Lifestage, Inc - the organization that produces (mostly) TRUE THINGS - offers storytelling workshops for teens that culminate in a performance for friends and family. There are numerous social-emotional benefits of storytelling that are especially helpful for teens as they develop their sense of self, reflect on and learn from their experiences and strengthen creative confidence that translates into psychological resilience, resourcefulness and relationship-building.  The ability to tell a great story is one of the most effective ways to connect with and have a positive impact on others. In fact, research shows that people who tell stories well are seen as more likeable and trustworthy, and that anyone can develop the skills to discover and develop stories that maximize their natural personality. And there are rich benefits for all the participants - some of whom opt out of the performance - because skills that shape personal accounts of important life experiences into creative and compelling stories are useful in every aspect of life. The best birthday tribute, wedding toast or other milestone moment with friends and family, classroom presentations or college essay is communicated through story. The skills and concepts explored in this workshop are also extremely helpful for overcoming social anxiety or sharpening one's ability to engage in fun, interesting conversation. 

In September 2017 Lifestage partnered with Tina Bakehouse, MA of the  Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development to provide storytelling workshops for teens from several southeast Iowa schools. These workshops culminated in 2 performances for 300 high school students at the Wilson Performing Arts Center in Red Oak, IA. 

In November 2016 and May 2017 teens from Sayville High School on Long Island performed a teen version of (mostly) TRUE THINGS at The Little Nook Cafe in West Sayville, NY after storytelling workshops and coaching by Jude Treder-Wolff from Lifestage and Martha Kahan, LCSW. 

To bring Jude Treder-Wolff and Martha Kahan to work with teens at your school or organization email bookings@lifestage.org or call 631-366-4265. The video tells you more about the Lifestage Teen Storytelling Project. 

Our teen edition show at little nook cafe was amazing. these teens are in college now!