News Summary
Huntsville is set to host a captivating evening of storytelling with local artist Melissa Ford Thornton at Shenanigans Comedy Theatre on April 11. Melissa, a passionate storyteller since childhood, has made significant contributions to the literary community, including leading the Young Writers Contest. The event promises an enriching experience with a theme titled ‘The Last Straw’, featuring diverse narratives and an interpreter for a hearing-impaired storyteller. Join the celebration of storytelling and mark your calendars for this must-see show!
Huntsville Gears Up for a Night of Storytelling with Melissa Ford Thornton
Huntsville is buzzing with excitement as the vibrant local storyteller, Melissa Ford Thornton, prepares to take the stage at the Shenanigans Comedy Theatre on April 11. This promises to be a spectacular evening filled with unforgettable tales that will tickle your imagination!
A Passion for Storytelling Since Childhood
From her early days at Mountain Gap School, Melissa has always had a flair for storytelling. Her talent was recognized when she clinched first place in a mini mystery story contest, setting the stage for her remarkable journey in the literary world. As she grew, her storytelling skills flourished even more during her high school years, where she dominated the short story competition run by the Huntsville Literary Association.
From Young Writer to Leading Figure
Melissa’s passion for words and performance did not stop at winning contests. She went on to lead the Young Writers Contest organized by the Huntsville Literary Association, nurturing the next generation of storytellers. With an impressive portfolio that includes published works in various magazines and journals, she is currently working on a novel that she’s excited to present to the world.
Theatre and Storytelling Enthusiasm
Contributing further to her love for the arts, Melissa has taken on the role of Communications Director for the Princess Theatre in Decatur. This position allowed her to witness a variety of performances, fueling her passion even more. Notably, she wrote a book titled “The Princess Theatre: A Grand Ole Dame,” celebrating the rich history of the beloved venue that opened its doors back in 1887.
Stories Told Across Airwaves and Stages
Melissa’s storytelling prowess extends far and wide, gracing the airwaves of local public radio WLRH and captivating audiences at storytelling events in both Huntsville and Nashville. She even took part in the prestigious Moth Story Slam, where her talent shone bright, earning her accolades. And the journey doesn’t stop there—this summer, she has been accepted into a week-long storytelling workshop in the enchanting city of Paris!
A New Chapter with Bramble Stories
Her story doesn’t just end with solo performances. Alongside fellow storyteller Sam Mitchell, she co-founded Bramble Stories, a platform geared towards sharing stories without the support of notes. The name “Bramble” perfectly encapsulates their creative essence—wild and sweet, offering a unique flavor to their performances.
Mark Your Calendars for ‘The Last Straw’
This upcoming show at Shenanigans is themed “The Last Straw”, and will be a delightful mix of narratives featuring a hearing-impaired storyteller. An interpreter will be present on stage, ensuring every individual can enjoy the stories being told. Get ready for an enriching experience that truly celebrates the art of storytelling.
The Importance of Storytelling
Melissa believes in the beautiful, cathartic nature of storytelling, saying it plays a crucial role in preserving family histories and passing down cherished values and traditions. She often draws inspiration from eavesdropping on everyday conversations in public spaces, capturing snippets of life that weave into the rich tapestry of her tales.
Join the Fun!
So, if you’re in Huntsville and looking for a night of laughter, creativity, and heartfelt tales, don’t miss out on this special event featuring Melissa and her talented cohort of storytellers. For more details about Bramble Stories, feel free to reach out via email at bramblestorie@gmail.com. Mark your calendars for April 11 at 7:00 PM, and prepare to be captivated!
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Beth Thames Storytellers Sharing Their Bramble Stories
- Bham Now: Sunday Story: Seven Storytelling Open Mic
- Rocket City Mom: Tell Me a Story: Celebrating the Magic of Storytelling
- The Lantern: Johnny Cash’s Storytelling and Artistry Shine
- Rocket City Mom: Holiday Activities for the Whole Family
- Wikipedia: Storytelling
- Google Search: storytelling
- Encyclopedia Britannica: storytelling
