Teton County Library’s Cabin Fever Story Slams are back, starting Tuesday at the Pink Garter Theatre.
The theme of the 7 p.m. gathering is “Survival,” which ought to inspire adventure tales from outdoorsy Jacksonites and frank chronicles from residents who simply have survived the past year and half of pandemic life.
On the night of the slam, storytellers are invited to drop their name into a bucket and, if selected, deliver a true, personal narrative without notes in just five minutes. The top three storytellers go home with prizes, and everyone who shares gets a slice of Pinky G’s pizza.
Leah Shlachter, the library’s adult program coordinator, is organizing the new season of Tuesday night slams, scheduled for Dec. 14, Jan. 18, Feb. 22 and March 22, though the themes for those nights are still in the works.
“We kind of agonize a lot over the themes because they kind of make or break the stories,” she said.
The theme of the last slam, “Friends,” prompted wholesome, loving stories, she said, while one of the first ever themes, “Secrets,” elicited exotic tales of high school raves.
The title for the 40-plus slams that have already been held has also directed the energy of the events.
“It was called ‘Cabin Fever’ because we wanted an event that brought people together in the darkest months of the year,” Shlachter said, “you know, where people are lonely or wanting to connect.”
While COVID-19 has made recent slams more difficult to produce, it has also crystallized the need for connection. Storytellers walk away from the series as local celebrities, recognized across town for their moment in the limelight. And for those who choose to share more heartfelt moments, they often find a community of support.
Reflecting on previous years, Shlachter remembered funny forays by Den Binderup (see last week’s Close Up), poignant presentations by Chris O’Blenness and Jim Ross, and the timeless tale of Neil Moore scaring his tour group by colliding with an elk.
“The spectrum of stories is really great,” the program coordinator said.
Some of those seasoned vets have returned for special all-star slams, but the vast majority of the sessions have had an open-door policy: Anyone with a story can take the mic.
This season audiences can expect the return of self-deprecating emcee Jeff Moran, who breaks the ice and effortlessly weaves participants’ stories together with quips and personal anecdotes.
Dom Gagliardi is also pumped to reopen the Pink Garter Theatre, the slam’s original stomping ground. Masks will be required, and events are open only to people 21 and older.
Whether you have a story to share or a sick mad lib suggestion, Schlachter and her slam family are eager to welcome you back to one of Jackson’s most surprising institutions. 
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November 03, 2021 at 05:30PM
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Share a tale of 'survival' at story slam revival - Jackson Hole News&Guide
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