercises, and unleash their creativity through interactive improv games. Led by Misfit Improv.

Misfit Improv & Acting School | Kids Improv (Tweens Ages 10 & Up)| Saturdays, March 16-May 4 from 11am-12:30pm
Through group games and collaborative play, students will not only enhance their acting skills, but also build strong bonds with their peers while exploring self-expression, connection, and comedy. Led by Misfit Improv.

Writing from the Top of Your Head | Mondays, April 15-June 3 from 6:30-9:00pm
(Added session!) The Writing from the Top of Your Head workshop helps writers of any level of experience to break through perfectionism, free their imagination, and tell the brave stories they are meant to tell. Led by Nina Hart.

Asheville School of Magic Camp | Jun 24–Jun 28, and July 22-26 from 9:00-10:15am
For ages 8-11, come learn the art of Prestidigitation using every day common objects. Led by Tim Arem.

Asheville School of Comedy Camp | Jun 24–Jun 28 and July 22-26 from 10:45am-12:00pm
For ages 8-11, come laugh and learn at comedy camp. We will write and share our jokes in a fun and supportive class. Led by Tim Arem.

CLASSES

Class space is LIMITED to ensure an intimate experience.
Sign-up early to guarantee your spot!

We are dedicated to delivering a space that serves the creative community of Asheville. From rehearsal space, workshops, table reads, film screenings, performances, and other intimate events, we have a fully flexible layout at Story Parlor, designed with the artist in mind.

Learn more about our Space Rental and Event Proposal opportunities.