Join members of the University of Oregon community for “Intertwined: Choices” as storytellers reveal decisions they have made and choices that have been made for them — and what has happened as a result.
“In life we are constantly making choices, big and small,” said Abigail Leeder, director of experiential education and prevention initiatives with the Office of the Dean of Students. “Many have consequences that we can only dream of when we make the choice.”
Performances of the free storytelling event will be on May 9 and 10 in the Global Scholars Hall Great Room. Doors will open at 7 p.m. for refreshments and activities; speakers will take the stage at 7:30.
“There will be 12 storytellers — undergrads, graduate students and staff — representing different corners of our campus,” said Kaisa Lightfoot, graduate employee and an organizer of the event. “Themes will include journeys, relationships and identity.”
Local musician Cullen Vance will provide musical accompaniment. Vance is well-versed in a variety of instruments, including banjo, keyboard and violin.
In planning for “Intertwined,” Vance collaborates with the performers to gauge what instrument complements their stories. He then composes a unique live score to accompany each.
“It’s so impressive,” Lightfoot said. “He’s like the 13th storyteller.”
Many of those performing also attended a workshop in March. After learning how to craft their stories, they applied to appear in the event, which is in its third year.
Each person’s story begins with a raw idea, explained Leeder. The storyteller is paired with a story coach, who they meet with weekly to perfect their narrative and how it is presented.
“These performances are the sharing of an experience with the audience, not just a thread of words,” Leeder said.
Any UO community member who is interested in joining the organizing committee or serving as a story coach for next year’s event can contact Leeder at aleeder@uoregon.edu for more information.
—By Colleen Schlonga, Student Services and Enrollment Management