Media WriterOn February 13, 2022, Debra Ehrhardt, along with co-producer Dr. Basil Waine Kong, will invite twelve storytellers to the stage, to vie for approximately half-a-million dollars in cumulative prize money in the first annual storytelling competition, What’s Your Story, Jamaica?
Renowned for her beloved one-woman plays, Jamaica, Farewell–and the scintillating Cock Tales, Ehrhardt is excited to get back to the stage. More accurately, the playwright is eager to facilitate a production that will put money in Jamaican storytellers pockets.
The rules are simple. Tell a true, story, no longer than six minutes that happened to you. Stories help us to understand each other and to relive significant moments in time. They remind us that despite our differences, we’re basically the same and this is the foundation of building stronger communities,” Ehrhardt said.
As such, the top storyteller will walk away with US$1,500. The second place runner-up will be awarded US$750, and the third place runner-up will receive US$500. All other finalists will walk away with US$50. Among a panel of four official judges is famous local storyteller Dr. Amina Blackwood-Meeks. Each judge will have a maximum 20 points to offer the storyteller. The audience will also have a say, with their own points up for grabs. To be considered, applicants must submit a six-minute video-taped true tale to [email protected] by January 20, 2022.
Ehrhardt added, “People have been telling stories since the beginning of time. A story’s most important function is to remind us that we are not alone in the world. Remember, a good story engages our curiosity, emotions and imagination and ultimately lives on to inspire us.”
What’s Your Story, Jamaica? will take place in Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday, February 13th, 2022 at 4pm. Venue to be announced.
TICKETS – JMD$1500
RSVP – [email protected]
