"Embrace the rare opportunity to be heard"

Wednesday 18 September 2019

Guernsey people will be getting up to share their life stories and experiences tomorrow, in aid of Guernsey Mind.

Big Word of Mouth is returning to Guernsey, giving anyone the chance to tell their stories in front of an audience, with a prize for the best tale.

"Big Word of Mouth gives volunteers an opportunity to get up on stage to tell a very short true story about their life experience," said Organiser Paula Kontelj. "It's lots of fun and the tales are often very varied, but all centred on a single topic. This year we have chosen the subject of 'Naked Truth', which we think covers a wide range of subject matter."

Mrs Kontelj previously helped run similar events in her home town of Geelong in Australia, and has confirmed sponsorship from Specsavers for the local event.

Pictured: Some of last year's speakers.

"You may wish to share with the audience a story about a particular experience in your life," she explained. "A funny or embarrassing story about being caught in a compromising position, a moment of clarity that you reached at an important time, or something that you have come to understand. The options are limitless.

"Stories are particularly special when they come straight from the heart, when they are from ordinary people about their often extraordinary lives."

Participants are encouraged not to use notes, but speak from memory to tell stories that might make the audience laugh or cry.

"We want people to share their thoughts, memories, even their secrets if they so wish with raw honesty and courage," Mrs Kontelj added. "All people have to do is come along on the night and put their name in the hat if they wish to be one of the speakers. Only five lucky people will have their name drawn out and will be given the chance to speak, but everyone else is guaranteed a fun night, with celebrity Guernsey speakers local musician and GADOC Chairman, Dennis Burns and Leader of Guernsey Mind's Hope Choir, Jill Chadwick."

Pictured: Paula Kontelj.

A select panel of judges will choose the best story teller of the night, who will win dinner, a gin-tasting experience and an overnight stay for two at the Bella Luce Hotel.

Guests will also have the chance to participate with impromptu speaking moments.

"Now Guernsey people can also embrace the rare opportunity to be heard," said Mrs Kontelj.

The event will take place from 18:30 tomorrow [Thursday 19 September] at Les Rocquettes Hotel. Tickets are £10, including a glass of Pimms on arrival, and are available from guernseytickets.gg.

Pictured top: One of last year's speakers.