REVIEW: Ottawa Story Tellers - Once Upon a Slam

REVIEW: If you like to listen to some WONDERFUL stories, or tell GREAT stories, or just ENJOY a GOOD yarn, then you should come out to 'Once Upon a Slam'. Its hosted by Ottawa Story Tellers and for those who live in the Ottawa area, or if you're visiting Ottawa, this is a treat you should not miss.

I have had the extreme pleasure of attending several times and each time I have experienced joy, fear, sadness, exhilaration, surprise, happiness, regret, and any number of emotions that leaves me breathless. No kidding!

'Once Upon a Slam' features short narrative stories; each one lasting five minutes. Story tellers recite (no reading allowed, so they better know their stories) their stories to the audience. Random members of the audience (selected at the start of the evening) score the tall tales and the winner takes home bragging rights and fond memories. The stories range from personal accounts, tall tales, ghost stories, comedic, yarns, you name it, someone wants to tell it.

I love the fact that anyone can join in and tell a story. If you wanted to, and can face a small intimate crowd, you can sign up at the start of the night and have you're moment on stage. Its great stuff.


Right now Once Upon a Slam is on a summer break till  September; but when it starts up, its held  every last Friday of the month at the Mercury Lounge Underground (aka Bar 56) 56 Byward Market. One of THE BEST Venues for the Slam. It starts at 7pm and there is a $7 cover charge for listeners (slam participants get in free).