Ottawa StoryTellers Gig Group
Ottawa StoryTellers often receives requests from community organizations seeking talented storytellers for events. Our Book a Teller service connects these clients with approved tellers who are members of OST’s Gig Group — a curated collective of skilled performers ready to share their stories.
How the Gig Group Works
Members of the Gig Group can showcase their profiles on the Ottawa StoryTellers website, sharing details about their performance styles, preferred audiences, contact info, and rates. For those who prefer privacy, membership in the group still offers referral opportunities without public listings.
Clients are encouraged to contact tellers directly, but we also provide the option to connect with our Gig Group Coordinator for assistance in finding the perfect storyteller for their event.
Meet the Coordinator
The coordinator for the Gig Group can be reached at ostgiggroup@ottawastorytellers.ca.
If a client prefers a teller to be selected on their behalf, the coordinator will notify the Gig Group with the gig details. Interested tellers will contact her, and if multiple performers express interest, they will coordinate among themselves to ensure fair distribution of opportunities. The chosen teller will then reach out to both the coordinator and the client promptly.
For clients wishing to choose from several tellers, Leah shares their contact information with the Gig Group, and tellers submit applications directly to the client. If no tellers respond within a set timeframe, clients are informed that there is no interest in the gig.
Joining the Gig Group
New members are welcomed into the Gig Group once a year through an application process. To qualify, applicants must:
Be a current, good-standing member of Ottawa StoryTellers.
Actively participate in OST by volunteering or attending member events, such as Story Swap.
Submit a biography detailing their storytelling experience, the types of gigs they perform, and their interests related to Gig Group opportunities.
Candidates are reviewed and approved by a majority of the Executive Committee based on performance skills, material selection, professionalism, and suitability as OST representatives. Applicants are responsible for ensuring some Executive members have seen their public performances.
After voting, the Executive Committee designates members to communicate results. If an application is declined, the committee provides constructive feedback and encouragement.
To request a Gig Group Application Form or learn more, please contact the coordinator at ostgiggroup@ottawastorytellers.ca or call the Ottawa StoryTellers office at (613) 322-8336.