Howl Story Slam Brings Live Storytelling to Upper Jay

Open mic at a Howl Story Slam in the Adirondacks. — Are you ready to step up to the mic?

On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the HOWL Story Slam returns to the Adirondacks at the Upper Jay Art Center in Upper Jay, NY—a lively, unscripted storytelling event hosted by the Adirondack Center for Writing and North Country Public Radio.

Part performance, part competition, and entirely community-driven, this 7 pm – 8:30 pm gathering invites both seasoned storytellers and first-timers to take the stage for a night of true, five-minute tales.

Set inside the intimate Recovery Lounge, this installment’s theme—“What’s My Line?”—promises stories that explore identity, work, purpose, and the winding paths that define a life.

What is the HOWL Story Slam in the Adirondacks.

At its core, a story slam is beautifully simple: anyone can sign up, names are drawn from a hat, and each storyteller has five minutes to share a true story—no notes, no scripts, just memory and presence. A small panel of audience judges scores each performance based on relevance to the theme, storytelling arc, and timing.

The HOWL Story Slam has built a following across the Adirondacks for its blend of vulnerability, humor, and spontaneity. It’s not polished theater—it’s real life, told out loud.

A night of storytelling at Upper Jay Art Center.

Tucked along Route 9N in the Ausable River Valley, the Upper Jay Art Center provides an ideal backdrop. The venue feels less like a formal theater and more like a gathering space—warm, a little scrappy, and perfectly suited for stories that unfold in real time.

Expect a mix of voices: locals, visitors, writers, and curious first-timers. Some stories land with laughter, others with quiet recognition. That unpredictability is the point.

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How to participate or just enjoy the show.

Participation is refreshingly low-barrier. Show up, put your name in the hat, and if called, step into the spotlight. No RSVP required.

For storytellers, the advice is practical and slightly ruthless: practice until the story feels second nature, start in the action, and skip the stand-up routine. Authenticity wins here.

For audience members, the role is just as important. You’re not just listening—you’re reacting, judging, and shaping the energy of the room.

Experience a HOWL Story Slam in action.

Curious what a live storytelling night in the Adirondacks looks like? This short video captures the energy, humor, and authenticity of a HOWL Story Slam event.

A glimpse into the HOWL Story Slam experience—where Adirondack voices take center stage with true, unscripted stories.

Events like this at Upper Jay Art Center highlight the growing arts and storytelling scene in the Adirondacks.

Why this Adirondack event stands out.

In a region better known for peaks and paddles, the HOWL Story Slam highlights a different kind of exploration—the interior kind. It reflects a growing cultural layer in the Adirondacks, where arts organizations are creating spaces for connection beyond the outdoors.

There’s something distinctly Adirondack about it, too. The stories often echo the rhythms of life here: seasonal shifts, career pivots, unexpected detours, and the quiet resilience that defines the region.

Event details.

Event: HOWL Story Slam
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 7 pm – 8:30 pm
Location: Upper Jay Art Center, 12198 State Hwy 9N, Upper Jay, NY
Admission: $10 suggested donation at the door
RSVP: Not required

Winners from the evening will be invited to compete in the annual Grand Slam later in the year.

ADK Taste recommendation.

Arrive at least 20–30 minutes early. The Recovery Lounge fills quickly, and early arrival gives storytellers time to settle nerves—and attendees a better chance at snagging a good seat. If you’re considering telling a story, commit before you walk in the door—it’s much easier to put your name in the hat when you’ve already decided.

Upper Jay Art Center in Upper Jay, NY — Upper Jay Art Center.

FAQ: HOWL Story Slam Upper Jay

What is a story slam?
A live storytelling competition where participants share true stories in under five minutes, judged by audience members.

Do I need to sign up in advance?
No. Just show up and put your name in the hat before the event begins.

Do I have to tell a story?
Not at all. Many attendees come just to listen and enjoy the performances.

How much does it cost?
There’s a $10 suggested donation at the door.

Is the event appropriate for all ages?
Content can vary since stories are personal and unscripted, so it’s best suited for teens and adults.

For more information, visit the Upper Jay Art Center’s website.

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