creativity

Be one of our storytellers for NYC’s Secrets & Lies

I’m so excited to share this update: NYC’s Secrets & Lies, my storytelling show about secret NYC history, is officially looking for new storytellers for our 2026 season!

This show is a dream come true for me and incorporates everything I love – NYC, history, research, game shows, storytelling, and collaboration. We’re thrilled to be back on stage and growing.

Read the full Playbill listing, including the link to submit at http://bit.ly/46UcuAz.

Please feel free to share this with anyone whom you think would be interested.

Here is the full text of the listing:

NYC’s SECRETS & LIES: Storytellers Wanted

PRODUCTION DESCRIPTION:
NYC’s Secrets & Lies is a critically acclaimed, dynamic live storytelling show that blends deep historical research with high-energy theatrical performance. We bring little-known NYC stories to life, pairing each storyteller’s script with synchronized, original visual presentations (slides/images). Each performer acts as a historian, researcher, and entertainer.


SEEKING DIVERSE STORYTELLERS (18+)

We seek diverse, charismatic performers who are passionate about historical research and engaging presentation.

Storytellers: Individuals comfortable conducting independent historical research, writing a compelling script (typically 8–12 minutes in length), and delivering it with theatrical flair.

Key Skills:

  • Ability to translate complex historical facts into an accessible, entertaining narrative.
  • Familiarity with creating simple visual aids (slides/Keynote) is helpful, but not required.

Experience: Prior experience in educational performing, tour guiding, or narrative podcasting is a plus, but not a requirement. The only true requirement is a passion for NYC history and a desire to share it with an audience in a fun way.


SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS: VIDEO FIRST OPEN CALL

We are accepting self-tape video submissions for the first round. (A phone video is perfectly fine; please minimize the file size.)

Required Materials:

  1. Headshot and Resume/CV: Highlight any experience in research, writing, public speaking, performance, or tour guiding.
  2. Short Video (Self-Tape): A 2-minute excerpt of a historical story or topic you are passionate about. Focus on captivating delivery and clarity—imagine you are telling a fantastic secret tidbit to a good friend. No visuals needed.
  3. Cover Letter: Please include the following:
  • Relevant experience (research, performance, etc.)
  • Your interest in the show and NYC history.
  • If you’ve seen NYC’s Secrets & Lies (or plan to attend in October or December.)
  • Social media handles (if applicable.)

Please submit all materials via email at nycsecretsandlies@gmail.com. Email us if you have any questions.


HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: LEARN ABOUT OUR SHOW

To understand the unique blend of entertainment, historical research, and performance, we highly encourage you to attend one of our upcoming live shows:

October Show: “Ghost Stories”

  • Date: Tuesday, October 28th, 2025
  • Location: The Hidden Jewel Box Theater – a secret theater hidden inside Port Authority Bus Terminal!
  • Time: Doors 7:30pm; Show 8:00pm
  • Link for Tickets/Info: http://lies.eventbrite.com

December Show: “Holiday Maritime History” (includes a holiday party!)

  • Date: Thursday, December 11th, 2025
  • Location: South Street Seaport Museum (Our Partner)
  • Link to tickets will be available soon and will be emailed to all who submit.

Salary: $50.00 – $200.00 per show