The secret’s out! Our Spectacular little secret! This Saturday, January 28th, we’ll take Ex Fabula to Alverno’s Pitman Theatre for the New Year Spectacular with the theme “Our Little Secret.” Unlike our monthly StorySlams, this special event features 10-minute curated stories and is an afternoon (yep, it’s a 3 pm show) not to be missed.

However, before anyone takes the stage, we’d be remiss if we didn’t introduce the awesome Spectacular Storytellers.

So without further ado, meet Brian Chiu.

How did you become involved with Ex Fabula?

I started going to Ex Fabula storytelling events in 2014. In 2015 a friend told me about the Ex Fabula Fellows program. I signed up so I could learn how to tell stories and to overcome my stage fright.

What’s been your experience with storytelling or other public speaking?

I did some lecturing as a graduate student teaching assistant. And I’ve given speeches at a few demonstrations.

Why do you feel Storytelling is important?

In this era of hyper-partisanship, I believe that storytelling is the best way to bridge the divide, to bring empathy for “the other”.

What do you do when not Storytelling?

I rollerblade or ice skate, bike when the weather is accommodating, volunteer in a campaign to get rid of dangerous crude oil trains, and work as a medical device engineer.

What’s one of your guilty pleasures?

I know that “reality TV” had its twisted start as a union-busting tactic… but once in a while I just can’t stop watching the show “American Ninja Warrior”.

Aims McGuinness is no stranger to the Ex Fabula Spectacular Stage. Not only an Ex Fabula ALL STAR, but a valued volunteer and Storytelling Coach, when Aims takes the stage it’s all about the story.

Give us a random fact about you that most people don’t know?

I once opened for U2 on the bagpipes.

How do you ease your nerves before a show?

I walk my dog.

What advice would you give to first time storytellers?

Open your heart.

Who are some of your favorite Storytellers?

My grandfather, my mother and my childhood bagpipe teacher.

What do you do when not Storytelling?

I teach history at UWM.

Who’s your favorite Superhero and Why?

I am married to my hero. She’s stronger than I.

There are many ways to tell a story and at Ex Fabula we love group pieces. This year we have two duos taking the stage. Alexis and Antoine Carter, husband and wife, will share their “Little Secret” “Rashomon Style” (where the same event is recounted by multiple tellers).

How did you get involved with Ex Fabula?

Alexis: We had gone to a few shows in the past and when they announced the first Fellowship, I grabbed an application and got in.

Antoine: She had such a good experience I decided to apply when the second Fellowship was announced.

How are you preparing your story?

Both: (Laughing) We practice in the car.
Alexis: It’s our story. We’ve told it at dinner parties through the years. We help each other decide where to end and jump in.

How do you manage nerves?

Antoine: Nerves are good! I think they help you tell a good story.

Alexis: I’m an Alverno Alum so I’m excited to be back and take the stage where so much happened for me.

What do you when not Storytelling?

Alexis: I like to say we live like the real Housewives of Milwaukee. LOL. When we’re not working, we are socializing and/or attending art or music or community events.

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We’re thankful they chose Ex Fabula as one of their community events! Stay tuned this week for more Spectacular Storytellers! “Our Little Secret” Storytelling Spectacular tickets are still available. Get yours before they’re gone!