Though it may seem like a simple thing, getting a good story going around the campfire that everyone is eagerly listening to is not as easy as it sounds.
Sometimes no one has anything to say and at least one person should be prepared for this type of development.
Having a story plan before you light the night’s campfire can make telling stories in the rough go smoothly so that everyone enjoys their time around the fire.
Tips for Storytelling
The person that is taking charge of the story element of the campfire needs to be completely at ease. Make sure you know the story from beginning to end.
Stumbling with your words during the telling will distract listeners and you may lose a few while you try and remember the next part of the story.
Make sure the listeners are at ease. Make sure everyone is comfortable and has a seat close enough to the fire to stay warm but not so close as to risk burning. If you notice anyone out of the circle, draw them in so that they can enjoy the story as well.
To capture the interest of the listener, start with a beginning that is exciting or catchy. Pique their interest from the moment you begin the story so they will be more than happy to stay with you until the story concludes.
Make sure the story moves along. You also want to keep up the suspense so that listeners will be eager to find out what comes next.
Describe the setting so that you can create a mood that matches the content of the story. Give listeners a chance to really feel they are there and a part of the action of the story.
You can also keep attention on you by varying your tone of voice and the speed in which you tell the story. You can use gestures and other types of movements whenever the story calls for it.
Don’t make the story too long or prolong it unnecessarily. You will need to decide before you begin how and when you are going to end the story. An ending that packs a wallop is an essential part of telling stories.
You want your listeners to walk away from the fire after hearing your story saying, “Wow.†It may inspire them to find a great story of their own to tell around the next campfire.
