Brookline.News event honored with national nonprofit award.

When Brookline.News inquired about Stellar coaching services, the organizers were slightly anxious about their first major community event. 

"We are experienced editors and journalists committed to high-quality local news. However, producing a live storytelling event with Brookline residents was a new challenge," shared Iris Adler, an event committee member and curator for the show. 

Stellar's executive director reassured her that the company had produced hundreds of similar events and could guide participants through the practical and emotional journey of sharing personal stories onstage.

"I was grateful that Brookline.News matched me with a storytelling coach," said Anita Diamant, the award-winning author who performed in the showcase, sharing the backstory behind two of her best-selling books, The Red Tent and Saying Kaddish.  

"I have been writing stories -- and talking about them to audiences -- for decades. But shaping a story-to-tell is a distinct craft that was new to me. My coach provided essential feedback, wise suggestions, and patient reassurance (cheerleading, actually) that helped me overcome self-doubt and stage fright." 

Diamant wasn't alone in her jitters. While many participants had experience acting or presenting, storytelling has different demands—standing alone on a stark stage, without notes or a script, speaking directly to a large audience.

Any lingering anxiety evaporated when the storytellers took the stage to a standing ovation.

The elation grew when the Institute for Nonprofit News honored Brookline.News with an innovation award for the inaugural event. The national consortium of 450 nonprofit journalism organizations recognizes select newsrooms annually for outstanding work.

"It was a wonderful surprise and acknowledgment of the power of storytelling to bring a community together," said Adler. "Everyone is looking forward to next year's event, this time with a little less trepidation!”

Contact Stellar to learn about our event services.