Montclair Story Salon, founded by local actress and producer Liz Samuel, is all about celebrating the abundant creativity within our community and fostering connections through the art of storytelling.
Samuel says: “Everyone has a story, and we want to hear it!”
In a format reminiscent of “The Moth,” the Montclair Story Salon invites locals to share their narratives on diverse themes during each event, with Liz as the host. They also serve as fundraisers for local and national nonprofit organizations. Most recently, Montclair Story Salon raised funds for Luna Stage at the “Great Escape!”
Montclair Story Salon brings in new storytellers, but they also feature singer-songwriters performing original music and artist Merrie Koehlert creating a piece of art in front of the audience, “adding creative elements you won’t see anywhere else” explains Samuel.
Past events include “Books That Changed My Life” to open up the Montclair Literary Festival and benefit Succeed2gether; “School Daze” for Montclair High School’s Project Graduation; and “Light’s Up!” a holiday-themed event supporting Toni’s Kitchen.
The roots of Montclair Story Salon trace back to 2018 when Samuel was inspired by a Brooklyn salon hosted by actress Sarah Nedwek. Samuel was captivated by the concept and decided to bring it back to Montclair, where its popularity quickly soared. Eventually, Montclair Story Salon outgrew its cozy setting at Verdigreen Home, with the audience overflowing into the shop. Then the pandemic hit, and the salon was forced to take a two-and-a-half-year hiatus.
In June 2022, Montclair Story Salon made a triumphant return with the “Metamorphosis” event at Montclair Brewery, raising awareness and funds for Planned Parenthood. Since then, these gatherings have found a new home at Cornerstone Montclair, thanks to the generosity of owner Wendy Lacey.
Past storytellers have included talented actress Dagmara Dominczyk (Succession), Ami Brabson (Power, Law&Order), journalist Eric Roston (Bloomberg), podcasters Keri Setaro (Momtourage) and Rachel Martens (Lost in Jersey!). Samuel invites Montclair area musicians who have original songs to perform at upcoming events.
Check out www.montclairstorysalon.com for more information and for upcoming events.
Montclair Story Salon has raised over $10K for various organizations. Local nonprofits in need of awareness can contact Liz Samuel at montclairstorysalon@gmail.com.