Gigs in the strangest places

I spent this past weekend at the National Storytelling Conference in Richmond, VA. It was a wonderful gathering of the tribe, a chance to reconnect with some of my favorite people, learn new things about my art and remind myself of why I do the work I do. I had planned for this post to be about the conference, but something happened on the way home that I need to share with you; conference stuff can come later in the week.

Since moving to Kansas City I have found myself on more airplanes than ever before. We're close enough to most places that flying doesn't take very long, far enough that flying is the only reasonable way to get many places. I flew to the conference, Kansas City to Atlanta to Richmond. Easy.

On my way home, my second flight from Atlanta to KC was delayed. The crew did a great job letting us know why it was delayed and when we might depart. I have worked in the service industry and know how many people complain, how few people praise, so I decided to thank the captain for being so clear. He was waiting for the plane, just like everyone else, passing time at the gate desk.

I thanked him and we got to chatting about travel, life and work. When I told him I'm a storyteller he was fascinated and asked all the questions I have come to expect. What do you do? Who are your audiences? How did you get into it? And then his face lit up.

"Would you like to tell a story on the plane?"

I froze. And then said, "Yes!"

Half an hour later we boarded. After apologizing for the delay, the captain told everyone that there was a professional storyteller on board and, if no one objected, she would tell a short story. Once the passengers gave their consent we took off.

I have to tell you, I was anxious. I've been telling stories for 20 years and rarely get that nervous anymore, but telling to a captive audience was nerve-wracking.

Halfway through the flight I went to the front of the place, was told how to use the intercom, the captain gave me a lovely introduction and I began. I told a simple version of There's Always Room for One More. It seemed appropriate for an audience sitting cheek-to-jowl on an airplane. As I told I could see people all the way down the airplane leaning into the aisle to see. I think, for the most part, they liked it. They applauded politely and smiled as I walked back to my seat.

I have to say, it felt like a Brother Blue moment. Blue would tell to anyone, anywhere at the drop of a hat. I could imagine him smiling at me the whole time.

I enjoyed the experience and am grateful for the opportunity. If nothing else, it gives a whole new meaning to in-flight entertainment!

(c)2013 Laura S. Packer